Agenda packet, first session — Santa Monica City Council, September 30, 2025 (part 12 of 14)

INSTRUCTIONS & REQUIREMENTS
Per adoption of the FY 2023-2024 budget, the City of Santa Monica is accepting proposals from qualified neighborhood organizations for up to $7,000 in funding through the Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.
• THIS GRANT COVERS EXPENSES INCURRED BETWEEN JULY 1, 2023 AND JUNE 15, 2024 • COMPLETE AND SUBMIT THE APPLICATION AND REQUIRED ATTACHMENTS NO LATER THAN 5:30 P.M. PST ON MARCH 30, 2024 •
• MAINTAIN THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION TO SUPPORT USE OF FUNDS FOR THE

FINAL CLOSEOUT REPORT
• COMPLETE AND SUBMIT THE FINAL CLOSEOUT REPORT ALONG WITH ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION NO LATER THAN 5:00 P.M. PST ON JUNE 22, 2024 All funds awarded during the FY 2023-2024 grant cycle are to be expended by June 15, 2024.

Organizations will be required to provide a Final Closeout Report and return any remaining grant funds in accordance with the Grant Reporting Requirements section of this Request for Proposals (RFP). Fiscal Year 2023-2024 grants will not be awarded until prior years grants are properly accounted for and any unspent funds are returned.

MINIMUM ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
In order to be considered for funding, applicants must meet the following minimum eligibility requirements:
• Represent a commonly recognized neighborhood within Santa Monica; • Possess tax-exempt status as a nonprofit organization under Section 501(c)(3) or Section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Service Code (hgp://www.irs.gov) or Section 23701(d) or 23701(f) of the California State Franchise Tax Code (hgp://www.ib.ca.gov); • Have an active board of directors or officers, selected in accordance with association bylaws, who meet regularly, with meetings open to the public. For virtual meetings, organizations must post links for the public to access online meetings; • Hold at least one general membership meeting annually; • Maintain a membership list of at least 50 active members (residing at separate addresses) or 10 percent of eligible households within the neighborhood boundaries as defined in the bylaws, whichever is less

11.B.a
Packet Pg. 2730 Attachment: NGP Application (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs)

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ELIGIBLE USES OF FUNDING
The Neighborhood Organization Grant Program is designed to support projects and activities to further communication, increase engagement and build membership from within the neighborhood the organization represents. The funds can be used for a combination of projects and activities supporting communication, community engagement and membership building.

Creativity is encouraged!
A wide range of projects and activities may be eligible for funding, such as:
• Publishing and distributing a newsletter or meeting announcements*. • Purchasing ads announcing meetings and events.
• Implementing or participating in an event aimed at improving communication and increasing membership for example:
• Hosting a neighborhood cleanup day
• Hosting a community block party or potluck
• Hosting a neighborhood chalk art contest
• Hosting a movie night in the neighborhood park
• Conducting a neighborhood interest survey.
• Developing an organization database.
• Participating in workshops or training programs to help the organization’s leadership develop community organizing and outreach skills and strategies. • Hiring a student intern to coordinate mailings.
• Purchasing a computer for use in preparing written materials or maintaining a website so long as computer is used consistent with the terms of the grant, including the restrictions on the use of funds.
• Installing/maintaining a phone/fax/Internet connection dedicated to organization business.

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Packet Pg. 2731 Attachment: NGP Application (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs)

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TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR USE OF RESIDENTIAL ADDRESSES FURNISHED BY CITY TO

GRANTEE INSTRUCTIONS & REQUIREMENTS
* By accepting City grant funds, Grantee agrees that should the City elect to share home addresses of City residents with Grantee (“City Data”), Grantee shall only use City Data for distributing newsletters or meeting announcements pertaining to activities funded by the City grant. Grantee agrees that City Data shall not be used for any other purpose. Grantee further agrees that City Data shall not be distributed to any third parties without the City’s prior express written consent. Grantee agrees that Grantee shall not sell or otherwise commercialize City Data. Newsletters or meeting announcements that are mailed to City residents using City Data shall include clear information for allowing residents to opt out of future Grantee mailings. The required opt out mechanism shall not require, as a condition to opting out, that residents disclose to Grantee personal identifying information, such as their names, dates of birth, and social security numbers, to process opt out requests.

Grantee shall maintain records containing a representative copy of each mailing sent and the date of each such mailing. Grantee shall maintain records of all residents who notify Grantee of their election to opt out of future mailings and will provide these records to the City on an annual basis as part of regular grant reporting. The City will have the right to audit and inspect these records to verify compliance with the terms and conditions for Grantee’s use of City Data upon 14 days advance notice. Grantee agrees that City, upon its sole and complete discretion, may cease sharing City Data with Grantee or may request that Grantee cease its use of City Data at any time.

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Packet Pg. 2732 Attachment: NGP Application (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs)

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RESTRICTIONS ON USE OF FUNDS
The intent of this program is to allow neighborhood organizations flexibility in using the funds for communication and membership building purposes, without heavy city oversight or intrusion into organization affairs. As long as an organization uses the funds for the purpose(s) stated in the application, only the following restrictions shall apply:
• No City funds shall be used by the participating neighborhood organizations for projects or activities involving political campaigns, candidate endorsements, or ballot measures.

As a condition of receipt of funds, Grantees shall place a disclaimer on their website stating no public funds are used for campaign purposes and the views of the organization do not necessarily reflect the views of the City of Santa Monica or its officials.
• No City funds shall be paid to individual organization members, their relatives or business associates, except as a reimbursement for a product or service purchased with personal funds.
• Example of eligible grant expense: The secretary of the organization uses a personal credit card to pay for copies and is reimbursed from the organization. • Example of ineligible grant expense: The secretary of the organization is a graphic designer and is paid for design services provided to the organization. • No City funds shall be spent on alcoholic beverages.
• City funds may only be used for expenses incurred between July 1, 2023 and June 15, 2024.
• Grant funds used for ineligible expenses or failure to abide by the instructions and requirements set forth herein may result in the revocation or repayment of the full grant amount.

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Packet Pg. 2733 Attachment: NGP Application (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs)

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INSTRUCTIONS & REQUIREMENTS
Review and Approval Process
Proposals received will be reviewed to determine whether they meet the Minimum Eligibility Requirements section of this RFP.

Those applications that meet all the Minimum Eligibility Requirements will proceed to the evaluation phase of the review process.

To be complete, a proposal must include all of the required documents described in the Submission Requirements section of this RFP (pg. 10)
Should applications be considered incomplete, organizations will be given an opportunity to provide the missing information.

Should the City Manager’s Office have concerns about the eligibility of a proposed project, the concerns will be discussed with the applicant organization to determine jointly how the project or activity might be modified to meet the mission of the program.

SELECTION
If an organization meets the Minimum Eligibility Requirements, commits to a specified plan to use the City funds for communication, community engagement and membership-building purposes, and provides a complete application with all of the required documentation, the application may be approved administratively by the City Manager’s Office. The neighborhood organization will be notified by email of approval, or contacted by phone or e-mail if further information is necessary.

Once funding is approved, the City will prepare an agreement which must be executed by both the organization and the City. Following execution of the agreement, the organization must submit an invoice to the City for the grant amount, and a check for the funds will be requested by the City Manager’s Office, made payable to the neighborhood organization. The City’s Finance Department will mail the check to the neighborhood organization’s address stated on the invoice.

City grant funds must be kept in the neighborhood organization’s bank account and tracked in order to assure its use is only for purposes specified, and for

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Packet Pg. 2734 Attachment: NGP Application (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) Page
7 of 14
Applicant Information
Neighborhood Organization
Name
Non-Profit#
Mailing Address
City
State
Zip Code
Telephone
Website E-mail Address
Board President

PROPOSED USE OF FUNDS

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Packet Pg. 2735 Attachment: NGP Application (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) Page
8 of 14
Application Budget Template
Expenditure Description Grant
Request
Budget
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
TOTAL$

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Packet Pg. 2736 Attachment: NGP Application (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs)

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Proposal Authorization
Name and Title of Official Signing for Applicant Organization (must be authorized by the Board of Directors of the organization):

Name:

Title:

I certify the following:
• The information presented in this application is true and complete to the best of my knowledge.
• The organization complies with all minimum eligibility requirements specified in this RFP, and agrees to abide by all Program instructions and requirements. • All grant funds dispersed to the organization will be utilized for grant approved purposes.
• I have read the Final Closeout Reporting sections and will maintain the required documentation for all expenses.
• Any grants funds utilized for purposes that the City deems to be an ineligible use, will be promptly returned to the City.
• Any unused grant funds will be returned to the City no later than June 30, 2024.

Signature of Person Named Above:

Date:

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Packet Pg. 2737 Attachment: NGP Application (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs)

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SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Applications must be complete and adhere to the format and instructions provided in this packet. Applications should be typed or printed. Submit one original and two copies of the application form and attachments to the City Manager's Office:

City of Santa Monica
Attention: Neighborhood Organization Liaison
1685 Main Street, Room 210
Santa Monica, CA 90401
APPLICATION DEADLINE:

Applications for FY 2023-2024 may be submitted between September 1, 2023 and 5:30pm, March 30, 2024. Late applications will not be accepted.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
• Applicant Information and Proposed Use of Funds clearly describing how funds will be used
• Completed Application Budget that correlates to the description of how funds will be used
• Signed Proposal Authorization
• Documentation that the Board of Directors of the organization authorized submission of the grant application and designated the individual signing the application as the authorized signatory • Meeting Minutes (most recent general body meeting)
• Roster of Current Board Members or Officers, including titles, terms, and contact information (address, phone number and email address) • W9 form • The following documents are required if not on file with the City:
• Articles of Incorporation
• Current Bylaws

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Packet Pg. 2738 Attachment: NGP Application (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs)

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REPORTING & FINAL CLOSEOUT
Required Closeout Reporting Documentation:
• Bank statement reflecting the initial deposit of the City grant funds in the organization bank account.
• Grant Spend Summary Chart (see page 13) reflecting initial balance and withdrawals by project.

For each of the expenses funded by the grant and cash expenses:
• Project Report with copies of:
o Invoices or receipts
o Printed materials paid for with grant funds (examples - For printing of an organization newsletter or flyer, provide a copy of the newsletter or flyer with corresponding receipts.

This report and all required documentation must be submitted no later than June 22, 2024 to:

City of Santa Monica
Attention: Neighborhood Organization Liaison
1685 Main Street, Room 209
Santa Monica, CA 90401
In addition to completing and signing the Final Closeout Report, back-up documentation for each line item expense must be provided. All documentation should be complete, legible, and self-explanatory. Be sure to include all receipts, printed materials, cancelled checks and other documentation as described on in the “Final Closeout Report” instructions in this packet.

Official signing for Neighborhood Organization must be authorized by the Board of Directors of the organization.

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Packet Pg. 2739 Attachment: NGP Application (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs)

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FINAL CLOSEOUT & REPORTING
Grant Spend Summary Char t
Purpose
Grant
Expense
Amount
TOTAL

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Packet Pg. 2740 Attachment: NGP Application (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs)

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PROJECT REPORT TEMPLATE
Neighborhood Group
Street Address, City, ST ZIP Code
Phone
Email
Project Report
Project Date I
Project Description: Include a brief overview of your event, activity, or project, including the goal of the effort, any partner organizations involved, etc.

Group Member
Participation
Community
Members Engaged
(estimate)
Project Budget
Grant funds used for ineligible expenses may result in the revocation of the full grant amount. Please review funding restrictions on page 4 before proceeding.

Vendor/Service
Provider Item/Service

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Packet Pg. 2741 Attachment: NGP Application (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs)

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I certify that this report is true, complete and accurate to the best of my knowledge and that all disbursements have been made in compliance with the conditions of the Grantee Agreement and for the purposes indicated.

Organization Name
Name:

Title:

Signature:

Date:

11.B.a
Packet Pg. 2742 Attachment: NGP Application (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) IRS Tax Filing Status
Neighborhood Association 501(c)(3) 501(c)(4) Pub 78
Pico Neighborhood
Association
Tax filings Form
990-N (e-Postcard)
2009, 2011, 2013,
2017-2022; Form
990EZ 2023
Public Charity (PC)
Ocean Park Association Tax filings Form
990-N (e-Postcard)
2010-2024
Public Charity (PC)
Northeast Neighbors revoked 11/15/2010 Tax filings Form 990EO Available Online 2017-2023
Friends of Sunset Park Favorable Determination
Letter 2011; Tax filings Form
990-N (e-Postcard) 2011-
2024
Wilshire Montana
Neighborhood Coalition
Revoked 11/15/2010;
Favorable Determination
Letter 2015; Tax filings Form
990-N (e-Postcard) 2014-
2024
Santa Monica Mid-City
Neighbors
Tax filings Form 990-N (ePostcard) 2012-2023
North of Montana
Neighborhood Association
Revoked o5/15/2011;
Favorable Determination
Letter 2014; Tax filings Form
990-N (e-Postcard) 2013-
2024
Source: https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/tax-exempt-organization-search Attachment B 11.B.b
Packet Pg. 2743 Attachment: IRS Chart-Neighborhood Association (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2744 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 1 David Yakobson
From: Peter Mezza <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 12:46 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

FOSP uses the annual $7,000 grant for mailing an annual membership appeal letter to all 7,800 residences in our neighborhood. (Before the 2020 restructuring, the City used to mail the letters. The $7,000 grant replaced that service.)
Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Community events this year have included an FOSP general membership meeting at Clover Park, the FOSP Beach Towel Drill Team marching in the 4th of July Parade on Main Street, FOSP tabling at National Night Out, and FOSP co-sponsoring with local businesses “A Sunset Park Block Party: Art in the Alley” behind Bob’s Market.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Peter Mezza 90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2745 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 2 David Yakobson
From: Connor Webb <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 12:48 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Ellis Raskin
Subject: 11B: Support Comprehensive Neighborhood Association Program Reforms

EXTERNAL
Dear Council,
I strongly support reforms to the Neighborhood Association Program. These reforms are needed to restore public trust in our neighborhood associations and ensure taxpayer funds support community building, not partisan political activities.

Santa Monica’s neighborhood associations are meant to foster civic engagement and help people get to know their neighbors. However, many have strayed from their mission, becoming vehicles for partisan political advocacy. These groups have polarized around opposing housing and development, creating echo chambers that fail to represent Santa Monica residents’ views and needs.

Examples of this political overreach are abundant, including direct calls to action to message legislators in opposition to housing projects and bills. For example, the Wilshire/Montana Neighborhood Coalition used calls and materials that grossly misrepresented SB 79 to fear-monger against the bill, which at no point even applied anywhere within their boundaries.

Reforms are clearly required, and City Council should ensure implementation of the following:

1. Candidate Endorsement Ban: Enforce a 5-year ban on city funding for neighborhood associations endorsing political candidates and apply this policy retroactively. When these groups engage in electoral politics while receiving city funding, it constitutes a total misuse of public resources and undermines the neutrality that should characterize publicly-funded community organizations.

2. Funding Restrictions: Grant funding should only support community events and programming that unite residents. City funds should not support newsletters, website hosting, administrative overhead enabling political activities, or membership recruitment mailers. These restrictions ensure public money benefits the community, not organizational infrastructure for political advocacy.

3. Equitable Funding Distribution: Funding based on the number of households served is common, reasonable, and ensures resources proportionally flow to associations that actually represent substantial residential communities, while allowing for flexibility as neighborhoods change over time.

4. Ending "Official Recognition" Status: No neighborhood organization should receive official recognition that grants preferential communication access or special resources simply because they receive city funding. This creates an unfair two-tiered system where residents’ access to government is based on their association membership rather than equal treatment. We are a city of only 90,000 people, and direct access to government via city-led outreach/community events and individual communications is a better way to ensure all voices are heard.

Our community has diverse opinions on housing, public services, general change, etc. and I support all Santa Monicans’ right to organize and advocate for those opinions. However, taxpayer-funded neighborhood associations should focus on community building, not political advocacy.

Sincerely,
Connor Webb
90404
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2746 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 3 David Yakobson
From: nealcassidy1234 <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 1:46 PM
To: Ellis Raskin; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Dan Hall; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; Lana Negrete; Oliver Chi; councilmtgitems; Josh Kurpies
Subject: Re: Neighborhood Grant Program

EXTERNAL
Of course none of you had the courtesy to respond, instead I get a generic email saying this will be part of the public record and i can come to speak at council. Sure...we speak and none of you even pay attention... this is another reason we need district elections...so we can have council members who actually want to represent residents. You are a bunch of hypocrites...retain power for smrr and deny voters direct representation. You like to say "well you have seven representatives." You know that is BS....you are no better than Trump...you don't give a shit about anything other than YOUR agenda. Oh...and by the way...why is that loser acting police chief officer Jacobs even still with department...wasn't he the one in charge when the riots happened where they failed to defend the city? You're just a bunch of hypocrites....who only know how to bankrupt and destroy a once great city...so long as you get five more new affordable homes....that some builder will give to his family or friends...

Sent with Proton Mail secure email.

On Monday, September 29th, 2025 at 9:48 AM, nealcassidy1234 <[email protected]> wrote:

What is wrong with your people? A bunch of you want to defund the Neighborhood Grant Program. Why? These programs only serve the community and you. Oh... I forgot you don't care about serving the community at large...you only care about serving the SMRR agenda.

Whatever financial issues the city is having is a direct result of generations of Council and SMRR mis-management... I mean you even have changed the ability to speak with staff and city leadership with your centralized phone system.

This city has turned to shit because of all of you and the f'ing SMRR agenda. You can make my language and anger the issue if you want...but the real issue is you are all a bunch of mis-guided morons who keep looking for ways to isolate citizens who desire to reach their representatives and be a part of the city's governance. And, no....trying to speak at council meetings was always a waste of time...but from what I know, you've cut that too. Either way, speaking at a council meeting is not really participation and you know it..

This also goes back to your denying voters district elections...and the millions of dollars you have spent to protect the SMRR majority. A pox on all your houses for your hypocrisy. You are no better than Trump and the Republicans who only care about power.

P.S Go fuck yourselves.

Sent with Proton Mail secure email.

Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2747 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 5 David Yakobson
From: SALLY STINER <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 1:50 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Sally STINER
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2748 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 1 David Yakobson
From: OZ <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 12:03 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11B - OPPOSE funding for 501(c)4 neighborhood groups!!!

EXTERNAL
The heads of all the neighborhood organizations meet once a month as what they call “The Neighborhood Council,” where they discuss city business and invite guests to speak. However, they prohibit the public from attending those meetings. Why are these meetings secret? Does the Council support funding secret meetings?
A few years ago I spoke before the Council in opposition to the groups’ ability to make political endorsements while they receive city funding. In retribution for exercising my free speech that night, the head of one of the neighborhood groups in question removed me from her group’s mailing list. This made it impossible for me to see the group’s meeting agendas and attend the meetings. It took months corresponding with various city staff to force that group to post their meeting zoom link on their web page. Their agendas are still not publicly posted on their web page, and that is the case with other groups as well.

I urge this Council not to offer public funding to 501(c)4 neighborhood groups. The 501(c)4 IRS classification exists for a reason, and some of the Santa Monica groups chose to incorporate as a 501(c)4 organizations for a reason: so they can engage in political activity. Now they want to both have their ability to engage in political activity, and receive public funding from the city – that is unacceptable, and the Council must put an end to this.

