Agenda packet — Santa Monica City Council, October 14, 2025 (part 6 of 8)

ATTACHMENT NO. 3
Table 1
Reference: 2012 ACWA PHG Survey

COST ESTIMATES FOR TREATMENT TECHNOLOGIES
(INCLUDES ANNUALIZED CAPITAL AND O&M COSTS)
No. Treatment
Technology Source of Information
Estimated Unit Cost
2012 ACWA Survey
Indexed to 2024*
($/1,000 gallons treated)
1 Ion Exchange Coachella Valley WD, for GW, to reduce Arsenic concentrations. 2011 costs. 2.68
2 Ion Exchange City of Riverside Public Utilities, for GW, for Perchlorate treatment. 1.30
3 Ion Exchange
Carollo Engineers, anonymous utility, 2012 costs for
treating GW source for Nitrates. Design souce water
concentration: 88 mg/L NO3. Design finished water
concentration: 45 mg/L NO3. Does not include
concentrate disposal or land cost.

0.98 4
Granular
Activated Carbon
City of Riverside Public Utilities, GW sources, for TCE, DBCP (VOC, SOC) treatment. 0.65
5 Granular
Activated Carbon
Carollo Engineers, anonymous utility, 2012 costs for
treating SW source for TTHMs. Design souce water
concentration: 0.135 mg/L. Design finished water
concentration: 0.07 mg/L. Does not include concentrate
disposal or land cost.

0.47 6
Granular
Activated Carbon,
Liquid Phase
LADWP, Liquid Phase GAC treatment at Tujunga Well
field. Costs for treating 2 wells. Treament for 1,1 DCE (VOC). 2011-2012 costs.

1.99 7 Reverse Osmosis
Carollo Engineers, anonymous utility, 2012 costs for
treating GW source for Nitrates. Design souce water
concentration: 88 mg/L NO3. Design finished water
concentration: 45 mg/L NO3. Does not include
concentrate disposal or land cost.

1.05 8
Packed Tower
Aeration
City of Monrovia, treatment to reduce TCE, PCE
concentrations. 2011-12 costs. 0.58
9 Ozonation+
Chemical addition
SCVWD, STWTP treatment plant includes chemical
addition + ozone generation costs to reduce THM/HAAs
concentrations. 2009-2012 costs.

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COST ESTIMATES FOR TREATMENT TECHNOLOGIES
(INCLUDES ANNUALIZED CAPITAL AND O&M COSTS)
No. Treatment
Technology Source of Information
Estimated Unit Cost
2012 ACWA Survey
Indexed to 2024*
($/1,000 gallons treated)
10 Ozonation+
Chemical addition
SCVWD, PWTP treatment plant includes chemical
addition + ozone generation costs to reduce THM/HAAs
concentrations, 2009-2012 costs.

0.26 11 Coagulation/Filtra
tion
Soquel WD, treatment to reduce manganese
concentrations in GW. 2011 costs. 0.98
12 Coagulation/Filtra
tion Optimization
San Diego WA, costs to reduce THM/Bromate,
Turbidity concentrations, raw SW a blend of State
Water Project water and Colorado River water, treated
at Twin Oaks Valley WTP.

1.12 13 Blending (Well) Rancho California WD, GW blending well, 1150 gpm, to reduce fluoride concentrations. 0.93
14 Blending (Wells) Rancho California WD, GW blending wells, to reduce arsenic concentrations, 2012 costs. 0.76
15 Blending Rancho California WD, using MWD water to blend with GW to reduce arsenic concentrations. 2012 costs. 0.91
16 Corrosion
Inhibition
Atascadero Mutual WC, corrosion inhibitor addition to
control aggressive water. 2011 costs. 0.11
*Costs were adjusted from date of original estimates to present using the Engineering News Record (ENR) 20-City average Construction Cost Index of 13,571 for 2024.

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ATTACHMENT NO. 3
Table 2
Reference: Other Agencies

COST ESTIMATES FOR TREATMENT TECHNOLOGIES
(INCLUDES ANNUALIZED CAPITAL AND O&M COSTS)
No. Treatment
Technology Source of Information
Estimated 2012 Unit Cost
Indexed to 2024* ($/1,000
gallons treated)
1 Reduction -
CoagulationFiltration
Reference: February 28, 2013, Final Report
Chromium Removal Research, City of Glendale,
CA. 100-2000 gpm. Reduce Hexavalent
Chromium to 1 ppb.

1.14 – 13.38
2 IX - Weak Base
Anion Resin
Reference: February 28, 2013, Final Report
Chromium Removal Research, City of Glendale,
CA. 100-2000 gpm. Reduce Hexavalent
Chromium to 1 ppb.

2.19 – 9.16
3 IX Golden State Water Co., IX w/disposable resin, 1
MGD, Perchlorate removal, built in 2010. 0.67
4 IX
Golden State Water Co., IX w/disposable resin,
1000 gpm, perchlorate removal (Proposed; O&M
estimated).

1.47 5 IX
Golden State Water Co., IX with brine
regeneration, 500 gpm for Selenium removal, built
in 2007.

9.59 6 GFO/Adsorption
Golden State Water Co., Granular Ferric Oxide
Resin, Arsenic removal, 600 gpm, 2 facilities, built
in 2006.

2.51 - 2.67
7 RO
Reference: Inland Empire Utilities Agency : Chino
Basin Desalter. RO cost to reduce 800 ppm TDS,
150 ppm Nitrate (as NO3); approx. 7 mgd.

3.28 8 IX
Reference: Inland Empire Utilities Agency : Chino
Basin Desalter. IX cost to reduce 150 ppm Nitrate
(as NO3); approx. 2.6 mgd.

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9 Packed Tower
Aeration
Reference: Inland Empire Utilities Agency : Chino
Basin Desalter. PTA-VOC air stripping, typical
treated flow of approx. 1.6 mgd.

0.55 10 IX
Reference: West Valley WD Report, for Water
Recycling Funding Program, for 2.88 mgd
treatment facility. IX to remove Perchlorate,
Perchlorate levels 6-10 ppb. 2008 costs.

0.76 – 1.08
11 Coagulation
Filtration
Reference: West Valley WD, includes capital,
O&M costs for 2.88 mgd treatment facility- Layne
Christensen packaged coagulation Arsenic
removal system. 2009-2012 costs.

0.50 12 FBR
Reference: West Valley WD/Envirogen design
data for the O&M + actual capitol costs, 2.88 mgd
fluidized bed reactor (FBR) treatment system,
Perchlorate and Nitrate removal, followed by
multimedia filtration & chlorination, 2012. NOTE:

The capitol cost for the treatment facility for the
first 2,000 gpm is $23 million annualized over 20
years with ability to expand to 4,000 gpm with
minimal costs in the future. $17 million funded
through state and federal grants with the
remainder funded by WVWD and the City of
Rialto.

2.26 – 2.38
*Costs were adjusted from date of original estimates to present using the Engineering News Record (ENR) 20-City average Construction Cost Index of 13,571 for 2024.

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ATTACHMENT NO. 3
Table 3
Reference: Updated 2012 ACWA Cost of Treatment Table

COST ESTIMATES FOR TREATMENT TECHNOLOGIES
(INCLUDES ANNUALIZED CAPITAL AND O&M COSTS)
No. Treatment
Technology Source of Information
Estimated 2012 Unit
Cost Indexed to 2024*
($/1,000 gallons treated)
1 Granular Activated
Carbon
Reference: Malcolm Pirnie estimate for California Urban Water Agencies, large surface water treatment plants
treating water from the State Water Project to meet
Stage 2 D/DBP and bromate regulation, 1998

0.77 – 1.47
2 Granular Activated
Carbon
Reference: Carollo Engineers, estimate for VOC
treatment (PCE), 95% removal of PCE, Oct. 1994,1900
gpm design capacity

0.36 3
Granular Activated
Carbon
Reference: Carollo Engineers, est. for a large No. Calif. surf. water treatment plant ( 90 mgd capacity) treating water from the State Water Project, to reduce THM
precursors, ENR construction cost index = 6262 (San
Francisco area) - 1992

1.69 4
Granular Activated
Carbon
Reference: CH2M Hill study on San Gabriel Basin, for
135 mgd central treatment facility for VOC and SOC
removal by GAC, 1990

0.66 – 0.96
5 Granular Activated
Carbon
Reference: Southern California Water Co. - actual data
for "rented" GAC to remove VOCs (1,1-DCE), 1.5 mgd
capacity facility, 1998

3.03 6
Granular Activated
Carbon
Reference: Southern California Water Co. - actual data
for permanent GAC to remove VOCs (TCE), 2.16 mgd
plant capacity, 1998

1.96 7 Reverse Osmosis
Reference: Malcolm Pirnie estimate for California Urban Water Agencies, large surface water treatment plants
treating water from the State Water Project to meet
Stage 2 D/DBP and bromate regulation, 1998

2.28 – 4.35
8 Reverse Osmosis
Reference: Boyle Engineering, RO cost to reduce 1000
ppm TDS in brackish groundwater in So. Calif., 1.0 mgd
plant operated at 40% of design flow, high brine line cost, May 1991

5.37 9 Reverse Osmosis
Reference: Boyle Engineering, RO cost to reduce 1000
ppm TDS in brackish groundwater in So. Calif., 1.0 mgd
plant operated at 100% of design flow, high brine line
cost, May 1991

3.31 10 Reverse Osmosis
Reference: Boyle Engineering, RO cost to reduce 1000
ppm TDS in brackish groundwater in So. Calif., 10.0
mgd plant operated at 40% of design flow, high brine line cost, May 1991

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COST ESTIMATES FOR TREATMENT TECHNOLOGIES
(INCLUDES ANNUALIZED CAPITAL AND O&M COSTS)
No. Treatment
Technology Source of Information
Estimated 2012 Unit
Cost Indexed to 2024*
($/1,000 gallons treated)
11 Reverse Osmosis
Reference: Boyle Engineering, RO cost to reduce 1000
ppm TDS in brackish groundwater in So. Calif., 10.0 mgd plant operated at 100% of design flow, high brine line
cost, May 1991

2.77 12 Reverse Osmosis
Reference: Arsenic Removal Study, City of Scottsdale,
AZ - CH2M Hill, for a 1.0 mgd plant operated at 40% of
design capacity, Oct. 1991

8.99 13 Reverse Osmosis
Reference: Arsenic Removal Study, City of Scottsdale,
AZ - CH2M Hill, for a 1.0 mgd plant operated at 100% of design capacity, Oct. 1991

5.31 14 Reverse Osmosis
Reference: Arsenic Removal Study, City of Scottsdale,
AZ - CH2M Hill, for a 10.0 mgd plant operated at 40% of design capacity, Oct. 1991

3.97 15 Reverse Osmosis
Reference: Arsenic Removal Study, City of Scottsdale,
AZ - CH2M Hill, for a 10.0 mgd plant operated at 100%
of design capacity, Oct. 1991

2.46 16 Reverse Osmosis
Reference: CH2M Hill study on San Gabriel Basin, for
135 mgd central treatment facility with RO to remove
nitrate, 1990

2.48 – 4.35
17 Packed Tower
Aeration
Reference: Analysis of Costs for Radon Removal...
(AWWARF publication), Kennedy/Jenks, for a 1.4 mgd
facility operating at 40% of design capacity, Oct. 1991

1.42 18 Packed Tower
Aeration
Reference: Analysis of Costs for Radon Removal...
(AWWARF publication), Kennedy/Jenks, for a 14.0 mgd
facility operating at 40% of design capacity, Oct. 1991

0.76 19 Packed Tower
Aeration
Reference: Carollo Engineers, estimate for VOC
treatment (PCE) by packed tower aeration, without offgas treatment, O&M costs based on operation during 329 days/year at 10% downtime, 16 hr/day air stripping
operation, 1900 gpm design capacity, Oct. 1994

0.38 20 Packed Tower
Aeration
Reference: Carollo Engineers, for PCE treatment by
Ecolo-Flo Enviro-Tower air stripping, without off-gas
treatment, O&M costs based on operation during 329
days/year at 10% downtime, 16 hr/day air stripping
operation, 1900 gpm design capacity, Oct. 1994

0.39 21 Packed Tower
Aeration
Reference: CH2M Hill study on San Gabriel Basin, for
135 mgd central treatment facility - packed tower
aeration for VOC and radon removal, 1990

0.63 – 1.01

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COST ESTIMATES FOR TREATMENT TECHNOLOGIES
(INCLUDES ANNUALIZED CAPITAL AND O&M COSTS)
No. Treatment
Technology Source of Information
Estimated 2012 Unit
Cost Indexed to 2024*
($/1,000 gallons treated)
22 Advanced
Oxidation
Processes
Reference: Carollo Engineers, estimate for VOC
treatment (PCE) by UV Light, Ozone, Hydrogen
Peroxide, O&M costs based on operation during 329
days/year at 10% downtime, 24 hr/day AOP operation,
1900 gpm capacity, Oct. 1994

0.75 23 Ozonation
Reference: Malcolm Pirnie estimate for CUWA, large
surface water treatment plants using ozone to treat water from the State Water Project to meet Stage 2 D/DBP and
bromate regulation, Cryptosporidium inactivation
requirements,1998

0.17 – 0.36
24 Ion Exchange
Reference: CH2M Hill study on San Gabriel Basin, for
135 mgd central treatment facility - ion exchange to
remove nitrate, 1990

0.82 – 1.08
*Costs were adjusted from date of original estimates to present using the Engineering News Record (ENR) 20-City average Construction Cost Index of 13,571 for 2024.

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XHIBITF

ACRONYMS
ACWA - Association of California Water Agencies
AL - Action Level
BAT - Best Available Technology
Cal/EPA - California Environmental Protection Agency
CCR - California Code of Regulations
DBP - Disinfection Byproduct
DDW – Division of Drinking Water
DLR - Detection Level for purposes of Reporting
GAC - Granular Activated Carbon
MCL - Maximum Contaminant Level
MCLG - Maximum Contaminant Level Goal
mg/l - milligrams per liter
MWD - Metropolitan Water District
ND - Not Detected NL - Notification Level
OEHHA - Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment pCi/l - picoCuries per liter
PHG – Public Health Goal
PPM – Parts Per Million (1 / 1,000,000)
PPB – Parts Per Billion (1 / 1,000,000,000)
PPT – Parts Per Trillion (1 / 1,000,000,000,000)
PTA - Packed Tower Aeration
RAA - Running Annual Average
RO - Reverse Osmosis
SWRCB – State Water Resource Control Board
TCE –Trichloroethylene
TTHMs - Total Trihalomethanes
USEPA - United States Environmental Protection Agency
VOC - Volatile Organic Compound

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WATER RESOURCES DIVISION
ANNUAL

WATER QUALITY
REPORT
JUNE 2025
REPORTING PERIOD JAN-DEC 2024

TO DOWNLOAD THIS REPORT VISIT
SANTAMONICA.GOV/TOPIC-EXPLAINERS/YOUR-GUIDE-TO-WATER

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Dear Community Members,
On behalf of the City of Santa Monica, we are pleased to publish the 2025 Annual Drinking Water Quality Report to provide a summary of water quality data for the 2024 calendar year.

Throughout the year, Santa Monica Water continued to meet and exceeded all federal and state drinking water standards established by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water (DDW).

The City’s Water Resources Division is committed to delivering safe, high quality, and sustainably sourced drinking water to the community. Earlier this year, the Los Angeles region faced severe challenges due to devastating wildfires that approached the borders of our City. Our team responded by providing critical support and resources to neighboring communities, all while maintaining the integrity and safety of our own water system.

Throughout the emergency, the Water Resources Division
worked tirelessly to manage our water storage reservoirs, leverage our diverse water supply sources to maintain peak water production capacity, and increase water quality testing efforts to ensure uninterrupted access to clean, reliable drinking water for Santa Monica residents.

While the City’s Water Resources Division continues to advance sustainable water management practices to provide a reliable and resilient water supply to the community, achieving our longterm sustainability goals are not possible without the support of our community. Continued success in water use efficiency and water conservation relies on active community participation in rebate programs, adhering to outdoor water use restrictions, and mindful water use in our everyday lives. To enhance water use efficiency, the City recently completed its Advanced Metering Infrastructure Project that provides customers with real time information about their water use, billing, and leak detection.

Please visit www.santamonica.gov/advanced-meteringinfrastructure-project for details on the project and how to sign-up for EyeOnWater to monitor your water usage and to alert you of possible water leaks on your property.

The City continues to invest in our water infrastructure through rehabilitation and replacement of aging infrastructure, implementing cutting-edge treatment technologies to protect water quality, and diversifying our water supply sources, all culminating in a resilient and sustainable water supply portfolio for the community.

On behalf of the City of Santa Monica Public Works Department and the employees of the Water Resources Division, thank you for allowing us to serve you.

Sincerely,
Sunny Wang
Water Resources Manager
Santa Monica’s Water Source
And Treatment System
The Arcadia Water Treatment Plant was recently retrofitted to enhance overall production efficiency and aid in sustainable groundwater management.

The City of Santa Monica currently obtains up to 75% of its water from local groundwater wells within the City and in West Los Angeles. The City extracts its water from three sub-basins within the Santa Monica Basin (Charnock, Olympic, and
Arcadia Sub-basins), with the Charnock Sub-basin being a local supply for over 100 years!
The treated water from the Charnock Well Field is then sent to the Arcadia Treatment Plant, and along the way it blends with water from the Olympic and Arcadia Sub-basin wells. Once the water arrives at the Arcadia Treatment Plant, it undergoes a treatment process that includes Iron/Manganese removal, filtration, Reverse Osmosis (RO) softening, disinfection, and fluoridation.

Softening is the process of removing scale-forming calcium and magnesium from hard water. RO performs softening by forcing hard water through membranes with very small pores, sized from 0.0001 - 0.001 micrometers.

TO PUT THESE UNITS INTO CONTEXT:

One part per billion (ppb) = 1 second in 31.7 years
= 1 teaspoon in 1.3 million gallons
One part per million (ppm) = 1 second in 11.6 days
= 1 teaspoon in 1,302 gallons
The complete treatment process is further outlined on the “Santa Monica Water Treatment Process” diagram.

The City of Santa Monica Water Resources Division values transparency, we hope that you find this report clear and easy to understand. If you have any questions, please call us at (310) 434-2672.

El Departamento de Recursos de Agua de la ciudad de Santa Monica valora una gestión transparente; por consiguiente, esperamos que encuentre este informe claro y fácil de
entender. Si usted tiene alguna pregunta, por favor
comuníquese al (310) 434-2672.

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SANTA MONICA WATER TREATMENT PROCESS
Charnock Well Field
Charnock Wells
Groundwater contaminated
with the gasoline additive
MTBE is pumped
up from 400 feet below
ground surface.

Greens and Filtration
The well water is
filtered through greensand
media to remove iron and
manganese which would
foul the
carbon filters.

GAC Filtration
The MTBE is removed by
filtering through
Granular Activated
Carbon (GAC) filters.

Pump to Treatment
Plant
The filtered water is
combined with the flow of
other wells and pumped to
the Santa Monica Water
Treatment Plant.

Santa Monica
Water Treatment
Plant
Pretreatment
To protect the sensitive Reverse Osmosis (RO) filters, the combined well flow is filtered again through greensand and cartridge filters to remove more iron, manganese and any remaining sediment.

REVERSE

OSMOSIS

FILTRATION
Reverse Osmosis Filtration
Filtration through a three-stage Reverse Osmosis
(RO) membrane system softens the water by removing
minerals (calcium and magnesium). RO uses pressure to
Water Quality force water through membranes with pores so small the Adjustments minerals can’t pass through.

The mineral content is adjusted to
the desired softness. The pH is
adjusted, fluoride is added and
the water undergoes final Storage disinfection with chloramine. The final step is to provide adequate contact time with the disinfectant in
the 5-million-gallon Arcadia Reservoir
to ensure safe drinking water.

Final Delivery
Santa Monica residents and businesses
receive water for everyday use. Water
conservation by end users is key to ensuring
water reliability and sustainability.

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The California Aqueduct in the Central Valley.

The remaining 25% of Santa Monica’s drinking water is
purchased from Metropolitan Water District (MWD). Treated MWD water is blended with our locally produced water, and then distributed to our residents. MWD imports water from two separate sources. One is the Colorado River water, which is delivered from Lake Havasu through a 242-mile-long aqueduct and originates as snowmelt from mountainous regions in Utah, Wyoming, and Colorado. The second is from the State Water Project, which is delivered through the 441-mile-long California Aqueduct and originates in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.

MWD water is filtered at their treatment plants and undergoes extensive treatment before entering Santa Monica’s water system.

For more information about the City’s treatment facilities please call the Water Resources Division (see back cover for contact information).

Background on
Drinking Water Contaminants
The sources of drinking water (both tap water and bottled water) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over the surface of the land or through the ground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals and, in some cases, radioactive material, and can pick up substances resulting from the presence of animals or from human activity. Contaminants that may be present in source water include:
• Microbial contaminants, such as viruses and bacteria that may come from sewage treatment plants, septic systems,
agricultural livestock operations, and wildlife.
• Inorganic contaminants, such as salts and metals, that can be naturally occurring or result from urban stormwater runoff, industrial or domestic wastewater discharges, oil and gas production, mining, or farming.**
• Pesticides and herbicides that may come from a variety of sources such as agriculture, urban stormwater runoff, and residential uses.
• Organic chemical contaminants, including synthetic and volatile organic chemicals that are by-products of industrial processes and petroleum production, and can also come
from gas stations, urban stormwater runoff, agricultural application, and septic systems.
• Radioactive contaminants that can be naturally occurring or be the result of oil and gas production and mining activities.

In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, the U.S.

Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and the California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) prescribe
regulations that limit the concentration of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. SWRCB
regulations also establish limits for contaminants in bottled water that provide the same protection for public health.

Drinking water, including bottled water, may reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some
contaminants. The presence of contaminants does not
necessarily indicate that water poses a health risk. More information about contaminants and potential health effects can be obtained by calling the USEPA’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791).

Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants
in drinking water than the general population. Immunocompromised persons such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, persons who have undergone
organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly people, and infants can
be particularly at risk of infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. USEPA/Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of
infection from Cryptosporidium and other microbial
contaminants are available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791).
** You can help protect source water purity by controlling what enters storm drains. The following site provide guides on how you can protect Drinking Water Sources:
www.epa.gov/sourcewaterprotection/easy-things-
you-can-do-protect-drinking-water-sources
Information on environmentally friendly products is available at:
https://www.santamonica.gov/departments/public-works/
office-of-sustainability-and-the-environment
To report storm drain pollution, please contact the City’s Wastewater Department. See back cover for contact information.

Source Water
Vulnerability Assessments
Between 2000 and 2012, the California State Water
Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water (DDW) completed Source Water Vulnerability Assessments for all the City’s groundwater wells. The assessments are required for all water utilities nationwide to evaluate the vulnerability of

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drinking water sources for “possible contaminating activities.” Vulnerabilities most associated with contamination include commercial, industrial, urban runoff, and municipal activities.

Based on the vulnerability assessments, Santa Monica
Well #4 located mid-city, Arcadia Wells #4 and #5, and
Charnock Wells #13, #16, #18, #19 and #20, located in West L.A. are considered most vulnerable to commercial, industrial, residential, and municipal activities. Santa Monica Well #1, located on the north side of the city, Well #4, and the Arcadia Wells are considered most vulnerable by their proximity to sewer collection systems, although monthly analyses have detected no related contamination.

For more information, please contact the Water Resources Division.*
In March and June 2012, MWD completed a source water
assessment of its Colorado and State Project supplies. Based upon the vulnerability assessments, the Colorado River and State Project supplies are most vulnerable to contamination resulting from recreation, urban/storm water runoff, increasing urbanization in the watershed, and wastewater.

A copy of the assessment can be obtained by contacting
MWD (see back cover for contact information).

Santa Monica’s
Drinking Water Quality
Permission and oversight to operate a community water
system is granted annually by the DDW and the USEPA. Santa Monica’s water supply undergoes constant field and laboratory testing to ensure the highest water quality before reaching your tap. The water is sampled and analyzed daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, annually, and triennially. In addition, our water quality management practice includes ensuring optimum performance of all assets associated with water production and distribution. This includes the source wells, treatment plants, distribution system, and reservoirs. Managing reservoirs to meet varying demand and testing the water at over 100 locations throughout the City’s distribution system monthly are just two examples of how water quality goals are maintained.

We look for more than 100 substances including
microorganisms, pesticides, herbicides, asbestos, lead, copper, petroleum-based products, and by-products of industrial and water treatment processes. As a result, we conduct more than 8,000 laboratory tests each year.

Our state-certified laboratory perform routine tests to ensure clean and healthy drinking water.

Water Quality Data Tables
Santa Monica Water continues to meet and exceed all USEPA and State Drinking Water Health Standards. The following data tables compare our water quality with Drinking Water Health Standards. The data is organized by source of water in two categories, each with two sub-parts:

LOCAL GROUNDWATER
— Arcadia Treatment Plant: Collects water from 9 wells, completes treatment, and sends to distribution.
— Santa Monica Well #1: Treats supply at the source and pumps directly into distribution.

METROPOLITAN WATER DISTRICT (MWD)
Treatment plants that send treated water to Santa Monica:
— Weymouth Plant
— Jensen Plant
The results are presented in two tables: Primary Drinking Water Quality Results and Secondary Drinking Water Quality Results. The primary results cover contaminants that may affect the public’s health. These contaminants include
hazardous chemicals, metals, bacteria, and radioactivity.

The secondary results cover parameters that may affect the aesthetics of the water, such as taste, appearance, and odor.

These parameters include turbidity, minerals, and pH among others.

For questions regarding water quality, call the Water
Resources Division (see back cover for contact information).

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PRIMARY DRINKING WATER STANDARDS (MANDATORY HEALTH-RELATED STANDARDS)

CITY OF SANTA MONICA WATER RESOURCES DIVISION
SUMMARY OF RESULTS FOR PRIMARY DRINKING WATER STANDARDS FOR 2024 LOCAL IMPORTED IMPORTED Dates Meets MAJOR SOURCES
PHG/ State WELL WATER SM WELL #1(a) SURFACE WATER SURFACE WATER Sampled Std IN DRINKING WATER PARAMETER [MCLG]/ MCL/ Arcadia Plant Jensen Plant Weymouth Plant if other {MRDLG} {MRDL} Average Range Average Range Average Range Average Range than 2024(b) Clarity
Maximum Turbidity (NTU) NS 95% < 0.3 NA NA NA NA ND 100% ≤ 0.3 ND 100% ≤ 0.3 Y Soil runoff Microbiological
Total Coliform Bacteria [0] 5% Citywide Highest Monthly: 0% Positive Samples Range: ND No violations Y Naturally present in the environment (% positive samples/month)
Fecal Coliform/E. Coli [0] (c) Citywide Maximum: 0 Positive Samples Y Human and animal fecal waste Organic Chemical
Methyl tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE) (ppb) 13 13(5*) ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND Y Leaking underground storage tanks Trichloroethylene (ppb) 1.7 5 0.7 0.5 - 0.9 ND*** ND*** ND ND ND ND 2023*** Y Discharge from metal degreasing sites 1,2,3-Trichloropropane (TCP) (ng/L) 0.7 5 ND ND ND*** ND*** ND ND ND ND 2021*** Y Discharge and leaching from industrial/agricultural, and hazardous waste sites used as cleaning solvent for paint, varnish, and degreasing; pesticide by product Disinfection
Byproducts & Residuals
Total Trihalomethanes (ppb) NS 80 Citywide LRAA: 20.9 Range: 6.9 - 50.2 Citywide LRAA: 3.8 Range: ND - 17.5
Citywide Average: 2.00 Range: ND - 3.5
Y By-product of drinking water chlorination
Haloacetic Acids (ppb) NS 60 Y By-product of drinking water chlorination Total Chlorine/Chloramines (ppm) {4} {4} Y Drinking water disinfectant added for treatment Bromate (ppb) 0.1 10 NA NA NA NA 3.1** ND - 5.4 2.0** ND - 9.2 Y By-product of drinking water ozonation Total Organic Carbon (ppm) N/A TT NA NA NA NA 2.4** 2.0 - 2.5 2.4** 2.1 - 2.6 Inorganic Chemicals
Aluminum (ppb) 600 1000 (200*) ND ND ND*** ND*** 62** 52 - 91 93** ND - 150 2022*** Y Erosion of natural deposits; used in water treatment process Arsenic (ppb) 0.004 10 ND ND ND*** ND*** ND ND ND ND 2022*** Y Erosion of natural deposits Barium (ppm) 2 1 ND ND 0.04*** 0.04*** ND ND 124 124 2022*** Y Discharge from oil and metal industries; Erosion of natural deposits Chromium (ppb) [100] 50 ND ND ND*** ND*** ND ND ND ND 2022*** Y Discharge from steel and pulp mills; natural deposits erosion Chromium 6 (ppb) 0.02 NS 0.1 0.1 1.7*** 1.7*** ND ND ND ND 2022*** Y Naturally occuring; industrial waste discharge Copper (d) (ppm) 0.3 AL=1.3 (1.0*) Citywide, 90th percentile: 0.20 0 sites out of 35 exceeded the AL 2022 Y Corrosion of household plumbing systems Fluoride After Treatment (ppm) 1 2 Y Water additive for dental health Lead (d) (ppb) 0.2 AL=15 Citywide, 90th percentile: 2.10 0 sites out of 35 exceeded the AL (d) 2022 Y Corrosion of household plumbing systems Nitrate (as N) (ppm) 10 10 0.2 ND - 0.2 2.8 2.8 0.5 0.5 ND ND Control Range: 0.6 - 1.2 Citywide Range: 0.7 - 1.9
Runoff from fertilizer use; leaching from sewage; erosion of natural deposits Perchlorate (ppb) 1 6 ND ND 0.7*** 0.7*** ND ND ND ND 2022*** Y Industrial waste discharge Radionuclides
Alpha emitters (pCi/L) [0] 15 ND ND ND*** ND*** ND ND ND ND 2022*** Y Erosion of natural deposits Beta/photon emitters (pCi/L) [0] 50 NA NA NA NA ND ND ND ND - 5 Y Decay of natural and man-made deposits Combined Radium (pCi/L) [0] 5 ND ND ND*** ND*** ND ND ND ND 2023*** Y Erosion of natural deposits Uranium (pCi/L) 0.43 20 1.6 1.1 -2.1 ND*** ND*** 2 2 - 3 ND ND - 3 2022*** Y Erosion of natural deposits KEY TO ABBREVIATIONS FOR ADDITIONAL WATER QUALITY QUESTIONS CONTACT THE LEAD CHEMIST, CLEMENT DO, AT (310) 434-2672. PDWS = Primary Drinking Water Standards are MCLs, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. microbial contaminants. ND = Monitored for but Not Detected *** = Santa Monica Well #1 offline in 2023 for maintenance (c) = The E. coli MCL is based on routine and repeat samples MRDLs, and Treatment Techniques TTs for contaminants MCL = Maximum Contaminant Level is the highest level of MRDL = Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level is the highest level NS = No Standard purposes. For reporting purposes, this information is from testing positive for coliforms and/or E. coli or failure that affect health, along with their monitoring and a contaminant that is allowed in drinking water. Primary of a disinfectant allowed in drinking water. There is convincing NTU = Nephelometric Turbidity Units - used to measure cloudiness 2021, 2022, or 2023 (prior to offline status). to collect required repeat samples. Fecal Coliform/E. reporting requirements. MCLs are set as close to the PHGs (or MCLGs) as is evidence that addition of a disinfectant is necessary for control of drinking water. Coli constitutes an acute MCL violation. No Level 1 (a) = SM Well#1 is pumped into a transmission line, is blended PHG = Public Health Goal is the level of a contaminant economically and technologically feasible. Secondary of microbial contaminants. TT = Treatment Technique: A required process intended to reduce Assessments or MCL violations occurred for 2024. with Imported Surface Water and enters the system in drinking water below which there is no known or MCLs are set to protect the odor, taste, and appearance LRAA = Locational Running Annual Average. The running annual the level of a contaminant in drinking water. (d) = The MCL has been replaced with a treatment technique at 19th St. & Idaho Ave. expected risk to health. PHGs are set by the California of drinking water. average is based on monitoring location. ppb = parts per billion, or micrograms per liter (µg/l) requiring agencies to optimize corrosion control. Results (b) = The City is not required to test for every parameter each Environmental Protection Agency. MRDLG = Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level Goal is the AL = Regulatory Action Level is the concentration of a contaminant ppm = parts per million, or milligrams per liter (mg/l) given are from first draw, at-the-tap monitoring performed year. If indicated, data is from a previous year. MCLG = Maximum Contaminant Level Goal is the level of a level of a drinking water disinfectant below which there which, if exceeded, triggers treatment or other requirements pCi/L = picocuries per liter every three years. contaminant in drinking water below which there is no is no known or expected risk to health. MRDLGs do not that a water system must follow. * = Secondary Standard known or expected risk to health. MCLGs are set by the reflect the benefits of the use of disinfectants to control NA = Not Applicable ** = Highest Running Average (RAA) For additional water quality questions, contact lead chemist, Clement Do at (310) 434-2672.

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Packet Pg. 1370 Attachment: 2025 Annual Water Quality Report (7157 : Report on Water Quality and Public Health Goals) *Contact information is available on the last page of this report.

CITY OF SANTA MONICA WATER RESOURCES DIVISION
SUMMARY OF RESULTS FOR SECONDARY DRINKING WATER STANDARDS FOR 2024

PARAMETER
PHG/ State
[MCLG] MCL
LOCAL
WELL WATER SM WELL #1(a)
Arcadia Plant
Average Range Average Range

IMPORTED

SURFACE WATER
Jensen Plant
Average Range

IMPORTED

SURFACE WATER
Weymouth Plant
Average Range

SECONDARY DRINKING WATER STANDARDS (AESTHETIC STANDARDS) Chemical Parameters
Chloride (ppm)
Color (units)
Iron (ppb)
Manganese (ppb)
Odor- Threshold (units)
Specific Conductance (µmho/cm)
Sulfate (ppm)
Total Dissolved Solids (ppm)
Turbidity (NTU)
NS 500
NS 15
NS 300
NS 50
NS 3
NS 1600
NS 500
NS 1000
— 5

26.5 25 -28 112 112
<5 <5 <5 <5 - 8
18 ND - 95.5 6.8 6.8
ND ND 5.6 5.6
<1 <1 <1 <1
324 275 - 452 1346 1339 - 1353

52.2 47.7 - 57.3 257 257
182 137 - 210 947*** 947***

0.08 0.04 - 0.14 0.17 0.14 - 0.20
40 39 - 41
1 1
ND ND
ND ND
1 1
510 498 - 522
90 89 - 92
306 291 - 322
ND ND
106 96 - 116
1 1
ND ND
ND ND
ND ND
996 912 - 1080
225 200 - 250
632 573 - 690
ND ND
Dates Meets
Sampled Std MAJOR SOURCES
if other IN DRINKING WATER
than 2023(b)
Y Runoff/leaching from natural deposits; industrial wastes Y
Y
Naturally-occurring organic materials
Leaching from natural deposits; industrial wastes
Y Leaching from natural deposits
Y
Y
Naturally-occurring organic materials; chlorine
Substances that form ions when in water; seawater influence Y Runoff/leaching from natural deposits; industrial wastes 2022*** Y
Y
Runoff/leaching from natural deposits
Soil runoff

ADDITIONAL PARAMETERS KEY TO ABBREVIATIONS
PHG = Public Health Goal is the level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. PHGs are set by the California Environmental Protection Agency.

MCLG = Maximum Contaminant Level Goal is the level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs are set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

MCL = Maximum Contaminant Level is the highest level of a contaminant that is allowed in drinking water. Primary MCLs are set as close to the PHGs (or MCLGs) as is economically and technologically feasible. Secondary MCLs are set to protect the odor, taste, and appearance of drinking water.

NL = Notification Level is a health based advisory level established by Division of Drinking Water (DDW) for chemicals in drinking water that lack maximum contaminant levels, but warrants notification.

NA = Not Applicable
NS = No Standard
ND = Monitored for, but Not Detected
NTU = Nephelometric Turbidity Units - used to measure cloudiness of drinking water.
ppb = Parts per billion, or micrograms per liter (ug/l) Alkalinity (ppm) NS NS 65.9 58.7 - 80.4 337 337 98 94 - 101 118 109 - 127 Boron (ppb) NS NL=1000 200 200 220*** 220*** 170 170 140 140 Calcium (ppm) NS NS 24 20.3 - 32.9 133 133 38 38 - 39 68 59 -76 Hardness (as CaCO3) (ppm) NS NS 106 92.6 - 134 582 582 270 235 - 305 272 241 - 303 Magnesium (ppm) NS NS 8.4 8.4 65*** 65*** 14 13 - 14 26 23 - 29 pH (units) NS NS 8.4 8.2 - 8.7 7.3 7.3 - 7.4 8.3 8.2 - 8.3 8.2 8.2 Potassium (ppm) NS NS ND ND 4.1*** 4.1*** 2.6 2.6 5 4.6 - 5.4 Radon (pCi/L) NS NS ND ND 389*** 389*** ND ND ND ND
Sodium (ppm) NS NS 30 30 89*** 89*** 46 46 105 93 - 117 1, 4-Dioxane (ppb) NS NL=1 ND ND ND*** ND*** NA NA NA NA N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) (ppt) 3 NL=10 NA NA NA NA ND ND ND ND tert-Butyl Alcohol (TBA) (ppb) NS NL=12 ND ND NA NA ND ND ND ND 2022***
2022***
2022***
2022***
2022***
2022***
FOR ADDITIONAL WATER QUALITY QUESTIONS, CONTACT CLEMENT DO, LEAD CHEMIST AT (310) 434-2672 ppm = Parts per million, or milligrams per liter (mg/l) ppt = Parts per trillion, or nanograms per liter (ng/l) umho/cm = micromhos per centimeter
< = less than
*** = Santa Monica Well #1 offline in 2023 for maintenance purposes. For reporting purposes, this information is from 2021, 2022, or 2023 (prior to offline status).
(a) = SM Well#1 is pumped into a transmission line, is blended with Imported Surface Water and enters the system at 19th St. and Idaho Ave.
(b) = We are not required to test for each parameter every year.

If indicated, data is from a previous year.
(c) = MWD has developed a flavor-profile analysis method that can more accurately identify odor occurences.

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Packet Pg. 1371 Attachment: 2025 Annual Water Quality Report (7157 : Report on Water Quality and Public Health Goals) *Contact information is available on the last page of this report. *Contact information is available on the last page of this report.

Operator conducting daily water quality and performance checks at the Arcadia Water Treatment Plant.
1,4-Dioxane and
Drinking Water
1,4-Dioxane is a synthetic contaminant that has leached into numerous groundwater sources in Southern California.

It is a colorless liquid solvent and solvent stabilizer used in industrial and commercial applications. 1,4-Dioxane is an unregulated contaminant, meaning it has not completed
the regulatory standard setting process to be prescribed a maximum contaminant level (MCL). However, it has a
notification level (NL) as a precautionary measure that represents a level of contamination that is not a health risk but justifies notification to the public. 1,4-Dioxane is classified as a probable carcinogen believed to cause
health effects after long-term exposure or ingestion. In 2024, the City completed the Olympic Well Field Advanced Water Treatment Facility, co-located at the Arcadia Water Treatment Plant, to remove 1,4-dioxane through Ultraviolet Light Advanced Oxidation Process (UVAOP). The UVAOP
uses UV light and hydrogen peroxide to create hydroxyl
radicals to effectively remove 1,4-dioxane and other volatile organic contaminants from our groundwater supply.

New Ultraviolet Light Advanced Oxidation Process added to remove industrial contaminants from the Olympic Well Field.

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl
Substances (PFAS)
PFAS are a group of compounds containing carbon to
fluorine chemical bonds, one of the strongest in organic chemistry. They are manufactured and used to enhance
repellency of water, grease, and soil in consumer products; thus, they are very stable and resistant to environmental degradation. If exposed, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) are readily absorbed but not readily eliminated from the human body. According to the SWRCB potential health concerns, long-term exposure can cause harmful health effects to a developing fetus or infant; suppress the immune system; disrupt the thyroid function, increase liver weight; and can lead to cancer.

DDW has issued drinking water notification levels (NLs) and response levels (RLs) for PFAS. According to OEHHA
recommendations, these levels provide some health risk
protection in sensitive populations and demonstrate low cancer risk with 70-year lifetime exposure.

If a utility exceeds the RL(s), regulations require the water source be taken out of service, provide treatment, or notify customers.

Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances
PFAS Compound Notification Level Response Level
(ppt) (ppt)
Perfluorooctanoic 5.1ppt 10 ppt
Acid (PFOA)
Perfluorooctanesulfonic 6.5 ppt 40 ppt
Acid (PFOS)
Parts per trillion (ppt) = 1 second in 31,709.8 years
Apart from drinking water, PFOA and PFOS exposure can
occur from other sources: firefighting foaming/fire preventing agents; products that repel water, grease, and soil.

In April 2019, the SWRCB investigated source water wells in California most vulnerable to PFAS contamination. This included those near airports and landfills, and later those near secondary sources of PFAS activities. SWRCB did not require Santa Monica to sample its sources. However, since 2019, City staff proactively monitors and samples the City’s Drinking Water sources for PFAS and it has not been detected in our drinking water supply to date. All PFAS samples analyzed by an outside laboratory were Non-Detect (ND). Additionally, GAC and RO, both part of the City’s treatment process, are effective at removing any PFAS compounds.

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 1372 Attachment: 2025 Annual Water Quality Report (7157 : Report on Water Quality and Public Health Goals) *Contact information is available on the last page of this report. *Contact information is available on the last page of this report.

Chlorate in Drinking Water
Chlorate is a common disinfectant byproduct in the drinking water treatment process that often forms when sodium
hypochlorite or chlorine dioxide are used as disinfectants. The DDW established a NL for chlorate at 0.8 mg/L. Notification level compounds in California serve as health-based advisory levels for drinking water. This is not a violation of drinking water regulations as chlorate does not have an enforceable regulatory standard. Non-carcinogenic contaminants, such as chlorate, with notification levels do not currently have MCLs because their presence does not pose an immediate health threat. Through routine proactive monitoring of the City’s water quality, an exceedance of chlorate above the NL of

0.8 mg/L was detected at the City’s Riviera Reservoir at 2.4 mg/L, but below the response level of 8.0 mg/L. Out of an abundance of caution, operation staff isolated the reservoir immediately and took it out of service upon detection.

Potential health impacts of consuming high levels of
chlorate include gastrointestinal irritation, impaired thyroid function, interference with the nervous system, increased risk of anemia, and damage to liver and kidney functions.

The chlorate level detected at the Riviera Reservoir is well below levels that would trigger these health concerns. Staff determined that the source of chlorate was from the City’s bulk sodium hypochlorite (chlorine) supplier and has since switched suppliers and implemented additional quality control measures to prevent future incidents.

Lead in Plumbing
The City’s laboratory chemists closely monitor lead results to ensure healthy drinking water, and to evaluate and determine Santa Monica’s water system has achieved “optimized
corrosion control.” The next round of testing is scheduled for 2025. A pool of “high risk” homes, which were plumbed before the ban on lead in solder, have been tested every three years since 1992 and has continually indicated there is little tendency of our water to leach lead out of plumbing.

If your home plumbing contains lead, there is a limited potential for lead to leach into your water. Fortunately, the minerals in our water help to protect against pipe corrosion, greatly reducing the potential of lead entering the water.

These minerals form a film called “scale” that prevents water from coming into direct contact with home plumbing. The most common place to find lead in household plumbing is in chrome-plated brass faucets and fixtures. California enacted stricter regulations for plumbing fixtures in 2010 further reducing the potential for lead leaching from household plumbing.

If present, however, lead can cause serious health effects in people of all ages, especially pregnant people, infants (both formula-fed and breastfed), and young children. Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials and parts used in service lines and in home plumbing. The City of Santa Monica Operators Testing Fire Hydrants During the Wildfire
Emergency to Ensure Operational Readiness.
is responsible for providing high quality drinking water and removing lead pipes but cannot control the variety of materials used in the plumbing in your home. Because lead levels may vary over time, lead exposure is possible even when your tap sampling results do not detect lead at one point in time.

You can help protect yourself and your family by identifying and removing lead materials within your home plumbing
and taking steps to reduce your family’s risk. Using a
filter, certified by an American National Standards Institute accredited certifier to reduce lead, is effective in reducing lead exposures. Follow the instructions provided with the filter to ensure the filter is used properly. Use only cold water for drinking, cooking, and making baby formula. Boiling water does not remove lead from water. Before using tap water for drinking, cooking, or making baby formula, flush your pipes for several minutes. You can do this by running your tap, taking a shower, doing laundry or a load of dishes. If you have a lead service line or galvanized requiring replacement service line, you may need to flush your pipes for a longer period.

The City of Santa Monica has completed a lead service line inventory required by the U.S. EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule Revisions which has concluded that the City’s distribution system does not contain any lead. The City’s statement
regarding our lead service line inventory can be found at www.santamonica.gov/topic-explainers/water-service.

If you are concerned about lead in your water and wish to have your water tested, contact the Water Quality Office.

Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline* or at
https://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

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Packet Pg. 1373 Attachment: 2025 Annual Water Quality Report (7157 : Report on Water Quality and Public Health Goals) *Contact information is available on the last page of this report. *Contact information is available on the last page of this report.

Santa Monica Pier
At Home Filters
The decision to buy a water filter or home treatment
system is a matter of personal preference. Our water
meets or exceeds rigid state and federal health standards.

If you decide to buy a filter or system, be a smart shopper and do some homework. Any treatment device you buy
should be registered with the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF). Contact NSF toll free at (800) 673-6275 or
visit www.nsf.org.

Bottled Water
Again, the decision is yours. You may find that keeping a pitcher of tap water in your refrigerator is a low-cost, waterthrifty alternative to buying more expensive bottled water, and it’s far better for the environment. Even when the bottle is reused or recycled, the petrochemicals used in creating the bottle and the transportation of the water have
a significant impact on the environment.

Water Conservation
The City of Santa Monica has developed a sustainable
water supply and taken responsible steps to improve water conservation amid a changing climate. The City provides many programs and incentive for our customers to conserve and improve the City’s water supply for future generations. To continue meeting our water conservation goals, the City urges our residents to continue their conservation efforts because small changes make a difference. For more information and water saving tips, please visit
www.santamonica.gov/topic-explainers/water-conservation Sustainability
The City of Santa Monica offers programs and incentives for environmentally friendly measures for the community.

For more information, please call or visit the Office of Sustainability website at:
https://www.santamonica.gov/departments/public-works/
office-of-sustainability-and-the-environment
City of Santa Monica City Hall
We need you!
Public involvement is fundamental to ensuring that we are meeting our water supply demand, water quality goals,
and the highest customer service level. We welcome your feedback and invite you to get involved with the City of Santa Monica in the following ways:
• Participate in conservation events
• Attend City Council and community meetings
• Sign up for the newsletters and alerts
• Please let us know how we are doing.

For information on these opportunities, please call Water Resources and the Office of Sustainability and the
Environment. For a digital copy of this report, please visit:
https://www.santamonica.gov/departments/public-works/
office-of-sustainability-and-the-environment

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 1374 Attachment: 2025 Annual Water Quality Report (7157 : Report on Water Quality and Public Health Goals) Where Can I Get More Information?
City of Santa Monica Public Works and
Water Resources Division Offices:

Water Resources/Water Quality .........(310) 434-2672
24-Hour Water Emergencies ..............(310) 434-2672
Wastewater.........................................(310) 458-8532 Lead Chemist......................................(310) 434-2672 Billing Office........................................(310) 458-8224 Visit our website:
https://www.santamonica.gov/topic-explainers/your-guideto-water Santa Monica City Council Meetings:
2nd & 4th Tuesdays of each month
Council Chamber
1685 Main Street, Santa Monica
www.santamonica.gov/departments/city-clerks-office
City of Santa Monica Office of Sustainability and
the Environment ................................... (310) 458-2213 Conservation Office.............................. (310) 458-8972 https://www.santamonica.gov/departments/public-works/office-of-sustainability-and-the-environment Metropolitan Water District (MWD)
of Southern California.......................... (213) 217-6000 Toll Free............................................... (800) 354-4420 www.mwdh2o.com
California State Water Resources Control Board
Division of Drinking Water ....................(818) 551-2004 www.waterboards.ca.gov/drinking_water/
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Ground Water & Drinking Water
Safe Drinking Water Hotline .................(800) 426-4791 www.epa.gov/safewater/dwhealth.html
water.epa.gov/drink/guide
Water Resources Division
P.O. Box 2200, 1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90406-2200
This brochure is printed with vegetable-based inks on paper made from recycled paper.

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Packet Pg. 1375 Attachment: 2025 Annual Water Quality Report (7157 : Report on Water Quality and Public Health Goals)

City of Santa Monica Water Resources Division
Summary of Results for Primary and Secondary Drinking Water Standards for 2024 Table 1: Summary of Results for Primary Drinking Water Standards for 2024 (Mandatory Health-Related Standards)

PARAMETER
PHG/ State
[MCLG]/ MCL/
{MRDLG} {MRDL}

LOCAL WELL WATER
Arcadia Plant
Average Range SM WELL #1 (a)
Average Range

IMPORTED SURFACE
WATER
Jensen Plant
Average Range

IMPORTED SURFACE
WATER
Weymouth Plant
Average Range
Dates
Sampled if
other than
2023(b)

MAJOR SOURCES IN DRINKING WATER
Clarity
Maximum Turbidity (NTU)
Organic Chemicals
Methyl tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE) (ppb)
NS 95% <0.3
13 13(5*)
NA NA
ND ND
NA NA
ND ND
ND 100% ≤ 0.3
ND ND
ND 100% ≤ 0.3
ND ND
Soil runoff
Leaking underground storage tanks
Trichloroethylene (ppb) 1.7 5 0.7 0.5 - 0.9 ND*** ND*** ND ND ND ND 2023*** Discharge from metal degreasing sites 1,2,3-Trichloropropane (TCP) (ng/L)
Disinfection Byproducts & Residuals
Bromate (ppb)
Total Organic Carbon (ppm)
Inorganic Chemicals

0.7 5

0.1 10
NA TT
ND ND
NA NA
NA NA
ND*** ND***
NA NA
NA NA
ND ND

3.1** ND - 5.4

2.4** 2.0 - 2.5
ND ND

2.0** ND - 9.2

2.4** 2.1 - 2.6
2021***
By-product of drinking water ozonation
Aluminum (ppb) 600 1000 (200*) ND ND ND*** ND*** 62** 52 - 91 93** ND - 150 2022*** Erosion of natural deposits; used in water treatment process Arsenic (ppb) 0.004 10 ND ND ND*** ND*** ND ND ND ND 2022*** Erosion of natural deposits Barium (ppm) 2 1 ND ND 0.04*** 0.04*** ND ND 124 124 2022*** Discharge from oil & metal industries; erosion of natural deposits Chromium (ppb) [100] 50 ND ND ND*** ND*** ND ND ND ND 2022*** Discharge from steel and pulp mills; natural deposits erosion Chromium 6 (ppb)
Nitrate (as N) (ppm)

0.02 NS
10 10

0.1 0.1

0.2 ND - 0.2

1.7*** 1.7***

2.8 2.8
ND ND

0.5 0.5
ND ND
ND ND
2022*** Naturally occuring; industrial waste discharge
Runoff from fertilizer use; leaching from sewage; erosion of natural deposits Perchlorate (ppb)
Radionuclides
1 6 ND ND 0.7*** 0.7*** ND ND ND ND 2022*** Industrial waste discharge Alpha emitters (pCi/L)
Beta/photon emitters (pCi/L)
[0] 15
[0] 50
ND ND
NA NA
ND*** ND***
NA NA
ND ND
ND ND
ND ND
ND ND - 5
2022*** Erosion of natural deposits
Decay of natural and man-made deposits
Combined Radium (pCi/L) [0] 5 ND ND ND*** ND*** ND ND ND ND 2023*** Erosion of natural deposits Uranium (pCi/L) 0.43 20 1.6 1.1 - 2.1 ND*** ND*** 2 2 - 3 ND ND - 3 2022*** Erosion of natural deposits Table 2: Summary of Results for Primary Drinking Water Standards Monitored in Distribution System for 2024 (Mandatory Health-Related Standards) PARAMETER PHG/ State
[MCLG]/ MCL/
{MRDLG} {MRDL}

CITYWIDE DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM MAJOR SOURCES IN DRINKING WATER Microbiological
Total Coliform Bacteria
(% positive samples/month)
Fecal Coliform/E. Coli
Disinfection Byproducts & Residuals
Total Trihalomethanes (ppb)
Haloacetic Acids (ppb)
Total Chlorine/Chloramines (ppm)
Inorganic Chemicals
[0] 5%
[0] (c)
NS 80
NS 60
{4} {4}
Citywide Highest Monthly: 0% Range: ND No violations
Citywide Maximum: 0 Positive Samples
Citywide LRAA: 20.9 Range: 6.9 - 50.2
Citywide LRAA: 3.8 Range: ND - 17.5
Citywide Average: 2.00 Range: ND - 3.5
Naturally present in the environment
Human and animal fecal waste
By-product of drinking water chlorination
By-product of drinking water chlorination
Drinking water disinfectant added for treatment
Copper (d) (ppm)
Fluoride After Treatment (ppm)

0.3 AL=1.3(1.0*)
1 2
Citywide 90th percentile: 0.20 0 sites out of 35 exceeded the AL Control Range: 0.6 - 1.2 Citywide Range: 0.7 - 1.9
2022 Corrosion of household plumbing systems
Water additive for dental health
Lead (d) (ppb) 0.2 AL=15 Citywide 90th percentile: 2.10 0 site out of 35 exceeded the AL (d) 2022 Corrosion of household plumbing systems

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Packet Pg. 1376 Attachment: 2025 Annual Water Quality Report (7157 : Report on Water Quality and Public Health Goals)

Table 3: Summary of Results for Secondary Drinking Water Standards for 2024 (Aesthetic Standards)

PARAMETER
PHG/ State
[MCLG]/ MCL/
{MRDLG} {MRDL}

LOCAL WELL
WATER Arcadia
Plant Average
Range
SM WELL #1 (a)
Average Range

IMPORTED SURFACE
WATER Jensen
Plant Average
Range

IMPORTED SURFACE
WATER
Weymouth Plant
Average Range

MAJOR SOURCES IN DRINKING WATER
Chemical Parameters
Chloride (ppm)
Color (units)
Iron (ppb)
Manganese (ppb)
Odor-Threshold (units)
Specific Conductance (umho/cm)
Sulfate (ppm)
Total Dissolved Solids (ppm)
Turbidity (NTU)
NS 500
NS 15
NS 300
NS 50
NS 3
NS 1600
NS 500
NS 1000
- 5

26.5 25 - 28
<5 <5
18 ND - 95.5
ND ND
<1 <1
324 275 - 452

52.2 47.7 - 57.3
182 137 - 210

0.08 0.04 - 0.14
112 112
<5 <5 - 8

6.8 6.8

5.6 5.6
<1 <1
1346 1339 - 1353
257 257
947*** 947***

0.17 0.14 - 0.20
40 39 - 41
1 1
ND ND
ND ND
1 1
510 498 - 522
90 89 - 92
306 291 - 322
ND ND
106 96 - 116
1 1
ND ND
ND ND
ND ND
996 912 - 1080
225 200 - 250
632 573 - 690
ND ND
2022***
Runoff/leaching from natural deposits; industrial wastes Naturally-occuring organic materials
Leaching from natural deposits; industrial wastes
Leaching from natural deposits
Naturally-occuring organic materials; chlorine
Substances that form ions when in water; seawater influence Runoff/leaching from natural deposits; industrial wastes Runoff/leaching from natural deposits
Soil runoff
Table 4: Additional Parameters of Interest
PARAMETER PHG/ State
[MCLG]/ MCL/
{MRDLG} {MRDL}

LOCAL WELL
WATER Arcadia
Plant Average
Range
SM WELL #1 (a)
Average Range

IMPORTED SURFACE
WATER Jensen
Plant Average
Range

IMPORTED SURFACE
WATER
Weymouth Plant
Average Range
Dates
Sampled if
other than
2023(b)
Alkalinity (ppm) NS NS 65.9 58.7 - 80.4 337 337 98 94 - 101 118 109 - 127 Boron (ppb) NS NL=1000 200 200 220*** 220*** 170 170 140 140 2022*** Calcium (ppm) NS NS 24 20.3 - 32.9 133 133 38 38 - 39 68 59 - 76 Hardness (as CaCO3) (ppm) NS NS 106 92.6 - 134 582 582 270 235 - 305 272 241 - 303 Magnesium (ppm) NS NS 8.4 8.4 65*** 65*** 14 13 - 14 26 23 - 29 2022*** pH (units) NS NS 8.4 8.2 - 8.7 7.3 7.3 - 7.4 8.3 8.2 - 8.3 8.2 8.2 Potassium (ppm) NS NS ND ND 4.1*** 4.1*** 2.6 2.6 5 4.6 - 5.4 2022*** Radon (pCi/L) NS NS ND ND 389*** 389*** ND ND ND ND 2022*** Sodium (ppm) NS NS 30 30 89*** 89*** 46 46 105 93 - 117 2022*** 1,4-Dioxane (ppb) NS NL=1 ND ND ND*** ND*** NA NA NA NA 2022*** N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) (ppt) 3 NL=10 NA NA NA NA ND ND ND ND tert-Butyl Alcohol (TBA) (ppb) NS NL=12 ND ND NA NA ND ND ND ND All results meet standard.