If the groups want the public funding, they can choose to become 501(c)3 organizations. The argument that it is “difficult” to do so is neither true nor is it the Council’s problem. It is not the Council’s responsibility to coddle private organizations. The Council has real problems to deal with, empty coffers being the number one issue to focus on. Tailoring the available funding to the population size in a given neighborhood is a very good idea.

As part of the grant agreement please require that the agenda and link to the group’s meeting be provided online in advance of the meeting, and that each past agenda and past meeting recording be available on the group’s web page for the period of two years. Attendance of the meetings should not be conditional on giving up any personal information, being a member of the group or being on the group’s mailing list.

Any narrative that suggests the City placing conditions on public funding for neighborhood groups has anything to do with curtailing free speech is not based in the law.

Regards,
Olga Zurawska
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2749 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 2 David Yakobson
From: Tony Huizar <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 12:42 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya
Subject: Item 11B: Considerations for Reforming the Neighborhood Organization Grant Program

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Lana Negrete and Councilmembers,
The Neighborhood Organization Grant Program is one of the most cost-effective investments the City of Santa Monica makes. For less than $50,000 annually across seven recognized neighborhood groups, residents receive direct communication, trusted local forums, and meaningful engagement that connects households to city government.

The staff report proposes shifting away from this baseline funding toward City-managed print media, one-time mailers, and fee waivers. These options are outdated and ineffective. We live in a digital age where static print publications like Seascape no longer meet the needs of residents. A single postcard cannot replicate the dynamic, ongoing communication that digital platforms, events, and local outreach now provide.
 The role of neighborhood organizations extends far beyond newsletters. These groups strengthen the work of City government itself:
 Public Safety: Police and Fire rely on neighborhood associations to share timely updates, organize preparedness trainings, and build trust in emergencies.  Public Works: Infrastructure issues such as street repairs, community clean-ups, and traffic safety are surfaced and resolved faster when neighborhood groups serve as organized partners.
 Civic Engagement: Residents gain an accessible pathway to voice concerns, understand policies, and participate in decision-making without being filtered through City-managed channels.

Defunding these groups would not only silence residents but also reduce the City’s own capacity to communicate effectively with its people. Other cities recognize this: Los Angeles provides approximately $32,000 annually per Neighborhood Council, and cities like Mountain View, California (Santa Clara County, Silicon Valley) and Norwalk fund local groups at levels above Santa Monica’s $7,000. Compared to these models, Santa Monica’s program is already minimal. Reducing it further is inconsistent with the City’s stated progressive values.

A responsible path forward is clear:

1. Maintain and enhance the existing $7,000 baseline per group.

2. Use City tools like mailers or fee waivers only as supplements, not replacements.

3. Establish transparent guardrails to prevent political endorsements while fostering civic participation.

Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2750 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 3 Neighborhood organizations are an asset. They extend the reach of the city government, strengthen public safety, and build community. To cut our funding is a gesture that you wish to silence our community.

In closing, with the annual budget provided by the city the Pico Neighborhood Association has managed to engage our community and establish meaningful engagement, supported by funds used to build a technology platform to host hybrid meetings, create and maintain a digital footprint, sponsor events such as music in the park, and develop and maintain creative brand strategies to inform and engage the public and it can be further enhanced if we continue to receive funding and find a way to work together.

Sincerely,
Tony Huizar
Chair, Pico Neighborhood Association
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2751 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 1 David Yakobson
From: Nikki Kolhoff <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 12:00 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP) and current board member, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program. FOSP uses the annual $7,000 grant for mailing an annual membership appeal letter to all 7,800 residences in our neighborhood. (Before the 2020 restructuring, the City used to mail the letters. The $7,000 grant replaced that service.) Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board. At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

We keep our neighbors informed about what is going on in the city, which is practically a full-time job against the PR machine of city hall and the developers. We let residents know how the city's actions and decisions will impact our neighborhood. This education is essential. Any statements we make, political or otherwise, at protected by the First Amendment and in compliance with the law.

There was zero evidence of any wrongdoing before some of you issued a press release to investigate us. This is intended to silence and is not acceptable. It's also dangerous in our current environment.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Regards,
Nikki Kolhoff
Santa Monica Resident and FOSP Board Member
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2752 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 2 David Yakobson
From: John Cyrus Smith <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 11:59 AM
To: Ellis Raskin; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Dan Hall; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; Lana Negrete; Oliver Chi; councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox
Subject: Item 11B Neighborhood grant

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor, Council, Mr. Chi and Staff, (And anyone who is reading this now or plans to attend or watch tonight’s City Council meeting) I’m a Santa Monica Recreation and Parks Commissioner, but I’m writing as a Board member of the Wilshire-Montana Neighborhood Coalition, one of seven cityfunded neighborhood groups.

I’m a little disappointed in this Council but also a bit grateful… so I’m just going to say a few things and tell you why…
--I’m disappointed because I was at the Council meeting back on June 24th when the Council was about to vote on a new $800 million dollar budget, and the $7,000 dollars that funds each volunteer-powered neighborhood group was on the chopping block. I mention this because when certain Council members talk tonight about how much they value neighborhood groups, please remember they were going to cut our funds just a few weeks ago, without any due process.

I am also grateful, because Council members Zernitskya, Raskin, and Negrete, as well as former Police Chief Batista stood up for residents and neighborhood groups that night, and the funding was restored in the budget by a narrow 4-3 vote.

I hope Council will agree to support a continued Neighborhood Grant Program and embrace a hybrid solution built around OPTION 2 that accomplishes three things:
--Preserves a BASE amount of $4,000-$5,000 for each of the seven groups to cover basic and recurring expenses such as insurance, websites, community events and other costs...

Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2753 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 3 --Re-establishes an annual one-page, tri-fold newsletter for each neighborhood group, to be printed and delivered to each residence in the most cost-effective way possible…
--Allows for the continued funding of specific events such as the 4th of July Parade, MMD, etc...

IMHO:
--Council should reject OPTION 1. $200,00 is too expensive and Seascape would not support neighborhood groups or cover any basic group expenses... --Council should also reject OPTION 3, which only provides money for specific events and nothing for basic group expenses...
--Council also reject any proposal (discussed by some Council members) that forces 501-c4's to become c3's in order to qualify for funding. I say this because I know first-hand what an arduous effort that would entail. It took more than two years of work by myself and others before the IRS re-established non-profit status to Mid-City Neighbors in 2015, and that was only after I contacted the office of departing Congressman Henry Waxman and asked for his help. Two weeks later we got word from the IRS, which determined we were a 501c4. Forcing groups to change would be a time-consuming and unfair burden, especially given the IRS layoffs carried out by the current administration. Good luck trying to change anything now.

One final thought… it would be blatantly unfair if this Council punishes other groups for the actions of one or two others. Council already places restrictions on how the money is used. Wilmont has always followed those rules and we’ve been doing so since our founding 35 years ago in 1990.

Thank you,
John Cyrus Smith
John Cyrus Smith
[email protected]
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2754 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 1 David Yakobson
From: Jason Mastbaum <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 10:52 AM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall
Cc: Heidi von Tongeln; councilmtgitems
Subject: 11B 9/30/25 remove dedicated public funding and official recognition for Santa Monica's neighborhood groups

EXTERNAL
Councilmembers, city council should remove dedicated public funding and official recognition for the existing neighborhood groups. Much of the discussion of this has revolved around the fact that many of these groups have become explicitly political organizations, and while that is certainly a good reason to remove their funding and recognition, it's not the only one.

These groups are tiny, exclusionary cliques which are overwhelmingly older and whiter than the population of the city. Other than OPA, the meetings of these groups are mostly the same 10-20 group of longtime regulars each time. If a newcomer who doesn't share their political views attends a meeting, they'll be met with overt hostility, as I wrote for Santa Monica Next about experiencing at a Wilmont meeting in 2024. And this doesn't even require speaking up and saying something that challenges the group's political orthodoxy—if they recognize you as an opponent, they'll likely kick you out before you even have the chance to say anything.

In August, FOSP held a meeting at which California State Senator and Senate Housing Committee chair Aisha Wahab was speaking regarding state housing legislation, an event of clear interest to any observer of California state government. I was removed twice from this meeting simply while sitting and watching, and a third time immediately after trying to participate in the chat. I have spoken to other members of Santa Monica Forward who were also removed from this meeting without even saying anything in the meeting, which would indicate that we were removed from the meeting because we're members of Santa Monica Forward. Tricia Crane, who was running this FOSP meeting, claimed that this was the result of various technical problems. But this does not pass the smell test given the aforementioned details, and given Tricia's previous attempt in 2024 (which I also wrote about for Next) to threaten me with summoning the police to eject me for trespassing from a public park while waiting to hear from four councilmembers whom she supported, who like these neighborhood groups apparently felt that they could run a public meeting while screening attendance (see email chain with then-City Attorney Doug Sloan below). This behavior is also in flagrant violation of California's open meeting laws, as neighborhood group meetings are public meetings by virtue of the groups' public funding and official status.

Insular groups like Wilmont and FOSP, which overtly function as private membership groups (including requiring paying dues to vote on the groups' business), should not receive public funding to do so. They certainly should not be treated as being the official voices of the neighborhoods they claim to represent.

That said, these organizations can still apply just like any other group for public funding for any bona fide public community building events they may want to hold, such as OPA's Open Main Street events.

Having these organizations go through the regular events proposal process is far more practical, less Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2755 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 2 onerous on city staff, and fairer to everyone (including the groups themselves) than requiring continuous city staff monitoring of the content of their communications to determine whether they've breached eligibility for dedicated public funds.

On Tue, Aug 5, 2025 at 2:32 PM Jason Mastbaum <[email protected]> wrote:

Tricia, you removed me from the meeting three separate times last night. Twice while I was simply sitting and silently observing, and the third time immediately after I participated in the chat. The intent was extremely clear, and sending a video after the fact does not correct the inability to participate in the meeting as it was happening.

Doug, for additional context on how Tricia operates and as you may remember, at the needle rally at Reed Park last year Tricia was under the impression that she could have the police remove me from a public park simply for sitting and waiting for four city council members to speak.

On Tue, Aug 5, 2025, 2:23 PM T2crane <[email protected]> wrote:

Jason,
Unfortunately we had some technical problems at last night's meeting such that even a featured speaker had trouble getting in. Sorry you were disappointed.

I am happy to send you a video of the segments with Mayor Negrete and Senator Wahab. Both video recordings will also be posted on the Northeast Neighbors website this afternoon so you won't feel that you missed out.

Tricia
On Monday, August 4, 2025 at 07:52:14 PM PDT, Jason Mastbaum <[email protected]> wrote:

Hi Doug, I attempted to join the Northeast Neighbors meeting tonight as the Santa Monica mayor and a state senator are at the meeting tonight. However, despite simply sitting listening, I was removed by Tricia from the meeting. This is illegal, as these are public meetings. Can you please remind Tricia that she has to run her meetings accordingly? Thanks,
Jason
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2756 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 3 David Yakobson
From: Michele Biagioni <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 11:03 AM
To: Ellis Raskin; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Dan Hall; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; Lana Negrete; Oliver Chi; councilmtgitems; Josh Kurpies
Subject: Tuesday Sept 30 Vote on Neighborhood Grant Program

EXTERNAL
As a resident of Santa Monica for more than 30 years, I have seen and been part of many changes, some quite favorable, others less so. What has remained constant is the importance of vibrant neighborhood organizations.

As we look for more ways for our city’s upward trajectory - despite its many serious challenges - I ask that the vitality of neighborhoods be supported. Healthier neighborhoods support a healthier community and contribute to our City’s growth.

Welcoming residents to the 2025 State of the City in Reed Park illustrates the benefits of neighborhood groups.

I ask that you vote for Option 2 with a base amount of at least $4,000 per group and one annual newsletter for each neighborhood association. Please consider this an opportunity to extend and increase resident engagement and participation. Thank you for your consideration. -Michele Biagioni (4th St, 90403)
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2757 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 1 David Yakobson
From: [email protected]
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 9:06 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; [email protected]; Caroline Torosis; Lana Negrete
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program. FOSP uses the annual $7,000 grant for mailing an annual membership appeal letter to all 7,800 residences in our neighborhood. (Before the 2020 restructuring, the City used to mail the letters. The $7,000 grant replaced that service.) Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board. At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting. Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week. Community events this year have included an FOSP general membership meeting at Clover Park, the FOSP Beach Towel Drill Team marching in the 4th of July Parade on Main Street, FOSP tabling at National Night Out, and FOSP co-sponsoring with local businesses “A Sunset Park Block Party: Art in the Alley” behind Bob’s Market. Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Vanessa McCarthy
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2758 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 2 David Yakobson
From: Jeffrey Gordon <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 9:22 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: Item 11B City Council Agenda for September 30, 2025

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor and City Council,
Santa Monica Neighborhood Associations provide a vital and unique component of our city. Their boards and supporters are made up of volunteers committed to fostering an engaged community.

The Council should not attempt to weaken them or the special forums and voices they offer. This is so even if sometimes they raise points of views that some of you may disagree with—you should instead welcome this. I urge the Council to reject proposals to weaken, restrict or defund the neighborhood associations. With our democracy under attack nationwide, this is important now more than ever.

As just one example of their role in fostering an involved community is the recent NOMA Annual meeting at the Franklin school. Over 200 residents attended in person. Others saw it on-line. The Boy Scouts greeted people at the door. A jazz group from SAMO played. Over 10 small businesses on Montana offered prizes. Other organizations, including the SM Fire Department, had tables.

The newly appointed Interim Police Chief Darrick Jacob, welcomed warmly, spoke at length answering questions and hearing comments from the community. This was probably the largest resident audience the Chief has had. Senator Allen and Mayor Negrete also spoke and responded to concerns from residents.

Thank you, Jeffrey Gordon
SM Resident and NOMA Board Member
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2759 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 3 David Yakobson
From: Cathy Larson <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 10:00 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Dan Hall; Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Councilmembers,
I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Santa Monica neighborhood organizations are an essential component to the community fabric.

They are a direct forum for community members to voice their concerns, inform residents on topics of local concern, and encourage community engagement with City Councilmembers, City Boards/Commissions, and encourage community engagement.

Cathy Larson
Sunset Park resident
PS As a note of perspective, staff’s suggestion of offering $.50/per household doesn’t even cover the cost to mail an announcement (currently $.78 for a letter size)
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2760 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 4 David Yakobson
From: Lmkmanning <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 10:06 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
s a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program. FOSP uses the annual $7,000 grant for mailing an annual membership appeal letter to all 7,800 residences in our neighborhood. (Before the 2020 restructuring, the City used to mail the letters. The $7,000 grant replaced that service.) Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board. At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting. Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week. Community events this year have included an FOSP general membership meeting at Clover Park, the FOSP Beach Towel Drill Team marching in the 4th of July Parade on Main Street, FOSP tabling at National Night Out, and FOSP co-sponsoring with local businesses “A Sunset Park Block Party: Art in the Alley” behind Bob’s Market.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Linda Manning
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2761 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 5 David Yakobson
From: lmarreola <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 10:22 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
90405
Sent via the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, an AT&T 5G smartphone Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2762 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 6 David Yakobson
From: lmarreola <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 10:26 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
90405
Larry and Carol Arreola
Sent via the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, an AT&T 5G smartphone Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2763 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 7 David Yakobson
From: Heather Thomason <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 10:37 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
I urge you to continue the Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

These grants are essential for civic engagement and community building. FOSP uses its modest $7,000 annual grant to mail membership appeals to all 7,800 households in our neighborhood—a service the City provided before 2020. That yellow letter, delivered within months of my moving to Santa Monica, showed me where to turn with neighborhood concerns. Without it, I wouldn't have known how to get involved with the city this year, after I had some concerns.

Since getting involved with FOSP this year, I've attended nearly every monthly meeting and witnessed healthy dialogue firsthand. Even on contentious issues like airport closure—which most Sunset Park residents I know support—dissenting board members voice their concerns and are heard.

The strongest reason to continue funding is this: neighborhood organizations seem to be some of the only independent structures within our city government's broader ecosystem. When nearly every other body reports through the same hierarchy, dissenting views get filtered out. Independent groups can advocate for positions outside the majority consensus—preventing a government of yes-men where uncomfortable truths never surface. Healthy governance requires formal spaces where differences can be raised and amplified without fear of retaliation.

I'm deeply concerned that sidelining these organizations reflects the same polarization tearing apart our nation. The vast majority of people in these groups share significant policy agreement with council members. Yet treating them as enemies over a few areas of disagreement isn't just unproductive—it's unhealthy. Santa Monica should model something better than the all-or-nothing politics we see everywhere else.

Defunding over political disagreement tells residents their civic access depends on agreeing with whoever holds power. This erodes trust and weaponizes what should be neutral infrastructure. You don't eliminate opposition by cutting funding—you just push it into less constructive channels while losing valuable feedback.

Most importantly, council majorities change. The principle you establish today will govern how your constituents are treated when you're in the minority.

Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2764 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 8 Strong neighborhoods make strong cities. Political disagreement isn't a bug to suppress—it's a feature that makes better decisions possible.

Thank you,
Heather
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2765 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 9 David Yakobson
From: Dan Kolhoff <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 10:56 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Dan Kolhoff
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2766 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 10 David Yakobson
From: Tracey Hom <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 10:59 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2767 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 11 David Yakobson
From: Karen Croner <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 11:13 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers, Our Neighborhood Organizations amplify the voices of the residents, and provide residents with essential information. I am aghast that this city council would even consider limiting this community service, I can only see it as an attempt to limit free speech. At this moment in our nation’s history, when our streets are filled with No Kings marches, I am dismayed to see the city staff and council wishing to act as “kings.” This is truly a dark day in our city’s history, and I promise you, if you try to cut the Neighborhood Organizations, it will get enormous media attention and you will be seen as anti first amendment, forever.

We have a diverse membership with people with many different opinions, but unified in loving our city.

If you limit neighborhood organizations, sadly you will be marching in lock step with the current administration in limiting basic civil and human rights.

The neighborhood organizations are volunteers who love Santa Monica, have put roots down here, who keep us informed about crime, and also organize all kinds of fun events that help create community. Are you truly against that??? Do the right thing. Support the neighborhood organization grant program.

I agree with the FOSP letter:

As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Karen Croner
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2768 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 12 Karen Croner
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2769 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 13 David Yakobson
From: Sue Edwards <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 11:26 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Funding for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
Please continue to provide funding to the city’s neighborhood organizations at the current level.

Sue Edwards
428 - 15th St.
52 year Santa Monica resident.

Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2770 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 14 David Yakobson
From: danilobach <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 11:29 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Item ll B on September 30, 2025 Agenda

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and Councilmembers,
As a long-time resident of Santa Monica and a former chair of the North of Montana Neighborhood Association, I cannot agree more with the sentiments and recommendations presented to you today in the letter from NOMA's current chair Bruce Leddy. The neighborhood associations are a vital asset and sounding board for community involvement and have deserve the continuing support of City Council and staff.

Respectfully,
Danilo Bach
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2771 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 15 David Yakobson
From: Ria McVeigh <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 11:39 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Katrina McVeigh
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2772 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 16 David Yakobson
From: phillis dudick <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 11:40 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 9/30/25 ITEM 11-B

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and Councilmembers:

Regarding Neighborhood Associations, why not leave funding minimally at the level it has been for several years with the caveat that personality politics, including endorsements, will not be permitted under City guidelines.