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 1377 Attachment: 2025 Annual Water Quality Report (7157 : Report on Water Quality and Public Health Goals)

12.A.c
Packet Pg. 1378 Attachment: 2025 Annual Water Quality Report (7157 : Report on Water Quality and Public Health Goals) 12A. Public Hearing
2025 Report on Water Quality
and Public Health Goal
10/14/2025
Item 12-A
October 14, 2025
Item 12-A
October 14, 2025

12.A.d
Packet Pg. 1379 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (7157 : Report on Water Quality and Public Health Goals) 2025 Report on Water Quality and Public Health Goals
• The City’s drinking water supply meets ALL federal
and state drinking water regulations
• Public notice on availability of the report and public hearing was published in Santa Monica Daily Press
on 9/30/2025
Item 12-A
October 14, 2025
Item 12-A
October 14, 2025

12.A.d
Packet Pg. 1380 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (7157 : Report on Water Quality and Public Health Goals) Recommended City Council Action

1. Adopt a finding that the report provided herein is not a “project” subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); and

2. Hold a public hearing, receive public comments, and
approve the attached 2025 City of Santa Monica Report
on Water Quality Relative to the Public Health Goals.

Item 12-A
October 14, 2025
Item 12-A
October 14, 2025

12.A.d
Packet Pg. 1381 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (7157 : Report on Water Quality and Public Health Goals) THANK YOU…
Item 12-A
October 14, 2025
Item 12-A
October 14, 2025

12.A.d
Packet Pg. 1382 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (7157 : Report on Water Quality and Public Health Goals) City Council
Report
City Council Meeting: October 14, 2025
Agenda Item: 16.A
1 of 1
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Nikima Newsome, City Clerk, Records and Election Services Department Subject: Request of the Disabilities Commission to declare Arlene Frames' seat vacant due to absenteeism and lack of communication.

Prepared By: David Yakobson, Staff Assistant III
Approved Forwarded to Council

16.A
Packet Pg. 1383
City Council
Report
City Council Meeting: October 14, 2025
Agenda Item: 16.B
1 of 1
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Nikima Newsome, City Clerk, Records and Election Services Department Subject: Request of Mayor Negrete that the City Council consider directing the City Manager to provide Community Engagement, Zoning Clarity, and Accountability for LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects Prepared By: Nikima Newsome, City Clerk
Approved Forwarded to Council
Attachments:

A. Ocean Avenue Facility Response
B. Written Comment

16.B
Packet Pg. 1384
Memo
To: Oliver Chi, City Manager
From: Lana Negrete, Mayor
Date: October 9, 2025
Re: Request for City Council Direction on Community Engagement, Zoning Clarity, and Accountability for LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects
Recently, the City was made aware that the LA County Department of Mental Health (DMH), in partnership with St. Joseph Center, intends to establish two Behavioral Health Bridge Housing facilities at 413 and 825 Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica. The two properties will collectively serve to facilitate 49 interim housing beds for homeless individuals with severe behavioral health needs. St. Joseph Center will lease and operate the sites, while DMH will fund the services and program oversight through State Behavioral Health Bridge Housing resources.

I want to be clear that I support the intent of establishing these types of facilities, as they are needed pieces of infrastructure to bolster our homelessness response efforts. Further, LA County and St. Joseph Center have indicated that Santa Monica residents will be prioritized for placement, and that the facilities will include 24/7 staffing, on-site clinicians, and security personnel.

With that being said, the community has raised questions regarding possible impacts from this project.

Residents have also expressed frustration over the lack of prior notice or opportunity for public input before funding was approved by LA County and site renovations began.

Given the sensitivity of this matter and the community concerns expressed, I am requesting the following:

1. With respect to outreach related to the facilities on Ocean Avenue, direct that the City Manager coordinate with LA County, St. Joseph Center, and the project developer to ensure broad communication and outreach to both residents and adjacent businesses, including the Oceana (located two doors down from 825 Ocean Avenue) and other nearby stakeholders.

2. Direct that the City Manager work with the County of Los Angeles, relevant nonprofit partners, and project developers to ensure that all proposed supportive, shelter, or transitional housing projects within the City of Santa Monica comply with the intent and requirements of Proposition 1 and the Good Neighbor Policy (SB 326), including the community engagement provision set forth in Welfare and Institutions Code § 5604.2(a)(4), which requires citizen and professional involvement at all stages of the planning process – specifically including community members, business owners, housing, law enforcement, education, and others who interact with individuals living with mental illness on a daily basis.

3. Direct that the City Manager clarify zoning classifications, use types, and building-code provisions applicable to each supportive-service, shelter, and transitional housing type use, including whether such uses are permitted, conditionally permitted, or require discretionary review, and to return with recommendations that ensure that appropriate public notification always occurs to a neighborhood when such a project is being officially proposed.

16.B.a
Packet Pg. 1385 Attachment: Ocean Avenue Facility Response (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) Memo

4. Direct that the City Manager clearly define for the public the land use regulations that allow the facilities on Ocean to operate without needing to obtain a discretionary City permit. Along those lines, this work effort should include identification of what constitutes a mental-health facility, a transitional housing facility, an emergency shelter, and a supportive housing facility, and those details should be developed into a citywide communication strategy to inform the public about details related to these types of operations. That communications strategy should include: (1) an accessible webpage containing a comprehensive project FAQ detailing purpose, population served, staffing, hours of operation, and oversight; (2) a designated hotline or contact person for residents and businesses to report nuisances or concerns; and (3) clear response protocols and follow-up mechanisms.

5. Direct that staff attempt to obtain from LA County verification with respect to the Ocean facility developer’s goals, operational record, and legal standing, in addition to how much LA County is paying the developer, and confirming that any developer or property owner involved in these projects is in good standing and not engaged in active litigation with the City or related public entities.

6. Finally, direct that the City Manager conduct a retrospective review of similar existing or recently approved projects – including those located in Sunset Park and the Pico Neighborhood – to determine whether proper community engagement and communication occurred, and, where lacking, to implement corrective measures and ensure that appropriate neighborhood contact and support systems are now in place.

Please place this item on the October 14 agenda for full City Council consideration.

16.B.a
Packet Pg. 1386 Attachment: Ocean Avenue Facility Response (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 1 Mitchell Kois
From: Dorothy Goldeen <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 3:55 PM
To: Oliver Chi; Lana Negrete
Cc: Caroline Torosis; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: Ocean Avenue Homeless Housing

EXTERNAL
To the Mayor, City Manager and all Council Members - Please stop this unconscionable and ill-conceived placement of homeless faciliƟes!! We urgently object to his inappropriate use of property in our neighborhood. We already pay among the highest property taxes in the City. Our neighborhood has seen a significant increase in crime and vagrancy since 2020. We certainly do not need more negaƟve impact precipitated by homeless housing. With so many empty buildings up and down Wilshire and Santa Monica Blvd,
why is ocean front property across from one of the few clean, quiet secƟons of Palisades Park being chosen for homeless housing? It doesn’t make any sense; we vociferously object. As our elected officials, we implore you to negate this plan.

Dorothy Goldeen, President
San Vicente Villas Condominium AssociaƟon
516 San Vicente Blvd.

Santa Monica, CA 90402
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1387 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 2 Mitchell Kois
From: Gregory Smith <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 3:41 PM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

EXTERNAL
Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo.

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the entire city and county.

While this letter appears to only be relevant to the two addresses above, this issue has citywide implications as it demonstrates that our county and city lack a process to expend taxpayer funds in compliance with state law and the spirit of our City’s Strategic Plan on Homelessness, which require community and professional involvement at every stage.

These provisions are designed to guarantee that the voices of those with lived experience of mental illness, along with residents, local businesses, and first responders, are all heard with a mission for success – particularly as our city faces significant financial shortfalls.

The County should not be able to fund and approve facilities in our city without following proper notification and input required, per state law. The community should be viewed as partners in this endeavor, to help all parties achieve the outcomes that benefit the wellbeing of all, which is one of the stated missions in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan. The County and City must work collaboratively with stakeholders across our entire city – including those from Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and the Palisades Park Community – to ensure transparency, collaboration, and accountability.

In conclusion, we respectfully request that you pause the opening of the facilities at 413 and 825 Ocean, reopen the approvals and analysis of these projects, and support the completion of all six points in Mayor Negrete’s memo associated with Item 16-B. Thank you to Mayor Negrete for bringing this important issue to our attention, and to all of you for your service to our city and for considering this important item.

Sincerely,
Greg Smith
908 11th st. Santa Monica, CA 90403
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1388 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 3 Mitchell Kois
From: Steve Sole <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 3:27 PM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the entire city and county.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1389 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 4 Sincerely,
Steve Sole
Santa Monica, CA
----------
Steve Sole
718.490.3261
[email protected]
thesolecoach.com
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1390 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 5 Mitchell Kois
From: Melzer, Sara <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 3:27 PM
To: [email protected]
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16-Negrete

EXTERNAL
Dear Council members,
As a resident of Los Angeles for 40 years, I think the proposed solution for the mentally ill is not properly thought-out and can create more damage than benefits both for the individuals concerned and for the community. This proposal needs greater reflection and planning. I am in favor of supporting the mentally ill.

These individuals need to be cared for by professionals and given proper treatment and housing. The current proposal does not appear to do so. And it puts the community at risk. I urge you to reconsider this proposal and come up with a more effective one that directly addresses the problem.

Sincerely, Sara Melzer
Sara Melzer
Professor Emerita, Humanities
French and Francophone Studies
UCLA
Los Angeles, CA 90095
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1391 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 6 Mitchell Kois
From: Jon Schotz <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 3:14 PM
To: [email protected]; councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16-Negrete

EXTERNAL
I have lived on Georgina Ave between Ocean Ave and 4th St for 29 years. I am appalled by the complete lack of transparency and candor displayed in siƟng the faciliƟes for the severely mentally ill at 413/425 and 825 Ocean Ave. The requirements for SB 326 were not followed. The St. Joe’s staffing plan is not specific and full of plaƟtudes. The security plan merely keeps people out of the facility that do not live there. The paƟents at the facility can come and go as they please (other than curfew hours). There are no background checks or drug tesƟng by St Joe’s own admission. In essence, neighborhood security is ignored, in an area with 3 schools within ½ mile.

The noƟon that St Joe’s and the County can ignore due process and NOT meet with the community is simply wrong. The opening needs to be delayed unƟl a program that adequately addresses security and staffing concerns is fully veƩed by the community.

Thank you.

Jon Schotz
Co-Managing Partner, Co-Portfolio Manager

SAYBROOK FUND ADVISORS
O: (310) 656-4281
C: (310) 962-5111
[email protected]
501 Santa Monica Blvd., Suite 607
Santa Monica, CA 90401

________________________________________
Saybrook Fund Advisors Email Disclaimer
This communication, including attachments, is intended only for the exclusive use of addressee and may contain proprietary, confidential, or privileged information. Any use, review, duplication, disclosure, dissemination, or distribution is strictly prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, you have received this communication in error. Please notify sender immediately by return e-mail, delete this communication, and destroy any copies.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1392 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 7 Electronic mail sent through the Internet is not secure and could be intercepted by a third party. Please do not e-mail transaction orders, fund transfers, or send time sensitive instructions. The Firm cannot be held responsible for carrying out such orders or instructions.

E-mail messages are not private. It is subject to review by the Firm, its officers, employees, and governmental regulatory agencies.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1393 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 8 Mitchell Kois
From: Philip Schwartz <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 3:08 PM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16B-Negrete

EXTERNAL
I wish to express our complete opposition to this non-transparent process and LA County Supervisor Lindsay Horvath’s Plan to open a 49 Bed facility for the Severely Mentally Ill at 413 and 825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica.

This is ILL CONCEIVED, AND DOES NOT IN ANY WAY TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION ANY INPUT FROM THE CITIZENS!!
Philip D Schwartz, Treasurer
909-911 Arizona Ave HOA
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1394 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 9 Mitchell Kois
From: Shari Phillips <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 2:58 PM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16-Negrete

EXTERNAL
I oppose vehemently on the properƟes at 413 and 825 Ocean Avenue being used as mental housing faciliƟes, especially considering the history of the owner, PusƟlnikov, and his shady businesses dealings. If it is true that this area is zoned residenƟal and therefore cannot legally provide on-site medical or psychiatric care, meaning no doctors, no nurses, and no therapists then this is not a true treatment facility, but just housing with security guards, with the ability for the paƟents to come and go as they please. This is not how we should be treaƟng the mentally challenged. Please do what you can to stop this owner from causing a nightmare for our residents, police force, and medical responders.

I don’t know if this informaƟon is true, but it is what is circulaƟng and it’s concerning if so. We all need to have clarity on the actual plan St. Joseph Center and LA County Dept of Health is introducing.

Thank you,
Shari Phillips
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1395 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 10 Mitchell Kois
From: Kerry Samovar <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 2:37 PM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16-Negrete

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers:

I'm writing to you to urge you to intervene to keep the northern end of Palisades park family-friendly by stopping the repurposing of the assisted living facilities at 413 Ocean and 825 Ocean. As you may know, Downtown Santa Monica and the southern and central portions of Palisades Park, as well as nearby Tongva Park and Reed Park, have become unwelcoming to many tourists and to many families because the county's practices with respect to the Expo line have caused those locations to bear the brunt of people who are experiencing homelessness due to mental illness and drug addiction. The one portion of Palisades Park (and really the only park in the area) that is still family-friendly is the northern portion of Palisades Park. On a typical day, you'll see children and their families enjoying the park, free from the issues affecting other Santa Monica parks.

Locating shelters of the type currently proposed for 413 Ocean Avenue and 825 Ocean Avenue shows an indifference to the needs of the public to have a family-friendly portion of the park where people feel comfortable bringing their children. I'm urging you to please protect a vital park used by the residents of Santa Monica and the Greater Los Angeles area--it is the last family-friendly park in the area.

Best,
Kerry Samovar
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1396 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 11 Mitchell Kois
From: Michelle Liberman <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 2:27 PM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; [email protected] Subject: Support for Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16 and a Request to Delay Opening of Facilities for the Unhoused with Severe Mental Crises at 413/825 Ocean Ave

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express my sincerest support for Mayor Negrete who has singlehandedly brought to light the nontransparent nature in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill were approved near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request a suspension of the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave until all six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo are complete and publicly posted, particularly Item #6, which asks for a citywide comprehensive and transparent site review process for such facilities.

While tonight’s item appears to only be relevant to the two addresses above, this issue has citywide implications as it demonstrates that our city lacks a process to expend taxpayer funds in compliance with state law and the spirit of our City’s Strategic Plan on Homelessness, which require community and professional involvement at every stage. These provisions are designed to guarantee that the voices of those with lived experience of mental illness, along with residents, local businesses, and first responders, are all heard, respected, and accounted for – particularly as our city faces significant financial shortfalls.

By calling for clarity on zoning, transparency in developer practices, and robust public outreach, Mayor Negrete is not creating barriers to progress—she is building trust, ensuring that our city’s compassion is matched by competence in every single neighborhood across this city. This approach strengthens our collective ability to help people heal, stabilize, and reintegrate into the community.

I stand in full support of Mayor Negrete’s efforts to make Santa Monica a model for both compassionate care and transparent governance. Los Angeles County should not be driving decisions that impact all of our communities without accountability, and thus, we simultaneously call on Third District LA County Supervisor Lindsay Horvath to intervene – to both pause funding for these projects and support Mayor Negrete’s detailed request.

In conclusion, we respectfully request your support for all six requests in Mayor Negrete’s memo and pause the opening of the facilities at 413 and 825 Ocean until all the analyses are posted and shared with the public. Thank you for your service to our city and for considering this important item.

Thank you,
Michelle Liberman
917.692.4977
[email protected]
www.michellelibermanhomes.com
Serving the West Side of LA
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1397 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 12 Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1398 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 13 Mitchell Kois
From: Ben Swett <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 2:13 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: re: 16B About Ocean Ave Mental Health Facilities. I am NOT freaked out -

EXTERNAL
Hello:

I have lived NoMo for almost 40 years.

Those places on ocean ave have always been residential health/elder facilities - and we've had confused older people on the sidewalks, etc - and everyone's still fine.

People say "Get the crazy homeless people off the streets" - and isn't that what's going on here? There is no reason to panic, and no reason to demand the city manager add a bunch of steps and do a bunch of reviewing so one city council person can help my worried neighbors feel like someone is doing something to "protect" them.

This is a good usage, and updating the use of those wellness facilities to our current need makes a ton of sense.

The sky isn't falling.

Mental health services are a good thing. And Yes - I welcome them to my neighborhood.

And directing Mr. Chi go through a bunch of process is wasteful - we've got bigger problems.

Thank You -
Ben Swett
614 San Vicente Blvd
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1399 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 14 Mitchell Kois
From: Helen Johns <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 2:09 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fwd: Ocean Avenue Developments (Item 16 - Negrete)

EXTERNAL
Begin forwarded message:

From: Helen Johns <[email protected]>
Subject: Ocean Avenue Developments (Item 16 - Negrete)
Date: 13 October 2025 at 14:08:01 GMT-7
To: [email protected], [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], Scott Parish <[email protected]>, [email protected],
[email protected]
Dear Supervisor Horvath and Mr Chi,
I write, as I know many people are doing, with grave concerns about the new St Joseph’s facilities that are about to open on Ocean Avenue.

My family (including a 4 year old and 7 year old) and I live at 129 Alta Avenue. We could not be much closer to the Georgina facility.

I attended Thursday’s zoom meeting led by Bruce Leddy and was deeply upset by what I heard. I would like answers to the following questions please.

For Mr Chi:
1) Why did you choose not to share information with the whole of the council and the mayor about the facility when you received the information several months ago? Did you imagine that the issue would not be contentious? Did you not think the mayor might have a view? Were you trying to prevent a fallout until the last minute so that there would not be time for an injunction? Or something else?
2) Who advised you to hold the information to yourself and not share it more widely? 3) Do you agree with St Joseph’s timeline (attached to this email) that shows there were repeated requests for SM City Council to widely share the information they sent to you? 4) Which SM Council members also were aware of the plans for the development? Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1400 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 15 For Supervisor Horvath:
1) Why did you not share the information about this development until the last minute? What were your concerns on that front? Or did you not feel the information was important? 2) Are you aware of plans to investigate the usage of the developments? And concerns that the stated usage (by rights shelter) do not match up to actual usage (mental health facility for seriously ill people)?
3) If this is an interim housing shelter, why is it that only seriously mentally unwell people can receive beds?
4) With what information were you able to decide that this is not a mental health facility? I look forward to your responses.

Helen Johns
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1401 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 16 Mitchell Kois
From: Michele Modglin <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 1:33 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Support for Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16 and a Request to Delay Opening of Shelters for the Severely Mentally Ill at 413/825 Ocean Ave

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete, City Manager Chi, and Honorable Members of the City Council, I am writing out of deep concern and growing alarm over the way approvals and funding were secured for the proposed mental health facilities at 413 and 825 Ocean Avenue.

At the community town hall on October 9th, representatives from the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health stated that these facilities will operate without background checks or sobriety requirements. That revelation stunned many of us. It raises urgent questions about safety, transparency, and oversight—and about how such decisions could advance so far without open discussion or meaningful public review.

This is not a debate about whether Santa Monica should help people struggling with mental illness or homelessness. Of course we should—and we do. This is about how we do it. Locating these facilities within a half-mile of preschools, elementary schools, senior living centers, and family neighborhoods—without clear communication or proper safeguards—is reckless. It puts residents, businesses, and visitors in an impossible position, and it undermines the very trust that effective public policy depends on.

I want to strongly support Mayor Lana Negrete’s leadership in calling for transparency, accountability, and community engagement. Her memo on this issue reflects precisely the kind of moral clarity and responsiveness this city needs. Santa Monica cannot afford to move forward on projects of this magnitude without daylight, due diligence, and public consent.

The areas near Palisades Park are not anonymous blocks on a map—they are living neighborhoods filled with seniors, schoolchildren, workers, small business owners, and tourists who sustain the city’s economy. The tourism revenue generated here funds the very services we rely on to protect our most vulnerable residents. To jeopardize that ecosystem, at a time when the city faces serious financial strain, is short-sighted and dangerous.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1402 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 17 Mayor Negrete’s call to pause these projects is not obstruction—it is common sense. It is an urgent demand for proper process, public hearings, and a full accounting of how and why these facilities were approved without adequate transparency.

The City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan pledges to be “transparent… communicating clearly and openly, sharing our intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our community.” It also promises to “promote the wellbeing of all.” Neither of those commitments has been honored in this case. If the City is to maintain credibility, that must change now.

Santa Monica has always led with both heart and responsibility. Please, honor that tradition. Halt the opening of these facilities until the full truth is on the table and the community has had its rightful voice in the process.

Sincerely,
Michele Modglin
630 Idaho ave
Santa monica, Ca 90403
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1403 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 18 Mitchell Kois
From: TaTrina Cianfrone <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 1:30 PM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Mental Health Facilities on Ocean Ave
Attachments: Updated - City Council - 16B - 10 13 25.docx

EXTERNAL
Please see attached letter and STOP this atrocity.

Thank you
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1404 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) October 13, 2025
The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District
500 West Temple Street, Room 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
[Sent via email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]] RE: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi,
I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo.

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the entire city and county. While this letter appears to only be relevant to the two addresses above, this issue has citywide implications as it demonstrates that our county and city lack a process to expend taxpayer funds in compliance with state law and the spirit of our City’s Strategic Plan on Homelessness, which require community and professional involvement at every stage. These provisions are designed to guarantee that the voices of those with lived experience of mental illness, along with residents, local businesses, and first responders, are all heard with a mission for success – particularly as our city faces significant financial shortfalls.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1405 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) The County should not be able to fund and approve facilities in our city without following proper notification and input required, per state law. The community should be viewed as partners in this endeavor, to help all parties achieve the outcomes that benefit the wellbeing of all, which is one of the stated missions in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan. The County and City must work collaboratively with stakeholders across our entire city – including those from Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and the Palisades Park Community – to ensure transparency, collaboration, and accountability.

Sincerely,
Trina Cianfrone
129 Marguerita Ave, Apt K, Santa Monica CA 90402
[email protected]
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1406 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 19 Mitchell Kois
From: Jessica Rafipour <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 1:14 PM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16-Negrete

EXTERNAL
I absolutely oppose the housing for the severely mentally ill planed on ocean and Georgina. There was no public hearing our rights as residents were violated. LA county is trying to destroy Santa Monica.

Sincerely,
Jessica (Enayati) Rafipour
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1407 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 20 Mitchell Kois
From: Micah Dekofsky <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 1:12 PM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1408 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 21 endeavor, to help all parties achieve the outcomes that benefit the wellbeing of all, which is one of the stated missions in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan. The County and City must work collaboratively with stakeholders across our entire city – including those from Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and the Palisades Park Community – to ensure transparency, collaboration, and accountability.

Sincerely,
Micah Dekofsky
[email protected]
(818) 731-2272
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1409 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 22 Mitchell Kois
From: Susan Baskin. <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 12:55 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Shelter on Ocean Avenue

EXTERNAL
Council:

I am wriƟng to express my strong opposiƟon to the two St. Joseph shelters to be occupied shortly. I aƩended the NOMA zoom with representaƟves from St. Joseph’s. I felt the security provided by the facility is inadequate to protect the surrounding community and parƟcularly the residents who use Palisades Park — families, children and Seniors.

As someone who walks in the Park every morning, I will not feel secure. The facility is unlocked and background checks are not done on inhabitants. Ocean Avenue is not the place for such a facility.

I am also appalled at the lack of transparency on the part of the Council as far as informing the Santa Monica community.

That the mayor did not herself know unƟl 10 days before is unconscionable. This is a complete abrogaƟon of the Council’s responsibility to its consƟtuents.

Again, the community’s safety is at risk if these Shelters are occupied. AcƟons must be taken to stop them.

Susan Baskin
Santa Monica Resident
Sent from my iPad
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1410 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 23 Mitchell Kois
From: Jordan W <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 12:50 PM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Suspend Approval and Funding of Facilities 413 & 825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica, CA Due to Noncompliance with State Law and City Plans

EXTERNAL
Dear Supervisor Horvath,
I am writing to express my deep concern and disappointment over the manner in which your office and the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health advanced funding and approvals for the voluntary entry/exit facilities at 413 and 825 Ocean Avenue for the unhoused and severely mentally ill without prior public notice or community engagement.

Residents were blindsided, left to discover this project through rumor rather than proper notification. This was not a clerical error—it was a profound failure of transparency.

The Mayor’s memo further highlights that the County and its nonprofit partners neglected to comply with Welfare and Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4), which explicitly requires citizen and professional involvement at all stages of the planning process. That includes residents, local businesses, schools, and those directly impacted by such facilities. None of these stakeholders were given that opportunity.

Instead, this project was quietly advanced without consideration of the preschools, elementary schools, senior living facilities, and impacts on the city’s tourism hub that generates millions in revenue for a city already under fiscal strain. The secrecy surrounding this process has eroded public trust and undermined the very principles of open governance you have publicly championed.

While your office and St. Joseph Center’s newly released FAQ attempts to assure the public that the site will provide “24/7 staffing” and “enhanced security,” it is evident there is no coordinated plan to provide safety beyond the walls of these facilities, as discussed at the October 9th Town Hall, where your office, the LA County DMH, and St. Joseph’s presented. Transparency after the fact is not transparency—it’s damage control.

In addition, on page 5 of the City of Santa Monica’s Homelessness Strategic Plan one of the first stated values of the plan is to be transparent. I quote: “Transparent. We strive to communicate clearly and openly, sharing our intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1411 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 24 community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed as we have outlined.

You owe this community an explanation and must put a pause to the opening of these facilities until proper due diligence is completed in a public forum that is in compliance withthe law.

We urge you to pause the opening of the mental health facilities at 413 Ocean Avenue and 825 Ocean Avenue, and launch an investigation into the approach that was taken to approve these facilities, vendors, and sites until a full review is conducted with full transparency and meaningful public engagement.

Sincerely,
Jordan Wacht
1018 Yale Street, Santa Monica, Ca 90403
310-266-5287
cc:City of Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete
City Council Members, City of Santa Monica
Oliver Chi, City Manager, City of Santa Monica
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1412 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 25 Mitchell Kois
From: Seth Ellis <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 12:47 PM

EXTERNAL
The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District
500 West Temple Street, Room 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
RE:Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework
Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi,
I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo
(https://santamonicacityca.iqm2.com/Citizens/FileOpen.aspx?Type=4&ID=19244&MeetingI D=1454).

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1413 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 26 every stage. These provisions are designed to guarantee that the voices of those with lived experience of mental illness, along with residents, local businesses, and first responders, are all heard with a mission for success – particularly as our city faces significant financial shortfalls.

In conclusion, I as a concerned citizen and healthcare professional with decades of experience in caring for high risk populations respectfully request that you pause the opening of the facilities at 413 and 825 Ocean, reopen the approvals and analysis of these projects, and support the completion of all six points in Mayor Negrete’s memo associated with Item 16-B.

Thank you to Mayor Negrete for bringing this important issue to our attention, and to all of you for your service to our city and for considering this important item.

Sincerely,
Seth Ellis
11808 Navy Street
Los Angeles CA 90066
Seth Ellis
[email protected]
mobile phone: 310.717.9308
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1414 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 27 Mitchell Kois
From: Janet Kacker <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 12:26 PM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; [email protected]; [email protected]; Santa Monica City Manager's Office Subject: Common-Sense Compassion and Legal Compliance – Pause 413 & 825 Ocean Avenue

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete, Members of the Santa Monica City Council, and Supervisor Horvath, I’m a Santa Monica mother, a fire survivor, and someone who believes in both compassion and common sense. I care deeply about helping people in crisis—but not at the expense of safety, legality, and transparency.

The County advanced the Ocean Avenue mental health facilities without proper notice or public engagement, violating Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4), which requires citizen and professional involvement at every stage of planning. Even the City of Santa Monica was “recently made aware” only after funding and renovations were already underway. This is exactly why I support Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16B and ask that all six elements of her memo be completed—especially Item #6, which calls for a citywide, transparent site review process.

This isn’t about opposition to care—it’s about doing it legally, responsibly, and safely. The City’s own Homelessness Strategic Plan pledges to be “transparent… sharing intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our community.” That trust has been broken. There has been no disclosure, no safety plan, and no guarantee that residents of these facilities—who will not undergo criminal background checks—will be monitored or prevented from entering schools, parks, and public transportation.

Do we really want Santa Monica to make national news for tragedy? Do we want a law named after a Santa Monica child, woman, or neighbor who becomes the next victim? I don’t. None of us should.

Nearby communities are already paying the price. These are just a few recent 2025 examples.

1. A public school, Brentwood Science Magnet, which now is also home to Palisades Charter Elementary School—not a wealthy private campus—100s of traumatized children were forced into lockdown after drug-addicted transient trespassers left behind METH paraphernalia and evidence of them living there was found by traumatized mothers.

2. A man was stabbed to death outside the Brentwood Whole Foods during operational hours.

3. At Tongva Park, PUBLIC high school students were harassed and had their lunches taken by an aggressive transient.

4. A gardener was beaten, and multiple assaults and physical threats against seniors have been reported here in Santa Monica. There are 100s of gardeners working in the lush landscaped areas of and around Ocean Ave.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1415 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 28 5. And nationally, a Ukrainian refugee was fatally stabbed on a commuter train by a man with prior mental-health and criminal issues—proof of what happens when systems fail and dangerous individuals move unchecked through public spaces.

This is not compassion—it’s chaos. True compassion includes boundaries, accountability, and foresight.

Please pause funding and occupancy at 413 and 825 Ocean Avenue until all impact analyses are complete and shared publicly in compliance with state law and the City’s transparency standards.

Ensure these facilities are placed in lower-cost zones with proper screening, oversight, and supervision.

When our streets are safe, money will flow. Businesses will flourish, real-estate values will rise, tax revenue will grow—and we can fund every compassionate program this city dreams of. Safety and compassion are not opposites; they depend on each other.

Please, stop the insanity. Choose legal compliance, transparency, and common sense before another tragedy forces your hand.

Respectfully,
Janet
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1416 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 29 Mitchell Kois
From: Jill Stein <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 12:14 PM
To: Lana Negrete
Cc: councilmtgitems; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; Oliver Chi
Subject: Mental Health facilities in SM

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members,
As a resident of Santa Monica for over 30 years, I am appalled at the lack of communication and development of the mental health facilities that are to be built in Santa Monica.

I am writing to express my deep concern and disappointment over the manner in which your office and the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health advanced funding and approvals for the voluntary entry/exit facilities at 413 and 825 Ocean Avenue for the unhoused and severely mentally ill without prior public notice or community engagement. From my understanding, City of Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete made clear in her October 9, 2025 memo to the Santa Monica City Manager, even the City of Santa Monica was “recently made aware” of the County’s actions after funding had been approved and renovations were already underway. Residents were blindsided, left to discover this project through rumor rather than proper notification. This was not a clerical error—it was a profound failure of transparency. The Mayor’s memo further highlights that the County and its nonprofit partners neglected to comply with Welfare and Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4), which explicitly requires citizen and professional involvement at all stages of the planning process. That includes residents, local businesses, schools, and those directly impacted by such facilities. None of these stakeholders were given that opportunity. Instead, this project was quietly advanced without consideration of the preschools, elementary schools, senior living facilities, and impacts on the city’s tourism hub that generates millions in revenue for a city already under fiscal strain. The secrecy surrounding this process has eroded public trust and undermined the very principles of open governance you have publicly championed. While your office and St. Joseph Center’s newly released FAQ attempts to assure the public that the site will provide “24/7 staffing” and “enhanced security,” it is evident there is no coordinated plan to provide safety beyond the walls of these facilities, as discussed at the October 9th Town Hall, where your office, the LA County DMH, and St. Joseph’s presented. Transparency after the fact is not transparency—it’s damage control. In addition, on page 5 of the City of Santa Monica’s Homelessness Strategic Plan one of the first stated values of the plan is to be transparent. I quote:
“Transparent. We strive to communicate clearly and openly, sharing our intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed as we have outlined. We the people of Santa Monica are not opposed to providing mental health care or supportive housing. We are opposed to being cut out of decisions that so profoundly affect our children, elderly, neighborhoods, schools, small businesses, safety, and economic stability. You owe this community an explanation and must put a pause to the opening of these facilities until proper due diligence is completed in a public forum that is in compliance with the law.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1417 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 30 We urge you to pause the opening of the mental health facilities at 413 Ocean Avenue and 825 Ocean Avenue, and launch an investigation into the approach that was taken to approve these facilities, vendors, and sites until a full review is conducted with full transparency and meaningful public engagement.

Sincerely,
Jill Stein
North of Montana
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1418 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 31 Mitchell Kois
From: Hannah Catterall <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 12:14 PM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

EXTERNAL
Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi,
I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1419 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 32 These provisions are designed to guarantee that the voices of those with lived experience of mental illness, along with residents, local businesses, and first responders, are all heard with a mission for success – particularly as our city faces significant financial shortfalls.

Sincerely,
Hannah Catterall
415 Montana Ave
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1420 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 33 Mitchell Kois
From: Tanya Chinniah <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 12:13 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; Oliver Chi
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: opposed to mental health facitilies at 413 and 825 Ocean Ave

EXTERNAL
I am writing to oppose the development of mental health facilities on Ocean Ave in Santa Monica.

As a homeowner, I am concerned about safety in Santa Monica. We already have a significant number of mentally ill people who often act erratically in heavily trafficked areas within Santa Monica. An unstable mentally ill person poses a significant safety risk. This can be seen by the numerous calls to 911 in Santa Monica regarding the mentally ill homeless population.

Tanya Chinniah
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1421 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 34 Mitchell Kois
From: Mercy Valdes <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 12:12 PM
To: [email protected]
Cc: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; Council Mailbox
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for Bridge Housing at 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1422 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 35 According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks (felonies etc) or sobriety requirements at these projects. The location also allow for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. They are not allowed to use drugs on site but can easily walk across the street to Palisades Park to get and use his drugs without any supervision.

I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo. Mayor Negrete is also opposed to the location of these facilities as indicated in a press interview she held. She does not oppose the program which most of the NoMa community is in agreement with as well.

All state funds for this project are awarded and administered by the County of Los Angeles, and therefore the County must ensure full compliance with all applicable state laws, including requirements for transparency, community engagement, and public oversight. The County should not be able to fund and approve facilities in our city without following proper notification and input required, per state law. The community should be viewed as partners in this endeavor, to help all parties achieve the outcomes that benefit the wellbeing of all, which is one of the stated missions in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan. The County and City must work collaboratively with stakeholders across our entire city – including those from Sunset Park, Pico Neighborhood, and the Palisades Park Community – to ensure transparency, collaboration, and accountability.

Sincerely,
Mercy Valdes
North of Montana, Santa Monica
305-336-2497
[email protected]
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1423 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 36 Mitchell Kois
From: Beth Whitaker <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 12:08 PM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Request to Delay Opening of Proposed Mental Health Facilities with Voluntary Entry/Exit Procedures at 413/825 Ocean Ave Per Item 16-B

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete, City Manager Chi, and Honorable Members of the City Council, I am writing to strongly urge you to support item 16B and our legal, due process rights under SB326.

We have organized hundreds of people in days, soon it will be thousands, and we are all deeply concerned about the planned opening of the homeless shelter on Ocean Avenue intended to serve 49 seriously mentally ill and homeless individuals.

The Good Neighbor Policy requirement (via SB326) was not followed and is a clear violation of our due process rights.

The first public discussion on this topic took place Thursday, October 9th during a NOMA informational zoom meeting. However, it was clear the intention of St. Joseph’s and LA County was to open the facility illegally and without notice or community input. More so, fully formed operational polices or adequate safety measures to protect the surrounding neighborhood were not and have not been presented or accepted.

St. Joseph’s also shared a timeline that implicated city staff and at least 3 Councilmember’s, all who were informed of the project since February and provided no community outreach, further violating our rights.

Furthermore, I am concerned to have learned from St. Joseph’s that individuals in this shelter will not be subject to drug testing or complete background checks, yet they will be permitted to exit and and enter the facility and community freely during the day. This poses significant risks to our community, especially given the proximity of schools, community parks and local residents. Additionally, it was suggested that others looking for homeless services would benefit from outreach being conducted in the surrounding area, effectively putting more homeless, mentally ill and drug addicts in the neighborhood. You are not simply housing 49 people you are a beacon to everyone looking for homeless services.

Additionally, I would like to highlight that there are multiple preschools and elementary schools in close proximity, educating thousands of elementary-aged students. The potential impact on the safety and well-being of these children and staff members cannot be overstated. It is illegal for anyone on the sex registry to live within a mile of a school and Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1424 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 37 yet you will be placing nearly 50 seriously mentally ill individuals less than 1/3 of a mile from local schools and your suggested background check process is not measurable or complete.

It is clear your security plan beyond the shelter is inadequate. The reputation of your owner and “partner” in this facility was highlighted in this LA Times article from last year and details serious safety concerns surrounding another one of his projects: https://www.latimes.com/homeless-housing/story/2024-11-05/new-owner-cutssecurity-janitors-at-skid-row-homeless-housing-as-tenants-fear-worsening-conditions Simply accepting the risk and responsibility for approving this location is not acceptable.

The introduction of such a facility without consideration of our legal, due process rights is dangerous.

It is your responsibility to prioritize the safety of your current community members, especially the many children who attend the impacted schools.

Protect our children, vote yes for item 16B to support transparency and our due process rights.

I look forward to your response and or support for item 16B.

Sincerely,
Beth Whitaker
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1425 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 38 Mitchell Kois
From: Amanda Michaels Zech <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 12:07 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Re: Automatic reply: Support for Mayor Negrete's Agenda Item 16 / Request to Delay Opening of Facilities for the Unhoused with Severe Mental Crises at 413/825 Ocean Ave

EXTERNAL
Dear City Clerk's Office,
Thank you for your reply. As I have had no previous experience submitting an email to your office, I appreciate being informed that the email will become part of the public record, something I was not aware of when I drafted it.

I would like to make sure that my name appears only as it was signed in the email ("A. Zech"), with no other identifying information included. I do not give consent for my first name to be included in the public record, nor my email address.

Please confirm receipt of this email and indicate whether this request can be honored. If it cannot be, I'd like to withdraw my letter from the public record and will find another way to communicate in regards to this matter.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
A. Zech
On Mon, Oct 13, 2025 at 11:56 AM councilmtgitems <[email protected]> wrote:

Thank you for your email. Please be advised that this email will: 1) become part of the public record, 2) be filed with the City’s official records, and 3) be posted online at smgov.net/council/agendas. Comments will not be redacted and appear online as they are submitted.

If you plan to speak at the meeting and have an electronic presentation to show, please submit it to [email protected] no later than 12 PM on the day of the meeting.

Levine Act Disclosure. Pursuant to the Levine Act (Govt Code Section 84308), any party to a permit, license, contract, or other entitlement before the Council is required to disclose on the record any contribution, including aggregated contributions, of more than $250 made by the party or the party's agents within the preceding 12 months to any City official. Participants and agents are requested to make this disclosure as well. The disclosure must include the name of the party, participant, or agent, and any other person making the contribution; the name of the recipient, the amount of the contribution, and the date the contribution was made.

Thank you,
The City Clerk’s Office
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1426 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 39 Mitchell Kois
From: Arik Kashper <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 12:05 PM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya
Subject: Re: Support for Mayor Agenda item 16

EXTERNAL
10/13/25
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
RE: Support for Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16 and a Request to Delay Opening of Facilities for the Unhoused with Severe Mental Crises at 413/825 Ocean Ave Dear Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express my sincerest support for Mayor Negrete who has singlehandedly brought to light the nontransparent nature in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill were approved near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request a suspension of the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave until all six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo are complete and publicly posted, particularly Item #6, which asks for a citywide comprehensive and transparent site review process for such facilities.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1427 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 40 Her leadership reminds us that compassion and accountability are not opposing values—they are inseparable. A community that truly cares about its most vulnerable must also care deeply about how decisions are made, how funds are spent, and how every stakeholder is treated.

Sincerely,
Mara Kashper
706 10th Street
Santa Monica, CA 90402
cc: Third District Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1428 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 41 Mitchell Kois
From: Wendy Watson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 12:01 PM
To: Council Mailbox
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: 413 Ocean Avenue & 825 Ocean Avenue Santa Monica, Community Engagement

EXTERNAL
Re: Item 16-Negrete
Community Engagement of 413 & 825 Ocean Avenue Mental Health Facilities is a must.

Please put a halt to the action of the ongoing development of the the 2 facilities mentioned above.

We require safety in the neighborhood. This is not secure.

I have lived in this neighborhood for 20 years and it is paramount to be transparent in any development.

We, in the neighborhood, were not informed about this development.

I will meet you at any time.

I can be reached directly at my phone number anytime.

This is of the utmost urgency.

Thank you.

Wendy Watson
Wendy Watson
955 2nd Street #20
Santa Monica, CA
90403
310-633-0751
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1429 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 42 Mitchell Kois
From: Ryan Ellis <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 12:01 PM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; [email protected] Subject: Support for Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16 and a Request to Delay Opening of Facilities for the Unhoused with Severe Mental Crises at 413/825 Ocean Ave

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express my sincerest support for Mayor Negrete who has singlehandedly brought to light the non-transparent nature in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill were approved near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request a suspension of the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave until all six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo are complete and publicly posted, particularly Item #6, which asks for a citywide comprehensive and transparent site review process for such facilities.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1430 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 43 In conclusion, we respectfully request your support for all six requests in Mayor Negrete’s memo and pause the opening of the facilities at 413 and 825 Ocean until all the analyses are posted and shared with the public. Thank you for your service to our city and for considering this important item.

Sincerely,
Ryan Ellis
704 18th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90402
415-377-8174
cc: Third District Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1431 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 44 Mitchell Kois
From: Cody Greer <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 12:00 PM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16-Negrete

EXTERNAL
I, a Santa Monica resident, object to constructing new homeless shelters at 413/825 Ocean Ave.

Cody Greer
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1432 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 45 Mitchell Kois
From: Brittany Sherman <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:59 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; [email protected] Subject: Delay Opening of Facilities for the Unhoused with Severe Mental Crises at 413/825 Ocean Ave

EXTERNAL
10/13/2025
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
RE: Support for Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16 and a Request to Delay Opening of Facilities for the Unhoused with Severe Mental Crises at 413/825 Ocean Ave
Dear Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express my sincerest support for Mayor Negrete who has singlehandedly brought to light the non-transparent nature in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill were approved near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request a suspension of the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave until all six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo are complete and publicly posted, particularly Item #6, which asks for a citywide comprehensive and transparent site review process for such facilities.

The community should be viewed as partners in this endeavor, to help all parties achieve the outcomes that benefit the wellbeing of all, which is one of the stated mission in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan.

Sincerely,
Brittany Sherman
Brentwood/Santa Monica/Palisades
cc: Third District Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1433 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 46 Mitchell Kois
From: Julie <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:58 AM
To: Council Mailbox
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16 - Negrete

EXTERNAL
Dear Council:

I live in NOMA, and was open to housing the mentally ill in our neighborhood but with a few caveats. To enhance the neighborhood’s security, I felt certain items should be mandatory. These items are:
. Veƫng the residents before their acceptance into the program . Housing on lockdown 24/7 except for residents’s doctor appointments and other mandatory leaves . Frequent unannounced drug tests and searches for the residents, with escalaƟng consequences for test and search failures, leading eventually to expulsion . 24/7 presence of security guards who can escalate punishment according to agreed upon rules, before escalaƟng issues to the overburdened Santa Monica police . Rules for conƟnued residence with specific consequences for non-compliance I am sure there are many more pracƟcal rules to be established for this housing. Unfortunately, none of these were menƟoned by the St. Joseph’s Center staff at the NOMA meeƟng on October 9th.

I am unwilling to have this housing in my neighborhood unƟl all these loose ends are Ɵghtened up.

Thank you,
Julie Campagna
Sent from my iPhone
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1434 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 47 Mitchell Kois
From: Neri Singer <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:58 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; [email protected] Subject: Re: Request to Suspend Approval and Funding of Facilities 413 & 825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica, CA Due to Noncompliance with State Law and City Plans

Residents were blindsided, left to discover this project through rumor rather than proper notification. This was not a clerical error—it was a profound failure of transparency.

In addition, on page 5 of the City of Santa Monica’s Homelessness Strategic Plan one of the first stated values of the plan is to be transparent. I quote: “Transparent. We strive to communicate clearly and openly, sharing our intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed as we have outlined.

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1435 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 48 children, elderly, neighborhoods, schools, small businesses, safety, and economic stability. You owe this community an explanation and must put a pause to the opening of these facilities until proper due diligence is completed in a public forum that is in compliance withthe law.

Sincerely,
Neri Singer
90403
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1436 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 49 Mitchell Kois
From: Amanda Michaels Zech <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:56 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]; Amanda Michaels
Subject: Support for Mayor Negrete's Agenda Item 16 / Request to Delay Opening of Facilities for the Unhoused with Severe Mental Crises at 413/825 Ocean Ave

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
My home was one of the thousands to burn to the ground in the Palisades Fire this January. We were renters, so once the home and all our belongings were gone, there was truly nothing to return to.

We began looking for a new community to call home.

After trying and failing to either purchase or rent 6 different properties in the months since the fire, we stretched ourselves financially and finally had an offer accepted on a smaller-sized single-family home in the North of Montana neighborhood of Santa Monica.

We moved in a couple of months ago and have found that the silver lining of all this loss is living in a safe and walkable community where our kids can walk to and from their school bus, scooter on their own into town, and ride bikes to their friends' houses.

Finding a safe neighborhood for our kids to live in was our top priority since our very safe neighborhood North of the Palisades (in Malibu) was destroyed in the fire.

However, it has recently come to our attention that a facility serving severely mentally ill unhoused residents of Santa Monica will be opened just blocks away from us at 413 and 825 Ocean Avenue.

It is my understanding that these residents of the facility suffering from severe mental illness will be free to wander the neighborhood from 7am until 9pm each day. This is when neighborhood kids walk to their school buses, take their dogs for walks around the block, walk or scooter into town to meet friends or get ice cream, and ride their bikes to and from the park.

I am a longtime social activist who believes deeply in offering support services to unhoused people, including mental health support.

However, it is abundantly clear to me that open facilities along Ocean Avenue are a whollyinappropriate fit for this community. I do not believe that any amount of policing or policy can make up for the presence of a severely mentally ill unhoused population purposefully being brought into a neighborhood of single family homes with direct sidewalk access frequented by the elderly, women, and children.

I implore the council to do everything in their power to follow due legal process, which seems to have not been followed to date, and to take into consideration the suitedness of this specific residential neighborhood before opening a facility of this nature.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1437 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 50 At the very least, this due diligence done on the part of St Joseph's and the city/county/state as well as any other agencies involved in this decision should be made public and be opened for community discourse/input.

Further, I think a complete review of how Santa Monica manages the ever-increasing population of unhoused individuals is in order.

Safety has been on the decline in all of Santa Monica's zip codes and action needs to be taken to return our city to a safe, walkable, livable state while also doing our social and civic duty and caring for folks who need help.

I look forward to updates on this matter.

Sincerely,
A. Zech
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1438 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 51 Mitchell Kois
From: Lauren O'Connell <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:55 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Suspend Approval and Funding of Facilities 413 & 825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica, CA Due to Noncompliance with State Law and City Pl

As City of Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete made clear in her October 9, 2025 memo to the Santa Monica City Manager, even the City of Santa Monica was “recently made aware” of the County’s actions after funding had been approved and renovations were already underway. Residents were blindsided, left to discover this project through rumor rather than proper notification. This was not a clerical error—it was a profound failure of transparency.

In addition, on page 5 of the City of Santa Monica’s Homelessness Strategic Plan one of the first stated values of the plan is to be transparent. I quote: “Transparent. We strive to communicate clearly and openly, sharing our intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed as we have outlined.

Supervisor Horvath, the people of Santa Monica are not opposed to providing mental health care or supportive housing. We are opposed to being cut out of decisions that so profoundly affect our children, elderly, neighborhoods, schools, small businesses, safety, and economic stability. You owe this community an explanation and must put a pause to the opening of these facilities until proper due diligence is completed in a public forum that is in compliance with the law.

We urge you to pause the opening of the mental health facilities at 413 Ocean Avenue and 825 Ocean Avenue, andlaunch an investigation into the approach that was taken to approve these facilities, vendors, and sites until a full review is conducted with full transparency and meaningful public engagement.

Sincerely,
Lauren O’Connell
404 Georgina ave, Santa Monca ca 90402
& 2233 Washington Ave Santa Monica, Ca 90403
[email protected]
cc:City of Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete
City Council Members, City of Santa Monica
Oliver Chi, City Manager, City of Santa Monica
--
Lauren O'Connell MA, MFA, LMFT
Psychotherapy | Individuals | Couples
Reminder: 48 hr cancellation policy
424.274.1930
www.laurenoconnelltherapy.com
Confidentiality Notice
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1439 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 52 "This email message and any accompanying data is intended only for the use of the named recipient(s), and may contain information that is privileged, confidential and/or subject to applicable law. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employer or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, copying or printing of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender at the email address or phone number above, delete the email from your computer or any other electronic devices including any copies from any backup storage media and destroy all data or copies immediately. This email is covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA) [18 U.S.C. Sections 2510-2521, 2701-2710] of 1986, or it may contain material protected and governed by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) and the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act of 2009 (HITECH). Thank you for your cooperation." Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1440 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 53 Mitchell Kois
From: Tal Taylor <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:52 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: 413/825 Ocean Avenue

EXTERNAL
October 13, 2025

The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District
500 West Temple Street, Room 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012

The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401

[Sent via email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]]
RE: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1441 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 54 & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo.

Sincerely,
Tal & Matt Taylor
NOMA Neighborhood Residents/Owners
310-739-9910

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1442 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 55 Mitchell Kois
From: Noah Gigliotti <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:52 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]
Subject: Re: Request to Suspend Approval and Funding of Facilities 413 & 825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica, CA Due to Noncompliance with State Law and City Plans

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete, City Manager Chi, and Honorable Members of the City Council, First off, I write to offer my heartfelt support and appreciation for Mayor Lana Negrete who has been a staunch supporter of every Santa Monican, as she seeks transparency for all our communities – both retrospectively and prospectively. In her memo associated with Item 16-B, she has constructively outlined a way forward for the entire city to engage on the important decisions surrounding the compassionate care of the city’s unhoused populations, and particularly those with severe mental health challenges. In addition, I am writing as a Santa Monica resident to express my concerns about the secretive negotiations between unnamed City Council Members, the City’s Housing and Human Services Department (HHS), the County Department of Mental Health (DMH) to fund – with taxpayer money – a 49-bed facility for the unhoused and several mentally ill. This project, according to the CEO of St. Joseph’s Center, was brought forward to the County only once a private developer who is currently suing the City of Santa Monica, sought out the County and St. Joseph’s to offer up his sites at 413 Ocean Avenue and 825 Ocean Avenue.

During a 10/9 Townhall organized by the North of Montana Association (NOMA), the LA County Department of Mental Health shared – for the first time with the community – that no background checks or sobriety requirements would be in place at these new facilities, and that those accepted at these facilities could voluntary enter and exit with no supervision plan beyond the facilities’ walls. While those in Santa Monica must notify their surrounding neighbors for a mere hedge modification or expansion of a school sports court, no courtesy was provided to the community on this project that has significant reverberations throughout the entire City. The secrecy in which this project was approved without any public notification and its citywide financial/staffing burden is grossly negligent. As such, we want to record our opposition to this project and provide full support for Item 16- B on the October 14, 2025 City Council agenda, corresponding to Mayor Negrete’s October 9, 2025 excellent and fair memorandum titled “Request for City Council Direction on Community Engagement, Zoning Clarity, and Accountability for LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects.” This proposal offers a thoughtful and balanced framework that promotes compassion and transparency while ensuring accountability, public safety, and community trust for the entire population of Santa Monica. While this item is specific to one community currently, every single community in Santa Monica deserves notification and public input in any projects that affect their community, writ large. Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and Palisades Park have shown that while it is these communities today, it can be any neighborhood tomorrow. We request the City and County work together to request a suspension of the project at 413/825 Ocean Ave. until all of the items in 16-B have been discussed in public hearings and a Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1443 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 56 new analysis explaining the rationale behind this project, the alternative sites that were considered, and if the County made a decision that is in compliance with the needs defined by the City, its residents, and other stakeholders. Specifically, as it relates to Item 16-B: 1. Comprehensive Outreach and Communication
We strongly support Direction #1, which calls for coordination between the City, LA County Department of Mental Health (DMH), St. Joseph Center, and the project developer to ensure robust outreach to residents and nearby businesses—including the numerous schools, hotels, small businesses, and other stakeholders along Ocean Avenue and its surrounding radius. Residents and local business owners deserve timely notice and a chance to understand project goals, operations, and impacts.

Transparent engagement fosters cooperation rather than conflict and ensures that city decisions reflect both compassion and local input.

2. Compliance with Proposition 1 and the Good Neighbor Policy Direction #2 correctly emphasizes compliance with all state laws. These laws explicitly require citizen and professional involvement at all stages of the planning process (Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a) (4)). Enforcing these mandates ensures that mental health projects are developed with appropriate compassion for affected communities with input from residents, law enforcement, educators, housing experts, business owners, and those with lived experience. This is fidelity to the law and the spirit of partnership that newly passed state law requires.

3. Clarification of Zoning and Public Notification Requirements Direction #3 requests clarification of zoning classifications, use types, and public notice procedures for supportive, shelter, and transitional housing projects. Clear zoning definitions protect both residents and service providers by establishing predictable rules and preventing misunderstandings about what types of uses are permitted “by right.” Ensuring that every neighborhood receives formal notice when a project is proposed is an essential safeguard for democratic participation. Every Santa Monican deserves to understand what are allowable uses for the buildings in their communities, particularly around communities that serve children and seniors.

4. Public Explanation of Land Use and Operational Standards Direction #4 calls for a clear public explanation of the legal basis that allows these facilities to operate without a discretionary City permit. Residents must understand the distinctions between a mental health facility, a transitional housing facility, an emergency shelter, and supportive housing—and how each is governed under City and State law. The Mayor’s proposed public communications strategy— including a dedicated FAQ webpage, hotline for concerns, and clear follow-up protocols—is precisely the kind of accessible, fact-based communication the community needs. The fact that no one has yet been able to access any public documentation regarding the process and application in which these facilities were approved and funded with taxpayer funds speaks to the lack of transparency the law requires.