It stands to reason that organizations, or bodies, "sponsored" by the City shall not engage in partisan politics. Neighborhood Associations were conceived to play a vital role in civic life and will continue to do so, though funding at least at the current level is critical.

Sincerely,
Phillis Dudick
NOMA Board Member
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2773 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 17 David Yakobson
From: Nancy Hicks <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 11:43 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers:

As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program. FOSP uses the annual $7,000 grant for mailing an annual membership appeal letter to all 7,800 residences in our neighborhood. (Before the 2020 restructuring, the City used to mail the letters. The $7,000 grant replaced that service.) Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board. At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting. Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week. Community events this year have included an FOSP general membership meeting at Clover Park, the FOSP Beach Towel Drill Team marching in the 4th of July Parade on Main Street, FOSP tabling at National Night Out, and FOSP co-sponsoring with local businesses “A Sunset Park Block Party: Art in the Alley” behind Bob’s Market.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program. Sincerely, Nancy Hicks
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2774 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 1 David Yakobson
From: Crystal Reed <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 3:21 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
Just as Los Angeles is a collection of unique neighborhoods, so is our tiny, world-famous Santa Monica. Our neighborhoods have their own specific concerns reflecting their particular sets of residents and business owners. The relatively robust NGP as it exists is a proud and beautiful tradition within our city that doesn't need to be modeled after other cities that aren't us.

My family has been a member household of FOSP for almost two decades. (Our family has owned and resided in this house since it was originally built for the Douglas employees back in the '40s.) I won't repeat the FOSP talking points from the standardized letter because you've received it multiple times already, but I will ask you to consider maintaining the program as-is, or perhaps even enhancing it in some of the ways proposed in your optional plans. Definitely not scaling it back.

Thank you.

Crystal Reed
2817 11th Street
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2775 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 1 David Yakobson
From: Rachel Powell <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 8:09 AM
To: Ellis Raskin; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Dan Hall; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; Lana Negrete; Oliver Chi; councilmtgitems; Josh Kurpies
Subject: Morning! And a gentle plea

EXTERNAL
Hello dear Santa Monica servants!
I’ve just discovered that our neighborhood coalitions may be defunded and I’m hoping you don’t do that.

Each community comes together, considers what is best for all residents in our treasured city and are proactive for the good of all, we are not partisan - all are welcome.

The fees help build, (neighbor) awareness and community. And they are nominal in the whole scheme of our City budget.

Thank you for your attention and please continue our funding! SincerelyRachel
Powell Now Creative

WRITING & CONSULTING
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2776 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 1 David Yakobson
From: Stuart Grusin <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 8:34 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Stuart Grusin
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2777 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 2 David Yakobson
From: LINDA KNAB <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 8:19 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
I believe that the FOSP is an important community program that should be recognized, by the city council, as an excellent tool to help create a bond between community members and is essential for keeping residents informed about issues in the neighborhood that they are living in. Please vote to continue funding for this very important program.

As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Linda Reinbold
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2778 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 2 David Yakobson
From: suzie roth <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 5:56 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Suzie
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2779 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 3 David Yakobson
From: leona mason <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 6:00 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Leona Mason
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2780 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 4 David Yakobson
From: ALICE ELLIS <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 6:15 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Alice Ellis
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2781 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 5 David Yakobson
From: Dannie Charney <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 6:16 PM
To: Ellis Raskin; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Dan Hall; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; Lana Negrete; Oliver Chi; councilmtgitems; Josh Kurpies
Subject: AGENDA ITEM 11. B. SUPPORT ITEM 2 MTG 9/30/2025

EXTERNAL
To all,
Please, if you are to wrongly punish the residents' voices, while cleverly violating our right to free speech, then go with Option 2 as drafted by staff.

I find it so odd that staff would even suggest resurrecting the Seascape corpse, a former lackluster zine costing four times the amount that funding the neighborhood groups at $49,000 does. But of course Seacape is controlled by the City, and staff that are horribly rude to residents, and that is what this Council is going for at every turn. It also doesn't want us gathering or talking to each other, comparing notes and information. So, with Option 2, we will save a whopping $21,000. a year from a budget of over half a billion plus.

Wow, that will go a long way. You may say "every dollar helps".. but that is not the response when we objected to Natalya going to the Yimby convention, or other Council members traveling all over the place. Or how about those catered dinners that you order for Council to feast upon while we, the tired residents wait for the Closed Sessions to be over so we can express our views to the well fed council who are not really listening or caring. Not you Lana. Those who most of the time have a pre-planned agenda. It all adds up. So does hiring upper level management for inflated salaries and benefits, as with our new unimpressive City Manager who is being paid twice Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2782 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 6 his worth. We also might investigate many of the retiring employees who have violated residents' civil rights, and caused damage to so many who are vulnerable. We have management who have done this, along with questionable deals that violate law, then go on to collect inflated pensions.. How about looking into this instead of cutting community group funding? I bet we could save a few wampum there.

Or how about doing discovery on the current 180 ULLER victims waiting for their $1,000,000. each. You allowed these abuses to go on over a long period of time and did zero to stop it after repeated warnings. Then you gripe about $49,000 for residents' voices? First you cover up the molestation for decades, then you cover up finding out who was really involved besides ULLER.

Amazing.

Please don't pretend you care or know how to run anything. The only thing you should run for is the bus out of town. Not you Lana..you are terrific.

Fund the damn community groups and shut the hell up about it. It's peanuts.

Not you Lana, you can talk all you want because you are the only voice on that dias that represents us, the taxpayers
Danielle Charney
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2783 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 7 David Yakobson
From: Robin Anderson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 6:19 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Robin Anderson
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2784 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 8 David Yakobson
From: JORDAN ELLIS <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 6:20 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Jordan Ellis
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2785 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 9 David Yakobson
From: Deborah Roetman <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 7:29 PM
To: Ellis Raskin; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Dan Hall; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; Lana Negrete; Oliver Chi; councilmtgitems; Josh Kurpies
Subject: Neighborhood Associations

EXTERNAL
I am a member of the Wilmont Neighborhood Association. Please do not defund us! The neighborhoods ARE the city. They are the liaison between the city and the people. They are a chance for residents to get involved in the affairs of the city. To meet the members of the city council, the police department and many other city representatives. Why would any council member choose to defund the neighborhood associations? They are such a small fraction of the city's budget and are such a valuable asset for the community.

Deborah Roetman
Santa Monica resident
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2786 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 10 David Yakobson
From: Nancy Owens <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 7:51 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Nancy Owens
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2787 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 11 David Yakobson
From: PAULINE YANO <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 8:05 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Pauline Yano
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2788 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 12 David Yakobson
From: Julie Rhee <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 8:07 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Julie Rhee
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2789 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 13 David Yakobson
From: Michelle LoMonaco <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 9:18 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers, As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program. FOSP uses the annual $7,000 grant for mailing an annual membership appeal letter to all 7,800 residences in our neighborhood. (Before the 2020 restructuring, the City used to mail the letters. The $7,000 grant replaced that service.) Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board. At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting. Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week. Community events this year have included an FOSP general membership meeting at Clover Park, the FOSP Beach Towel Drill Team marching in the 4th of July Parade on Main Street, FOSP tabling at National Night Out, and FOSP co-sponsoring with local businesses “A Sunset Park Block Party: Art in the Alley” behind Bob’s Market. Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Michelle LoMonaco 90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2790 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 14 David Yakobson
From: Warren Allen <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 9:19 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Warren and Sally Allen
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2791 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 15 David Yakobson
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 9:36 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Jesse Zwick; Lana Negrete; Natalya Zernitskaya; Oliver Chi
Cc: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: FOSP: City Council 9/30/25 item 11-B -- Neighborhood Organization Grant Program

EXTERNAL
September 29, 2025

To: Mayor Negrete and City Council members

From: Board of Directors, Friends of Sunset Park

RE: 9/30/25 item 11-B -- Neighborhood Organization Grant Program

Below is the email we sent you in July 2025.

The FOSP Board urges you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

How FOSP uses the grant: We use the annual $7,000 grant for mailing a membership appeal letter to all 7,800 residences in our neighborhood.

Before the 2020 restructuring, the City mailed the letters. The $7,000 grant replaced that service.

FOSP membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns, which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

As you can see from the grant application form, we need to list how we plan to spend the grant, get it approved by city staff, and in the end-of-the-year Final Report, provide invoices and copies of any printed materials for approval by City staff.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of city meetings and other events, and links to articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

FOSP community events this year have included
--an FOSP general membership meeting at Clover Park,
--the FOSP Beach Towel Drill Team marching in the 4th of July Parade on Main Street, --FOSP tabling at National Night Out, and
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2792 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 16 --FOSP co-sponsoring with local businesses “A Sunset Park Block Party: Art in the Alley” behind Bob’s Market.

Again, the FOSP Board urges you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program, which is already funded in the 2025-27 budget.

From: [email protected]
To: [email protected] , [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected],
[email protected], [email protected] Sent: 7/7/2025 9:32:28 PM Pacific Daylight Time
Subject: City Council 7/8/25 item 16-E -- Neighborhood Organization Grant Program July 7, 2025

To: Mayor Negrete and City Council members

RE: Neighborhood Organization Grant Program
Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP) was founded in 1989. We are a nonprofit and all volunteer group dedicated to improving the quality of life for renters and homeowners in the Sunset Park neighborhood.

Along with the other 6 city-recognized neighborhood organizations, we are listed on the city website. If you search for “neighborhood organizations,” our names are linked to our websites. https://www.santamonica.gov/neighborhood-organizations
If you scroll down, there is information about the grant program. https://www.santamonica.gov/media/CMO/neighborhood%20grants/Neighborhood%20Org%20Grant% 20Program%202023-2024%20final%20(1).pdf
As you can see from the application form, we need to list how we plan to spend the grant, get it approved by city staff, and in the end-of-the-year Final Report, provide invoices and copies of any materials we may have copied for for approval by City staff. This year, Friends of Sunset Park used our grant for 1) a membership appeal letter that was mailed to all residents in Sunset Park, and 2) a newsletter which was flyered to all residents in Sunset Park.

Our newsletters, which are flyered to the entire neighborhood 1 to 4 times per year, are posted here:
https://friendsofsunsetpark.org/newsletter/
Our weekly "What's new" emails include city announcements, the weekly SMPD Blue Notebook, a calendar of events, including city meetings, library events, summer swimming pool schedules, National Night Out, fun events, etc., plus titles and links to articles from the previous week in our local newspapers. Various city departments email us information to share with our members.

Our monthly meeting agendas include updates from our SMPD NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator, and information about upcoming meeting dates and agendas of the City Council, Planning Commission, Airport Commission, Recreation & Parks Commission, Commission on Sustainability, Environmental Justice, and the Environment, SMC Board of Trustees, SMMUSD Board of Education, and events at Fairview Library.

Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2793 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 17 Our guest speakers in past years have included the City Manager, City Council members, Police Chief, Fire Chief, Public Works Director, Airport Director, Planning Director, City Traffic Engineer, head of Emergency Management, Urban Forester, Water Resources Manager, and other city staff Our FOSP website and FOSP Facebook page provide additional information for our members.

We donate to Samohi’s Grad Nite and participate in National Night Out every year. This year we also participated in Art in the Alley and Art in the Park, plus we are planning a large meeting/celebration in Clover Park on July 19th. We also participate in the 4th of July Parade on Main Street with our FOSP Beach Towel Drill Team.

Each year, our members tell us on their membership forms what they like best about living in Sunset Park and what their greatest concerns are. That helps our board establish priorities, such as getting additional crossing guards assigned near neighborhood schools, advocating for Runway Safety Areas at both ends of the Santa Monica Airport runway, opposing the sale of Fairview Library, and encouraging residents to participate in organics recycling, free paper shredding and electronics recycling, and free and safe disposal of hazardous household waste.

We also encourage members to sign up for SM Alerts, get an emergency preparedness kit, have a plan, and participate in CERT classes.

FOSP members have served on the City Council and on the Airport, Arts, Housing, Landmarks, Planning, Recreation and Parks, Senior Community, and Social Services Commissions, Architectural Review Board, Personnel Board, Urban Forest Task Force, Lincoln Boulevard Task Force, Pico/Lincoln Action Team, Pico Improvement Organization, SMC Board of Trustees, SMC Citizens Bond Oversight Committee, SMMUSD Board of Education, Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City, Santa Monica Transparency Project, and the Santa Monica Neighborhood Council.

Our members tell us that they appreciate our efforts to keep them informed and to keep them engaged in the life of the city.

Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2794 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 18 David Yakobson
From: Caitlin Lili <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 9:39 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Caitlin Lili
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2795 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 19 David Yakobson
From: Julia Nicholls <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 9:43 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Julia Nicholls
90404
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2796 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 20 David Yakobson
From: Tali Ekstein <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 9:59 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Tali Ekstein
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2797 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 21 David Yakobson
From: Sean Besser <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 10:07 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Message Submission re City Council 9/30 item 11-B

EXTERNAL
Hello, my name is Sean Besser. I am the president of the Ocean Park Association, but this message is coming from me personally and not on behalf of OPA. I’m here to urge you to continue funding Santa Monica’s neighborhood organizations.

These organizations are the backbone of civic life. They bring neighbors together, keep residents informed, provide a trusted channel for sharing community concerns with City staff, advocate for neighborhood priorities, and help cultivate the next generation of City leadership. In fact, several councilmembers and citywide board members — including Ted Winterer, Jeff Jarow, and myself — first got involved through neighborhood organizations.

OPA’s track record shows the value of this investment. We played a leading role in shaping the outdoor dining parklet laws and beautifying barricades in 2020 and 2021 — projects that were widely praised and embraced nationally. We also pioneered neighborhood street-closure events that foster connection and vibrancy. These initiatives would have been difficult, if not impossible, without City funding.

At the same time, I believe public funding carries responsibilities. Organizations receiving City support should not endorse candidates or engage in political advocacy. I also support distributing funds fairly, based on neighborhood population.

I also want to encourage the City to work with the organizations on creative and economic ways to spread the word about the organizations. For example, iif the City includes messaging about the organizations and their events in water bills that go to every home owner and in rent control mailings that go to all renters, this would be a very cost effective way of communicating with virtually all Santa Monicans.

In short, continuing this funding is an investment in civic engagement, innovation, and leadership — all of which strengthen Santa Monica.

Thank you.
~~Sean Besser
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2798 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 22 David Yakobson
From: Jeanne Laurie <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 10:11 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Jeanne Laurie
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2799 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 23 David Yakobson
From: Dannie Charney <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 10:16 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Natalya Zernitskaya; Caroline Torosis; Barry Snell; Josh Kurpies; Oliver Chi Subject: Agenda Item 11-B.. Meeting 9/30/2025

EXTERNAL
I would like to send one more on this subject- the funding of Community Groups..

No group works harder ( and many work very hard ) than Wilmont... they need and deserve every cent of this money ..

They do wonders for the community and invite all
to join these events..
my god don't listen to the developer owned voices of Santa Monica Forward or John Prindle ..
voices that have nothing to do with caring about this City and its residents - only for power and developers.. only for their egos..

Wilmont ..John, Elizabeth and Susan work so hard - not a bit for developers and egos -but for us..
they make this City good ..
fund them please
they make a dollar go a long way
Danielle Charney
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2800 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 24 David Yakobson
From: ALICEANN GRUSIN <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 10:28 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Aliceann Grusin
90405
Sent from my annoying device.

Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2801 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 25 David Yakobson
From: Peter A Donald <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 10:35 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
蚋蚌蚍蚎Peter A Donald
2618 32nd St.

Santa Monica, CA 90405
310 871-4862
[email protected]
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2802 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 26 David Yakobson
From: Amanda O'Brien <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 10:59 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2803 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 27 David Yakobson
From: Amanda O'Brien <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 10:59 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Amanda OBrien
1744 Bryn Mawr Ave
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2804 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 28 David Yakobson
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 11:55 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Charles Blum
90405
Dr. Charles L. Blum
[email protected]
1752 Ocean Park Boulevard
Santa Monica, CA 90405
310-392-9795
www.drcharlesblum.com
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This E-Mail communication (including attachments) is covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act 18, U.S.C 2510-2521, is confidential and may be legally privileged. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2805 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 29 retention, dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. Please reply to the sender that you have received this message in error, and then delete it. Thank You.

Ferpa Notice: Additionally, these records are protected by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and are provided to the intended recipient under an exception to the Act found in Section 99.32.

These records must be maintained confidentially and may not be re-disclosed. They must be destroyed when your legitimate educational interest no longer exists.

Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2806 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 30 David Yakobson
From: Bruce Leddy <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 11:54 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: ITEM 11B - 9/30/25

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and Councilmembers -
The Staff Report for Item 11B is supposed to provide accurate information and recommendations for the possibility of modifying or eliminating grants to neighborhood organizations. You should know that, to my knowledge, none of the SM neighborhood groups or their leadership were interviewed or participated in the information gathered for this report. No paperwork was requested or submitted; no inquiries were made. The Staff Report is wholly opinion based on... well, I'm not sure what it's based on because no one from the City bothered to talk to us. If you were going to find out how groups use their City grant money and whether they are being transparent (the ostensible reason for this study session), don't you think you might speak with someone from the groups themselves, or ask to see if they are abiding by the rules? Doesn't City Council deserve some due diligence on this issue before making a decision?
Instead, what you're presented with are some spitballed ideas as to what you could do to neighborhood groups if you feel like it. There is no evidence that money was misused for political purposes as was insinuated in the initial request for a study session, or that any of the other criteria for NGP participation has been violated (tax exempt status, public bylaws and open meetings, active board, a general membership annual meeting, a member threshold) in all the decades we have existed.

Instead, the report cherry picks three California jurisdictions out of several hundred, as evidence that our grant allocation may be too lax or too exorbitant. The last of these – West Hollywood – isn't even a true neighborhood group example; it's a bunch of city-supported "neighborhood watch" groups. That's comparing apples to hammers, it's so unrelated to what we do.

There is nothing in this report which allows you to judge the success of neighborhood organizations or the way they use their funds. If it were accurate, it would say, "There is no evidence that neighborhood groups have used their City grant money for political purposes. They provide receipts every year as required. In fact, this annual accounting from all 7 groups shows that they have consistently and reliably used the money for great public benefit by providing free events, open meetings, informational emails and newsletters, and entertainment for residents that makes them more engaged and informed citizens. Therefore, we recommend that the neighborhood grant program remain as is." THAT would be a truthful and candid assessment.

But that isn't even one of the options you were presented with. You can either resurrect Seascape Magazine (which has absolutely nothing to do with neighborhood groups and will cost 4 times as Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2807 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 31 much as the grants themselves), give us a per household allowance and make us promise to be neutral on all issues (per household is fine but neutrality is vague and effectively wrecks civic engagement), or co-sponsor everything we do so that we are essentially an obedient appendage of City Council. Do you have any idea what that will look like, if you take control of the neighborhood groups? Hint: it rhymes with "plump."
I know and I appreciate all that City Council members do for this city. It is an incredibly difficult and under-appreciated job. You have the same goals that we do, to make Santa Monica the best it can be. So why does the appreciation not run the other way as well? Your staff and City leaders come to us every time they want to present important information from the City. We're putting out information on our websites and email blasts, highlighting the programs and policies and events that you want residents to know about. Do we push back on some things you're doing that we don't agree on? Of course! That's democracy and if you cannot abide by some dissent, I would suggest you are in the wrong business. Instead of trying to curb or curtail public opinion, you should be encouraging it. You will better serve the public if you know where we stand, and that's what we consistently try to do in our letters and statements to you.