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1444 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 57 behind these projects, how public funds are being used, and whether any conflicts of interest or active litigation exist. This transparency builds confidence in both the City’s and County’s stewardship of public resources, and that site selection is driven by thoughtful due diligence, published documentation, and needs analyses that demonstrate funding needs are matched to the highest and best use, instead of driven by calls from developers who are seeking subsidized operations while they seek entitlements.

Given the City’s financial challenges with cut services, particularly in public safety, we must provide support to all affected services across the City that no department is overly burdened by County-driven decisions that silence City taxpayers. Conclusion The Mayor’s memo provides a clear roadmap toward a balanced approach—one that supports mental health initiatives while demanding accountability, transparency, and respect for Santa Monica residents. I respectfully urge the City Council to adopt all six directives in full and to hold LA County and its nonprofit partners to the highest standards of openness, compliance, and community collaboration. In addition, on page 5 of the City of Santa Monica’s Homelessness Strategic Plan one of the first stated values of the plan is to be transparent. I quote: “Transparent. We strive to communicate clearly and openly, sharing our intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed in the case of 413/825 Ocean Avenue. I stand in full support of Mayor Negrete’s efforts to make Santa Monica a model for both compassionate care and transparent governance. Los Angeles County should not be driving decisions that impact all of our communities without accountability, and thus, we simultaneously call on Third District LA County Supervisor Lindsay Horvath to intervene – to both pause funding for these projects and support Mayor Negrete’s detailed request. To that end, please work with our community and the County to immediately pause the opening of the unlocked mental illness facilities at 413/825 Ocean Ave.

Sincerely,
Noah Gigliotti
216 Georgina
Santa Monica, CA 90402
646-244-0145
[email protected]
cc: LA County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, Third District Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1445 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 58 Mitchell Kois
From: Cara Valentini <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:52 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Caroline Torosis; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; [email protected] Subject: Support for Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16 and a Request to Delay Opening of Facilities for the Unhoused with Severe Mental Crises at 413/825 Ocean Ave

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, As a Santa Monica resident and parent of a child in Santa Monica schools, I am writing in support of Mayor Negrete, who has brought to light the non-transparent nature in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill were approved near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request a suspension of the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave until all six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo are complete and publicly posted, particularly Item #6, which asks for a citywide comprehensive and transparent site review process for such facilities.

I fully support providing compassionate care for those with mental illness. But we should ensure that care is delivered responsibly, safely, cost effectively, and with dignity for all. The Mayor’s call for coordination between the City, Los Angeles County, and nonprofit providers ensures that these projects will be guided by expertise, empathy, and accountability. The community should be viewed as partners in this endeavor, to help all parties achieve the outcomes that benefit the wellbeing of all, which is one of the stated mission in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan.

This issue has citywide implications, as it demonstrates that our city lacks a process to expend taxpayer funds in compliance with state law and the spirit of our City’s Strategic Plan on Homelessness, which require community and professional involvement at every stage. These provisions are designed to guarantee that the voices of those with lived experience of mental illness, along with residents, local businesses, and first responders, are all heard, respected, and accounted for – particularly as our city faces significant financial shortfalls.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1446 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 59 I stand in full support of Mayor Negrete’s efforts to make Santa Monica a model for both compassionate care and transparent governance. Los Angeles County should not be driving decisions that impact all of our communities without accountability, and thus, we simultaneously call on Third District LA County Supervisor Lindsay Horvath to intervene – to both pause funding for these projects and support Mayor Negrete’s detailed request.

Sincerely,
Cara Valentini
Santa Monica - North of Montana
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1447 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 60 Mitchell Kois
From: Tim Tareco <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:49 AM
To: [email protected]; Barry Snell; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis
Cc: Lana Negrete; councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox
Subject: Support for Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16 and a Request to Delay Opening of Facilities for the Unhoused with Severe Mental Crises at 413/825 Ocean Ave

EXTERNAL
October, 13, 2025
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Dear Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express my sincerest support for Mayor Negrete who has singlehandedly brought to light the non-transparent nature in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill were approved near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)).

I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request a suspension of the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave until all six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo are complete and publicly posted, particularly Item #6, which asks for a citywide comprehensive and transparent site review process for such facilities.

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1448 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 61 compassion is matched by competence in every single neighborhood across this city. This approach strengthens our collective ability to help people heal, stabilize, and reintegrate into the community.

Sincerely,
Tim Tareco
201 Ocean Avenue
Unit 1503B
Santa Monica, CA 90402
917.576.7791
cc: Third District Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1449 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 62 Mitchell Kois
From: Tim Tareco <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:49 AM
To: [email protected]
Cc: Barry Snell; [email protected]; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox Subject: Request to Suspend Approval and Funding of Facilities 413 & 825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica, CA Due to Noncompliance with State Law and City Plans

EXTERNAL
Oct 13, 2025
The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor
Third District 500 West Temple Street
Room 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Dear Supervisor Horvath,
I am writing to express my deep concern and disappointment over the manner in which your office and the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health advanced funding and approvals for the voluntary entry/exit facilities at 413 and 825 Ocean Avenue for the unhoused and severely mentally ill without prior public notice or community engagement.

While your office and St. Joseph Center’s newly released FAQ attempts to assure the public that the site will provide “24/7 staffing” and “enhanced security,” it is evident there is no coordinated plan to provide safety beyond the walls of these facilities, as discussed at the October 9th Town Hall, where your office, Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1450 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 63 the LA County DMH, and St. Joseph’s presented. Transparency after the fact is not transparency—it’s damage control.

In addition, on page 5 of the City of Santa Monica’s Homelessness Strategic Plan one of the first stated values of the plan is to be transparent. I quote: “Transparent. We strive to communicate clearly and openly, sharing our intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed as we have outlined.

Sincerely,
Tim Tareco
201 Ocean Avenue
Unit 1503B
Santa Monica, CA 90402
917.576.7791
cc:

City of Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete
City Council Members, City of Santa Monica
Oliver Chi, City Manager, City of Santa Monica
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1451 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 64 Mitchell Kois
From: sara moreno <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:48 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; [email protected] Subject: Support for Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16 and a Request to Delay Opening of Facilities for the Unhoused with Severe Mental Crises at 413/825 Ocean Ave

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express my sincerest support for Mayor Negrete who has singlehandedly brought to light the non-transparent nature in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill were approved near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). I firmly stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request a suspension of the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave until all six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo are complete and publicly posted, particularly Item #6, which asks for a citywide comprehensive and transparent site review process for such facilities.

Sincerely,
Sara C. Moreno
[email protected]
610-613-1792
Get Outlook for iOS
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1452 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 65 Mitchell Kois
From: Benjamin Kacev <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:47 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for Bridge Housing at 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

EXTERNAL
October 13, 2025
The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District
500 West Temple Street, Room 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
The Honorable Members City Council
City of Santa Monica
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
[Sent via email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]]
RE: Request to Pause Approvals for Bridge Housing at 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework
I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at these projects, which allow for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation.

Thank you, in advance, for prioritizing our safety.

Sunlight is said to be the best of disinfectants
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1453 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 66 BENJAMIN KACEV, A.P.C.
e: [email protected]
*****************************************************************************************************************************************************The information contained in this e-mail message is intended only for the personal and confidential use of the recipient(s) named above. This message may be an attorney-client communication and/or work product and as such is privileged and confidential. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an agent responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you have received this document in error and that any review, dissemination, distribution, or copying of this message is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by e-mail, and delete the original message
Any tax advice contained in this communication is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of avoiding tax penalties and is not intended to be used or referred to in promoting, marketing or recommending a partnership or other entity, investment plan or arrangement.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1454 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 67 Mitchell Kois
From: Oda Evjen Gjøvåg <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:45 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Item 16-Negrete

EXTERNAL
Oct 13, 2025
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
[Sent via email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]]
RE: Support for Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16 and a Request to Delay Opening of Facilities for the Unhoused with Severe Mental Crises at 413/825 Ocean Ave Dear Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express my sincerest support for Mayor Negrete who has singlehandedly brought to light the non-transparent nature in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill were approved near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request a suspension of the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave until all six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo are complete and publicly posted, particularly Item #6, which asks for a citywide comprehensive and transparent site review process for such facilities.

I stand in full support of Mayor Negrete’s efforts to make Santa Monica a model for both Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1455 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 68 compassionate care and transparent governance. Los Angeles County should not be driving decisions that impact all of our communities without accountability, and thus, we simultaneously call on Third District LA County Supervisor Lindsay Horvath to intervene – to both pause funding for these projects and support Mayor Negrete’s detailed request.

Sincerely,
Oda Evjen Gjovag
937 3rd St, 101, Santa Monica CA 90403
cc: Third District Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1456 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 69 Mitchell Kois
From: Kyle Wheeler <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:45 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

RE: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework
Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi:

I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo
(https://santamonicacityca.iqm2.com/Citizens/FileOpen.aspx?Type=4&ID=19244&MeetingID=1454).

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the entire city and county. While this letter appears to only be relevant to the two addresses above, this issue has citywide implications as it demonstrates that our county and city lack a process to expend taxpayer funds in compliance with state law and the spirit of our City’s Strategic Plan on Homelessness, which require community and professional involvement at every stage. These provisions are designed to Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1457 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 70 guarantee that the voices of those with lived experience of mental illness, along with residents, local businesses, and first responders, are all heard with a mission for success – particularly as our city faces significant financial shortfalls.

Sincerely,
Kyle Wheeler
(North of Montana neighborhood resident)
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1458 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 71 Mitchell Kois
From: Shayda Kulla-Mader <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:45 AM
To: [email protected]; Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete Cc: Natalya Zernitskaya; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell Subject: RE: Support for Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16 and a Request to Delay Opening of Facilities for the Unhoused with Severe Mental Crises at 413/825 Ocean Ave

EXTERNAL
October 13, 2025
Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
RE: Support for Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16 and a Request to Delay Opening of Facilities for the Unhoused with Severe Mental Crises at 413/825 Ocean Ave Dear Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express my sincerest support for Mayor Negrete who has singlehandedly brought
to light the non-transparent nature in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill were approved near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses,
stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). I
stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request a suspension of the facilities at 413 Ocean
Ave and 825 Ocean Ave until all six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo are complete and
publicly posted, particularly Item #6, which asks for a citywide comprehensive and transparent site review process for such facilities.

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1459 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 72 compliance with state law and the spirit of our City’s Strategic Plan on Homelessness, which require community and professional involvement at every stage. These provisions are designed
to guarantee that the voices of those with lived experience of mental illness, along with residents,
local businesses, and first responders, are all heard, respected, and accounted for – particularly as
our city faces significant financial shortfalls.

The issue is not about opposing care—it is about ensuring that care is delivered responsibly, safely, cost effectively, and with dignity for all. The Mayor’s call for coordination between the
City, Los Angeles County, and nonprofit providers ensures that these projects will be guided by
expertise, empathy, and accountability. The community should be viewed as partners in this endeavor, to help all parties achieve the outcomes that benefit the wellbeing of all, which is one
of the stated mission in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan.By calling for clarity on zoning, transparency in developer practices, and robust public outreach, Mayor Negrete is not creating barriers to progress—she is building trust, ensuring that our city’s
compassion is matched by competence in every single neighborhood across this city. This approach strengthens our collective ability to help people heal, stabilize, and reintegrate into the
community.

Her leadership reminds us that compassion and accountability are not opposing values, they are
inseparable. A community that truly cares about its most vulnerable must also care deeply about
how decisions are made, how funds are spent, and how every stakeholder is treated.

I stand in full support of Mayor Negrete’s efforts to make Santa Monica a model for both compassionate care and transparent governance. Los Angeles County should not be driving decisions that impact all of our communities without accountability, and thus, we simultaneously
call on Third District LA County Supervisor Lindsay Horvath to intervene – to both pause funding for these projects and support Mayor Negrete’s detailed request.

In conclusion, we respectfully request your support for all six requests in Mayor Negrete’s memo
and pause the opening of the facilities at 413 and 825 Ocean until all the analyses are posted and
shared with the public. Thank you for your service to our city and for considering this important
item.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1460 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 73 Sincerely,
Shayda Kulla-Mader
NOMA ; 9th Street and Alta
[email protected]
cc: Third District Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1461 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 74 Mitchell Kois
From: Sharon Carlsen <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:42 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16-Negrete

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers and Neighborhood Representatives, I am writing to oppose locating a mentalhealth supportive housing facility at 413 Ocean Avenue. As someone who lives at 115 Marguerita, I will share an alley with this facility which I believe will put me and others in our neighborhood at serious risk. We already have enough trouble in this neighborhood with homeless people showing up at all hours in the alley, using the outside faucets in the middle of the night, and rummaging around.

There have been numerous incidents which have already made the neighborhood so much less safe than it has ever been.

I agree that we need to find homes for the homeless and find a way to treat their mental illnesses and drug addiction problems, but not in the heart of a neighborhood with so many elderly and single people who are doing their best to stay safe already.

Please take action immediately to keep this from happening, before it’s too late to prevent problems.

I ask that you record my opposition in the official file, confirm receipt, and notify me of any hearings.

Thank you. Best,
Sharon Carlsen
424.252.9247 office
206.979.1844 cell phone
[email protected]
www.sharoncarlsen.com
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1462 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 75 Mitchell Kois
From: Ben Grabow <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:42 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Council Mailbox
Subject: Item 16B - Negrete

EXTERNAL
Dear Council,
I oppose Item 16B-Negrete and the 49-bed facility at 413 & 825 Ocean Ave. This was approved without community input and should be paused for proper review.

Thank you,
Ben Grabow
Santa Monica resident
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1463 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 76 Mitchell Kois
From: avery s <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:41 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica

EXTERNAL
October 13, 2025
The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District
500 West Temple Street, Room 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
[Sent via email: mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; [email protected]] RE: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo (https://santamonicacityca.iqm2.com/Citizens/FileOpen.aspx?Type=4&ID=19244&MeetingID=1454).

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the entire city and county.

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1464 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 77 Plan. The County and City must work collaboratively with stakeholders across our entire city – including those from Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and the Palisades Park Community – to ensure transparency, collaboration, and accountability.

Sincerely,
Avery Son
313 Alta Ave, Santa Monica
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1465 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 78 Mitchell Kois
From: Brittney Nichole <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:41 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; [email protected]; Lana Negrete Subject: Re: Request to Suspend Approval and Funding of Facilities 413 & 825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica, CA Due to Noncompliance with State Law and City Plans

EXTERNAL
Re: Request to Suspend Approval and Funding of Facilities 413 & 825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica, CA Due to Noncompliance with State Law and City Plans
Dear Supervisor Horvath,
I am writing to express my deep concern and disappointment over the manner in which your office and the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health advanced funding and approvals for the voluntary entry/exit facilities at 413 and 825 Ocean Avenue for the unhoused and severely mentally ill without prior public notice or community engagement.

In addition, on page 5 of the City of Santa Monica’s Homelessness Strategic Plan one of the first stated values of the plan is to be transparent. I quote:
“Transparent. We strive to communicate clearly and openly, sharing our intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed as we have outlined.

Sincerely,
Brittney Ben Moshe
1029 Yale Street
[email protected]
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1466 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 79 Mitchell Kois
From: Pranav Ramanathan <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:37 AM
To: Council Mailbox
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Request to delay opening of proposed mental health facilities with Voluntary Entry / Exit Procedures at 413/825 Ocean Ave Per Item 16-B

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete, City Manager Chi, and Honorable Members of the City Council,

I am writing to strongly urge you to support item 16B and our legal, due process rights under SB326.

The Good Neighbor Policy requirement (via SB326) was not followed and is a clear violation of our due process rights.

St. Joseph’s also shared a timeline that implicated city staff and at least 3 Council members, all who were informed of the project since February and provided no community outreach, further violating our rights.

Furthermore, I am concerned to have learned from St. Joseph’s that individuals in this shelter will not be subject to drug testing or complete background checks, yet they will be permitted to exit and enter the facility and community freely during the day. This poses significant risks to our community, especially given the proximity of schools, community parks and local residents. Additionally, it was suggested that others looking for homeless services would benefit from outreach being conducted in the surrounding area, effectively putting more homeless, mentally ill and drug addicts in the neighborhood. You are not simply housing 49 people; you are a beacon to everyone looking for homeless services.

Personally, I would like to highlight that the elementary school my children attend, Carlthorp School, is located just 0.3 miles from the planned shelter location. In addition to Carlthorp, there are multiple other preschools and elementary schools in close proximity, educating thousands of elementary-aged students. The potential impact on the safety and well-being of these children and staff members cannot be overstated. It is illegal for anyone on the sex registry to live within a mile of a school and yet you will be placing nearly 50 seriously mentally ill individuals less than 1/3 of a mile from our school and your suggested background check process is not measurable or complete.

It is clear your security plan beyond the shelter is inadequate. The reputation of your owner and “partner” in this facility was highlighted in this LA Times article from last year and details serious safety concerns surrounding another one his projects: https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.latimes.com/homelesshousing/story/2024-11-05/new-owner-cuts-security-janitors-at-skid-row-homeless-housing-as-tenants-fearworseningItem 16-B October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1467 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 80 conditions__;!!AbgBjg!zXkFh5Sm194ZEbXoeAu3BO0oTRYHmO0s51FELOHdXKrFBOuOI_vCwcwtmap0JR1d cmTDv04Gf7mwZlTx-RMz$

Simply accepting the risk and responsibility for approving this location is not acceptable. The introduction of such a facility without consideration of our legal, due process rights is dangerous.

It is your responsibility to prioritize the safety of your current community members, especially the many children who attend the impacted schools.

Protect our children, vote yes for item 16B to support transparency and our due process rights.

I look forward to your response and or support for item 16B.

Sincerely,
Pranav Ramanathan
1014 Amherst Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90049
Carlthorp School Parent
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1468 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 81 Mitchell Kois
From: Roman Wroclawski <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:38 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: RE: Item 16B Support for Negrete

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
I am writing to strongly urge you to support item 16B and our legal, due process rights under SB326.

The Good Neighbor Policy requirement (via SB326) was not followed and is a clear violation of our due process rights.

The first public discussion on this topic took place Thursday, October 9th during a NOMA informational zoom meeting. However, it was clear the intention of St. Joseph’s and LA County was to open the facility illegally and without notice, community input. More so, fully formed operational policies or adequate safety measures to protect the surrounding neighborhood were not and have not been presented or accepted.

Furthermore, I am concerned to have learned from St. Joseph’s that individuals in this shelter will not be subject to drug testing or complete background checks, yet they will be permitted to exit and enter the facility and community freely during the day. This poses significant risks to our community, especially given the proximity of THREE elementary schools, community parks and local residents. Additionally, it was suggested that others looking for homeless services would benefit from outreach being conducted in the surrounding area, effectively putting more homeless, mentally ill and drug addicts in the neighborhood. You are not simply housing 49 people, you are a beacon to everyone looking for homeless services.

It is clear your security plan beyond the shelter is not complete or adequate. The reputation of your owner and “partner” in this facility has been questioned due to questionable actions/decisions operating similar facilities.

Simply accepting the risk and responsibility for approving this location is not acceptable. The introduction of such a facility without consideration of our legal, due process rights is dangerous.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1469 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 82 It is your responsibility to prioritize the safety of your current community members, especially the many children who attend the impacted schools.

Protect our neighborhood, vote yes for item 16B to support transparency and our due process rights.

I look forward to your response and or support for item 16B.

Sincerely,
Roman Wroclawski
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1470 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 83 Mitchell Kois
From: Gabrielle Rashbaum <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:37 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16B - Negrete

EXTERNAL
Dear Council,
I oppose Item 16B-Negrete and the 49-bed facility at 413 & 825 Ocean Ave. This was approved without community input and should be paused for proper review.

Thank you,
Gabrielle Rashbaum
Santa Monica resident
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1471 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 84 Mitchell Kois
From: Michael Kianmahd <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:37 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Urgent - 413 + 825 Ocean Ave

EXTERNAL
October 13, 2025
The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District
500 West Temple Street, Room 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
RE: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework
Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo (https://santamonicacityca.iqm2.com/Citizens/FileOpen.aspx?Type=4&ID=19244&MeetingID=1454).

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1472 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 85 The County should not be able to fund and approve facilities in our city without following proper notification and input required, per state law. The community should be viewed as partners in this endeavor, to help all parties achieve the outcomes that benefit the wellbeing of all, which is one of the stated missions in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan. The County and City must work collaboratively with stakeholders across our entire city – including those from Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and the Palisades Park Community – to ensure transparency, collaboration, and accountability.

Sincerely,
Michael Kianmahd
North of Montana - City of Santa Monica, CA
310.428.8939
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1473 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 86 Mitchell Kois
From: Adam Rashbaum <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:37 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16B - Negrete

EXTERNAL
Dear Council -
I oppose Item 16B-Negrete and the 49-bed facility at 413 & 825 Ocean Ave. This was approved without community input and should be paused for proper review.

Thank you,
Adam Rashbaum
Santa Monica resident
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1474 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 87 Mitchell Kois
From: Melanie Grabow <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:37 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16B - Negrete

EXTERNAL
Dear Council,
I oppose Item 16B-Negrete and the 49-bed facility at 413 & 825 Ocean Ave. This was approved without community input and should be paused for proper review.

Thank you,
Melanie Grabow
Santa Monica resident
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1475 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 88 Mitchell Kois
From: Pollick, Josh <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:35 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

EXTERNAL
October 13, 2025
The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District
500 West Temple Street, Room 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
[Sent via email: mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; [email protected]] RE: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health FaciliƟes 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am wriƟng to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two faciliƟes for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder noƟficaƟon, or community input per Welfare & InsƟtuƟons Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the faciliƟes at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public parƟcipaƟon, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo (hƩps://urldefense.com/v3/__hƩps://santamonicacityca.iqm2.com/CiƟzens/FileOpen.aspx?Type=4&ID=19244&MeeƟng ID=1454__;!!OfuUnHCITYtmmjM!o_dLfOZtmScbXWCZomeohc98fdupHcxKn-eE1g31zV4kv2u9Rq1- Hgy3FNCggZt9V9GL72Kl7sB9yFULODbtEz0b7-jv$ ).

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the enƟre city and county.

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1476 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 89 with residents, local businesses, and first responders, are all heard with a mission for success – parƟcularly as our city faces significant financial shorƞalls.

The County should not be able to fund and approve faciliƟes in our city without following proper noƟficaƟon and input required, per state law. The community should be viewed as partners in this endeavor, to help all parƟes achieve the outcomes that benefit the wellbeing of all, which is one of the stated missions in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan.

In conclusion, we respecƞully request that you pause the opening of the faciliƟes at 413 and 825 Ocean, reopen the approvals and analysis of these projects, and support the compleƟon of all six points in Mayor Negrete’s memo associated with Item 16-B. Thank you to Mayor Negrete for bringing this important issue to our aƩenƟon, and to all of you for your service to our city and for considering this important item.

Sincerely,
Josh Pollick
Santa Monica
NOTICE TO RECIPIENT | This e-mail is meant for only the intended recipient of the transmission, and may be a communicaƟon privileged by law. If you received this e-mail in error, any review, use, disseminaƟon, distribuƟon, or copying of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. Please noƟfy us immediately of the error by return e-mail and please delete this message from your system. Thank you in advance for your cooperaƟon.

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Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1477 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 90 Mitchell Kois
From: Hank Ridless <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:32 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

EXTERNAL
The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District
500 West Temple Street, Room 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
RE: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework
Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo.

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1478 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 91 endeavor, to help all parties achieve the outcomes that benefit the wellbeing of all, which is one of the stated missions in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan. The County and City must work collaboratively with stakeholders across our entire city – including those from Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and the Palisades Park Community – to ensure transparency, collaboration, and accountability.

Sincerely,
Kimberly Demmy & Hank Ridless
Santa Monica Canyon
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1479 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 92 Mitchell Kois
From: Roger Allers <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:31 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

EXTERNAL
October 13, 2025
The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District
500 West Temple Street, Room 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 9040
RE: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework
Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo.

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the entire city and county.

Sincerely,
Roger Allers & Genaro Pereira
44 Haldeman Rd, Santa Monica, CA 90402
[email protected], [email protected]
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1480 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 93 Mitchell Kois
From: ROBERT SHIRI <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:29 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Barry Snell; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

EXTERNAL
Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am wriƟng to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two faciliƟes for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder noƟficaƟon, or community input per Welfare & InsƟtuƟons Code §5604.2(a)(4)).

According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the faciliƟes at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public parƟcipaƟon, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo (hƩps://urldefense.com/v3/__hƩps://santamonicacityca.iqm2.com/CiƟzens/FileOpen.aspx?Type=4&ID=19244&MeeƟng ID=1454__;!!OfuUnHCITYtmmjM!ry0pGuQb3tDEDq7klEVHqlpb06N1y1XE_HhM49Q9vjDKLAOLlnnFXOdCiCpdUPgsPpNiYiJ Yu2HGhnkSrzdkQPs$ ).

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the enƟre city and county.

Sincerely,
Robert Shiri
90403
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1481 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 94 Mitchell Kois
From: Sienna Lee <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:28 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; [email protected] Cc: [email protected]
Subject: URGENT | RE: 413/825 Ocean Ave

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am a mother of two young children (2.5 yrs and 7.5 yrs) and a local resident of Santa Monica. I often enjoy evening walks with my sons along Ocean Ave and walk by 413 & 825 Ocean ave regularly. My older son attends Carlthorp school, and my toddler scooters and walks along Ocean Ave daily. I'm writing to express my sincerest support for Mayor Negrete who has single handedly brought to light the nontransparent nature in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill were approved near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request a suspension of the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave until all six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo are complete and publicly posted, particularly Item #6, which asks for a citywide comprehensive and transparent site review process for such facilities.

In conclusion, we respectfully request your support for all six requests in Mayor Negrete’s memo and Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1482 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 95 pause the opening of the facilities at 413 and 825 Ocean until all the analyses are posted and shared with the public. Thank you for your service to our city and for considering this important item.

Sincerely,
Sienna Lee
330 7th Street
Santa Monica, CA 90402
917.940.5890
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1483 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 96 Mitchell Kois
From: Patty Borden <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:27 AM
To: Ken Borden
Cc: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Suspend Approval and Funding of Facilities 413 & 825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica, CA Due to Noncompliance with State Law and City Plans

While your office and St. Joseph Center’s newly released FAQ attempts to assure the public that the site will provide “24/7 staffing” and “enhanced security,” it is evident there is no coordinated plan to provide safety beyond the walls of these facilities, as discussed at the October 9th Town Hall, where your office, the LA Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1484 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 97 County DMH, and St. Joseph’s presented. Transparency after the fact is not transparency—it’s damage control.

In addition, on page 5 of the City of Santa Monica’s Homelessness Strategic Plan one of the first stated values of the plan is to be transparent. I quote: “Transparent.

We strive to communicate clearly and openly, sharing our intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed as we have outlined.

Sincerely,
Patricia Borden
958 18th St, unit 2
Santa Monica, CA 90403
cc:City of Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete
City Council Members, City of Santa Monica
Oliver Chi, City Manager, City of Santa Monica
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1485 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 98 Mitchell Kois
From: Ann Bash <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:26 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1486 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 99 Thank you
Ann Bash
Santa Monica Resident
310.941.8622
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1487 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 100
Mitchell Kois
From: Alyse Levine <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:25 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

Sincerely,
Alyse Zaczepinski
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1488 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 101
Alyse Levine MS, RD
Nutritionbite LLC
2500 Broadway Ave
Building F, Suite F-125
Santa Monica, CA 90404
(T) 310-526-7872
(F) 310-564-0399
alyselevine.com / eatingreset.com
[email protected]
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1489 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 102
Mitchell Kois
From: Ken Borden <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:24 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Suspend Approval and Funding of Facilities 413 & 825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica, CA Due to Noncompliance with State Law and City Plans

Residents were blindsided, left to discover this project through rumor rather than proper notification. This was not a clerical error—it was a profound failure of transparency.

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1490 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 103
community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed as we have outlined.

You owe this community an explanation and must put a pause to the opening of these facilities until proper due diligence is completed in a public forum that is in compliance withthe law.