To my mind, this is an intense waste of your time and staff's time because you are talking about kneecapping some of the most active, engaged, and dedicated volunteers in this community. We work hard to keep residents informed. We spend countless hours organizing events for our community. We fight to make Santa Monica a great city in everything we do.

Do the right thing, and let us continue our mission to support the residents of this community, and in so doing, support City Hall as well.

Bruce Leddy
25 Year Resident of NOMA
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2808 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 32 David Yakobson
From: Leanna Einbinder <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 12:37 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Leanna Einbinder
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2809 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 33 David Yakobson
From: Bill Josephs <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 4:05 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Bill Josephs, 2454 23rd Street, Santa Monica, CA
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2810 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 34 David Yakobson
From: Taunya Post <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 6:11 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Taunya Post
2247 24th Street
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2811 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 35 David Yakobson
From: trisha roth <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 6:24 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Trisha Roth
90405
Sent from my iPad
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2812 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 36 David Yakobson
From: Gail Gordon <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 7:35 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Gail Gordon
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2813 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 1 David Yakobson
From: Andrew Wilder <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 4:25 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

FOSP has had a positive impact on our quality of life in Sunset Park for the last 14 years we have lived here -- they help keep us informed on issues in our neighborhood (and in the City generally), and help us feel like a part of the community.

FOSP uses the annual $7,000 grant for mailing an annual membership appeal letter to all 7,800 residences in our neighborhood. (Before the 2020 restructuring, the City used to mail the letters.

The $7,000 grant replaced that service.)
Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Andrew Wilder
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2814 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 2 David Yakobson
From: Summer Wedertz <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 4:39 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2815 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 3 David Yakobson
From: William Schoene <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 4:40 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

FOSP uses the annual $7,000 grant for mailing an annual membership appeal letter to all 7,800 residences in our neighborhood. (Before the
2020 restructuring, the City used to mail the letters. The $7,000 grant replaced that service.) Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2816 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 4 David Yakobson
From: Alan Kennedy <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 4:28 PM
To: Ellis Raskin; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Dan Hall; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; Lana Negrete; Oliver Chi; councilmtgitems
Subject: Funding for neighborhood groups

EXTERNAL
Please do not cut funding for neighborhood groups in Santa Monica! Thank you,
Alan Kennedy, 11-year resident of Santa Monica
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2817 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 1 David Yakobson
From: julie anderson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 3:44 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Julie Anderson
2641 4th st, #1
Santa Monica
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2818 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 2 David Yakobson
From: Katherine Reuter <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 3:52 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Katherine Reuter 90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2819 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 3 David Yakobson
From: Elaine Becker <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 4:09 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers, As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program. FOSP uses the annual $7,000 grant for mailing an annual membership appeal letter to all 7,800 residences in our neighborhood. (Before the 2020 restructuring, the City used to mail the letters. The $7,000 grant replaced that service.) Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board. At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting. Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week. Community events this year have included an FOSP general membership meeting at Clover Park, the FOSP Beach Towel Drill Team marching in the 4th of July Parade on Main Street, FOSP tabling at National Night Out, and FOSP co-sponsoring with local businesses “A Sunset Park Block Party: Art in the Alley” behind Bob’s Market. Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program. Sincerely, [Your Name] 90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2820 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 4 David Yakobson
From: oesr <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 4:10 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Community events this year have included an FOSP general membership meeting at Clover Park, the FOSP Beach Towel Drill Team marching in the 4th of July Parade on Main Street, and FOSP tabling at National Night Out, and FOSP cosponsoring.

Jane Dempsey
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2821 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 5 David Yakobson
From: Debbie Millar <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 4:18 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

These letters help remind everyone to become involved in the issues facing our neighborhood and city. FOSP helps bring community together
with their general membership meeting at Clover Park, the FOSP Beach Towel Drill Team marching in the 4th of July Parade on Main Street, FOSP tabling at National Night Out, and FOSP cosponsoring with local businesses “A Sunset Park Block Party: Art in the Alley” behind Bob’s Market.

I live in Santa Monica because of its community feel, please don't chip away at all that makes this city special! I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Debbie Millar
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2822 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 6 David Yakobson
From: Kathy Knight <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 4:19 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As members of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), we urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, we urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Kathy Knight and Joe Faris
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2823 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 1 David Yakobson
From: Dannie Charney <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 12:13 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Danielle Charney
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2824 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 2 David Yakobson
From: Levin, Amy C <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 12:17 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Amy Levin
90405
*****************************************
Amy Levin, LCSW, PhD
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2825 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 3 David Yakobson
From: Terrence Marre <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 12:19 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
[Terrence Marre
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2826 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 4 David Yakobson
From: Kathleen Kelleher McCarthy <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 12:24 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Lana Negrete; Natalya Zernitskaya
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Kathleen Kelleher McCarthy
1306 Grant St.

Santa Monica, CA 90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2827 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 5 David Yakobson
From: Gail Block <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 1:01 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2828 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 6 David Yakobson
From: Gail Block <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 1:02 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Gail Block
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2829 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 7 David Yakobson
From: Burt Goldstein <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 1:05 PM
To: [email protected]; Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; councilmtgitems Cc: [email protected]; [email protected]; Ralph Rudzinski; Stanley Rubin Subject: In re Sept 30, 2026 Agenda Item 11B: Considerations for Reforming the Neighborhood Organization Grant Program

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members:

Please consider increasing the grants given to neighborhood and ceasing and desisting in ‘supervising” or “reforming” their activity.
501C(3) organizations are supervised by the State and are not doing political partisan campaigning.

If you have evidence they are acting politically in violation of State Law, file complaint with the State.

The attempt by the Council to ‘reform’ them eliminates their proper independence. Leave them alone. Maybe thank them. Maybe listen to the concerns of the citizens they are hearing.

As our outgoing police Chief said, these organizations - without any ‘help’ from the Council are doing good job and have the unintended side effect of reducing neighborhood crime and/or making policing easier for the understaffed force we have. Understaffed in part due to the Council’s failure to meet the Chief’s request for 5 additional officers.

At the same time the Council is oddly eager to increase high rise, 80%*unaffordable housing and add thousands of residents, it is unable or unwilling to increase police protection. This despite ’safety’ being a concern expressed through the Councils and by word of mouth on the streets. * 80% unaffordable by definition at a minimum, more if the proposal to allow developers to buy their way out of the 20% “affordability” clause goes through.

Best wishes,
Burt GOldstein
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2830 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 8 David Yakobson
From: Susan Shapiro <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 1:07 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Susan Shapiro
Wellesley Drive
90405
Sent from Outlook
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2831 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 9 David Yakobson
From: Wendy Dembo <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 1:15 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Wendy Dembo
90403
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2832 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 10 David Yakobson
From: Elias <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 1:19 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Elias Davis
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2833 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 11 David Yakobson
From: Patty McCollim <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 1:52 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Richard Sproul
& Patty McCollim
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2834 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 12 David Yakobson
From: rob arocd.com <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 2:33 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Rob Levin
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2835 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 13 David Yakobson
From: Marilyn Elias <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 2:36 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Marilyn Elias
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2836 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 14 David Yakobson
From: Mary Donovan <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 2:25 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely.

Mary donovanme]
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2837 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 1 David Yakobson
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 10:54 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Caroline Torosis; Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program as is and to not reform it.

These neighborhood organization are vital to our communities. They are an important connections to our neighborhood and the city of Santa Monica.

Our neighborhood organizations are welcoming and everyone is encouraged to share comments and concerns.

Additionally they provide vital information. For example the weekly Friends of Sunset Park emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week. Amazing community events are also put on every year by these neighborhood organizations.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Kelly Hsiao
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2838 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 2 David Yakobson
From: Hilary Galanoy <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 12:02 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers, As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program. FOSP uses the annual $7,000 grant for mailing an annual membership appeal letter to all 7,800 residences in our neighborhood. (Before the 2020 restructuring, the City used to mail the letters. The $7,000 grant replaced that service.) Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board. At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting. Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week. Community events this year have included an FOSP general membership meeting at Clover Park, the FOSP Beach Towel Drill Team marching in the 4th of July Parade on Main Street, FOSP tabling at National Night Out, and FOSP co-sponsoring with local businesses “A Sunset Park Block Party: Art in the Alley” behind Bob’s Market. Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Hilary Galanoy
2636 32nd Street
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2839 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 3 David Yakobson
From: Jackie Stansbury <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 12:02 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Jackie Stansbury
[email protected]
(310) 339-9417
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2840 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 4 David Yakobson
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 12:02 PM
To: [email protected]
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; councilmtgitems
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2841 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 5 David Yakobson
From: Todd Sherman <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 12:03 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Dan Hall; Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations - I

URGE YOU TO CONTINUE THE CURRENT NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANIZATION GRANT

PROGRAM

EXTERNAL
To: Mayor Lana Negrete and City Councilmembers
9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Todd Sherman
90405
Todd Sherman
2800 28th Street, Suite 130
Santa Monica, CA 90405
310.780.5565 mobile
310.664.6705 ext. 101
310.664.6706 (fax)
[email protected]
www.FirstPacific1.com
DRE #00925920
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2842 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 6 CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This message and/or any attachment(s) is confidential and intended for the use only by the recipient(s). If you are not the intended recipient, you are not authorized to disclose, reproduce, or distribute the contents of this message. If this e-mail is received in error, please immediately notify the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message.

Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2843 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 1 David Yakobson
From: Michael Rosenberg <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 10:16 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Michael Rosenberg
2254 22nd Street
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2844 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 1 David Yakobson
From: nealcassidy1234 <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 9:49 AM
To: Ellis Raskin; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Dan Hall; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; Lana Negrete; Oliver Chi; councilmtgitems; Josh Kurpies
Subject: Neighborhood Grant Program

EXTERNAL
What is wrong with your people? A bunch of you want to defund the Neighborhood Grant Program. Why? These programs only serve the community and you. Oh... I forgot you don't care about serving the community at large...you only care about serving the SMRR agenda.

This city has turned to shit because of all of you and the f'ing SMRR agenda. You can make my language and anger the issue if you want...but the real issue is you are all a bunch of misguided morons who keep looking for ways to isolate citizens who desire to reach their representatives and be a part of the city's governance. And, no....trying to speak at council meetings was always a waste of time...but from what I know, you've cut that too. Either way, speaking at a council meeting is not really participation and you know it..

P.S Go fuck yourselves.

Sent with Proton Mail secure email.

Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2845 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 2 David Yakobson
From: Leslie Neale <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 10:17 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Leslie Neale
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2846 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 3 David Yakobson
From: Rosie Lee <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 10:33 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Rosie Lee
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2847 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 4 David Yakobson
From: Bronwyn Barkan <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 10:50 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

Sincerely,
Bronwyn Barkan
Resident 90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2848 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 5 David Yakobson
From: Nancy Morse <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 10:51 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

FOSP uses the annual $7,000 grant for mailing an annual membership appeal letter to all 7,800 residences in our neighborhood. (Before the
2020 restructuring, the City used to mail the letters. The $7,000 grant replaced that service.) Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Art in the Alley” behind Bob’s Market.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Nancy Morse
90404
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2849 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 6 David Yakobson
From: Mindi Shank <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 10:54 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
Where is any sense of democracy? Freedom of speech? You know, for the PEOPLE??? Not for the rulers! Let the people have an official say in our community. You are elected to represent us- NOT to rule OVER us! This is a new low for a city that cannot balance a budget or even pretend you care about the constituents you are supposed to serve.

As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Mindi Shank
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2850 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 7 David Yakobson
From: Will von Bernuth <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 10:58 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Caroline Torosis; Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

FOSP uses the annual $7,000 grant for mailing an annual membership appeal letter to all 7,800 residences in our neighborhood. (Before the 2020 restructuring, the City used to mail the letters. The $7,000 grant replaced that service.) Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Community events this year have included an FOSP general membership meeting at Clover Park, the FOSP Beach Towel Drill Team marching in the 4th of July Parade on Main Street, FOSP tabling at National Night Out, and FOSP cosponsoring with local businesses “A Sunset Park Block Party: Art in the Alley” behind Bob’s Market.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Will von Bernuth
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2851 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 8 David Yakobson
From: Nina Girvetz <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 11:01 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Nina Girvetz
member Ocean Park Association
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2852 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 9 David Yakobson
From: Robert Bernstein <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 11:21 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Robert Bernstein
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2853 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 10 David Yakobson
From: Jerry <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 11:27 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Jerry Nodiff
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2854 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 11 David Yakobson
From: Jerry <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 11:28 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant 90405 Jerry Nodiff
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2855 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 12 David Yakobson
From: Aram Kadish <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 11:58 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Caroline Torosis; Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers, As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program. FOSP uses the annual $7,000 grant for mailing an annual membership appeal letter to all 7,800 residences in our neighborhood. (Before the 2020 restructuring, the City used to mail the letters. The $7,000 grant replaced that service.) Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board. At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting. Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week. Community events this year have included an FOSP general membership meeting at Clover Park, the FOSP Beach Towel Drill Team marching in the 4th of July Parade on Main Street, FOSP tabling at National Night Out, and FOSP co-sponsoring with local businesses “A Sunset Park Block Party: Art in the Alley” behind Bob’s Market. Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program. Sincerely,
Aram Kadish 90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2856 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 13 David Yakobson
From: Gavin Scott <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 11:58 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program. FOSP uses the annual $7,000 grant for mailing an annual membership appeal letter to all 7,800 residences in our neighborhood. (Before the 2020 restructuring, the City used to mail the letters. The $7,000 grant replaced that service.) Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board. At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting. Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week. Community events this year have included an FOSP general membership meeting at Clover Park, the FOSP Beach Towel Drill Team marching in the 4th of July Parade on Main Street, FOSP tabling at National Night Out, and FOSP cosponsoring with local businesses “A Sunset Park Block Party: Art in the Alley” behind Bob’s Market. Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Gavin and Nicola Scott
1801 Marine street,
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2857 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 1 David Yakobson
From: Lauren Wyka <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 9:29 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Lauren Wyka
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2858 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 2 David Yakobson
From: Cheryl Downey <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 9:38 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Cheryl Downey
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2859 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 3 David Yakobson
From: Mary Hubbell <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 9:41 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Mary Hubbell
90405
Sent from Mary's iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2860 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 1 David Yakobson
From: Janet Heinle <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 9:06 AM
To: Ellis Raskin; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Dan Hall; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; Lana Negrete; Oliver Chi; councilmtgitems; Josh Kurpies
Subject: I support OPTION 2, but with a base amount of at least $4,000 per group, PLUS one annual newsletter for each group per year.

EXTERNAL
A lot of people have worked hard to resurrect Reed, but few have worked harder than Wilmont.

And we do more. SAVE WILMONT
Janet Heinle
1047 Lincoln 90403
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2861 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 2 David Yakobson
From: Dolores <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 9:08 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
IDear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2862 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 1 David Yakobson
From: Santa Monica Forward <[email protected]> Sent: Friday, September 26, 2025 12:13 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Dan Hall; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; Ellis Raskin; Caroline Torosis; Barry Snell; Lana Negrete; Oliver Chi Cc: Santa Monica Forward
Subject: 11B Supporting Comprehensive Neighborhood Association Program Reforms

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and Council Members,
We are writing on behalf of Santa Monica Forward to express strong support for reforms to the Neighborhood Association (NA) Program. This is an opportunity to restore public trust in our neighborhood associations while ensuring taxpayer funds support community building rather than partisan political activities.

The Need for Reform
Santa Monica's neighborhood associations were created to foster civic engagement and help people "to know their neighbors" (1). However, many of these organizations have strayed from their original mission, becoming vehicles for partisan political advocacy that alienates significant portions of our diverse population. The majority of these groups have polarized around opposing housing and development, creating echo chambers that fail to represent the full spectrum of Santa Monica residents' views and needs.

Evidence of Political Overreach
Recent activities by several neighborhood associations demonstrate how far these organizations have drifted from community building toward political advocacy:
 North of Montana Association (NOMA) has actively opposed new housing in their neighborhood, the most unaffordable in the city, and most recently opposed the removal of owner-occupancy requirements for lot splits (2).
 Northeast Neighbors prominently features "community links" to partisan political organizations including Livable California, United Neighbors, Our Neighborhood Voices, and the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association; all groups with explicit political agendas rather than neighborhood-focused missions (3).
 Friends of Sunset Park operates what is essentially an anti-housing advocacy platform, with their land use section exclusively featuring opposition to development projects (4). Their recent June 2025 newsletter opens with "Tired of Overdevelopment" and includes direct calls for residents to lobby state legislators Ben Allen and Rick Zbur, while promoting links to statewide political organizations that oppose new housing (5).
 Wilshire/Montana Neighborhood Coalition has engaged in legislative lobbying, including calls to oppose SB79 with materials that misrepresent the bill's impacts and use fear-mongering tactics typical of political campaigns rather than community education (6). At no point in the legislative process did this bill impact a single parcel represented by Wilmont.

Recent reporting has documented how these organizations have become "insular" and operate more like political action committees than representative community groups (7). A demographic analysis reveals Item 11-B
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Packet Pg. 2863 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 2 significant disparities in representation, with the smallest neighborhood association being only one-fifth the size of the largest while maintaining equal access to city resources and recognition (8).

It's important to note that neighborhood boundaries are not static—neighborhoods grow, evolve, and change over time. Downtown Santa Monica residents currently have no representation through any neighborhood association, highlighting how these organizations fail to adapt to our city's growth and evolution.

This partisan drift undermines the democratic principles these associations should embody and creates an environment where city resources indirectly subsidize political activities that divide rather than unite our neighborhoods. Members of Santa Monica Forward have been ejected from neighborhood association meetings—which are supposed to be public—without notice or cause, demonstrating how these organizations have abandoned their commitment to inclusive civic engagement.

Key Reform Priorities

1. Candidate Endorsement Ban
We strongly support implementing a minimum 5-year ban on city funding for any neighborhood association that endorses political candidates. This policy should include clear enforcement mechanisms and apply retroactively.

Political endorsements transform neighborhood associations from community-building organizations into political action committees. When these groups receive city funding while engaging in electoral politics, it creates an inappropriate use of public resources and undermines the neutrality that should characterize citysupported community organizations.

The "Wilmont Rebels" saga provides a stark example of how political fights can disrupt neighborhood associations. When the Wilmont board decided to weigh in on the Fairmont Miramar project, the acrimonious fight saw leadership purge membership rolls to eliminate dissent, ending with the resignation of longtime board members (9, 10). This response to community disagreement demonstrates the danger of politicizing these groups, transforming what should be inclusive community forums into exclusive political clubs (11).

2. Funding Restrictions
Grant funding should be explicitly restricted to community events and programming that bring residents together. City funds should not support:
 Newsletters
 Website hosting and maintenance
 Administrative overhead that enables political activities  Membership recruitment mailers
Money is fungible; funds ostensibly spent on "non-political" membership building can indirectly support political activity when the resulting membership lists are later used for political advocacy. These restrictions ensure public money serves community-building purposes rather than subsidizing organizational infrastructure that may later be used for political advocacy.

Cities like Palo Alto have successfully implemented targeted community-building grants through programs like their "Know Your Neighbors Grant," which funds specific events and activities that bring residents together without supporting political infrastructure (12).