Sincerely,
Ken Borden
958 18th St, unit 2
Santa Monica, CA 90403
cc:City of Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete
City Council Members, City of Santa Monica
Oliver Chi, City Manager, City of Santa Monica
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1491 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 104
Mitchell Kois
From: GERRY OWEN <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:23 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16B-Negrete

EXTERNAL
We oppose placing this proposed mental health facility on Ocean Avenue. As mental health professionals, we understand all too well the need for such faciliƟes! Yet, the locaƟon of this facility seems injurious to both the individuals who would be served and to the City of Santa Monica. Those served would be viewed with suspicion and perhaps harassed while such placement would strain the city’s already difficult financial situaƟon and possibly trigger more problemaƟc lawsuits.

Linda Owen and Gerry Owen
LongƟme Santa Monica residents, and licensed mental health professionals.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1492 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 105
Mitchell Kois
From: Dara Davis Beer <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:21 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1493 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 106
Mayor Negrete’s memo associated with Item 16-B. Thank you to Mayor Negrete for bringing this important issue to our attention, and to all of you for your service to our city and for considering this important item.

Sincerely,
Dara Beer
--
Dara Davis Beer

Shop Drop Concierge

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Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1494 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 107
Mitchell Kois
From: Jenna Wells <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:19 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Re: Request to Suspend Approval and Funding of Facilities 413 & 825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica, CA Due to Noncompliance with State Law and City Plans

EXTERNAL
Monday October 13, 2025

The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District
500 West Temple Street, Room 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Dear Supervisor Horvath,
I am writing to express my deep concern and disappointment over the manner in which your office and the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health advanced funding and approvals for the voluntary entry/exit facilities at 413 and 825 Ocean Avenue for the unhoused and severely mentally ill without prior public notice or community engagement.

The Mayor’s memo further highlights that the County and its nonprofit partners neglected to comply with Welfare and Institutions Code Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1495 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 108
§5604.2(a)(4), which explicitly requires citizen and professional involvement at all stages of the planning process. That includes residents, local businesses, schools, and those directly impacted by such facilities. None of these stakeholders were given that opportunity.

In addition, on page 5 of the City of Santa Monica’s Homelessness Strategic Plan one of the first stated values of the plan is to be transparent. I quote: “Transparent. We strive to communicate clearly and openly, sharing our intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed as we have outlined.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1496 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 109
We urge you to pause the opening of the mental health facilities at 413 Ocean Avenue and 825 Ocean Avenue, and launch an
investigation into the approach that was taken to approve these facilities, vendors, and sites until a full review is conducted with full transparency and meaningful public engagement.

Sincerely,
Jenna Wells
1117 Stanford Street
cc: City of Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete
City Council Members, City of Santa Monica
Oliver Chi, City Manager, City of Santa Monica
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1497 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 110
Mitchell Kois
From: Sarah McKaig <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:18 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Item 16B

EXTERNAL
October 13, 2025
The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District
500 West Temple Street, Room 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
RE: Request to Pause Approvals for the Bridge Housing Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework
Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). I live on the same block as one of these sites, and as the mother of an elementary school child, a number of issues concern me: According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at these facilities, which allow for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo.

All state funds for this project are awarded and administered by the County of Los Angeles, and therefore the County must ensure full compliance with all applicable state laws, including requirements for transparency, community engagement, and public oversight. Therefore, the County should not be able to fund and approve facilities in our city without following proper notification and input required, per state law. The community should be viewed as partners in this endeavor, to help all parties achieve the outcomes that benefit the wellbeing of all, which is one of the stated missions in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan. The County and City must work collaboratively with stakeholders across our entire city – including those from Sunset Park, Pico Neighborhood, and the Palisades Park Community – to ensure transparency, collaboration, and accountability.

In conclusion, I respectfully request that you pause the opening of the facilities at 413 and 825 Ocean, reopen the approvals and analysis of these projects, and support the completion of all six points in Mayor Negrete’s memo associated with Item 16-B. Thank you to Mayor Negrete for bringing this important issue to our attention, and to all of you for your service to our city and for considering this important item.

Sincerely,
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1498 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 111
Sarah McKaig
101 Marguerita Ave, Unit A
Santa Monica, CA 90402
[email protected]
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1499 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 112
Mitchell Kois
From: Courtney Wacht <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:17 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Suspend Approval and Funding of Facilities 413 & 825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica, CA Due to Noncompliance with State Law and City Plans

Residents were blindsided, left to discover this project through rumor rather than proper notification. This was not a clerical error—it was a profound failure of transparency.

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1500 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 113
community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed as we have outlined.

You owe this community an explanation and must put a pause to the opening of these facilities until proper due diligence is completed in a public forum that is in compliance withthe law.

Sincerely,
Courtney Wacht
1018 Yale Street, Santa Monica, Ca 90403
310-714-9964
cc:City of Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete
City Council Members, City of Santa Monica
Oliver Chi, City Manager, City of Santa Monica
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1501 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 114
Mitchell Kois
From: AW <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:15 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

EXTERNAL
> Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, >
>
> I am wriƟng to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two faciliƟes for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder noƟficaƟon, or community input per Welfare & InsƟtuƟons Code §5604.2(a)(4)).

According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the faciliƟes at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public parƟcipaƟon, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo (hƩps://urldefense.com/v3/__hƩps://santamonicacityca.iqm2.com/CiƟzens/FileOpen.aspx?Type=4&ID=19244&MeeƟng ID=1454__;!!OfuUnHCITYtmmjM!qTvbxKDqHvxJfDSUnvtDBdFfTNSBhzoLHOhrmDW0XZjs3lktCgbrT6VlPkDAVlNXSw7Em9 V343ox6KLWEJYzHPkZ$ ).
>
> Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the enƟre city and county.

While this leƩer appears to only be relevant to the two addresses above, this issue has citywide implicaƟons as it demonstrates that our county and city lack a process to expend taxpayer funds in compliance with state law and the spirit of our City’s Strategic Plan on Homelessness, which require community and professional involvement at every stage. These provisions are designed to guarantee that the voices of those with lived experience of mental illness, along with residents, local businesses, and first responders, are all heard with a mission for success – parƟcularly as our city faces significant financial shorƞalls.
>
> The County should not be able to fund and approve faciliƟes in our city without following proper noƟficaƟon and input required, per state law. The community should be viewed as partners in this endeavor, to help all parƟes achieve the outcomes that benefit the wellbeing of all, which is one of the stated missions in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan.

The County and City must work collaboraƟvely with stakeholders across our enƟre city – including those from Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and the Palisades Park Community – to ensure transparency, collaboraƟon, and accountability. >
> In conclusion, we respecƞully request that you pause the opening of the faciliƟes at 413 and 825 Ocean, reopen the approvals and analysis of these projects, and support the compleƟon of all six points in Mayor Negrete’s memo associated with Item 16-B. Thank you to Mayor Negrete for bringing this important issue to our aƩenƟon, and to all of you for your service to our city and for considering this important item. >
> Allison Wise
> 1602 Georgina Avenue
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1502 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 115
> Sent from my iPhone
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1503 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 116
Mitchell Kois
From: linda and hanan Rybak <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:15 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

EXTERNAL
The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District
500 West Temple Street, Room 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
[Sent via email: mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; mailto:[email protected]; [email protected]] RE: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health FaciliƟes 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am wriƟng to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two faciliƟes for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder noƟficaƟon, or community input per Welfare & InsƟtuƟons Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the faciliƟes at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public parƟcipaƟon, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo (hƩps://urldefense.com/v3/__hƩps://santamonicacityca.iqm2.com/CiƟzens/FileOpen.aspx?Type=4&ID=19244&MeeƟng ID=1454__;!!OfuUnHCITYtmmjM!qrfE8i2P2hOCcVsHsJn9fJjSlvEbLedgK66HGnD1fVhV4Afl8kzibzT5sXmZo4MwRwfQJdVA mLDrVpqjOh305mhxmpPffA$ ).

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the enƟre city and county.

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1504 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 117
with residents, local businesses, and first responders, are all heard with a mission for success – parƟcularly as our city faces significant financial shorƞalls.

Sincerely,
Linda Rybak
Santa Monica Resident
Sent from my iPhone
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1505 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 118
Mitchell Kois
From: Allison de Neufville <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:14 AM
To: councilmtgitems

According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the faciliƟes at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public parƟcipaƟon, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo (hƩps://urldefense.com/v3/__hƩps://santamonicacityca.iqm2.com/CiƟzens/FileOpen.aspx?Type=4&ID=19244&MeeƟng ID=1454__;!!OfuUnHCITYtmmjM!vrHHC7XLB-QH-S3QCkpv5bAElOG_U2Jwj5rtcVcRTT0d_GiI8Fe8XdgT01kBwGRGtmvIZXuJ7UJuo_SbGdbC3DKoprƩpgd3w$ ).

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the enƟre city and county.

Allison Wise
1602 Georgina Avenue
Sent from my iPhone
Sent from my iPhone
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1506 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 119
Mitchell Kois
From: Dale Pearson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:13 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 413 Ocean Ave

EXTERNAL
Absolutely not!!! Not a reputable developer and a terrible locaƟon for a shelter directly across from Palisades Park!

Sent from my iPhone
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1507 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 120
Mitchell Kois
From: Candice Hong <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:11 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the entire city and county.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1508 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 121
Sincerely,
Candice Hong/90403
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1509 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 122
Mitchell Kois
From: Beckys Gmail <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:11 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: RE: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the faciliƟes at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public parƟcipaƟon, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo (hƩps://urldefense.com/v3/__hƩps://santamonicacityca.iqm2.com/CiƟzens/FileOpen.aspx?Type=4&ID=19244&MeeƟng ID=1454__;!!OfuUnHCITYtmmjM!uv5KWVKSt3DIi1rIun9qZRdXZHNrY_H7LTLGFnvmRi44FCQ8zr5fg1BwoĬZPPz_O_bGOg U3p_wzzXIa-yTwPpMUO6soFe8$ ).

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the enƟre city and county.

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1510 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 123
spirit of our City’s Strategic Plan on Homelessness, which require community and professional involvement at every stage. These provisions are designed to guarantee that the voices of those with lived experience of mental illness, along with residents, local businesses, and first responders, are all heard with a mission for success – parƟcularly as our city faces significant financial shorƞalls.

Sincerely,
Becky Skalaski
Resident of 1027 21st St, Santa Monica
Sent from my iPhone
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1511 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 124
Mitchell Kois
From: Arik Kashper <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:09 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya
Subject: Support for Mayor Agenda item 16

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1512 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 125
Her leadership reminds us that compassion and accountability are not opposing values—they are inseparable. A community that truly cares about its most vulnerable must also care deeply about how decisions are made, how funds are spent, and how every stakeholder is treated.

Sincerely,
Arik Kashper
706 10th Street
Santa Monica, CA 90402
cc: Third District Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1513 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 126
Mitchell Kois
From: rebecca cooper <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:07 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Facilities at 413 and 825 Ocean

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the enƟre city and county.

Sincerely,
Rebecca Drew
2528 La Mesa Way
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1514 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 127
Mitchell Kois
From: Susanne Jacobson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:05 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo
(https://santamonicacityca.iqm2.com/Citizens/FileOpen.aspx?Type=4&ID=19244&MeetingID=1454).

The County should not be able to fund and approve facilities in our city without following proper Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1515 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 128
notification and input required, per state law. The community should be viewed as partners in this endeavor, to help all parties achieve the outcomes that benefit the wellbeing of all, which is one of the stated missions in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan. The County and City must work collaboratively with stakeholders across our entire city – including those from Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and the Palisades Park Community – to ensure transparency, collaboration, and accountability.

On a more personal note, it makes no sense to have an unlocked facility in this neighborhood. There are no stores, restaurants or anything else. Just neighbors and their families walking in and around Palisades Park. We are already firhggthed enough by the existing mentally ill homelss you camp out there. What does it serve to ruin a residential neighborhood by making it unsafe for the neighbors? Sincerely,
Susanne Jacobson
521 Montana Ave., #108
Santa Monica, CA 90403
--
Susanne Jacobson
310-720-5092
[email protected]
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1516 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 129
Mitchell Kois
From: Sophia Smith <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:04 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16-Negrete

EXTERNAL
City of Santa Monica Council,
I hope this message finds you well.

As a Santa Monica resident who works with children in the community, I’m writing to express my deep concern about the new behavioral health facilities planned for Ocean Avenue. I want to be clear: I strongly believe in meaningful reform and rehabilitation for our unhoused neighbors. Every person deserves the chance to heal, rebuild their lives, and reintegrate into society with dignity.

However, this can only happen if the proper structures of care are in place. Housing without adequate medical oversight, security, and therapeutic support risks failing both the individuals it aims to serve and the surrounding community. These facilities must include trained healthcare professionals, peaceful security measures, and clear accountability to ensure residents receive the treatment and stability they need to recover.

Equally important is transparency and democratic participation. Santa Monica residents deserve to be informed and included in decisions that so deeply affect the safety, well-being, and future of our neighborhood.

I urge your office to halt this project on Ocean Avenue until it can properly meet appropriate clinical, safety, and community engagement standards. This is not about exclusion — it’s about making sure this initiative truly works for everyone involved.

Thank you for your time and leadership on this important issue.

Sincerely,
Sophia Smith
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1517 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 130
Mitchell Kois
From: sheridan bentsons.net <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:00 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Request to Delay Opening of Proposed Mental Health Facilities with Voluntary Entry/Exit Procedures at 413/825 Ocean Ave Per Item 16-B
Attachments: City of SM - Item 16-B - Detailed Letter re Mayor's Memo.docx

EXTERNAL
Please see attached letter regarding my
Request to Delay Opening of Proposed Mental Health Facilities with Voluntary Entry/Exit Procedures at 413/825 Ocean Ave Per Item 16-B
Thank you
Sheridan Bentson
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1518 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) September 13, 2025
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
[Sent via email: [email protected]; [email protected]] RE: Request to Delay Opening of Proposed Mental Health Facilities with Voluntary Entry/Exit Procedures at 413/825 Ocean Ave Per Item 16-B Dear Mayor Negrete, City Manager Chi, and Honorable Members of the City Council, I am writing as a Santa Monica resident to express my concerns about the secretive negotiations between unnamed City Council Members, the City’s Housing and Human Services Department (HHS), the County Department of Mental Health (DMH) to fund – with taxpayer money – a 49-bed facility for the unhoused and several mentally ill. This project, according to the CEO of St. Joseph’s Center, was brought forward to the County only once a private developer who is currently suing the City of Santa Monica, sought out the County and St. Joseph’s to offer up his sites at 413 Ocean Avenue and 825 Ocean Avenue.

I write to also offer my heartfelt support and appreciation for Mayor Lana Negrete who is the only voice on the City Council who has been transparent and forthcoming with our community about these facilities and constructively outlining a way forward for the entire city to engage on such important funding decisions.

While residents of Santa Monica must notify their surrounding neighbors for a mere hedge modification or expansion of a school sports court, no courtesy was provided to the community on this project that has significant reverberations throughout the entire City. The secrecy in which this project was approved without any public notification, permitting requirements, or consideration of the surrounding community and its citywide financial burden is grossly negligent.

As such, we want to record our opposition to this project and provide full support for Item 16-B on the October 14, 2025 City Council agenda, corresponding to Mayor Negrete’s October 9, 2025 excellent and fair memorandum titled “Request for City Council Direction on Community Engagement, Zoning Clarity, and Accountability for LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects.” This proposal offers a thoughtful and balanced framework that promotes compassion and transparency while ensuring accountability, public safety, and community trust for the entire population of Santa Monica. While this project is specific to the community near Palisades Park, every single community in Santa Monica deserves notification and public input in any projects that affect their community, writ large. While it is this community today, it can be any community tomorrow.

We request the City and County work together to request a delay of the project at 413/825 Ocean Ave. until all of the items in 16-B have been discussed in public hearings and a new Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1519 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) analysis explaining the rationale behind this project, the alternative sites that were considered, and if the County made a decision that is in compliance with the needs defined by the City and its residents.

Specifically, as it relates to Item 16-B:

1. Comprehensive Outreach and Communication
We strongly support Direction #1, which calls for coordination between the City, LA County Department of Mental Health (DMH), St. Joseph Center, and the project developer to ensure robust outreach to residents and nearby businesses—including the numerous schools, hotels, small businesses, and other stakeholders along Ocean Avenue and its surrounding radius. Residents and local business owners deserve timely notice and a chance to understand project goals, operations, and impacts. Transparent engagement fosters cooperation rather than conflict and ensures that city decisions reflect both compassion and local input.

2. Compliance with Proposition 1 and the Good Neighbor Policy Direction #2 correctly emphasizes compliance with all state laws. These laws explicitly require citizen and professional involvement at all stages of the planning process (Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). Enforcing these mandates ensures that mental health projects are developed with appropriate compassion for affected communities with input from residents, law enforcement, educators, housing experts, business owners, and those with lived experience. This is fidelity to the law and the spirit of partnership that newly passed state requires.

4. Public Explanation of Land Use and Operational Standards Direction #4 calls for a clear public explanation of the legal basis that allows these facilities to operate without a discretionary City permit. Residents must understand the distinctions between a mental health facility, a transitional housing facility, an emergency shelter, and supportive housing—and how each is governed under City and State law. The Mayor’s proposed public communications strategy—including a dedicated FAQ webpage, hotline for concerns, and clear follow-up protocols—is precisely the kind of accessible, fact-based communication the community needs. The fact that no one has yet been able to access any public documentation regarding the process and application in which these facilities were approved and funded with taxpayer funds speaks to the lack of transparency the law requires.

5. Verification of Developer Qualifications and Financial Transparency Direction #5’s call for verification of the developer’s goals, operational record, legal standing, and compensation from LA County is essential for accountability. Residents have a right to know who is behind these projects, how public funds are being used, and whether any conflicts of interest or active litigation exist. This transparency builds confidence in both the City’s and County’s stewardship of public resources, and that site selection is driven by thoughtful due diligence, Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1520 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) published documentation, and needs analyses that demonstrate funding needs are matched to the highest and best use, instead of driven by calls from developers who are seeking subsidized operations while they seek entitlements.

6. Retrospective Review and Corrective Action
Direction #6 ensures that the entire City of Santa Monica benefits from a thoughtful approach to compassionate care. We must learn from past experience by reviewing similar projects in Sunset Park and the Pico Neighborhood. If community engagement was inadequate in earlier projects, the City should take corrective steps now—establishing consistent contact systems, feedback channels, and neighborhood support mechanisms. This proactive stance prevents repeated errors and strengthens long-term public trust. Given the City’s financial challenges with cut services, particularly in public safety, we must provide support to all affected services across the City that no department is overly burdened by County-driven decisions that silence City taxpayers.

Conclusion
The Mayor’s memo provides a clear roadmap toward a balanced approach—one that supports mental health initiatives while demanding accountability, transparency, and respect for Santa Monica residents. I respectfully urge the City Council to adopt all six directives in full and to hold LA County and its nonprofit partners to the highest standards of openness, compliance, and community collaboration.

In addition, on page 5 of the City of Santa Monica’s Homelessness Strategic Plan one of the first stated values of the plan is to be transparent. I quote: “Transparent. We strive to communicate clearly and openly, sharing our intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed in the case of 413/825 Ocean Avenue.

Thank you for your leadership in ensuring Santa Monica’s approach to mental health and homelessness remains both compassionate and responsible. To that end, please work with our community and the County to pause the opening of the unlocked mental illness facilities at 413/825 Ocean Ave.

Sincerely,
Sheridan Bentson
404 San Vicente Blvd. #101, Santa Monica CA 90402
[email protected]
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1521 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 131
Mitchell Kois
From: Brendan Beer <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:03 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Santa Monica Resident Opposed to Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave

According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo (https://santamonicacityca.iqm2.com/Citizens/FileOpen.aspx?Type=4&ID=19244&MeetingID=1454).

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1522 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 132
Sincerely,
Brendan and Dara Beer
Princeton St, Santa Monica
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1523 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 133
Mitchell Kois
From: Alan Leavitt <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:01 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Request to Delay Opening of Proposed Mental Health Facilities with Voluntary Entry/Exit Procedures at 413 & 825 Ocean Ave, Per Item 16-B
Importance: High

EXTERNAL
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
[Sent via
email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; Caroline.

[email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]]
RE: Request to Delay Opening of Proposed Mental Health Facilities with Voluntary Entry/Exit Procedures at 413 & 825 Ocean Ave, Per Item 16-B
Dear Mayor Negrete, City Manager Chi, and Honorable Members of the City Council, First off, I write to offer my heartfelt support and appreciation for Mayor Lana Negrete who has been a staunch supporter of every Santa Monican, as she seeks transparency for all our communities – both retrospectively and prospectively. In her memo associated with Item 16-B, she has constructively outlined a way forward for the entire city to engage on the important decisions surrounding the compassionate care of the city’s unhoused populations, and particularly those with severe mental health challenges.

In addition, I am writing as a Santa Monica resident to express my concerns about the secretive negotiations between unnamed City Council Members, the City’s Housing and Human Services Department (HHS), the County Department of Mental Health (DMH) to fund – with taxpayer money – a 49-bed facility for the unhoused and several mentally ill. This project, according to the CEO of St. Joseph’s Center, was brought forward to the County only once a private developer who is currently suing the City of Santa Monica, sought out the County and St. Joseph’s to offer up his sites at 413 Ocean Avenue and 825 Ocean Avenue. During a 10/9 Townhall organized by the North of Montana Association (NOMA), the LA County Department of Mental Health shared – for the first time with the community – that no background checks or sobriety requirements would be in place at these new facilities, and that those accepted at these facilities could voluntary enter and exit with no supervision plan beyond the facilities’ walls.

While those in Santa Monica must notify their surrounding neighbors for a mere hedge modification or expansion of a school sports court, no courtesy was provided to the community on this project that has significant reverberations throughout the entire City. The secrecy in which this project was approved without any public notification and its citywide financial/staffing burden is grossly negligent.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1524 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 134
As such, we want to record our opposition to this project and provide full support for Item 16-B on the October 14, 2025 City Council agenda, corresponding to Mayor Negrete’s October 9, 2025 excellent and fair memorandum titled “Request for City Council Direction on Community Engagement, Zoning Clarity, and Accountability for LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects.” This proposal offers a thoughtful and balanced framework that promotes compassion and transparency while ensuring accountability, public safety, and community trust for the entire population of Santa Monica. While this item is specific to one community currently, every single community in Santa Monica deserves notification and public input in any projects that affect their community, writ large. Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and Palisades Park have shown that while it is these communities today, it can be any neighborhood tomorrow.

We request the City and County work together to request a suspension of the project at 413/825 Ocean Ave. until all of the items in 16-B have been discussed in public hearings and a new analysis explaining the rationale behind this project, the alternative sites that were considered, and if the County made a decision that is in compliance with the needs defined by the City, its residents, and other stakeholders.

Specifically, as it relates to Item 16-B:

1. Comprehensive Outreach and Communication
We strongly support Direction #1, which calls for coordination between the City, LA County Department of Mental Health (DMH), St. Joseph Center, and the project developer to ensure robust outreach to residents and nearby businesses— including the numerous schools, hotels, small businesses, and other stakeholders along Ocean Avenue and its surrounding radius. Residents and local business owners deserve timely notice and a chance to understand project goals, operations, and impacts. Transparent engagement fosters cooperation rather than conflict and ensures that city decisions reflect both compassion and local input.

2. Compliance with Proposition 1 and the Good Neighbor Policy Direction #2 correctly emphasizes compliance with all state laws. These laws explicitly require citizen and professional involvement at all stages of the planning process (Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). Enforcing these mandates ensures that mental health projects are developed with appropriate compassion for affected communities with input from residents, law enforcement, educators, housing experts, business owners, and those with lived experience. This is fidelity to the law and the spirit of partnership that newly passed state law requires.

Every Santa Monican deserves to understand what are allowable uses for the buildings in their communities, particularly around communities that serve children and seniors.

4. Public Explanation of Land Use and Operational Standards Direction #4 calls for a clear public explanation of the legal basis that allows these facilities to operate without a discretionary City permit. Residents must understand the distinctions between a mental health facility, a transitional housing facility, an emergency shelter, and supportive housing—and how each is governed under City and State law. The Mayor’s proposed public communications strategy—including a dedicated FAQ webpage, hotline for concerns, and clear follow-up protocols— is precisely the kind of accessible, fact-based communication the community needs. The fact that no one has yet been able to access any public documentation regarding the process and application in which these facilities were approved and funded with taxpayer funds speaks to the lack of transparency the law requires.

5. Verification of Developer Qualifications and Financial Transparency Direction #5’s call for verification of the developer’s goals, operational record, legal standing, and compensation from LA County is essential for accountability. Residents have a right to know who is behind these projects, how public funds are being used, and whether any conflicts of interest or active litigation exist. This transparency builds confidence in both the City’s and County’s stewardship of public resources, and that site selection is driven by thoughtful due diligence, published documentation, and needs analyses that demonstrate funding needs are matched to the highest and best use, instead of driven by calls from developers who are seeking subsidized operations while they seek entitlements.

6. Retrospective Review and Corrective Action
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1525 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 135
Direction #6 ensures that the entire City of Santa Monica benefits from a thoughtful approach to compassionate care. We must learn from past experience by reviewing similar projects in Sunset Park and the Pico Neighborhood. If community engagement was inadequate in earlier projects, the City should take corrective steps now—establishing consistent contact systems, feedback channels, and neighborhood support mechanisms. This proactive stance prevents repeated errors and strengthens long-term public trust. Given the City’s financial challenges with cut services, particularly in public safety, we must provide support to all affected services across the City that no department is overly burdened by County-driven decisions that silence City taxpayers.

In addition, on page 5 of the City of Santa Monica’s Homelessness Strategic Plan one of the first stated values of the plan is to be transparent. I quote: “Transparent. We strive to communicate clearly and openly, sharing our intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed in the case of 413/825 Ocean Avenue.

To that end, please work with our community and the County to immediately pause the opening of the unlocked mental illness facilities at 413/825 Ocean Ave.

Sincerely,
Alan Leavitt
Wil-Mont and North of Montana
[email protected]
cc: LA County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, Third District

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1526 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 136
Mitchell Kois
From: Jo Baxter <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 11:00 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Safety Concerns

EXTERNAL
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
[Sent via email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]]
RE: Support for Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16 and a Request to Delay Opening of Facilities for the Unhoused with Severe Mental Crises at 413/825 Ocean Ave Dear Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express my sincerest support for Mayor Negrete who has singlehandedly brought to light the non-transparent nature in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill were approved near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request a suspension of the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave until all six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo are complete and publicly posted, particularly Item #6, which asks for a citywide comprehensive and transparent site review process for such facilities.

The issue is not about opposing care—it is about ensuring that care is delivered responsibly, safely, cost effectively, and with dignity for all. The Mayor’s call for coordination between the City, Los Angeles County, and nonprofit providers ensures that these projects will be guided by expertise, empathy, and accountability. The community should be viewed as partners in this endeavor, to help all parties achieve the outcomes that benefit the wellbeing of all, which is one of the stated mission in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan.By calling for clarity on zoning, transparency in developer practices, and robust public outreach,
Mayor Negrete is not creating barriers to progress—she is building trust, ensuring that our city’s compassion is matched by competence in every single neighborhood across this city. This approach strengthens our collective ability to help people heal, stabilize, and reintegrate into the community.

Sincerely,
Jo Baxter
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1527 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 137
Marguerita Avenue
Santa Monica 90402
[email protected]
cc: Third District Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvat Sent from my iPad
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1528 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 138
Mitchell Kois
From: Jennifer Shiri <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:59 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Barry Snell; Ellis Raskin; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the faciliƟes at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public parƟcipaƟon, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo (hƩps://urldefense.com/v3/__hƩps://santamonicacityca.iqm2.com/CiƟzens/FileOpen.aspx?Type=4&ID=19244&MeeƟng ID=1454__;!!OfuUnHCITYtmmjM!uPZLpI5-2WYOiIy9DwddbjBX-0N2GdllgqCbntKQB36YbObZ7PDhREPtMIaNPtgYoiKN994RZI74sDSdNuXvKi9oSFewyUeF44$ ).

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the enƟre city and county.

Sincerely,
Jennifer Shiri
90403
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1529 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 139
Mitchell Kois
From: Ali S <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:54 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework
Attachments: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica.pdf

EXTERNAL
October 13, 2025
The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District
500 West Temple Street, Room 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
[Sent via email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]]
RE: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework
Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1530 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 140
Negrete’s memo.

Thank you!
Best,
Ali Safavi, J.D., M.B.A.

Global Sales Advisor
NB Elite Realty Inc
453 S SPRING ST
STE 400
LOS ANGELES, CA 90013
DRE#: 02112648
[email protected]
Mobile: 310-694-2813
©2025 NB Elite Realty Inc fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. If your property is currently listed with a REALTOR®, please disregard this notice. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other Brokers.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1531 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) October 13, 2025
The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District
500 West Temple Street, Room 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
[Sent via email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected];
[email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]]
RE: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi,
I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1532 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo.

Sincerely,
Ali Safavi
428 14th st, Santa Monica, CA 90402
[email protected]
310-694-2813
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1533 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 141
Mitchell Kois
From: Noah Gigliotti <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:57 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Suspend Approval and Funding of Facilities 413 & 825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica, CA Due to Noncompliance with State Law and City Plans

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete, City Manager Chi, and Honorable Members of the City Council, First off, I write to offer my heartfelt support and appreciation for Mayor Lana Negrete who has been a staunch supporter of every Santa Monican, as she seeks transparency for all our communities – both retrospectively and prospectively. In her memo associated with Item 16-B, she has constructively outlined a way forward for the entire city to engage on the important decisions surrounding the compassionate care of the city’s unhoused populations, and particularly those with severe mental health challenges. In addition, I am writing as a Santa Monica resident to express my concerns about the secretive negotiations between unnamed City Council Members, the City’s Housing and Human Services Department (HHS), the County Department of Mental Health (DMH) to fund – with taxpayer money – a 49- bed facility for the unhoused and several mentally ill. This project, according to the CEO of St. Joseph’s Center, was brought forward to the County only once a private developer who is currently suing the City of Santa Monica, sought out the County and St. Joseph’s to offer up his sites at 413 Ocean Avenue and 825 Ocean Avenue.

During a 10/9 Townhall organized by the North of Montana Association (NOMA), the LA County Department of Mental Health shared – for the first time with the community – that no background checks or sobriety requirements would be in place at these new facilities, and that those accepted at these facilities could voluntary enter and exit with no supervision plan beyond the facilities’ walls. While those in Santa Monica must notify their surrounding neighbors for a mere hedge modification or expansion of a school sports court, no courtesy was provided to the community on this project that has significant reverberations throughout the entire City. The secrecy in which this project was approved without any public notification and its citywide financial/staffing burden is grossly negligent. As such, we want to record our opposition to this project and provide full support for Item 16-B on the October 14, 2025 City Council agenda, corresponding to Mayor Negrete’s October 9, 2025 excellent and fair memorandum titled “Request for City Council Direction on Community Engagement, Zoning Clarity, and Accountability for LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects.” This proposal offers a thoughtful and balanced framework that promotes compassion and transparency while ensuring accountability, public safety, and community trust for the entire population of Santa Monica. While this item is specific to one community currently, every single community in Santa Monica deserves notification and public input in any projects that affect their community, writ large. Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and Palisades Park have shown that while it is these communities today, it can be any neighborhood tomorrow. We request the City and County work together to request a suspension of the project at 413/825 Ocean Ave. until all of the items in 16-B have been discussed in public hearings and a new analysis explaining the rationale behind this project, the alternative sites that were considered, and if the County made a decision that is Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1534 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 142
in compliance with the needs defined by the City, its residents, and other stakeholders. Specifically, as it relates to Item 16-B: 1. Comprehensive Outreach and Communication We strongly support Direction #1, which calls for coordination between the City, LA County Department of Mental Health (DMH), St. Joseph Center, and the project developer to ensure robust outreach to residents and nearby businesses—including the numerous schools, hotels, small businesses, and other stakeholders along Ocean Avenue and its surrounding radius. Residents and local business owners deserve timely notice and a chance to understand project goals, operations, and impacts. Transparent engagement fosters cooperation rather than conflict and ensures that city decisions reflect both compassion and local input.

4. Public Explanation of Land Use and Operational Standards Direction #4 calls for a clear public explanation of the legal basis that allows these facilities to operate without a discretionary City permit. Residents must understand the distinctions between a mental health facility, a transitional housing facility, an emergency shelter, and supportive housing—and how each is governed under City and State law. The Mayor’s proposed public communications strategy—including a dedicated FAQ webpage, hotline for concerns, and clear follow-up protocols—is precisely the kind of accessible, fact-based communication the community needs. The fact that no one has yet been able to access any public documentation regarding the process and application in which these facilities were approved and funded with taxpayer funds speaks to the lack of transparency the law requires.

5. Verification of Developer Qualifications and Financial Transparency Direction #5’s call for verification of the developer’s goals, operational record, legal standing, and compensation from LA County is essential for accountability. Residents have a right to know who is behind these projects, how public funds are being used, and whether any conflicts of interest or active litigation exist. This transparency builds confidence in both the City’s and County’s stewardship of public resources, and that site selection is driven by thoughtful due diligence, published documentation, and Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1535 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 143
needs analyses that demonstrate funding needs are matched to the highest and best use, instead of driven by calls from developers who are seeking subsidized operations while they seek entitlements.

Given the City’s financial challenges with cut services, particularly in public safety, we must provide support to all affected services across the City that no department is overly burdened by County-driven decisions that silence City taxpayers. Conclusion The Mayor’s memo provides a clear roadmap toward a balanced approach—one that supports mental health initiatives while demanding accountability, transparency, and respect for Santa Monica residents. I respectfully urge the City Council to adopt all six directives in full and to hold LA County and its nonprofit partners to the highest standards of openness, compliance, and community collaboration. In addition, on page 5 of the City of Santa Monica’s Homelessness Strategic Plan one of the first stated values of the plan is to be transparent. I quote:
“Transparent. We strive to communicate clearly and openly, sharing our intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed in the case of 413/825 Ocean Avenue. I stand in full support of Mayor Negrete’s efforts to make Santa Monica a model for both compassionate care and transparent governance. Los Angeles County should not be driving decisions that impact all of our communities without accountability, and thus, we simultaneously call on Third District LA County Supervisor Lindsay Horvath to intervene – to both pause funding for these projects and support Mayor Negrete’s detailed request. To that end, please work with our community and the County to immediately pause the opening of the unlocked mental illness facilities at 413/825 Ocean Ave.

Sincerely,
Noah Gigliotti
646-244-0145
[email protected]
cc: LA County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, Third District Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1536 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 144
Mitchell Kois
From: PATRICK GIGLIOTTI <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:57 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: ITEM 16 NEGRETE

EXTERNAL
0/13/25
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401

Honorable Members of the City Council,
First off, I write to offer my heartfelt support and appreciation for Mayor Lana Negrete who has been a staunch supporter of every Santa Monican, as she seeks transparency for all our communities – both retrospectively and prospectively. In her memo associated with Item 16-B, she has constructively outlined a way forward for the entire city to engage on the important decisions surrounding the compassionate care of the city’s unhoused populations, and particularly those with severe mental health challenges.

As such, we want to record our opposition to this project and provide full support for Item 16-B on the October 14, 2025 City Council agenda, corresponding to Mayor Negrete’s October 9, 2025 excellent and fair memorandum titled “Request for City Council Direction on Community Engagement, Zoning Clarity, and Accountability for LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects.” This proposal offers a thoughtful and balanced framework that promotes compassion and transparency while ensuring accountability, public safety, and community trust for the entire population of Santa Monica. While this item is specific to one community currently, every single community in Santa Monica deserves notification and public input in any projects that affect their community, writ large. Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and Palisades Park have shown that while it is these communities today, it can be any neighborhood tomorrow.

We request the City and County work together to request a suspension of the project at 413/825 Ocean Ave. until all of the items in 16- B have been discussed in public hearings and a new analysis explaining the rationale behind this project, the alternative sites that were considered, and if the County made a decision that is in compliance with the needs defined by the City, its residents, and other stakeholders.

Specifically, as it relates to Item 16-B:

1. Comprehensive Outreach and Communication
We strongly support Direction #1, which calls for coordination between the City, LA County Department of Mental Health (DMH), St.

Joseph Center, and the project developer to ensure robust outreach to residents and nearby businesses—including the numerous schools, hotels, small businesses, and other stakeholders along Ocean Avenue and its surrounding radius. Residents and local business owners deserve timely notice and a chance to understand project goals, operations, and impacts. Transparent engagement fosters cooperation rather than conflict and ensures that city decisions reflect both compassion and local input.

2. Compliance with Proposition 1 and the Good Neighbor Policy Direction #2 correctly emphasizes compliance with all state laws. These laws explicitly require citizen and professional involvement at all stages of the planning process (Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). Enforcing these mandates ensures that mental health projects are developed with appropriate compassion for affected communities with input from residents, law enforcement, educators, housing experts, business owners, and those with lived experience. This is fidelity to the law and the spirit of partnership that newly Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1537 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 145
passed state law requires.

4. Public Explanation of Land Use and Operational Standards Direction #4 calls for a clear public explanation of the legal basis that allows these facilities to operate without a discretionary City permit. Residents must understand the distinctions between a mental health facility, a transitional housing facility, an emergency shelter, and supportive housing—and how each is governed under City and State law. The Mayor’s proposed public communications strategy—including a dedicated FAQ webpage, hotline for concerns, and clear follow-up protocols—is precisely the kind of accessible, fact-based communication the community needs. The fact that no one has yet been able to access any public documentation regarding the process and application in which these facilities were approved and funded with taxpayer funds speaks to the lack of transparency the law requires.

5. Verification of Developer Qualifications and Financial Transparency Direction #5’s call for verification of the developer’s goals, operational record, legal standing, and compensation from LA County is essential for accountability. Residents have a right to know who is behind these projects, how public funds are being used, and whether any conflicts of interest or active litigation exist. This transparency builds confidence in both the City’s and County’s stewardship of public resources, and that site selection is driven by thoughtful due diligence, published documentation, and needs analyses that demonstrate funding needs are matched to the highest and best use, instead of driven by calls from developers who are seeking subsidized operations while they seek entitlements.

In addition, on page 5 of the City of Santa Monica’s Homelessness Strategic Plan one of the first stated values of the plan is to be transparent. I quote: “Transparent. We strive to communicate clearly and openly, sharing our intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed in the case of 413/825 Ocean Avenue.

To that end, please work with our community and the County to immediately pause the opening of the unlocked mental illness facilities at 413/825 Ocean Ave.

Sincerely,
Kate Gigliotti
216 Georgina Avenue
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1538 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 146
Mitchell Kois
From: SaveSantaMonica <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:54 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]
Subject: Item 16B or 14 Negrete Memo to Pause the 413 and 825 Severe Mentally Ill Facilities and comply with the Due Process Required by Law

EXTERNAL
RE: Request to Pause Approvals for the Bridge Housing Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at these facilities, which allow for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo.

We are already being crushed by the homeless population that exists every night at the end of the EXPO Line. Tongva Park which opened with so much fanfare is unvisitable and dangerous. Santa Monica Promenade is no longer where we can take our kids, it is not safe and that is why all the stores have left. I have personally had to call the police twice in the last month related to one Homeless following me and another walking towards me with broken glass bottles.

We request that the six points of the Negrete memo are abided by especially those outlined in Proposition 1 and the Good Neighbor Policy (SB 326), including the community engagement provision set forth in Welfare and Institutions Code § 5604.2(a)(4), which requires citizen and professional involvement at all stages of the planning process.

We also request a full investigation into how it happened that this project was done in secret without proper notice to the community per above.

Sincerely,
Diana Schneider
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1539 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 147
Mitchell Kois
From: Katie <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:53 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Item 16-Negrete

EXTERNAL
10/13/25
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401

As such, we want to record our opposition to this project and provide full support for Item 16-B on the October 14, 2025 City Council agenda, corresponding to Mayor Negrete’s October 9, 2025 excellent and fair memorandum titled “Request for City Council Direction on Community Engagement, Zoning Clarity, and Accountability for LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects.” This proposal offers a thoughtful and balanced framework that promotes compassion and transparency while ensuring accountability, public safety, and community trust for the entire population of Santa Monica. While this item is specific to one community currently, every single community in Santa Monica deserves notification and public input in any projects that affect their community, writ large. Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and Palisades Park have shown that while it is these communities today, it can be any neighborhood tomorrow.

We request the City and County work together to request a suspension of the project at 413/825 Ocean Ave. until all of the items in 16- B have been discussed in public hearings and a new analysis explaining the rationale behind this project, the alternative sites that were considered, and if the County made a decision that is in compliance with the needs defined by the City, its residents, and other stakeholders.

Specifically, as it relates to Item 16-B:

1. Comprehensive Outreach and Communication
We strongly support Direction #1, which calls for coordination between the City, LA County Department of Mental Health (DMH), St.

2. Compliance with Proposition 1 and the Good Neighbor Policy Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1540 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 148
Direction #2 correctly emphasizes compliance with all state laws. These laws explicitly require citizen and professional involvement at all stages of the planning process (Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). Enforcing these mandates ensures that mental health projects are developed with appropriate compassion for affected communities with input from residents, law enforcement, educators, housing experts, business owners, and those with lived experience. This is fidelity to the law and the spirit of partnership that newly passed state law requires.

Residents must understand the distinctions between a mental health facility, a transitional housing facility, an emergency shelter, and supportive housing—and how each is governed under City and State law. The Mayor’s proposed public communications strategy— including a dedicated FAQ webpage, hotline for concerns, and clear follow-up protocols—is precisely the kind of accessible, fact-based communication the community needs. The fact that no one has yet been able to access any public documentation regarding the process and application in which these facilities were approved and funded with taxpayer funds speaks to the lack of transparency the law requires.

5. Verification of Developer Qualifications and Financial Transparency Direction #5’s call for verification of the developer’s goals, operational record, legal standing, and compensation from LA County is essential for accountability. Residents have a right to know who is behind these projects, how public funds are being used, and whether any conflicts of interest or active litigation exist. This transparency builds confidence in both the City’s and County’s stewardship of public resources, and that site selection is driven by thoughtful due diligence, published documentation, and needs analyses that demonstrate funding needs are matched to the highest and best use, instead of driven by calls from developers who are seeking subsidized operations while they seek entitlements.

In addition, on page 5 of the City of Santa Monica’s Homelessness Strategic Plan one of the first stated values of the plan is to be transparent. I quote: “Transparent. We strive to communicate clearly and openly, sharing our intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed in the case of 413/825 Ocean Avenue.

To that end, please work with our community and the County to immediately pause the opening of the unlocked mental illness facilities at 413/825 Ocean Ave.

Sincerely,
Kate Gigliotti
216 Georgina Avenue
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1541 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 149
Mitchell Kois
From: Ashley Oelsen <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:53 AM
To: councilmtgitems; [email protected]
Cc: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; [email protected]
Subject: Support for Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16 and Request to Delay Opening of Bridge Housing for the Unhoused with Severe Mental Crises at 413 and 825 Ocean Avenue

EXTERNAL
October 13, 2025
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
RE: Support for Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16 and Request to Delay Opening of Facilities for the Unhoused with Severe Mental Crises at 413 and 825 Ocean Avenue Dear Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I write to express strong support for Mayor Negrete, who brought to light the not transparent manner in which two facilities for people with severe mental illness were approved near schools, senior centers, and parks. These approvals proceeded without publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notice, or community input as required by Welfare and Institutions Code § 5604.2(a)(4). I stand with fellow Santa Monicans in requesting a suspension of the facilities at 413 Ocean Avenue and 825 Ocean Avenue until all six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo are completed and posted for public review. I especially support Item 6, which calls for a comprehensive and transparent citywide site review process for such facilities.

Although tomorrow night's item references these two addresses, the underlying issue is citywide. It indicates that the City lacks a clear process to allocate taxpayer funds in a way that complies with state law and aligns with the City’s Strategic Plan on Homelessness, which calls for community and professional involvement at every stage. These provisions ensure that the experiences of people living with mental illness, as well as the perspectives of residents, local businesses, and first responders, are heard, respected, and considered. This is essential as the City faces significant fiscal constraints.

The goal is not to oppose care. The goal is to ensure that care is delivered responsibly, safely, and cost effectively, and that it is provided with dignity for all. The Mayor’s call for coordination among the City, Los Angeles County, and nonprofit providers will help ensure that programs are guided by expertise, empathy, and accountability. The community should be treated as a partner in this work, so that all parties can achieve outcomes that improve well being for everyone. This is consistent with the mission set out in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1542 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 150
By seeking clarity on zoning, transparency in developer practices, and robust public outreach, Mayor Negrete is not creating obstacles to progress. She is building trust and ensuring that the City’s compassion is matched by competence in every neighborhood. This approach strengthens our shared ability to help people heal, stabilize, and reintegrate into the community.

Her leadership shows that compassion and accountability are not in conflict. They are inseparable. A community that truly cares for its most vulnerable must also care about how decisions are made, how public funds are spent, and how every stakeholder is treated.

I fully support the Mayor’s efforts to make Santa Monica a model of compassionate care and transparent governance. Los Angeles County should not make decisions that affect our community without accountability. For that reason, I also call on Third District Supervisor Lindsey Horvath to intervene, pause funding for these projects, and support the Mayor’s detailed requests.

In closing, I respectfully ask you to adopt all six requests in Mayor Negrete’s memo and to pause the opening of the facilities at 413 and 825 Ocean Avenue until all required analyses are completed and shared publicly. Thank you for your service to our city and for considering this item.

Sincerely,
Ashley Oelsen
Montana Neighborhood
[email protected] / 310-612-3929
cc: Third District Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1543 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 151
Mitchell Kois
From: Morgan Smith <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:45 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: 413 and 825 Ocean Ave

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the entire city and county.

Sincerely,
Morgan & Greg Smith
908 11th st
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1544 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 152
Mitchell Kois
From: Tiffany Bensley <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:45 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Cc: Bjorn Farrugia
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

EXTERNAL
Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi,
I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1545 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 153
Sincerely,
Bjorn Farrugia & Tiffany Bensley
107 Foxtail Dr, Santa Monica CA 90402
310-998-7175 / 310-499-6244
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1546 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 154
Mitchell Kois
From: Guy Zac <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:44 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals

EXTERNAL
October 13, 2025
The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District
500 West Temple Street, Room 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
[Sent via email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]] RE: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework
Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo.

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the entire city and county.

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1547 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 155
outcomes that benefit the wellbeing of all, which is one of the stated missions in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan. The County and City must work collaboratively with stakeholders across our entire city – including those from Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and the Palisades Park Community – to ensure transparency, collaboration, and accountability.

Sincerely,
Guy Zaczepinski
NOMA Resident
[email protected]
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1548 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 156
Mitchell Kois
From: Claire DiTusa <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:43 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Bridge Housing Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

All state funds for this project are awarded and administered by the County of Los Angeles, and therefore the County must ensure full compliance with all applicable state laws, including requirements for transparency, community engagement, and public oversight. Therefore, the County should not be able to fund and approve facilities in our city without following proper notification and input required, per state law. The community should be viewed as partners in this endeavor, to help all parties achieve the outcomes that benefit the wellbeing of all, which is one of the stated missions in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan. The County and City must work collaboratively with stakeholders across our entire city – including those from Sunset Park, Pico Neighborhood, and the Palisades Park Community – to ensure transparency, collaboration, and accountability.

Sincerely,
Claire Gomez
Wilmont Neighborhood
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1549 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 157
[email protected]
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1550 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 158
Mitchell Kois
From: Katie <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:43 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support for Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16 and a Request to Delay Opening of Facilities for the Unhoused with Severe Mental Crises at 413/825 Ocean Ave

These provisions are designed to guarantee that the voices of those with lived experience of mental illness, along with residents, local businesses, and first responders, are all heard, respected, and accounted for – particularly as our city faces significant financial shortfalls.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1551 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 159
I stand in full support of Mayor Negrete’s efforts to make Santa Monica a model for both compassionate care and transparent governance. Los Angeles County should not be driving decisions that impact all of our communities without accountability, and thus, we simultaneously call on Third District LA County Supervisor Lindsay Horvath to intervene – to both pause funding for these projects and support Mayor Negrete’s detailed request.

Sincerely,
Kate Gigliotti
216 Georgina Avenue
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1552 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 160
Mitchell Kois
From: Kate Falberg <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:42 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16-Negrete

EXTERNAL
I object to the plans for 413 and 825 Ocean Ave.

Kate Falberg
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1553 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 161
Mitchell Kois
From: Linda Jayne <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:36 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: objection to Ocean Ave project

EXTERNAL
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
[Sent via email: [email protected]; [email protected]] RE: Lack of Public Transparency and Compliance with the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan / Request to Delay Opening of Proposed Mental Health Facilities with Voluntary Entry/Exit Procedures at 413 & 825 Ocean Ave, Per Item 16-B Dear Mayor Negrete, City Manager Chi, and Honorable Members of the City Council, First off, I write to offer my heartfelt support and appreciation for Mayor Lana Negrete who has been a staunch supporter of every Santa Monican, as she seeks transparency for all our communities – both retrospectively and prospectively. In her memo associated with Item 16- B, she has constructively outlined a way forward for the entire city to engage on the important decisions surrounding the compassionate care of the city’s unhoused populations, and particularly those with severe mental health challenges.

While residents of Santa Monica must notify their surrounding neighbors for a mere hedge modification or expansion of a school sports court, no courtesy was provided to the community on this project that has significant reverberations throughout the entire City. The secrecy in which this project was approved without any public notification and its citywide financial/staffing burden is grossly negligent.

As such, we want to record our opposition to this project and provide full support for Item 16-B on the October 14, 2025 City Council agenda, corresponding to Mayor Negrete’s October 9, 2025 excellent and fair memorandum titled “Request for City Council Direction on Community Engagement, Zoning Clarity, and Accountability for LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects.” This proposal offers a thoughtful and balanced framework that promotes compassion and transparency while ensuring accountability, public safety, and community trust for the entire population of Santa Monica. While this item is specific to one community currently, every single community in Santa Monica deserves notification and public input in any projects that affect their community, writ large. Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and Palisades Park have shown that while it is these communities today, it can be any neighborhood tomorrow.

We request the City and County work together to request a delay of the project at 413/825 Ocean Ave. until all of the items in 16-B have been discussed in public hearings and a new analysis explaining the rationale behind this project, the alternative sites that were considered, and if the County made a decision that is in compliance with the needs defined by the City, its residents, and other stakeholders.

Specifically, as it relates to Item 16-B:

2. Compliance with Proposition 1 and the Good Neighbor Policy Direction #2 correctly emphasizes compliance with all state laws. These laws explicitly require citizen and professional involvement at all stages of the planning process (Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). Enforcing these mandates ensures that mental health projects are developed with appropriate compassion for affected communities with input from residents, law enforcement, educators, housing experts, business owners, and those with lived experience. This is fidelity to the law and the spirit of partnership that newly passed state requires.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1554 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 162

Residents must understand the distinctions between a mental health facility, a transitional housing facility, an emergency shelter, and supportive housing—and how each is governed under City and State law. The Mayor’s proposed public communications strategy—including a dedicated FAQ webpage, hotline for concerns, and clear follow-up protocols—is precisely the kind of accessible, fact-based communication the community needs. The fact that no one has yet been able to access any public documentation regarding the process and application in which these facilities were approved and funded with taxpayer funds speaks to the lack of transparency the law requires.

5. Verification of Developer Qualifications and Financial Transparency Direction #5’s call for verification of the developer’s goals, operational record, legal standing, and compensation from LA County is essential for accountability. Residents have a right to know who is behind these projects, how public funds are being used, and whether any conflicts of interest or active litigation exist. This transparency builds confidence in both the City’s and County’s stewardship of public resources, and that site selection is driven by thoughtful due diligence, published documentation, and needs analyses that demonstrate funding needs are matched to the highest and best use, instead of driven by calls from developers who are seeking subsidized operations while they seek entitlements.

In addition, on page 5 of the City of Santa Monica’s Homelessness Strategic Plan one of the first stated values of the plan is to be transparent. I quote: “Transparent. We strive to communicate clearly and openly, sharing our intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed in the case of 413/825 Ocean Avenue.

Sincerely,
Linda Jayne
305 Georgina Ave.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1555 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 163
Mitchell Kois
From: Caroline Mayes <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:33 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

EXTERNAL
October 13, 2025
The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District
500 West Temple Street, Room 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
[Sent via email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]] RE: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo.

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the entire city and county.

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1556 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 164
outcomes that benefit the wellbeing of all, which is one of the stated missions in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan. The County and City must work collaboratively with stakeholders across our entire city – including those from Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and the Palisades Park Community – to ensure transparency, collaboration, and accountability.

Sincerely,
Caroline Mayes
901 10th Street
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1557 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 165
Mitchell Kois
From: Kathy Metaxas <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:32 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Suspend Approval and Funding of Facilities413 & 825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica, CA Due to Noncompliance with State Law and City Plans

EXTERNAL
Oct. 13, 2025

Residents were blindsided, left to discover this project through rumor rather than proper notification. This was not a clerical error—it was a profound failure of transparency.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1558 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 166
While your office and St. Joseph Center’s newly released FAQ attempts to assure the public that the site will provide “24/7 staffing” and “enhanced security,” it is evident there is no coordinated plan to provide safety beyond the walls of these facilities, as discussed at the October 9th Town Hall, where your office, the LA County DMH, and St. Joseph’s presented. Transparency after the fact is not transparency—it’s damage control.

In addition, on page 5 of the City of Santa Monica’s Homelessness Strategic Plan one of the first stated values of the plan is to be transparent. I quote: “Transparent. We strive to communicate clearly and openly, sharing our intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed as we have outlined.

You owe this community an explanation and must put a pause to the opening of these facilities until proper due diligence is completed in a public forum that is in compliance withthe law.

Sincerely,
Kathy Metaxas
College Streets
310.944.8112
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1559 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 167
Mitchell Kois
From: Lily Ablon <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:32 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the entire city and county. While this letter appears to only be relevant to the two addresses above, this issue has citywide implications as it demonstrates that our county and city lack a process to expend taxpayer funds in compliance with state law and the spirit of our City’s Strategic Plan on Homelessness, which require community and professional involvement at every stage. These provisions are designed Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1560 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 168
to guarantee that the voices of those with lived experience of mental illness, along with residents, local businesses, and first responders, are all heard with a mission for success – particularly as our city faces significant financial shortfalls.

The County should not be able to fund and approve facilities in our city without following proper notification and input requires, per state law. The community should be viewed as partners in this endeavor, to help all parties achieve the outcomes that benefit the wellbeing of all, which is one of the stated missions in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan. The County and City must work collaboratively with stakeholders across our entire city – including those from Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and the Palisades Park Community – to ensure transparency, collaboration, and accountability.

Sincerely,
Lily Ablon, Santa Monica resident and parent
cc: Third District Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath Sent from my iPhone
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1561 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 169
Mitchell Kois
From: Yassmine Mehdyzadeh <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:31 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: RE: Item 16B Support for Negrete

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
I am writing to strongly urge you to support item 16B and our legal, due process rights under SB326.

The Good Neighbor Policy requirement (via SB326) was not followed and is a clear violation of our due process rights.

The first public discussion on this topic took place Thursday, October 9th during a NOMA informational zoom meeting. However, it was clear the intention of St. Joseph’s and LA County was to open the facility illegally and without notice, community input. More so, fully formed operational polices or adequate safety measures to protect the surrounding neighborhood were not and have not been presented or accepted.

Furthermore, I am concerned to have learned from St. Joseph’s that individuals in this shelter will not be subject to drug testing or complete background checks, yet they will be permitted to exit and and enter the facility and community freely during the day. This poses significant risks to our community, especially given the proximity of THREE elementary schools, community parks and local residents. Additionally, it was suggested that others looking for homeless services would benefit from outreach being conducted in the surrounding area, effectively putting more homeless, mentally ill and drug addicts in the neighborhood. You are not simply housing 49 people you are a beacon to everyone looking for homeless services.

Simply accepting the risk and responsibility for approving this location is not acceptable. The introduction of such a facility without consideration of our legal, due process rights is dangerous.

It is your responsibility to prioritize the safety of your current community members, especially the many children who attend the impacted schools.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1562 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 170
Protect our neighborhood, vote yes for item 16B to support transparency and our due process rights.