Neighborhood associations should be responsible for their own membership recruitment and retention.

Removing city-funded mailers forces these organizations to engage authentically with residents and build grassroots support rather than relying on taxpayer-subsidized outreach.

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Packet Pg. 2864 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 3 3. Equitable Funding Distribution
We support funding formulas based on the number of households served rather than a fixed amount. This approach ensures resources proportionally flow to associations that actually represent substantial residential communities, and allows for flexibility as neighborhoods change over time.

4. End "Official Recognition" Status
No neighborhood organization should receive "official recognition" from the city that grants preferential communication access to city staff or special access to resources simply because they receive city funding.

This creates an inappropriate two-tiered system where some residents have enhanced access to their government based on their association membership rather than equal treatment as Santa Monica residents.

Benefits to Santa Monica
These reforms will:
 Restore Public Trust: Clear boundaries between community building and political advocacy will rebuild confidence in these organizations.
 Increase Participation: Less partisan associations will welcome residents across the political spectrum.
 Improve Resource Allocation: Funding will support events and programs that bring neighbors together.

We are blessed to have a rich and engaging civic culture in Santa Monica. We understand there is a diversity of opinions on housing, development, and change throughout our community. While we may disagree on policy, we support the right of all Santa Monicans to organize and advocate for their vision of the city. However, taxpayer-funded neighborhood associations should focus on their foundational mission of community building rather than serving as vehicles for political advocacy.

Sincerely,
Brad Ewing, Co-Chair
Carl Hansen, Co-Chair
Santa Monica Forward
Citations:
(1) Kann, Mark (1986) Middle Class Radicalism in Santa Monica pg 73. (2) NOMA Letter on Lot Splits: https://www.smnoma.org/uploads/2/1/1/8/21184590/noma_16n_letter.pdf (3) Northeast Neighbors Community Links: https://www.neneighbors.org/community-links.html (4) Friends of Sunset Park Land Use Page: https://friendsofsunsetpark.org/land-use-circulation/ (5) Friends of Sunset Park June 2025 Newsletter: https://friendsofsunsetpark.org/wpcontent/uploads/2025/06/FOSP-newsletter-June-2025-as-of-5-28-25.pdf (6) Wilmont June 3rd Meeting Agenda: https://www.wilmont.org/meetingsagendas/tue-june-3rd-agenda (7) "Mayor Phil Brock's Presentation at Wilmont Neighborhood Coalition Offers Glimpse into Santa Monica's Insular Neighborhood Organizations," Santa Monica Next, February 2024:

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Packet Pg. 2865 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 4 https://santamonicanext.org/2024/02/mayor-phil-brocks-presentation-at-wilmont-neighborhood-coalition-offersglimpse-into-santa-monicas-insular-neighborhood-organizations/ (8) Santa Monica Neighborhood Organizations Demographic Analysis: https://github.com/BradEwing/smneighborhood-orgs# (9) "Three Longtime Wilmont Board Members Resign," Santa Monica Daily Press:
https://smdp.com/news/three-longtime-wilmont-board-members-resign/ (10) "Wilmont Purges Membership," Santa Monica Daily Press: https://smdp.com/news/wilmont-purgesmembership/ (11) "Michael Dell's Miramar-geddon," LA Weekly: https://www.laweekly.com/michael-dells-miramar-geddon/ (12) Palo Alto Know Your Neighbors Grant: https://www.paloalto.gov/Departments/Community-Services/OtherServices/Know-Your-Neighbors-Grant --
We are working for a diverse, progressive, sustainable and equitable Santa Monica.

SantaMonicaForward.org
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September 20, 2025
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Packet Pg. 2866 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 1 David Yakobson
From: Kevin McKeown <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, September 25, 2025 6:00 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Oliver Chi; Christopher Smith; Josh Kurpies Subject: Item 11-B, Neighborhood Organization Grant Program

EXTERNAL
As a former Councilmember for over 22 years, a former Mayor, and former Chair of one of our neighborhood groups (Wilmont), I may be able to provide some historical perspective on the vexing neighborhood group funding issue now before you.

The neighborhood groups were not created by the City, but enjoyed solid City support in the 80s and 90s. The City established a Neighborhood Support Center on Colorado near Sixth, where meetings could be convened and where newsletter and other outreach efforts were assisted by paid staff.

I don’t recall an official City process at the time for identifying a group eligible for Neighborhood Support Center involvement. The neighborhood groups able to use the space were effectively “city-recognized,” although exact neighborhood boundaries were sometimes fluid or in dispute.

The neighborhood groups organized themselves. I believe the Ocean Park Association (OPA), then known as the Ocean Park Community Organization (OPCO) was the first. Wilmont’s Articles of Incorporation were filed in 1990, and specifically prohibited political candidate endorsements:
> B. No substantial part of the activities of this corporation shall > consist of carrying on propaganda, or otherwise attempting to > influence legislation, and the corporation shall not participate or > intervene in any political campaigning (including the publishing or > distribution of statements) on behalf of any candidate for public office.

When I was elected chair of Wilmont (1996 or 1997), there was no active neighborhood group north of Montana. I prevailed upon Parks Commissioner Doris Sosin to form one, and she was the founding chair of the North of Montana Association (NOMA).

It became clear neighborhood group members wanted to be heard on citywide issues as well as their more local ones, so I organized a multi-group committee to explore commonalities and ascertain where interests converged.

This became the “Neighborhood Council.”’
When the neighborhood groups were served by the Neighborhood Support Center on Colorado, City support came through rent and staffing for that location. The paid staff assisted with preparation of the newsletters, so inappropriate political content never became an issue. Helping neighborhood groups reach out to better represent resident voices was seen as an obvious good thing.

Sometime in the late 90s, just before I went from neighborhood group to City Council, that all changed. I think one of the incumbent Councilmembers had a spat with a neighborhood group. The Neighborhood Support Center was defunded and closed. Instead, annual grants were assigned to each neighborhood group. I believe this was seen as a temporary stopgap, never intended to persist for decades.

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Packet Pg. 2867 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 2 While the grants were part of the budget process, they weren’t controversial. It didn’t seem all that challenging for neighborhood groups to sequester the grant funds for outreach purposes only. We probably should have instituted closer monitoring, which might have forestalled the situation in which you find yourselves.

While there may not have been a formal process for making particular neighborhood groups “City-recognized,” City funding became the de facto recognition. The City, and the public, had and have a strong and legally mandated interest in making sure municipal grants are used as intended, and only as intended. Staff and the Council may want to review the recent newsletters of some of the groups, some of which appear to have strayed from outreach into politicking. It’s hard to know how the two can be teased apart when they appear in the same printed mailer with the same imprimatur of a “City-funded” neighborhood group.

Decades ago, the distinction between outreach and politicking was simply a given, understood by all. If documentation is hard to find, it may be because no one had cause to feel any documentation was needed.

Consider a parallel with the Council itself. The City Council apparently didn’t have clear rules on consequences for leaking information out of closed sessions, because until a few years ago no Councilmember had even considered doing that. We either had too strong an ethical compass, or were just too unimaginative.

I’m not touching on the federal tax status of the different groups, as you have no jurisdiction over that. Federal tax compliance is parallel to, but separate from, Santa Monica's local concerns over funding and official recognition.

Should the City be recognizing and/or funding neighborhood groups, and, if so, under what guidelines? The current “grant for outreach” solution is almost 30 years old, and, at the least, deserves re-evaluation.

Some of us have always, even when the neighborhood groups disagreed with us, felt having an organized way for residents to be heard was A Good Thing and worth subsidizing. There do exist other resident groups, not “recognized” or funded, generally formed around a single issue or opposition to a particular development. How are they different? Why are they different? Why do certain neighborhood groups get funding, and not those other associations? Is it because the other groups are more transparently political? What definition can the Council put in place to clarify this?
It’s a shame that something once so simple (supporting neighborhood voices) has become so complicated, but the old rules are of questionable applicability today, and some (but not all!) groups appear to have over-reached their City-funded mission.

The money grant was, I believe, originally tied to the cost of postage and printing to do physical mailer outreach. In our digital age, is that still the proper metric? I see that the staff report suggests one option might be to revive SeaScape and use it to promote neighborhood group outreach, but that comes with a $200,000 price tag. Why spend that money rather than simply inserting appropriate neighborhood group outreach one-sheets into water bills and Rent Control Board newsletters, piggybacking at minimal cost on physical mailings already being done on a regular basis?
The neighborhood groups serve an important function in our community. They were not created by the City, and their independence is part of their relevance. Assisting their outreach to maximize resident participation is an appropriate use of public resources in the public interest, but letting any of the groups use public money for political campaigning is clearly unacceptable. I hope you can come up with definitions and rules that preserve the positive aspects of independent resident organizing without letting public money and the public trust be abused.

Thanks,
Kevin
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K e v i n M c K e o w n
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Packet Pg. 2868 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 3 https://urldefense.com/v3/__http://www.mckeown.net__;!!OfuUnHCITYtmmjM!tplXjB8ZLquefUJmAHq51kTjSBlVE a2TfRvcmtqKUjzyiQBV63bQLnC74O56OKnLG89oraBj0hRvXgUcZkb7gtGutDE$ Choose to be conscious
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Packet Pg. 2869 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 4 David Yakobson
From: John Prindle <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, September 26, 2025 5:11 PM
To: Santa Monica City Manager's Office; councilmtgitems Subject: Item 11B - The importance of ending city recognition of the existing Neighborhood Groups

EXTERNAL
Mayor Negrete, CouncilMembers
The public discourse on the benefits of eliminating the city’s official recognition of our existing Neighborhood Associations has been practically non-existent. The staff report, which was just released, does not mention eliminating city recognition nor direct subsidies. Eliminating city recognition and direct subsidies will allow more voices to be heard, force outreach to recruit new members and funding sources thereby breaking the monopoly they have enjoyed for decades. The city should be empowering any group of neighbors to form a neighborhood org to promote their views and issues.

Here are easy to understand reasons why elimination is the best path forward:

Stopping the continuation of systemic racism. It is simply undisputable that the boundaries we see today are a direct result of the redlining practices we inherited from our predecessors. Social justice demands that these boundaries be eliminated. Removing the racism based geographical perimeters will motivate residents to seek other avenues to organize in their neighborhoods. Why should the Pico Neighborhood Association, led by the same family for years, be the only voice for minorities and the new residents that live there?
Enabling more diverse voices that are on equal footing with all other voices. For decades the practices of the existing neighborhood groups have subtly eliminated voices that don’t agree with them. They have used the legitimacy the city gives them to stifle viewpoints they don't agree with and to make themselves appear to speak for thousands of people. If residents want to organize around the block they live on the city should empower them instead of forcing them into organizations that will silence them.

While staff has recognized the inequality associated with fair representation their solution does not have the flexibility to adjust to changing demographics. How unfair would it be to force new residents of new dense buildings on Wilshire east of 26th into Northeast Neighbors? Empowering resident advocacy on more issues. Today we see most groups simply advocate for a single issue: stopping progress. Santa Monica residents have diverse views on issues like housing, mobility, the environment and many others but lack the legitimacy conferred by city recognition. By giving these diverse voices a chance to organize and be seen and heard on equal footing is a public good that is fundamental to our democracy. Santa Monicans like to publicly express their views and feelings and yet only a statistically irrelevant majority of residents have a platform that legitimizes their points of view.

Increased outreach: Over the last 25 years our city recognized groups have been led by the same people.

They have not reached out to those with different viewpoints, to their local businesses nor have they done a good job of notifying their constituents of the issues that don't concern them personally. Their Item 11-B
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Packet Pg. 2870 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 5 attempts to raise funds from neighborhood stakeholders has been non-existent. Not a single business on Ocean Park Blvd is a member of FSOP.

Eliminating direct city funding is a necessary action. As one of the key leaders that has helped to occasionally close Main Street to cars, I encourage you to adopt staff’s recommendation eliminating internal fees. They are simply a "process" roadblock to local efforts to bring neighbors together. OPA has also demonstrated that alternatives to city funding are easily obtainable – all that is required is outreach and effort!
Social Media: When I look at my calendar I can’t help but notice it is 2025. The city already has several ways to communicate with residents and has been using them for years. Social Media is much more effective at reaching residents where they are. It creates more touches for a far lower cost.. If staff would have taken a hard look at eliminating Santa Monica’s relationship with these groups they would have noticed any organized group could this method of outreach - and saved the city hundreds of thousands of dollars.

A Proven, Better Pathway Forward - OPA
The Ocean Park Association has shown a different path forward, one that gives all voices a chance to be heard. It has shown the importance and power of strong relationships with local businesses and has developed a different model for fundraising. Its fundamental mission of informing its members on data and facts has proven popular. Its newsletter is read by thousands. The continuous outreach for new members has kept the group vibrant. The legal structure of being a 501c(3) has brought stability to different generations of leaders. It has also kept the group out of city politics. It is a model that is easily replicated.

When it comes to providing staff direction on a pathway forward, I encourage you to choose one that rights the wrongs of redlining, gives more people a chance to have their voices heard and costs the city zero dollars at a time of fiscal distress. Please free our neighborhoods from the chains of city recognition and funding.

John Prindle
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
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Packet Pg. 2871 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 6 David Yakobson
From: Karen Melick <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, September 28, 2025 6:06 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Ellis Raskin; Lana Negrete; Dan Hall; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Oliver Chi
Subject: 9/30 meeting item 11 B, don’t limit free speech!

EXTERNAL
Don’t Limit Free Speech
Please do not follow Trump’s lead in stifling free speech by restricting political activity by the neighborhood organizations in order to get grant money or be recognized as an official city organization.
“Political Endorsements” Definition and Enforcement
501(c) 4 community organizations are allowed to do political activity as a minor part of their community work. The current system for the grant program allows this as long as none of the grant/city money is used for any political activity. There are procedures in place to ensure this doesn’t happen. The grant money system was put in place to subsidize communications that previously were provided by the City to Neighborhood organizations.

Option 2 says that any political endorsement will disqualify a group from the grant program and city recognition with a penalty of 5 years. Does that mean endorsements of candidates or legislation or both? Who will be monitoring that the line between political information versus endorsements has been crossed? Unless this is much more clearly defined, a 5 year penalty is much too harsh. If this is implemented at all, it should only restrict the formal endorsement of City Council candidates.

Reduces Transparency
The Neighborhood Groups are a critical resource for getting information on what’s going on in the City that affects its residents. It’s unreasonable to think many individuals are going to track when the City Council meetings are and review each agenda for pertinent topics to them. By restricting political activity by the Neighborhood groups you’re making it harder for the residents to know what’s going on in Santa Monica. This reduces transparency of the City and City Council and appears to be a way to reduce the amount of negative feedback for the interests of some City Council members.

Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
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Packet Pg. 2872 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 7 The only “modernization” that’s needed is improving the communications and transparency with the residents, not stifling their input and free speech.

Karen Melick
Sunset Park Resident
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
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Packet Pg. 2873 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 8 David Yakobson
From: Harry Leshner <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, September 28, 2025 8:11 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Public Comment - 9/30/25 - 11B - Considerations To Protect Our Neighborhood Groups

EXTERNAL
Dear Members of the City Council,
My personal pathway into civic engagement in Santa Monica was through my neighborhood group. It was this group that connected me with city staff to advocate for sustainability and mobility, and it’s the forum where we discuss hyper-local issues that matter deeply to my family, like the future of Douglas Park and Franklin School. The candidate forums they host are an invaluable tool for understanding who is running to represent us.

I am writing because I’m concerned the proposed changes to the Neighborhood Grant Program will damage this vital pathway for residents. The staff report presents several options but offers no evidence on what the impacts of these changes might be. We risk undermining a positive force for community engagement without understanding the consequences.

Frankly, this effort has the appearance of an attempt by the Council to control groups that may not always agree with you, even if that is not the intent. A healthy democracy requires hearing from all voices, even critical ones. While I don't always agree with my neighbors, I believe the solution is always more speech and more participation, not less.

Instead of weakening these organizations, I urge you to find ways to strengthen them and encourage more residents to join. Please reject options that would diminish the autonomy and effectiveness of Santa Monica's neighborhood groups.

Thank you for your consideration.

Harry Leshner
Santa Monica, Northeast 2022 - Present
Santa Monica, Wilmont 2008 - 2022
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

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Packet Pg. 2874 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 9 David Yakobson
From: Alex Novakovich <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, September 28, 2025 10:31 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Alex Novakovich
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
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Packet Pg. 2875 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 10 David Yakobson
From: Holly Silvers <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 6:08 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Holly Granelli
Condo owner & business owner
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2876 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 11 David Yakobson
From: Holly Silvers <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 6:08 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Holly Granelli
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2877 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 12 David Yakobson
From: John Reynolds <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 6:14 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers, As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program. FOSP uses the annual $7,000 grant for mailing an annual membership appeal letter to all 7,800 residences in our neighborhood. (Before the 2020 restructuring, the City used to mail the letters. The $7,000 grant replaced that service.) Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board. At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting. Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week. Community events this year have included an FOSP general membership meeting at Clover Park, the FOSP Beach Towel Drill Team marching in the 4th of July Parade on Main Street, FOSP tabling at National Night Out, and FOSP co-sponsoring with local businesses “A Sunset Park Block Party: Art in the Alley” behind Bob’s Market. Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely, John Reynolds
17th street 90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
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11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2878 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 13 David Yakobson
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 6:18 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Megan FitzGerald
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2879 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 14 David Yakobson
From: Lynn Novatt <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 6:36 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Lynn Novatt
90405
Sent from my mini computer
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2880 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 15 David Yakobson
From: Brian Lanich <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 6:36 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Brian Lanich
90405
Brian Lanich
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2881 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 16 David Yakobson
From: Jenny Blum <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 6:42 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Jennifer Blum
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2882 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 17 David Yakobson
From: Alan Kerner <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 6:44 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Alan Kerner
1761 Sunset Ave
90405
Sent from my iPad
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2883 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 18 David Yakobson
From: Tom Nunziato <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 6:48 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
90405
Get Outlook for iOS
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2884 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 19 David Yakobson
From: cathykarolc <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 6:51 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers, As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program. FOSP uses the annual $7,000 grant for mailing an annual membership appeal letter to all 7,800 residences in our neighborhood. (Before the 2020 restructuring, the City used to mail the letters. The $7,000 grant replaced that service.) Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board. At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting. Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week. Community events this year have included an FOSP general membership meeting at Clover Park, the FOSP Beach Towel Drill Team marching in the 4th of July Parade on Main Street, FOSP tabling at National Night Out, and FOSP co-sponsoring with local businesses “A Sunset Park Block Party: Art in the Alley” behind Bob’s Market. Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program. Sincerely, [Your Name] 90405 Cathy Karol-Crowther
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2885 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 20 David Yakobson
From: Betty Green <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 6:51 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
[Your Name] Betty L. Green
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2886 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 21 David Yakobson
From: yoko roach <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 6:51 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2887 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 22 David Yakobson
From: Tina <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 7:10 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers, As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program. FOSP uses the annual $7,000 grant for mailing an annual membership appeal letter to all 7,800 residences in our neighborhood. (Before the 2020 restructuring, the City used to mail the letters. The $7,000 grant replaced that service.) Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board. At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting. Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week. Community events this year have included an FOSP general membership meeting at Clover Park, the FOSP Beach Towel Drill Team marching in the 4th of July Parade on Main Street, FOSP tabling at National Night Out, and FOSP co-sponsoring with local businesses “A Sunset Park Block Party: Art in the Alley” behind Bob’s Market. Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Tina Cox
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2888 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 23 David Yakobson
From: Lynda M Rush <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 7:10 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Lynda Rush
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2889 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 24 David Yakobson
From: Fae Horowitz and Al Linton <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 7:18 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Fae Horowitz
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2890 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 25 David Yakobson
From: Lori Petitti <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 7:20 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program. We have lived in our Sunset Park residence for 30 years and feel that FOSP plays an important role in keeping us abreast of developments, issues and opportunities. It would be a severe disservice to residents if they should lose their annual small grant and have to curb activities. FOSP uses the annual $7,000 grant for mailing an annual membership appeal letter to all 7,800 residences in our neighborhood. (Before the 2020 restructuring, the City used to mail the letters. The $7,000 grant replaced that service.)

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board. A great way to address local issues and inform neighbors of concerns.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting. Very informative!

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program. Our neighborhood groups are the heart of Santa Monica, help us keep them vibrant.

Sincerely,
Lori Petitti
Homeowner, 90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2891 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 26 David Yakobson
From: Mayra Herrera <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 7:21 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Mayra Herrera
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2892 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 27 David Yakobson
From: Diana Bianchini <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 7:23 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Diana Bianchini
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2893 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 28 David Yakobson
From: Dalila Fuentes <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 7:24 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Dalila Fuentes
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2894 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 29 David Yakobson
From: RONNA JOSEPH <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 7:30 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Ronna Joseph
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2895 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 30 David Yakobson
From: Allyson Dworkin <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 7:36 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2896 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 31 David Yakobson
From: Faustino Garza <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 7:38 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2897 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 32 David Yakobson
From: REM Thimble <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 7:51 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely
Ruth Ellen Moss
90405
Sent from my iPad
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2898 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 33 David Yakobson
From: Jenny Monbouquette <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 7:53 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Jenny Monbouquette
90405
Jenny Monbouquette
(310)266-3665
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2899 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 34 David Yakobson
From: mwdobbs <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 7:53 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

FOSP uses the annual $7,000 grant for mailing an annual membership appeal letter to all 7,800 residences in our neighborhood. (Before the
2020 restructuring, the City used to mail the letters. The $7,000 grant replaced that service.) Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Art in the Alley” behind Bob’s Market.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Michael Dobbs
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2900 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 35 David Yakobson
From: Adam Cohen <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 8:09 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

It feels suspect the decision to defund based on political affiliations. That’s yelling into the wind in Santa Monica. We need our community organizations when our city approves sooo many variances for builders. They now allow developers an out with affordable housing (buy their way out… really?). The “political endorsement” line feels like a stretch to find an excuse, and it feels more Trumpian in that you want to silence community dissent. Not cool and it won’t fly with us. Asking you kindly to pay the few thousand dollars for our community organization and not to punish them because they’re a thorn in your side. They are, in fact, our checks and balance.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Adam Cohen
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2901 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 36 David Yakobson
From: The Gold Stanley <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 8:16 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
90405
Sent from my iRaPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2902 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 37 David Yakobson
From: Ben <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 8:18 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Please Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Please continue the Neighborhood Organization Grant. FOSP uses it to inform, engage, and connect 7,800 households through mailings, meetings, events, and public safety updates.

Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2903 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 38 David Yakobson
From: Harold Monbouquette <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 8:36 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Harold Monbouquette
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2904 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 39 David Yakobson
From: Ellen Hiura <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 8:37 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Ellen Hiura
90405
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2905 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 40 David Yakobson
From: Phyllis Chavez <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 8:41 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Community events this year have included an FOSP general membership meeting at Clover Park, the FOSP Beach Towel Drill Team marching in the 4th of July Parade on Main Street, FOSP tabling at National Night Out, and FOSP cosponsoring with local businesses “A Sunset Park Block Party: Art in the Alley” behind Bob’s Market. Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

We need the connectiveness that an organization like FOSP fosters for our neighborhood.

Sincerely,
Phyllis Chavez
Sunset Park/90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2906 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) 41 David Yakobson
From: Geoff Coster <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 8:46 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 Agenda Item 11-B - Continue Support for Neighborhood Organizations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
As a member of Friends of Sunset Park (FOSP), I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Membership forms include a section for members to list their concerns which help determine priorities for the FOSP Board.

At monthly FOSP Zoom meetings, everyone is encouraged to share comments and questions. Our Beat 2 NRO and Crime Prevention Coordinator participate in every meeting.

Informative weekly FOSP emails include city announcements, a calendar of meetings and other events, and a list of articles in local newspapers from the previous week.

Again, I urge you to continue the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program.

Sincerely,
Geoff Coster
90405
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025
Item 11-B
September 20, 2025

11.B.c
Packet Pg. 2907 Attachment: Written Comment (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant Programs) Neighborhood Organization Grant Program
September 30, 2025
Item 11-B
September 30, 2025
Item 11-B
September 30, 2025

11.B.d
Packet Pg. 2908 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant • City has a long history of supporting neighborhood organizations, which is currently being coordinated through our Neighborhood Organization Grant Program • Groups that apply for and qualify are recognized as an official City Neighborhood Organization
• Groups are provided with funding on an annual basis to promote civic engagement, community building, and communication
• Neighborhood Organizations also help to organize forums for resident dialogue related to a variety of civic issues
2 Background
Item 11-B
September 30, 2025
Item 11-B
September 30, 2025

11.B.d
Packet Pg. 2909 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant • Qualifying groups are allocated up to
$7,000 / year in grant funds • Funding can be used for a variety of civic activities • However, funds cannot be used directly for political activity • To qualify, a Neighborhood
Organization must: • Represent a commonly recognized
neighborhood within Santa Monica • Possess tax-exempt status as a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) organization • Have public bylaws and open meetings • Hold at least one general membership meeting annually • Meet membership thresholds (50 active members or 10% percent of eligible
households) 3
Current Program Details
Item 11-B
September 30, 2025
Item 11-B
September 30, 2025

11.B.d
Packet Pg. 2910 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant • On July 8, staff was directed to review the City’s existing Neighborhood Organization Grants Program
• Concerns were raised about political endorsements made by at least two neighborhood organizations during recent elections
• While political endorsements are permissible activities for some nonprofit entities, policy questions were raised regarding the properness of directly allocating City resources to groups engaged in explicit political activity
• During the past few months, staff has engaged an assessment of the current Neighborhood Organization Grant Program for possible modifications, focused on achieving the following objectives
• Ensure residents have equitable access to information • Provide fair and transparent use of taxpayer funds
• Support inclusive community engagement efforts while complying with legal standards • Clarify the boundaries between civic participation and political activity 4 Program Assessment Conducted
Item 11-B
September 30, 2025
Item 11-B
September 30, 2025

11.B.d
Packet Pg. 2911 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant • Based on the analysis engaged by staff, we have identified a series of options that can be considered to address the issues raised
• Option 1 – Provide Participating Groups w/ Enhanced Communications Support • Option 2 – Modernize Neighborhood Organization Program • Option 3 – Consider In-Kind Support & Civic Engagement Enhancements 5 Options Identified
Item 11-B
September 30, 2025
Item 11-B
September 30, 2025

11.B.d
Packet Pg. 2912 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant • One grant program modification that has been identified involves the provision of enhanced communications support, which could include: • The reinstatement of Seascape magazine as a City-managed publication, with dedicated space for Neighborhood Organization content • This is estimated to cost ~$200,000 / year • Alternatively, or in combination, consider providing each recognized Neighborhood Organization with one annual City-funded postcard mailer • This is estimated to cost ~$50,000 / year • For those Neighborhood Organization who operate in compliance with grant program terms, include those entities as City-recognized groups that are included on relevant City outreach / communication platforms
6 Option 1: Enhanced Comms Support
Item 11-B
September 30, 2025
Item 11-B
September 30, 2025

11.B.d
Packet Pg. 2913 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant • Several measures to modernize the Neighborhood Organization Grant Program have been identified, including: • Maintain modest grant funding for each recognized group, but consider whether to distribute that funding equitably scaled by households, or as a standardized flat amount per entity • Require formal participation agreements with all official Neighborhood Organizations • Continue to limit grant fund uses to neutral civic activities (e.g., mailings, clean-up events, community activities) • Through the participation agreements, consider establishing clear civic engagement guardrails for any group that chooses to apply to become a formal City-recognized Neighborhood Organization • Consider explicit prohibitions on political endorsements and / or political activity • For any group that engages in prohibited activity, enforce a five-year ineligibility period that would prohibit the group from participating in the Neighborhood Organization Grant Program 7 Option 2: Institute Program Modernizations
Item 11-B
September 30, 2025
Item 11-B
September 30, 2025

11.B.d
Packet Pg. 2914 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant 8 Exhibit – Grant Funding Formula Options
$1.00 /
Household
$.75 /
Household
$.50 /
Household
Flat Grant
(Amount TBD)
# of
Households Neighborhood Org.

Friends of Sunset Park 7,193 $5,000 $3,597 $5,395 $7,193 North of Montana Assn 5,084 $5,000 $2.542 $3,813 $5,084 Ocean Park Assn 8,033 $5,000 $4,017 $6,025 $8,033
Pico Neighborhood Assn 7,476 $5,000 $3,738 $5,607 $7,476 Mid-City Neighbors 7,972 $5,000 $3,986 $5,979 $7,972
Northeast Neighbors 1,622 $5,000 $811 $1,217 $1,622
Wilshire Montana 12,560 $5,000 $6,280 $9,420 $12,560
Total 49,940 $35,000 $24,971 $31,431 $49,940
Item 11-B
September 30, 2025
Item 11-B
September 30, 2025

11.B.d
Packet Pg. 2915 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant • Additional grant program adjustments considered relate to the following in-kind support and civic engagement enhancement options: • Replace and / or supplement direct funding with in-kind support, including fee waivers for community events
• As part of this option, consider having the City serve as a co-sponsor of certain eligible neighborhood events • To address local political engagement considerations, City-hosted election forums could be reinstated • This option would serve to create a neutral access platform for the community to meet candidates in an effort to establish a more inclusive voter engagement process
9 Option 3: In-Kind & Civic Engagement Support
Item 11-B
September 30, 2025
Item 11-B
September 30, 2025

11.B.d
Packet Pg. 2916 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant • Staff recommends that the City Council review and comment on the identified Neighborhood Organization Grant Program adjustment options • The identified options can be considered individually or in combination as the City Council considers adjustments to our Neighborhood Organization Grant Program • Pending City Council direction, staff will work to develop implementation plans tailored to the selected option(s)
10 Next Steps
Item 11-B
September 30, 2025
Item 11-B
September 30, 2025

11.B.d
Packet Pg. 2917 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (7202 : Community Organizations and Participation in Grant City Council
Report
City Council Meeting: September 30, 2025
Agenda Item: 12.A
1 of 9
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Jing Yeo, Director, Administration
Subject: Adoption of a Resolution to Amend the Santa Monica General Plan Land Use Map and the Introduction and First Reading of an Ordinance to Amend the Official Districting Map for a Portion of the Parcel Located at 2644 30th Street Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:

1. Adopt a finding that the proposed amendments to the General Plan Land Use Map and Official Districting Map are categorically exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the CEQA Guidelines, consistent with the findings set forth in the “Environmental Review” section of this Report;

2. Adopt a Resolution Amending the Santa Monica General Plan Land Use Map for a Portion of the Parcel Located at 2644 30th Street; and

3. Introduce for First Reading an Ordinance Amending the Official Districting Map for a Portion of the Parcel Located at 2644 30th Street.

Summary
On May 13, 2025, staff brought forth for City Council’s consideration map amendments to the Santa Monica General Plan Land Use Map and Official District Map for a portion of the parcel located at 2644 30th Street, along with updates related to state law. After receiving public comment and engaging in discussion, Council voted to table the item to a later date with direction for staff to explore possible options that could be proposed to provide flexibility regarding legal non-conforming uses instead of a General Plan and Zoning map amendment.

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Subsequent to the May 13 meeting, there have been renewed requests from the property owner and also additional information identified regarding the leasing status of the office building that has been provided for Council consideration in this report.

By way of background, the property located at 2644 30th Street was purchased by the current property owner in 1987, at which time the property was zoned C2. The office building, which has 35,000 square feet of leasable space, has one tenant with an expiring lease that will be vacating in early 2027. The existing property owner is interested in searching for a new tenant starting in Q1-2026, and the legal nonconforming status of the building impedes leasing and building financing efforts.

To try and address this matter, and consistent with Council direction, staff explored possible options to provide flexibility regarding legal non-conforming uses. Santa Monica Municipal Code (SMMC) Chapter 9.27 regulates non-conforming uses and structures, in part, by limiting the expansion of legal non-conforming uses, and the chapter has citywide applicability. Amendments to that chapter to allow for more flexibility related to legal non-conforming uses would have broad and potentially unknown and unintended impacts to legal non-conforming uses throughout the City – which number in the hundreds – which could potentially allow incompatible commercial uses to persist indefinitely. As a result, staff does not recommend amendments to that chapter to address the issues presented at 2644 30th St.

In an effort to address development related concerns raised by neighbors living adjacent to the building, there are two separate strategies that staff has identified. First, the proposed map amendments would be limited only to the portion of the parcel that is currently developed with a commercial office building, and would modify the zone for that portion from Single-Unit Residential (R1) to Neighborhood Commercial (NC) for both the General Plan Land Use Map and the Official Districting Map. The remainder of the parcel, which is currently improved with a surface parking lot, is not included in the proposed map amendments and will remain Single-Unit Residential for both the General Plan Land Use Map and the Official Districting Map. This adjustment would allow the property owner to pursue releasing and financing efforts to fill the pending vacancy.

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Further, by only remapping the building footprint and not the adjacent parking lot, largescale redevelopment of the site would be rendered infeasible.

Importantly, the second strategy pursued by staff to address the concerns related to the possible removal of the existing office building to facilitate a larger housing project involves execution of a covenant. Staff has engaged discussions with the property owner, who has voluntarily offered to execute a covenant with the City confirming that for 10 years, the property owner will not (a) redevelop the commercial lots utilizing the new NC zoning standards for housing projects and/or (b) redevelop the R1 zoned surface parking. This is consistent with the property owner’s statements there is no intention to redevelop the parcel utilizing the new NC development standards but instead, the map amendment would assist with re-tenanting the existing commercial building with a broader range of uses in the NC zone. Further the voluntary 10-year restriction would allow the matter to be revisited during the next LUCE update set to occur before 2035.

Discussion
On May 13, 2025, staff brought forth for City Council’s consideration map amendments to the Santa Monica General Plan Land Use Map and Official District Map for the portion of the parcel located at 2644 30th Street that is currently developed with a commercial office building; however, the item was tabled by Council to a later date. The report below summarizes the parcel’s history and current issues, as well as the proposed map amendments. Additionally, staff requests direction from Council regarding the applicability of future development standard amendments for surface parking lots pursuant to Council direction.

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Existing zoning of the subject parcel and
surrounding area. Red outline shows the location
of the existing office building.

Aerial view of the subject parcel and
surrounding area. Red outline shows the location
of the existing office building with remainder of
parcel as surface parking lot.

Parcel History/Current Conditions & Issues
Below provides a summary of the subject parcel development and zoning history:
• The subject portion of the parcel was developed in 1956 as a commercial office building, which includes approximately 35,000 square feet of leasable space. • Historically, since at least 1961 this portion of the parcel was designated as C2 (what is now typically NC - Neighborhood Commercial).
• However, when the General Plan Land Use Map was amended as part of the 2010 LUCE update and the Official Districting Map was amended as part of the 2015 Zoning Ordinance update, this portion’s designation was changed to Single Family Housing in the Land Use Map and R1 (Single-Unit Residential) in the Official Districting Map, respectively.

R2
Zone
R1
Zone
NC
Zone

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• This rezoning to R1 appears to have been inadvertent given the longstanding use of the property and prior designation as C2, and the lack of evidence in the record that such a change was discussed publicly or made deliberately. During the Zoning Ordinance update, there was an effort to correct unintentional mapping errors (115 were identified, 19 of which were changed from commercial/industrial to residential); however, it appears the subject parcel was overlooked at that time.
• The current R1 zoning has created a legal nonconforming condition, meaning that the existing office building use is not allowed by the underlying R1 zoning for the property, but in accordance with SMMC Chapter 9.27, the use is allowed to remain, but not expand, since it was established before the R1 zoning was enacted. Accordingly, any future commercial uses are limited to those similar to existing uses in the building, which are media production and event production offices. Due to limitations placed on legal nonconforming uses set forth in Chapter 9.27, if a tenant space is vacant for more than 1 year, the prior nonconforming use (e.g. production office) is considered abandoned, and the tenant space must be filled with a use permitted in the R1 zoning district. There are almost no commercial uses permitted in the R1 zoning district. • The property owner has stated that the non-conforming condition created by the rezoning to R1 presents impediments to future leasing and financing for the existing commercial office building.

The property owner has also provided the following new information:
• The property owner purchased the property in 1987 when it was zoned C2 • The existing building is 35,000 SF of leasable area as shown in the table below.

One tenant with a lease expiring in early 2027 has indicated they are not

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renewing and thus the property owner will start looking for a new tenant in approximately February 2026.

Expiration of
Lease
Square Footage Business type/use
2/29/28 9,178 Production/Event Production office
2/28/27 8,159 Production office
1/1/2026 9,432 Production/Event Production office
2/28/27 8,731 Production office
Data from CoStar shows that the office vacancy rate in Santa Monica is approximately 30%, suggesting weak tenant demand for office space making re-leasing tenant space with office uses a potential challenge.

Proposed Map Amendments
Given the development history of the parcel and the land use limitations of the R1 zoning district, staff recommends the following map amendments for the portion of the parcel located at 2644 30th Street that is currently developed with a commercial building:

Address APN Existing
Zoning
Proposed
Zoning
Existing
LUCE
Proposed
LUCE
2644 30th St
(portion containing
commercial
building only)
4270-
016-
084
R1
(Single-Unit
Residential)
NC
(Neighborhood
Commercial)
Single
Family
Housing
Neighborhood
Commercial
Questions Raised On May 13, 2025
Questions arose during the last City Council hearing regarding whether this proposed amendment would constitute spot zoning. Spot zoning may occur when a small parcel of property is subject to more or less restrictive zoning than the surrounding properties, thereby creating an “island” in the middle of a larger area devoted to other uses. Staff has reviewed the proposed map amendments in light of questions related to spot zoning raised at the May 13 public hearing, the proposed map amendments here do not appear to constitute spot-zoning, as they would simply expanding the NC zone adjacent to the

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commercial building and would not create an “island” commercial use surrounded by residential use on all sides.

Even if the amendments do constitute spot-zoning, they may be nonetheless permissible if the record demonstrates that spot zoning for a particular site is in the public interest (Foothill Communities Coalition v. County of Orange (2014) 222 Cal.App.4th 1302, 1306, 1314). Here, staff recommends that Council approve the proposed amendments based on consistency with the general plan, as supported by substantial evidence, and because it is in the public interest to ensure that vacant office space can be leased for the existing commercial office building and thereby reducing office vacancies in the City.

In addition, questions were raised related to whether it was more appropriate to amend the City’s rules related to legal non-conforming uses rather than the proposed map amendments, and when tabling this item, Council directed staff to return with options related to amendments to the City’s rules for legal nonconforming uses. After review, staff does not recommend amendments to Chapter 9.27 to allow for more flexibility for legal nonconforming uses. As rezonings occur, any use that is legally existing on the property at the time of the rezone that is no longer permitted under the new underlying zoning is considered legal nonconforming. SMMC Chapter 9.27 sets forth the City’s rules related to legal non-conforming uses throughout the city, generally allowing those uses to continue, but not to expand. Additional flexibility would be of broad applicability to legal nonconforming uses throughout the city, and given that there are hundreds of legally nonconforming uses in Santa Monica, an expansion of language in that particular code section could have unintended consequences by allowing legal nonconforming uses to expand and persist indefinitely.

Additional Considerations/Council Direction
On July 29, 2025, City Council gave the following direction that staff develop options for revising development standards to effectively implement Housing Element Program 1.C, by assessing development standard updates to incentivize housing project along transit corridors, including on surface parking lots associated with commercial corridors.

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If the proposed map amendments to 2644 30th Street are approved, future implementation of the above direction regarding surface parking lots will apply to the existing parking lot currently located on the parcel as it would be adjacent to a commercial zoning district (NC). As the proposed map amendments were brought forth for Council’s consideration prior to the above direction, staff requests additional direction regarding the applicability of the upcoming implementation of Council’s direction regarding surface parking lots. Specifically, staff would like the following direction from Council:

Policy Question:

Due to the fact that the property is currently zoned residential, does Council want to exclude the surface parking lot located at 2644 30th Street from being eligible to use future amendments to the development standards for surface parking lots for housing projects?
Yes, exclude the surface parking lot located at 2644 30th Street. (Staff will review options as to how to restrict the use of the program to not apply to the subject parcel. This could potentially be accomplished by including a date as to when a surface parking lot had to be adjacent to a commercial district or restricting the use of the program in the R1 zoning district.) No, allow the surface parking lot located at 2644 30th Street to be eligible for future development standards amendments.

Environmental Review
The amendments to the General Plan Land Use Map and Official Districting map are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the CEQA Guidelines, which states that CEQA does not apply where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the project may have a significant effect on the environment. The map amendments are proposed to correct zoning and land use designations that were erroneous. No change in the physical environment would result, because there would be no change to existing conditions on the parcel, no development is proposed as part of the map amendments,

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and the amendments only implement existing regulations. Therefore, it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the amendments may have a significant effect on the environment and accordingly, the amendments are exempt from CEQA under Section 15061(b)(3).

Financial Impacts and Budget Actions
There is no immediate financial impact or budget action necessary as a result of the recommended action. Staff will return to Council if specific budget actions are required in the future.

Prepared By: Ross Fehrman, Acting Planning Manager
Approved Forwarded to Council
Attachments:

A. 2025.09.30 - 30th Street General Plan Land Use Map Amendments Resolution B. 2025.09.30 - 30th Street Districting Map Amendments Ordinance C. Written Comments
D. PowerPoint Presentation

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1 City Council Meeting September 30, 2025 Santa Monica, California RESOLUTION NUMBER _________ (CCS)
(City Council Series)

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA MONICA

AMENDING THE SANTA MONICA GENERAL PLAN LAND USE MAP REGARDING TWO LOTS LOCATED WITHIN 2644 30TH STREET
WHEREAS, the Northwest 60 feet of lots 78 and 83 of Tract No. 1980 (the “Commercial Lots”, also shown on the map included in Attachment “A”) was developed in 1956 as a commercial office building, which includes approximately 35,000 square feet of leasable space; and
WHEREAS, historically, since at least 1961, this portion of the Commercial Lots was designated as C2 (Limited Commercial) on the City’s General Plan and Zoning Ordinance Districting Maps; and
WHEREAS, on July 6, 2010, the City Council adopted the Land Use and Circulation Element (“LUCE”) of the City’s General Plan, which included an amendment to the General Plan Use Map; and
WHEREAS, on June 23, 2015, the City adopted a revised Zoning Ordinance, which included a revised Official Districting Map; and
WHEREAS, when the General Plan Land Use and the Official Districting Maps were amended as part of the 2015 Zoning Ordinance update, the subject Commercial Lots were changed to Single Family Housing in the Land Use Map and Single-Unit Residential (R1) in the Official Districting Map, respectively; and WHEREAS, this rezoning to Single Family Housing appears to have been inadvertent given the longstanding use of the property and prior designation as Limited Commerical; and

12.A.a
Packet Pg. 2927 Attachment: 2025.09.30 - 30th Street General Plan Land Use Map Amendments Resolution (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 2 WHEREAS, during the public review process and in the course of analyzing the boundaries of the newly created zoning districts, inconsistencies between the adopted LUCE Land Use Designation Map and the then existing Official Districting Map were identified as reflected in the April 14, 2015, Staff Report to City Council; and WHEREAS, as a result of the identified inconsistencies, City Staff attempted to compare the LUCE Map with the existing Official Districting Map in the City, to generate a listing of inconsistent parcels, and
WHEREAS, a list of 115 parcels with such inconsistencies (“Inconsistent Parcel List”) was prepared and included with the Staff Report to the Planning Commission and were reviewed in detail on June 18, 2014 and October 1, 2014; and WHEREAS, the Inconsistent Parcel List was also included and discussed in the April 14, 2015, City Council Staff Report and reviewed by the City Council prior to their voting on the Zoning Ordinance Districting Map; and WHEREAS, the majority of these inconsistent parcels were those in the City whose land designations were changed to a commercial designation with the adoption of the LUCE Land Use Designation Map and were inconsistent with their predominantly residential zoning or partial residential zoning; and WHEREAS, however, a portion of the properties on the Inconsistent Parcel List were those designated commercial/industrial on the then-existing Official Districting Map and improved with commercial/industrial uses but had been designated residential on the 2010 LUCE map; and
WHEREAS, the subject Commercial Lots appear to be similarly situated to these previously identified formerly commercial/industrial parcels; however, the

12.A.a
Packet Pg. 2928 Attachment: 2025.09.30 - 30th Street General Plan Land Use Map Amendments Resolution (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 3 subject Commercial Lots were inadvertently not included on the Inconsistent Parcel List; and
WHEREAS, on May 5, 2015, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 10874 (CCS) amending the LUCE map to, among other things, change the LUCE designation for certain parcels that had been identified on the Inconsistent Parcel List as having inconsistent LUCE and then-existing Zoning Districting Map designations; and WHEREAS, on June 23, 2015, the City adopted a revised Zoning Ordinance, which included a revised Districting Map that designated the Commercial Lots as R1; and
WHEREAS, there are no permitted commercial uses in the Single-Unit Residential District; and
WHEREAS, the change of the Commercial Lots to the Single Family Residential designation has resulted in the existing building becoming both a legal, nonconforming building and the existing uses becoming legal, nonconforming uses and, thus, creates impediments to future leasing opportunities and financing for the property given the limitations of the Single Family Housing designation and zoning of R1; and WHEREAS, on February 19, 2025, pursuant to Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 9.45.060(B), the Planning Commission adopted Resolution Number 25-003 (PCS), a Resolution of Intention, declaring its intention to consider recommending to the City Council that the Council, among other things, amend the General Plan Land Use Map and Official Districting Map of the City of Santa Monica for the Commercial Lots located at 2466 30th Street; and

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Packet Pg. 2929 Attachment: 2025.09.30 - 30th Street General Plan Land Use Map Amendments Resolution (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 4 WHEREAS, amending the General Land Use Map to zone the Commercial Lots located at 2644 30th Street as Neighborhood Commercial will correct the prior inadvertent designation and reflect the longstanding use of the Commercial Lots, removing impediments to future leasing and changes of use of the Commercial Lots; and WHEREAS, amending the General Land Use Map to zone Commercial Lots located at 2644 30th Street as Neighborhood Commercial will correct the prior inadvertent designation and reflect the longstanding use of the property, ensure consistency with the General Plan, and remove impediments to future leasing and changes of use of the Commercial Lots, including the existing building; and
WHEREAS, on March 19, 2025, the Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing, and, after considering oral and written testimony regarding the proposed amendments to the General Plan Land Use Map, adopted Resolution Number 25- 007 (PCS), recommending that the City Council amend the General Plan Land Use Map for the Commercial Lots located at 2644 30th Street; and WHEREAS, the adjacent parking lot that is designated in the Land Use Map as Single Family Residential and in the Official Districting Map as R-1 Single-Unit Residential will remain unchanged; and
WHEREAS, on May 13, 2024, the City Council conducted a duly noticed hearing, and, after considering all oral and written testimony, decided to table the adoption of the amendments to the Official Districting Map to a later date; and WHEREAS, after renewed requests from the property owner and new information submitted in support thereof, on September 30, 2025, the City Council conducted a duly noticed hearing, and, after considering all oral and written testimony, desires to amend

12.A.a
Packet Pg. 2930 Attachment: 2025.09.30 - 30th Street General Plan Land Use Map Amendments Resolution (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 5 the General Land Use Map for the Commercial Lots located at 2644 30th Street as set forth below.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA MONICA DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. Based upon the oral and written testimony presented to the City Council at the public hearing on September 30, 2025, regarding the proposed change to the General Land Use Map for the Commercial Lots located at 2644 30th Street, the City Council hereby makes the following findings regarding the Amendments to the General Plan Map:

Pursuant to Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 9.45.080, the City Council does hereby amend the General Plan Land Use Map for the parcel located at 2644 30th Street because although subject parcel is currently designated as Single Family Housing, it has been developed as a commercial office building since 1956 and was historically zoned as commercial, and when the General Plan Land Use Map was amended as part of the 2010 update to the Land Use and Circulation Element, the parcel’s designation was changed to Single Family Housing in the Land Use Map, which appears to have been inadvertent given the longstanding use of the property and prior C2, Neighborhood Commercial zoning of the parcel. This has created a nonconforming condition and impediments to future development, leasing opportunities, and financing for the property given the limitations of the Single Family Housing designation. The proposed change to Neighborhood Commercial will rectify these issues and align the LUCE designation with the development history of the parcel, ensure consistency between the General Plan

12.A.a
Packet Pg. 2931 Attachment: 2025.09.30 - 30th Street General Plan Land Use Map Amendments Resolution (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 6 Land Use Map and the Official Districting Map, and address any nonconforming conditions and impediments to planned and future development of the parcel, as set forth in Exhibit A, attached to this Resolution is hereby amended to read as follows:

SECTION 2. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution, and thenceforth and thereafter the same shall be in full force and effect.

APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_________________________

HEIDI VON TONGELN,
Interim City Attorney

12.A.a
Packet Pg. 2932 Attachment: 2025.09.30 - 30th Street General Plan Land Use Map Amendments Resolution (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 7 SECTION 2.EXHIBIT A
Amendment to the Zoning Designation in the Official Districting Map for the Commercial Lots Located within 2644 30th Street
Address APN Zoning
Classification
Proposed
Portion of 2644
30th St described
as Northwest 60
feet of lots 78 and
83 of Tract No.
1980 (see map
below)
Portion of
4270-016-
084
R1 (Single-Unit
Residential)
NC (Neighborhood
Commercial)

12.A.a
Packet Pg. 2933 Attachment: 2025.09.30 - 30th Street General Plan Land Use Map Amendments Resolution (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 8 12.A.a
Packet Pg. 2934 Attachment: 2025.09.30 - 30th Street General Plan Land Use Map Amendments Resolution (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 1 City Council Meeting: September 30, 2025 Santa Monica, California

ORDINANCE NUMBER (CCS)
(City Council Series)

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA MONICA

AMENDING THE OFFICIAL DISTRICTING MAP OF THE CITY OF SANTA MONICA REGARDING TWO LOTS LOCATED WITHIN 2644 30TH STREET
WHEREAS, the Northwest 60 feet of lots 78 and 83 of Tract No. 1980 (the “Commercial Lots”, also shown on the map included in Attachment “A”) was developed in 1956 as a commercial office building, which includes approximately 35,000 square feet of leasable space; and
WHEREAS, historically, since at least 1961, this portion of the Commercial Lots was designated as C2 (Limited Commercial) on the City’s General Plan and Zoning Ordinance Districting Maps; and
WHEREAS, on July 6, 2010, the City Council adopted the Land Use and Circulation Element (“LUCE”) of the City’s General Plan, which included an amendment to the General Plan Use Map; and
WHEREAS, on June 23, 2015, the City adopted a revised Zoning Ordinance, which included a revised Official Districting Map; and
WHEREAS, when the General Plan Land Use and the Official Districting Maps were amended as part of the 2015 Zoning Ordinance update, the subject Commercial Lots were changed to Single Family Housing in the Land Use Map and Single-Unit Residential (R1) in the Official Districting Map, respectively; and WHEREAS, this rezoning to R1 appears to have been inadvertent given the longstanding use of the property and prior designation as C2; and

12.A.b
Packet Pg. 2935 Attachment: 2025.09.30 - 30th Street Districting Map Amendments Ordinance (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 2 WHEREAS, during the public review process and in the course of analyzing the boundaries of the newly created zoning districts, inconsistencies between the adopted LUCE Land Use Designation Map and the then existing Official Districting Map were identified as reflected in the April 14, 2015, Staff Report to City Council; and WHEREAS, as a result of the identified inconsistencies, City Staff attempted to compare the LUCE Map with the existing Official Districting Map in the City, to generate a listing of inconsistent parcels, and
WHEREAS, a list of 115 parcels with such inconsistencies (“Inconsistent Parcel List”) was prepared and included with the Staff Report to the Planning Commission and were reviewed in detail on June 18, 2014 and October 1, 2014; and WHEREAS, the Inconsistent Parcel List was also included and discussed in the April 14, 2015, City Council Staff Report and reviewed by the City Council prior to their voting on the Zoning Ordinance Districting Map; and
WHEREAS, the majority of these inconsistent parcels were those in the City whose land designations were changed to a commercial designation with the adoption of the LUCE Land Use Designation Map and were inconsistent with their predominantly residential zoning or partial residential zoning; and
WHEREAS, however, a portion of the properties on the Inconsistent Parcel List were those designated commercial/industrial on the then-existing Official Districting Map and improved with commercial/industrial uses but had been designated residential on the 2010 LUCE map; and
WHEREAS, the subject Commercial Lots appear to be similarly situated to these previously identified formerly commercial/industrial parcels; however, the subject Commercial Lots were inadvertently not included on the Inconsistent Parcel List; and

12.A.b
Packet Pg. 2936 Attachment: 2025.09.30 - 30th Street Districting Map Amendments Ordinance (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 3 WHEREAS, on May 5, 2015, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 10874 (CCS) amending the LUCE map to, among other things, change the LUCE designation for certain parcels that had been identified on the Inconsistent Parcel List as having inconsistent LUCE and then-existing Zoning Districting Map designations; and WHEREAS, on June 23, 2015, the City adopted a revised Zoning Ordinance, which included a revised Districting Map that designated the Commercial Lots as R1; and
WHEREAS, there are no permitted commercial uses in the R1 Zoning District; and
WHEREAS, the change of the Commercial Lots to the Single Family Housing designation and R1 zone has resulted in the existing building becoming a legal, nonconforming building and the existing uses becoming legal, nonconforming uses and, thus, creates impediments to future leasing opportunities and financing for the property given the limitations of the Single Family Housing designation and zoning of R1; and WHEREAS, on February 19, 2025, pursuant to Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 9.45.060(B), the Planning Commission adopted Resolution Number 25-003 (PCS), a Resolution of Intention, declaring its intention to consider recommending to the City Council that the Council, among other things, amend the General Plan Land Use Map and Official Districting Map of the City of Santa Monica for the Commercial Lots located at 2466 30th Street; and
WHEREAS, amending the Official Districting Map to zone the Commercial Lots located at 2644 30th Street as NC (Neighborhood Commercial) will correct the prior inadvertent designation and reflect the longstanding use of the Commercial Lots,

12.A.b
Packet Pg. 2937 Attachment: 2025.09.30 - 30th Street Districting Map Amendments Ordinance (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 4 removing impediments to future leasing and changes of use of the Commercial Lots; and
WHEREAS, amending the Official Districting Map to zone Commercial Lots located at 2644 30th Street as NC will correct the prior inadvertent designation and reflect the longstanding use of the property, ensure consistency with the General Plan, and remove impediments to future leasing and changes of use of the Commercial Lots, including the existing building; and
WHEREAS, on March 19, 2025, the Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing, and, after considering oral and written testimony regarding the proposed amendments to the Official Districting Map, adopted Resolution Number 25- 008 (PCS), recommending that the City Council amend the Official Districting Map for the Commercial Lots located at 2644 30th Street based on the following findings:

1. The change in district boundaries is consistent in principle with the General Plan in that the proposed amendments will provide consistency between existing development and the Official Districting Map. Due to an inadvertent reclassification of the Commercial Lots during both the 2010 Land Use and Circulation Element update and the 2015 Zoning Ordinance update to Single Family Housing and R1 (Single-Unit Residential), respectively, the commercial use of the Commercial Lots established in 1956 is now a nonconforming land use and the existing building on the Commercial Lots is a legal, nonconforming building. This inconsistency between the use and Official District Map has created impediments to future development due to the land use limitations of the R1 zoning district, leasing/changes of use tenant space within the building, and financing the property. The proposed change will rectify this issue by aligning the Official Districting Map with the historic existing commercial use of the

12.A.b
Packet Pg. 2938 Attachment: 2025.09.30 - 30th Street Districting Map Amendments Ordinance (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 5 Commercial Lots;

2. The change in district boundaries is consistent with the purpose of this Ordinance to promote the growth of the City in an orderly manner and to promote and protect the public health, safety, and general welfare in that the proposed change will align the Official Districting Map with the existing commercial development of the Commercial Lots. Since 1956 the Commercial Lots have been developed as a commercial use, but inadvertently during both the 2010 Land Use and Circulation Element update and 2015 Zoning Ordinance update was reclassified as Single Family Housing and R1 (Single-Unit Residential), respectively. This inconsistency between the use and zoning district has created impediments to future changes of use and development due to the land use limitations of the R1 zoning district, leasing tenant space within the building, and financing the property. The proposed change will rectify this issue by aligning the Official Districting Map with the historic existing use of the Commercial Lots; and

3. The change in district boundaries is necessary to achieve the balance of land uses desired by the City, consistent with the General Plan, and to increase the inventory of land within a given Zoning District in that the Commercial Lots have historically been developed with as a commercial use since 1956 and were zoned as such until it was inadvertently amended as part of both the 2010 Land Use and Circulation update and 2015 Zoning Ordinance update to Single Family Housing and R1 (Single-Unit Residential), respectively. This inadvertent reclassification has resulted in a nonconforming condition and impediments to future development due to land use limitations of the R1 zoning district, leasing tenant space with the building, and financing the property. The proposed change will align the Official District Map for the Commercial

12.A.b
Packet Pg. 2939 Attachment: 2025.09.30 - 30th Street Districting Map Amendments Ordinance (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 6 Lots with existing development; and
WHEREAS, the adjacent parking lot that is designated in the Land Use Map as Single Family Residential and in the Official Districting Map as R-1 Single-Unit Residential will remain unchanged; and
WHEREAS, on May 13, 2024, the City Council conducted a duly noticed hearing, and, after considering all oral and written testimony, decided to table the adoption of the amendments to the Official Districting Map to a later date; and WHEREAS, after renewed requests from the property owner and new information submitted in support thereof, on September 30, 2025, the City Council conducted a duly noticed hearing, and, after considering all oral and written testimony, desires to amend the Official Districting Map for the Commercial Lots located at 2644 30th Street as set forth below.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA MONICA DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. Based upon the oral and written testimony presented to the City Council at the public hearing on September 30, 2025, regarding the proposed change to the Official Districting Map for the Commercial Lots located at 2644 30th Street, the City Council hereby makes the following findings:

Due to an inadvertent reclassification of the Commercial Lots during both the 2010 Land Use and Circulation Element update and the 2015 Zoning Ordinance update to Single Family Housing and R1 (Single-Unit

12.A.b
Packet Pg. 2940 Attachment: 2025.09.30 - 30th Street Districting Map Amendments Ordinance (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 7 Residential), respectively, the commercial use of the Commercial Lots established in 1956 is now a nonconforming land use. This inconsistency between the use and Official District Map has created impediments to future leasing of tenant space within the building and financing the property due to the land use limitations of the R1 zoning district . The proposed change will rectify this issue by aligning the Official Districting Map with the historic existing commercial use of the Commercial Lots.

2. The change in district boundaries is consistent with the purpose of this Ordinance to promote the growth of the City in an orderly manner and to promote and protect the public health, safety, and general welfare in that the proposed change will align the Official Districting Map with the existing commercial development of the Commercial Lots. Since 1956 the Commercial Lots have been developed as a commercial use, but inadvertently during both the 2010 Land Use and Circulation Element update and 2015 Zoning Ordinance update were reclassified as Single Family Housing and R1 (Single-Unit Residential), respectively. This inconsistency between the use and zoning district has created impediments to future leasing of tenant space within the building and financing the property due to the land use limitations of the R1 zoning district. The proposed change will rectify this issue by aligning the Official Districting Map with the historic existing use of the Commercial Lots.

12.A.b
Packet Pg. 2941 Attachment: 2025.09.30 - 30th Street Districting Map Amendments Ordinance (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 8 the Commercial Lots have historically been developed with as a commercial use since 1956 and was zoned as such until it was inadvertently amended as part of both the 2010 Land Use and Circulation update and 2015 Zoning Ordinance update to Single Family Housing and R1 (Single-Unit Residential), respectively. This inadvertent reclassification has resulted in a nonconforming condition and impediments to future leasing of tenant space within the building and financing the property due to land use limitations of the R1 zoning district. The proposed change will align the Official District Map for the Commercial Lots with existing development.

Section 2. The City of Santa Monica Official Districting Map is hereby amended as set forth in Exhibit A, attached hereto.

SECTION 3. Any provision of the Municipal Code or appendices thereto inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance, to the extent of such inconsistencies and no further, is hereby repealed or modified to that extent necessary to effect the provisions of this Ordinance.

SECTION 4. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed this Ordinance and each and every section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase not declared invalid or unconstitutional without regard to whether any portion of the ordinance would be subsequently declared invalid or unconstitutional.

SECTION 5. The Mayor shall sign and the City Clerk shall attest to the passage of this Ordinance. The City Clerk shall cause the same to be published once in the official

12.A.b
Packet Pg. 2942 Attachment: 2025.09.30 - 30th Street Districting Map Amendments Ordinance (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 9 newspaper within 15 days after its adoption. This Ordinance shall become effective 30 days from its adoption.

APPROVED AS TO FORM:

HEIDI VON TONGELN
Interim City Attorney

12.A.b
Packet Pg. 2943 Attachment: 2025.09.30 - 30th Street Districting Map Amendments Ordinance (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 10 EXHIBIT A
Amendment to the Zoning Designation in the Official Districting Map for the Commercial Lots Located within 2644 30th Street
Address APN Zoning
Classification
Proposed
Portion of 2644
30th St described
as Northwest 60
feet of lots 78 and
83 of Tract No.
1980 (see map
below)
Portion of
4270-016-
084
R1 (Single-Unit
Residential)
NC (Neighborhood
Commercial)

12.A.b
Packet Pg. 2944 Attachment: 2025.09.30 - 30th Street Districting Map Amendments Ordinance (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 2644 30th Street Commercial Building
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 2945 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 2] (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) Existing Conditions • Commercial Office Building Lot • Approx. 18,000 sf • Improved with a commercial office building • Zoning = R1 • LUCE = Single Family Housing • R1 Parking Lots (not proposed for change) • Approx. 36,000 sf R1
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 2946 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 2] (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) Proposed Change
18,000 sf lots with commercial office
building  NC designation
36,000 sf lots with surface parking 
retain R1 (Single Family Zoning)
designation (no change)
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 2947 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 2] (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) Comparison of Use Regulations
Existing R1 Zoning
• R1 does not allow any
commercial uses (SMMC Table

9.07.020)
• Legal nonconforming use
• “Maintenance” of existing
legal nonconforming use is
extremely limiting for future
leasing of building.
• Abandonment language is
problematic.

NC Zoning
• Variety of commercial
office uses are permitted
including (SMMC Table 9.11.020)
• Business & Professional
Office
• Creative Office
• Walk-In Clientele Offices
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 2948 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 2] (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) Summary
• Change LUCE and Zoning to Neighborhood Commercial
• R1 zoning is:
• Inconsistent with long-standing existing commercial use • Historical zoning
• Problematic for future leasing of the building
• Owner has offered covenant not to redevelop either the R1 surface parking lots or the proposed commercial lots under the NC housing project standards for 10 years
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 2949 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 2] (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) Background
In 2015, when Zoning was changed, both Planning Commission and City Council were informed that they had been given a comprehensive list of map inconsistencies prior to voting on the LUCE map amendments to address inconsistencies.

Item 12-A
September 30, 2025
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 2950 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 2] (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 2014/15 Map Inconsistency Identification • In 2015, Staff attempted to prepare a comprehensive list of inconsistencies • A list of 115 parcels with inconsistent 1988 zoning and 2010 LUCE designations was prepared and reviewed by the Planning Commission and City Council. • 19 of the parcels on the list were zoned commercial/industrial and used with commercial/industrial uses but had been given a residential LUCE designation. Resolution No. 15-007 (PCS) recitals state:

Item 12-A
September 30, 2025
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 2951 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 2] (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) Parcels with Inconsistent 1988 Zoning/2010
LUCE Map Designations
2644 30th Street met the
criteria to be included on
this list but was missed.

It was zoned C2 in 1988/pre-2015
Zoning but the 2010 LUCE designation
was Single Family Housing.

Item 12-A
September 30, 2025
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 2952 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 2] (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 1984 LUCE 1988 Zoning
(pre-2015 Zoning)
2010/Current LUCE 2015/Current Zoning
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 2953 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 2] (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 1 David Yakobson
From: Jamison Strofs <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 4:41 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis
Subject: 9/30/25 agenda item 12-A – Resolution to rezone 2644 30th - OPPOSE!

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
I urge you to a) oppose the upzoning of 2644 30th Street, and b) exempt the parking lot at 2644 30th from future upzoning.

The property, which is located behind the 2901 Ocean Park Blvd. retail center with the Il Forno restaurant and The Counter, currently has a 2-story office building dating from the 1950s. It is zoned R1 (residential). The owner(s) want the property rezoned to Neighborhood Commercial (NC), which would allow it to be redeveloped to 85 feet in height. This is much too tall for a property that is directly cross the street from homes on 29th and 30 Streets. 1) The retail center on Ocean Park Blvd. between 29th and 30th, currently zoned Neighborhood Commercial, already extends further into the residential neighborhood than the NC zones on the adjacent blocks. The 2644 30th parcel extends even further into the residential neighborhood and is located directly across the street from homes on 29th and 30th Streets.
2) If 2644 30th is rezoned Neighborhood Commercial, with the current 55-foot height limit on Ocean Park Blvd. plus state density bonuses, it could be replaced with a 85-foot tall building, directly across the street from 1- and 2- story homes. The parcel is not even located on Ocean Park Blvd., so how can it qualify for Neighborhood Commercial zoning?
3) The Council is also being given the option to exempt the parking lot at 2644 30th from future upzoning.

Again, I urge you a) to oppose the upzoning of 2644 30th Street, and b) to exempt the parking lot at 2644 30th from future upzoning.

Sincerely,
Jamison Strofs
Home owner on 30th
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 2954 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 2] (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 2 David Yakobson
From: Council Mailbox
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 4:59 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FW: 2644 30th street: Corporations as R-1 neighbors From: Teri B <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 11:54 AM
To: Santa Monica City Manager's Office <[email protected]> Cc: Lana Negrete <[email protected]>; Council Mailbox <[email protected]>; Dan Hall <[email protected]>; [email protected]; Natalya Zernitskaya <[email protected]>; Barry Snell <[email protected]>; Caroline Torosis <[email protected]>; Ellis Raskin <[email protected]>; Nikki Kolhoff [email protected] <[email protected]>; Roni Crichton <[email protected]>; Dick Bernstein <[email protected]>; Mindi Shank <[email protected]>; Dan Kolhoff <[email protected]>; Oliver Chi <[email protected]>; Zina <[email protected]>; Tracey Hom <[email protected]>
Subject: 2644 30th street: Corporations as R-1 neighbors

EXTERNAL
City staff and City Council fiduciaries of our neighborhood:

Please vote this upzoning down and never bring it back to the agenda.

The way this was brought to this agenda was sneaky in a way that I am guessing makes many of you uncomfortable.

Unlike some of my neighbors, I voted for the slate with Barry Snell because he was associated with SMC and was an old school CPA who was most likely trained in the fiduciary and ethical responsibilities of top-down leadership. It was a little Pollyanna of me, in hindsight.

I am disappointed that City Staff and the Council are in the "Corporations are People too" camp. They endorse this Corporate Incrementalism at the 2644 property. Jesse Zwick mistakenly labeled those who wanted to live in R-1 neighborhoods as racist, when in fact those opting for R-1 neighborhoods did not want to live next door to a CORPORATION or Commercial businesses.

The Harding law firm (with its moles in the PTA) are trying to get this Commercial toehold on an R-1 street without regard for the residents and voters.

As individuals, jointly and severally, the City and Council will be responsible for lowering our property values if this is passed and we need to disclose this in any sale of property. I'm guessing a jury of my peers would be the side of the current residents in this. What kind of liability might that produce for the future of Santa Monica?
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 2955 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 2] (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 3 Also, even if the state no longer requires EIR considerations, no law can eliminate the ACTUAL Environmental Impact of clogging this corridor of egress from tsunamis and disasters with all of this building. You as City staff and Council are responsible for the deaths that may occur.

Please vote against this and all other item. Be visionary and ethical.

Thank you,
Teri Davis Bernstein
2528 29th St.

On Tue, Sep 30, 2025 at 9:32 AM Tracey Hom <[email protected]> wrote:

All they do is lie
Sent from my iPhone
On Sep 30, 2025, at 9:07 AM, Teri B <[email protected]> wrote:

Great reminder, Tracey!
A succinct illustration of staff and Council’s duplicity.

Teri
On Tue, Sep 30, 2025 at 9:03 AM Tracey Hom <[email protected]> wrote:

So here is the message from Zing in response to terri Berstein Jing Yeo
From:[email protected]
To:Teri B
Cc:Tracey Hom,Dick Bernstein
Thu, Jun 12 at 5:49 PM
Hello Teri,
At the May 13 meeting, City Council voted to table the item to rezone 2944 30th St and for staff to return with revisions to address the abandonment provisions for legal nonconforming uses. What that means is that the Council was not interested in the upzoning and requested looking at other possible options instead that would accomplish the property owner’s stated goals of filling vacancies in the existing office building.

Item 12-A
September 30, 2025
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 2956 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 2] (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 4 At this time, given other priorities and additional research needed, there isn’t a timeline for returning to Council with those revisions to the legal non-conforming section of the zoning ordinance.

Thank you,
Jing
So what happened? Harding Laremore put more pressure on you all. You know this is wrong.

Tracey P. Hom Esq.
10850 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 825
Los Angeles, California 90024
310 749 5343
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 2957 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 2] (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 1 David Yakobson
From: Richard Bernstein <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 1:04 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Opposed to upzoning 2644 30th Street

EXTERNAL
From:

Richard Bernstein
2606 29th Street
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Dear Councilmembers:

The current two-story brick building and adjoining parking lot have been operaƟng as “legal non-conforming” uses. There doesn’t seem to be any problem re-defining what this designaƟon entails without turning this buffer into a frontal assault on our block.

In the words of poet Wallace Stevens:

I placed a jar in Tennessee,
And round it was, upon a hill.

It made the slovenly wilderness
Surround that hill.

The wilderness rose up to it,
And sprawled around, no longer wild.

The jar was round upon the ground
And tall and of a port in air.

It took dominion everywhere.

The jar was gray and bare.

It did not give of bird or bush,
Like nothing else in Tennessee.

A five to eight story building on the same residenƟal street as one and two story houses – directly across the street – cuƫng off sun and air – would indeed be a “jar” on our block, dominaƟng and redefining our neighborhood.

Please keep the property as legal, non-conforming R1.

Thank you.

Richard Bernstein
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 2958 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 2] (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 2 David Yakobson
From: Aleson Clarke <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 1:06 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Ellis Raskin; Natalya Zernitskaya; Dan Hall; Barry Snell
Cc: Ross Fehrman; Rachel Kwok; Jing Yeo; Oliver Chi
Subject: Item 12.A 2644 30th Street Commercial Building Re-Zone Support

EXTERNAL

Dear Councilmembers,
I am writing as a Santa Monica/Sunset Park homeowner a few blocks away from 2644 30th Street, I’m writing to express my support for the proposed amendments to the General Plan Land Use Map and Official Districting Map for 2644 30th Street.

From my perspective, this action represents a reasonable good-faith compromise. I sincerely value the convenience of having small businesses in close proximity, not to mention the added business/economic activity for local restaurants and stores, all of which keep the neighborhood vibrant and thriving.

The property has long been used as a commercial office building since its development in 1956, and the current “legal non-conforming” status only exists because of what appears to have been an inadvertent clerical error during the 2010 LUCE update and 2015 Zoning Ordinance. What kind of precedent is being set when a clerical error would be allowed to destroy local businesses and property owners in an already challenging economy?
Correcting that error will provide clarity for leasing, financing, and maintaining the building — without opening the door to large-scale redevelopment, since the adjacent parking lot remains zoned R1. Not doing so increases the risk of a large-scale development if the property owner has to sell due to hardships of not having the proper zoning.

Also, the property owner has voluntarily offered a 10-year covenant not to redevelop into housing projects, which provides additional assurances to neighbors while preserving flexibility to revisit the issue during the next LUCE update.

Unfortunately, I have seen misinformation and misleading material circulating in the community, including false “renderings” depicting massive high-rise developments supposedly planned for this site.

These materials are not based in fact and only serve to stir up fear, confusion and division.

I believe Santa Monica deserves a decision based on accurate information and the actual record before Council.

Item 12-A
September 30, 2025
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 2959 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 2] (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 3 For these reasons, I urge you to approve the staff recommendation and adopt the proposed map amendments. This will correct a longstanding error but also is a fair and balanced solution that respects the needs of the property owner, the surrounding community, and the integrity of our planning process

Thank you for your service and consideration.

Respectfully,
Aleson Clarke
2435 31st Street
Santa Monica, 90405
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 2960 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 2] (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) 4 David Yakobson
From: Paula Larmore <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 2:42 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Ellis Raskin; Caroline Torosis; Natalya Zernitskaya; Dan Hall; Barry Snell
Cc: Oliver Chi; Jing Yeo; Ross Fehrman; Rachel Kwok; Heidi von Tongeln; Michelle M.

Hugard
Subject: Item 12.A: 2644 30th Street, Re-Zone Support
Attachments: Letter to CC re 2644 30th 2025.09.30.pdf; Attachment to Letter to CC re 2644 30th 2025.09.30.pdf

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
On behalf of the owner of 2644 30th Street, please see the attached letter requesting that the Council re-zone only the portion of the Property occupied by the commercial building to Neighborhood Commercial (NC) consistent with the long-standing commercial use and historical commercial zoning for the Commercial Lots. Re-zoning the Commercial Lots back to commercial will allow needed flexibility to ensure the commercial building’s longterm viability as an existing oƯice building.

The second attachment responds to various arguments made in opposition to the proposed re-zone. The Planning Commission considered and was unpersuaded by the opponents’ arguments and recommended approving the rezone.

Moreover, to further address speculative concerns raised about the NC rezone facilitating redevelopment of the Property, the property owner has oƯered to record a covenant/deed-restriction evidencing his commitment not to redevelop the Property for the foreseeable future.

Sincerely,
Paula J. Larmore | Attorney at Law
1250 Sixth Street, Suite 200 | Santa Monica, CA 90401
O: (310) 656-4311 | [email protected]
NOTICE OF DISTRIBUTION: This e-mail message contains information that may be confidential and privileged. Unless you are the addressee (or authorized to receive messages for the addressee), you may not use, copy or disclose this message (or any information contained in it) to anyone. If you have received this message in error, please advise the sender by reply e-mail and delete this message. Nothing in this message should be interpreted as a digital or electronic signature that can be used to authenticate a contract or other legal document.

Item 12-A
September 30, 2025
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 2961 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 2] (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street)

(310) 656-4311
September 30, 2025

VIA E-MAIL
Santa Monica City Council
Re: Agenda Item 12.A -- 2644 30th Street, Re-Zone of Commercial Lots Our File No. 22795
Dear Councilmembers:

I am writing on behalf of 2644 SM Partners, LP, the owner of 2644 30th Street (the “Property”). As recommended by the Planning Commission and City Staff, we respectfully request that the Council re-zone only the portion of the Property occupied by the commercial building (the “Commercial Lots”) to the same commercial LUCE and zoning designation -- Neighborhood Commercial (NC) -- as the immediately adjacent commercial property to the south. Re-zoning the Commercial Lots back to commercial will allow needed flexibility to ensure the commercial building’s longterm viability as an existing office building. This will return the existing commercial building to a commercial zone, not a single family zone.

As explained in the Staff Report, the Commercial Lots are improved with a twostory commercial building built in 1956 and for decades had been zoned (and continuously used) for commercial (C2) just like the immediately adjacent commercial property to the south, including when the current owner purchased the Property in 1987.

The rest of the Property, 36,000 square feet occupied by surface parking, is zoned R1 and will remain R1.

Under the Neighborhood Commercial (NC) zoning, the existing building could be leased to a variety of commercial tenants, including most importantly a wide variety of office tenants that fall into the Business & Professional and Creative Office use categories. (SMMC Table 9.11.020, Specific Limitation 21.) By contrast, with the Commercial Lots in the R1 zone, the existing building is both a legal, nonconforming building (as it doesn’t comply with the R1 physical development standards) and the existing uses within the building are legal, nonconforming uses. As explained in the attached document, the City’s legal, nonconforming building regulations and legal, nonconforming use regulations are complex and limiting, especially in the current leasing environment. The best and simplest answer is to re-zone the Commercial Lots [email protected]
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025
Item 12-A
September 30, 2025

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 2962 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 2] (7288 : Map Amendments for 2644 30th Street) Santa Monica City Council
September 30, 2025

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Santa Monica City CouncilSeptember 30, 2025

Santa Monica City Council
September 30, 2025