I look forward to your response and or support for item 16B.

Sincerely,
Yassmine Mehdyzadeh
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1563 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 171
Mitchell Kois
From: Tim Davis <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:28 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]
Cc: Bjorn Farrugia; Kenneth A. Carlson
Subject: Re: Mental Health Facilities at 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica Attachments: 2025_10_13_Letter to SM City Council - 16B .pdf

EXTERNAL
To: The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath and The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council.

Please find the attached signed letter regarding a request to Require a new process that follows state law and the city's strategic plan, using the item 16-B Memo as a Framework. --
Timothy Davis MD
[email protected]
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE : This e-mail and any files transmitted with it may contain privileged and confidential information subject to such privacy regulations as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA). This information is intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to which they are addressed. If you are not the intended recipient or the person responsible for delivering the e-mail to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination or copying of this e-mail or any of its attachment(s) is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify the sending individual or entity by e-mail and permanently delete the original e-mail and attachment(s) from your computer system. Thank you for your cooperation"
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1564 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) October 13, 2025
The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District
500 West Temple Street, Room 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
[Sent via email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]] RE: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi,
I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1565 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) The County should not be able to fund and approve facilities in our city without following proper notification and input required, per state law. The community should be viewed as partners in this endeavor, to help all parties achieve the outcomes that benefit the wellbeing of all, which is one of the stated missions in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan. The County and City must work collaboratively with stakeholders across our entire city – including those from Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and the Palisades Park Community – to ensure transparency, collaboration, and accountability.

Sincerely,
Timothy Davis MD
1615 Georgina Ave
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1566 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 172
Mitchell Kois
From: Kathi Yamaguchi-Dozal <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:28 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: "Item 16-Negrete

EXTERNAL
We suppose Mayor Negrete to review this item Please mark us in Katherine and Lawrence Dozal Sent from my iPhone Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1567 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 173
Mitchell Kois
From: Gina Choi <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:27 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya
Cc: [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Item 16-Negrete

EXTERNAL
Monday Oct 13, 2025

The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401

RE: Request to Delay Opening of Proposed Mental Health Facilities with Voluntary Entry/Exit Procedures at 413 & 825 Ocean Ave, Per Item 16-B

Dear Mayor Negrete, City Manager Chi, and Honorable Members of the City Council, I am writing to express my concerns about the secretive negotiations between unnamed City Council Members, the City’s Housing and Human Services Department (HHS), the County Department of Mental Health (DMH) to fund – with taxpayer money – a 49-bed facility for the unhoused and several mentally ill.

This project, according to the CEO of St. Joseph’s Center, was brought forward to the County only once a private developer, who is currently suing the City of Santa Monica, sought out the County and St. Joseph’s to offer up his sites at 413 Ocean Avenue and 825 Ocean Avenue. During a 10/9 Townhall organized by the North of Montana Association (NOMA), the LA County Department of Mental Health shared – for the first time with the community – that no background checks or sobriety requirements would be in place at these new facilities, and that those accepted at these facilities could voluntary enter and exit with no supervision plan beyond the facilities’ walls.

As such, I want to record my opposition to this project and provide full support for Item 16-B on the October 14, 2025 City Council agenda, corresponding to Mayor Negrete’s October 9, 2025 memorandum titled “Request for City Council Direction on Community Engagement, Zoning Clarity, and Accountability for LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects.” This proposal offers a thoughtful and balanced framework that promotes compassion and transparency while ensuring accountability, public safety, and community trust for the entire population of Santa Monica. While this item is specific to one community currently, every single community in Santa Monica deserves notification and public input in any projects that affect their community, writ large. Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and Palisades Park have shown that while it is these communities today, it can be any neighborhood tomorrow.

Specifically, as it relates to Item 16-B:

2. Compliance with Proposition 1 and the Good Neighbor Policy Direction #2 correctly emphasizes compliance with all state laws. These laws explicitly require citizen and professional involvement at all stages of the planning process (Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). Enforcing these mandates ensures that mental health projects are developed with appropriate compassion for affected communities with input from residents, law enforcement, educators, housing experts, business owners, and those with lived experience. This is fidelity to the law and the spirit of partnership that newly passed state law requires.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1568 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 174

4. Public Explanation of Land Use and Operational Standards Direction #4 calls for a clear public explanation of the legal basis that allows these facilities to operate without a discretionary City permit. Residents must understand the distinctions between a mental health facility, a transitional housing facility, an emergency shelter, and supportive housing—and how each is governed under City and State law. The Mayor’s proposed public communications strategy—including a dedicated FAQ webpage, hotline for concerns, and clear follow-up protocols—is precisely the kind of accessible, fact-based communication the community needs. The fact that no one has yet been able to access any public documentation regarding the process and application in which these facilities were approved and funded with taxpayer funds speaks to the lack of transparency the law requires.

Residents have a right to know who is behind these projects, how public funds are being used, and whether any conflicts of interest or active litigation exist. This transparency builds confidence in both the City’s and County’s stewardship of public resources, and that site selection is driven by thoughtful due diligence, published documentation, and needs analyses that demonstrate funding needs are matched to the highest and best use, instead of driven by calls from developers who are seeking subsidized operations while they seek entitlements.

Conclusion
I respectfully urge the City Council to adopt all six directives in full and to hold LA County and its nonprofit partners to the highest standards of openness, compliance, and community collaboration.

In addition, on page 5 of the City of Santa Monica’s Homelessness Strategic Plan one of the first stated values of the plan is to be transparent. I quote:
“Transparent. We strive to communicate clearly and openly, sharing our intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed in the case of 413/825 Ocean Avenue.

Los Angeles County should not be driving decisions that impact all of our communities without accountability, and thus, we simultaneously call on Third District LA County Supervisor Lindsay Horvath to intervene – to both pause funding for these projects and support Mayor Negrete’s detailed request.

To that end, please work with our community and the County to immediately pause the opening of the unlocked mental illness facilities at 413/825 Ocean Ave.

Sincerely,
Gina Choi, 90402

cc: LA County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, Third District Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1569 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 175
Mitchell Kois
From: Nat Bernstein <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:26 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: from a very concerned citizen of Santa Monica

EXTERNAL
October 13, 2025
The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District 500 West Temple Street, Room 866 Los Angeles, CA 90012
Re: Lack of Transparency and Community Engagement Regarding 413 & 825 Ocean Avenue Mental Health Facilities
Dear Supervisor Horvath,
I’m writing to express my extreme concern and disappointment over the manner in which your office and the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health advanced the voluntary entry/exit facilities at 413 and 825 Ocean Avenue for the unhoused and severely mentally ill without prior public notice or community engagement.

As City of Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete made clear in her October 9, 2025 memo to the Santa Monica City Manager, even the City of Santa Monica was “recently made aware” of the County’s actions after funding had been approved and renovations were already underway. Residents were blindsided, the majority of us left to discover this project through rumor rather than proper notification. This was not a clerical error—it was a profound failure of transparency.

Instead, this project was quietly advanced without consideration of the preschools, elementary schools, senior living facilities, and impacts on the city’s tourism hub that generates millions in revenue for a city already under fiscal strain. Not to mention the extreme problem which has already existed with our unhoused population. The secrecy surrounding this process has eroded public trust and undermined the very principles of open governance you have publicly championed.

Transparency after the fact is not transparency—it’s damage control.

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1570 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 176
and results to foster the trust of our community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed as we have outlined.

Supervisor Horvath, the people of Santa Monica are not opposed to providing mental health care or supportive housing.

We are opposed to being cut out of decisions that so profoundly affect our children, elderly, neighborhoods, schools, small businesses, safety, and economic stability. You owe this community an explanation and must put a pause to the opening of these facilities until proper due diligence is completed in a public forum that is in compliance with the law.

Sincerely,
Nat Bernstein
549 Lincoln Blvd., Santa Monica, Ca. 90402
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1571 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 177
Mitchell Kois
From: Dan J. <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:26 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: RE: Support for Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16 and a Request to Delay Opening of Shelters for the Severely Mentally Ill at 413/825 Ocean Ave

Mayor Negrete’s call to pause these projects is not obstruction—it is common sense. It is an urgent demand for proper process, public hearings, and a full accounting of how and why these facilities were approved without adequate transparency.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1572 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 178
Santa Monica has always led with both heart and responsibility. Please, honor that tradition. Halt the opening of these facilities until the full truth is on the table and the community has had its rightful voice in the process.

Sincerely,
Daniel Jansenson
_______________________
Daniel Jansenson Architect
telephone: 310.451.5907
1424 4th St. 221
Santa Monica, CA 90401
www.danjansenson.com
www.linkedin.com/in/danieljansenson
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1573 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 179
Mitchell Kois
From: Virginie Lafarge <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:25 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Bridge Housing Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

EXTERNAL
Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at these facilities, which allow for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Neighborhood]
[Optional: Email / Phone]
Sincerely,
Virginie Lafarge, Downtown Santa Monica,
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1574 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 180
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1575 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 181
Mitchell Kois
From: Alya Wilhelm <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:23 AM
To: [email protected]; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Lana Negrete; Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems Subject: RE: Support for Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16and a Request to Delay Opening of Facilities for the Unhoused with Severe Mental Crises at 413/825 Ocean Ave

EXTERNAL
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401

Dear Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express my sincerest support for Mayor Negrete who has singlehandedly brought to light the non-transparent nature in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill were approved near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request a suspension ofthe facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave until all six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo are complete and publicly posted, particularly Item #6, which asks for a citywide comprehensive and transparent site review process for such facilities.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1576 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 182
Her leadership reminds us that compassion and accountability are not opposing values—they are inseparable. A community that truly cares about its most vulnerable must also care deeply about how decisions are made, how funds are spent, and how every stakeholder is treated.

Sincerely,
Alya Wilhelm
631 Georgina Ave
Santa Monica
cc:Third District Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1577 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 183
Mitchell Kois
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:22 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]
Cc: csilver17@roadrunner. com
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals forMental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

EXTERNAL
10 13 25
Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1578 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 184
Thank you.

Howard Eliash
521 Montana Ave. 204
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1579 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 185
Mitchell Kois
From: Belle Scott <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:19 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

EXTERNAL
October 13, 2025
The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District
500 West Temple Street, Room 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
RE: RE: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, allowing voluntary entry/exit without a plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request that the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that complies with all laws governing public participation, and that addresses the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo.

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the entire city and county. While this letter appears to only be relevant to the two addresses above, this issue has citywide implications as it demonstrates that our county and city lack a process to expend taxpayer funds in compliance with state law and the spirit of our City’s Strategic Plan on Homelessness, which requires community and professional involvement at every stage. These provisions are designed to guarantee that the voices of those with lived experience of mental illness, along with residents, local businesses, and first responders, are all heard with a mission for success – particularly as our city faces significant financial shortfalls.

The County should not be able to fund and approve facilities in our city without complying with the proper notification and input requirements, per state law. The community should be viewed as partners in these endeavours to help all parties achieve the outcomes that benefit the well-being of all, which is one of the stated missions in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan. The County and City must work collaboratively with stakeholders across our entire city – including those from Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and the Palisades Park Community – to ensure transparency, collaboration, and accountability.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1580 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 186
In conclusion, we respectfully request that you pause the opening of the facilities at 413 and 825 Ocean, reopen the approvals and analysis of these projects, and support the completion of all six points in Mayor Negrete’s memo associated with Item 16-B. Thank you to Mayor Negrete for bringing this critical issue to our attention, and to all of you for your service to our city and for considering this vital item.

Sincerely,
Belle & Alex Scott
Santa Monica, CA
[email protected]
Belle Scott
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1581 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 187
Mitchell Kois
From: Brigette Lubin <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:17 AM
To: Council Mailbox
Cc: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: 80 YEAR OLD IN LAWS LIVE FOUR DOORS DOWN FROM 413 Support for Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16 and a Request to Delay Opening of Facilities

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express my sincerest support for Mayor Negrete who has singlehandedly brought to light the non-transparent nature in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill were approved near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request a suspension of the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave until all six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo are complete and publicly posted, particularly Item #6, which asks for a citywide comprehensive and transparent site review process for such facilities.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1582 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 188
I stand in full support of Mayor Negrete’s efforts to make Santa Monica a model for both compassionate care and transparent governance. Los Angeles County should not be driving decisions that impact all of our communities without accountability, and thus, we simultaneously call on Third District LA County Supervisor Lindsay Horvath to intervene – to both pause funding for these projects and support Mayor Negrete’s detailed request.

In conclusion, I respectfully request your support for all six requests in Mayor Negrete’s memo and pause the opening of the facilities at 413 and 825 Ocean until all the analyses are posted and shared with the public. Thank you for your service to our city and for considering this important item.

Sincerely,
Brigette Lubin 90402 SM resident and parent to one young child who goes to grandma daily 4 doors down from 413

cc: Third District Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath _____________________
Brigette Lubin
Ocean Showroom
Cooper Building
860 S Los Angeles St. #520
Los Angeles. CA 90014
c: 213.842.9684
[email protected]
ELAINE KIM * LUSANA * SOIA&KYO * Oliveve
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1583 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 189
Mitchell Kois
From: Dennis Puri <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:10 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Santa Monica Feedback

EXTERNAL
Hi City Council,
I’m a resident of Santa Monica and just wanted to express my concern about the increased presence of homeless people in the city and the increased rate of violent crime. I have two young kids and I have to admit I question whether living here is the best idea.

I’m writing to encourage the council to reduce homelessness in Santa Monica by any means necessary. We don’t have the money to keep our libraries open let alone build housing for the nation’s homeless. Maybe we can focus on our tax-paying families first, and focus services to people who become homeless while living in our community.

I also think we simply have too many dangerous mentally ill people in our community. I have had to intervene multiple times to save other people from an impending attack (not exaggerated).

Needless to say, I think the opening of 413 and 425 Ocean Ave is unwise. The bluffs are a community resource and I already have to keep a mindful eye when I walk there w/ my kids, wife and puppy. How is putting more mentally unstable people in that area a good idea?
I understand there are tight policies for the behavioral expectations and want these people to get care, but I don’t see how putting our families at risk has to be a byproduct of this.

I think maybe the council needs to ask itself why would a family choose to raise their kids in Santa Monica? Why would someone choose to start a business here? Is it responsible for parents to choose Santa Monica where violent crime regularly occurs which is nearly always committed by non-residents? I am starting a new business but why would I choose Santa Monica where my clients will have to deal with a growing population of homeless, mentally-ill people from out of town? The answer is simple – I’m not starting a company here but will office in Brentwood. If the city changes its direction and priorities, I can always relocate to SM.

Thanks. I obviously think we can turn it around, and root for the council to successfully get us there.

Dennis Puri
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1584 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 190
Mitchell Kois
From: Genaro Pereira <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:08 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

EXTERNAL
October 13, 2025
The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District
500 West Temple Street, Room 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
[Sent via email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]] RE: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express concern about the County’s non-transparent process in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill and unhoused were approved in our city near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). According to the LA County Department of Mental Health, there are no background checks or sobriety requirements at this facility, which allows for voluntary entry/exit without any plan for care, supervision, or enforcement once an individual leaves the premises. I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo.

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the entire city and county.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1585 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 191
The County should not be able to fund and approve facilities in our city without following proper notification and input required, per state law. The community should be viewed as partners in this endeavor, to help all parties achieve the outcomes that benefit the wellbeing of all, which is one of the stated missions in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan. The County and City must work collaboratively with stakeholders across our entire city – including those from Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and the Palisades Park Community – to ensure transparency, collaboration, and accountability.

Sincerely,
Genaro PEREIRA
44 Haldeman Road
Santa Monica, CA, 90402
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1586 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 192
Mitchell Kois
From: Caroline Mayes <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:05 AM
To: Council Mailbox
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16-Negrete

EXTERNAL
Item 16-Negrete
Thanks,
Caroline Mayes
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1587 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 193
Mitchell Kois
From: Stanley H Epstein <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:04 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16 B at Council’s October 14, 2024 Meeting

EXTERNAL
Late on Friday, the Clerk released an amended Agenda , including Item 16 B , which arises from proposals for a Non Profit to operate , with a Grant from LA County, faciliƟes for homeless, severely mentally disturbed individuals in buildings on Ocean Avenue , one several blocks north of Montana and the other, about 100 feet south of Montana. These locaƟons are horribly inappropriate !
NOMA had a meeƟng Tuesday, at which almost 300 people voiced their strong opposiƟon to the projects. The County and the Non Profit stated they had met with, and obtained approval of same from an unspecified number of Santa Monica Council members from March, 2025 through September , 2025. Those elected officials never uƩered a word to the public aŌer hearing about these and the deals only became public when Mayor Lana Negrete courageously disclosed them them a few days aŌer she learned about .It was also stated that the City Manager and several staff people had full knowledge and all cooperated in the silence and the cover up.

Reliable informaƟon is that the improper acƟons were taken by Council members Torosis, Snell, Hall, and Zwick. There is a law in California requiring that there be full public communicaƟon on this subject even before the Grant was given( in February ) and the 4 violators, City officials, the County and Non Profit unquesƟonably violated it with clear knowledge.

Item 16 B should point this out and seek an independent invesƟgaƟon of the conduct of and and propose sancƟons against all offenders.

Incidentally, it appears that liƟgaƟon will be started by parents of kids in a nearby school seeking to cancel the proposals because of the statutory violaƟon and on safety grounds.

Immediately aŌer the Agenda’s posƟng, and over the weekend, I and Danielle Charney entered into an extensive email exchange with the Mayor asking her to amend the Item she is proposing so as to change both it and the aƩached leƩer from her to the City Manager to cover the deleƟons, addiƟons and changes referred to herein. Last evening, Lana kindly provided us wriƩen assurance that she would do all of that in her discussion tomorrow of her Item 16 B.

If the offenders had complied with the law and held public hearings before the Grant was given,I am confident that the County and the Non Profit would have then dropped the proposals.

Stan Epstein. 310 393 7619
Sent from my iPad
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1588 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 194
Mitchell Kois
From: Elaine Vukadinovich <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:02 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox
Subject: Item 16B - Negrete - Opposition to Non-Transparent Process and LA County Plans for 413 and 825 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica

EXTERNAL
Good morning,
This email is to lodge my opposition, as a resident of Santa Monica, to the non-transparent process regarding, and for, LA County Supervisor Lindsay Horvath's Plan to open a 49-bed facility for the severely mentally ill at 413 and 825 Ocean Ave. The County has acknowledged that the Department of Mental Health failed to inform the City of Santa Monica until after the funding was obtained and thus the residents of Santa Monica were also not timely noticed about such a facility. My understanding is that this will not be a locked facility which is dangerous for all (and negates the effectiveness of security guards). The other St. Joseph's facility near Santa Monica College is a prime example of a lack of safety. This facility was formerly a peaceful senior living center. Now, the proposed use will provide a less safe environment for all in the area. There is already a severe homeless problem with those who are mentally ill; this facility is not the solution. Santa Monica depends on its real estate values and good school systems to be an attractive place to live and work. Facilities like this will decrease those values ultimately negatively affecting the schools, and the City overall, at a time when the City is already struggling. No one can credibly deny these services aren't needed, but there have to be multiple other locations that make more sense and that will not result in a negative impact to the City overall. For example, once Pali High School leaves the Sears building, that could be a prime location. The City deserved notice and the residents deserve a voice and input. Anything less is unacceptable.

Sincerely,
Elaine Vukadinovich
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1589 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 195
Mitchell Kois
From: Kelli Brooks <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:02 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica per State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1590 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 196
I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City of Santa Monica to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all laws governing public participation, and that address the six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo.

The County should not be able to fund and approve facilities in our city without following proper notification and input required, per state law.

The community should be viewed as partners in this endeavor, to help all parties achieve the outcomes that benefit the wellbeing of all, which is one of the stated missions in the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan. The County and City must work collaboratively with stakeholders across our entire city – including those from Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and the Palisades Park Community – to ensure transparency, collaboration, and accountability.

Sincerely,
Kelli Brooks
Santa Monica resident for 20+ years
Residing approximately ½ mile from this proposed facility (c): 310-562-1437
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1591 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 197
Mitchell Kois
From: Vanessa Desrochers <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 10:01 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office Cc: [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Support for Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16 and a Request to Delay Opening of Facilities

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express my sincerest support for Mayor Negrete who has singlehandedly brought to light the non-transparent nature in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill were approved near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request a suspension of the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave until all six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo are complete and publicly posted, particularly Item #6, which asks for a citywide comprehensive and transparent site review process for such facilities.

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1592 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 198
our communities without accountability, and thus, we simultaneously call on Third District LA County Supervisor Lindsay Horvath to intervene – to both pause funding for these projects and support Mayor Negrete’s detailed request.

Sincerely,
Vanessa Carney
90402 SM resident and parent to two young children

cc: Third District Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1593 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 199
Mitchell Kois
From: Jason Bergsman <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 9:59 AM
To: [email protected]; [email protected] Cc: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya
Subject: 413 & 825 Ocean Ave. in Santa Monica

EXTERNAL
Dear Supervisor Horvath,
I am writing to express my deep concern and disappointment over the manner in which the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health advanced funding and approvals for the voluntary entry/exit facilities at 413 and 825 Ocean Avenue for the unhoused and severely mentally ill without prior public notice or community engagement.

While the County and St. Joseph Center’s newly released FAQ attempts to assure the public that the site will provide “24/7 staffing” and “enhanced security,” it is evident there is no coordinated plan to provide safety beyond the walls of these facilities, as discussed at the October 9th Town Hall St. Joseph’s presented. Transparency after the fact is not transparency—it’s damage control.

In addition, on page 5 of the City of Santa Monica’s Homelessness Strategic Plan one of the first stated values of the plan is to be transparent. I quote: “Transparent. We strive to communicate clearly and openly, sharing our intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed as I have outlined.

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1594 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 200
elderly, neighborhoods, schools, small businesses, safety, and economic stability. This is inconsistent with the stated principles and practices of the State of California's funding of this County health program.

I respectfully request that you submit and advocate for a motion at tomorrow's Board of Supervisors meeting to delay the opening of these facilities at least 30 days, or until proper due diligence is completed in a public forum that is in compliance with the law.

Thank you for your consideration.

Best regards,
Jason Bergsman
212 20th Street
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1595 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 201
Mitchell Kois
From: Andrew Jayne <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 9:58 AM
To: [email protected]
Cc: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Regarding Supportive Housing 413 and 825 Ocean Ave. Santa Monica

EXTERNAL
Oct. 13, 2025
Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsay Horvath
[CC: [email protected]; [email protected]] RE: Lack of Public Transparency and Compliance with the City’s Homelessness Strategic Plan / Request to Delay Opening of Proposed Mental Health Facilities with Voluntary Entry/Exit Procedures at 413 & 825 Ocean Ave, Per Item 16-B Dear Supervisor Horvath,
I am writing to express my opposition to the placement of Supportive Housing for the severely mentally ill at 413 and 825 Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica. Placing this type of facility in a densely populated area across from Palisades Park, frequented by the elderly and families with young children, will put current members of the community at risk. It will also strain the already limited public safety resources, add to Santa Monica's financial challenges and negatively affect Santa Monica's tourism as Los Angeles looks ahead to hosting countries from around the globe in the World Cup and the Olympics.

I am writing to offer my heartfelt support and appreciation for Mayor Lana Negrete who has been a staunch supporter of every Santa Monican, as she seeks transparency for all our communities – both retrospectively and prospectively. In her memo associated with Item 16-B, she has constructively outlined a way forward for the entire city to engage on the important decisions surrounding the compassionate care of the city’s unhoused populations, and particularly those with severe mental health challenges.

While residents of Santa Monica must notify their surrounding neighbors for a mere hedge modification or expansion of a school sports court, no courtesy was provided to the community on this project that has significant reverberations throughout the entire City. The secrecy in which this project was approved without any public notification and its citywide financial/staffing burden is grossly negligent.

As such, we want to record our opposition to this project and provide full support for Item 16-B on the October 14, 2025 City Council agenda, corresponding to Mayor Negrete’s October 9, 2025 excellent and fair memorandum titled “Request for City Council Direction on Community Engagement, Zoning Clarity, and Accountability for LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects.” This proposal offers a thoughtful and balanced framework that promotes compassion and transparency while ensuring accountability, public safety, and community trust for the entire population of Santa Monica. While this item is specific to one community currently, every single community in Santa Monica deserves notification and public input in any projects that affect their community, writ large. Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and Palisades Park have shown that while it is these communities today, it can be any neighborhood tomorrow.

Specifically, as it relates to Item 16-B:

2. Compliance with Proposition 1 and the Good Neighbor Policy Direction #2 correctly emphasizes compliance with all state laws. These laws explicitly require citizen and professional involvement at all stages of the planning process (Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). Enforcing these mandates ensures that mental health projects are developed with appropriate compassion for affected communities with input from residents, law enforcement, educators, housing experts, business owners, and those with lived experience. This is fidelity to the law and the spirit of partnership that newly passed state requires.

3. Clarification of Zoning and Public Notification Requirements Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1596 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 202
Direction #3 requests clarification of zoning classifications, use types, and public notice procedures for supportive, shelter, and transitional housing projects. Clear zoning definitions protect both residents and service providers by establishing predictable rules and preventing misunderstandings about what types of uses are permitted “by right.” Ensuring that every neighborhood receives formal notice when a project is proposed is an essential safeguard for democratic participation. Every Santa Monican deserves to understand what are allowable uses for the buildings in their communities, particularly around communities that serve children and seniors.

4. Public Explanation of Land Use and Operational Standards Direction #4 calls for a clear public explanation of the legal basis that allows these facilities to operate without a discretionary City permit. Residents must understand the distinctions between a mental health facility, a transitional housing facility, an emergency shelter, and supportive housing—and how each is governed under City and State law. The Mayor’s proposed public communications strategy—including a dedicated FAQ webpage, hotline for concerns, and clear follow-up protocols—is precisely the kind of accessible, fact-based communication the community needs. The fact that no one has yet been able to access any public documentation regarding the process and application in which these facilities were approved and funded with taxpayer funds speaks to the lack of transparency the law requires.

In addition, on page 5 of the City of Santa Monica’s Homelessness Strategic Plan one of the first stated values of the plan is to be transparent. I quote:
“Transparent. We strive to communicate clearly and openly, sharing our intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, but that clearly was not followed in the case of 413/825 Ocean Avenue.

Sincerely,
Andrew Jayne
305 Georgina Ave.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1597 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 203
Mitchell Kois
From: PATRICK GIGLIOTTI <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 9:52 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: RE: Support for Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16 and a Request to Delay Opening of Facilities for the Unhoused with Severe Mental Crises at 413/825 Ocean Ave

EXTERNAL
October 13, 2025
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council 1685 Main Street Santa Monica, CA 90401
RE: Support for Mayor Negrete’s Agenda Item 16 and a Request to Delay Opening of Facilities for the Unhoused with Severe Mental Crises at 413/825 Ocean Ave
Dear Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, I am writing to express my sincerest support for Mayor Negrete who has singlehandedly brought to light the nontransparent nature in which two facilities for the severely mentally ill were approved near schools, senior centers, and parks without any publicly available impact analyses, stakeholder notification, or community input per Welfare & Institutions Code §5604.2(a)(4)). I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request a suspension of the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave until all six elements in Mayor Negrete’s memo are complete and publicly posted, particularly Item #6, which asks for a citywide comprehensive and transparent site review process for such facilities.

Her leadership reminds us that compassion and accountability are not opposing values—they are inseparable. A community that truly cares about its most vulnerable must also care deeply about how decisions are made, how funds are spent, and how every stakeholder is treated.I stand in full support of Mayor Negrete’s efforts to make Santa Monica a Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1598 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 204
model for both compassionate care and transparent governance. Los Angeles County should not be driving decisions that impact all of our communities without accountability, and thus, we simultaneously call on Third District LA County Supervisor Lindsay Horvath to intervene – to both pause funding for these projects and support Mayor Negrete’s detailed request.

In conclusion, we respectfully request your support for all six requests in Mayor Negrete’s memo and to pause the opening of the facilities at 413 and 825 Ocean until all of the analyses are posted and shared with the public. Thank you for your service to our city and for considering this important item.

Sincerely,
Patrick Gigliotti
216 Georgina Ave
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1599 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 205
Mitchell Kois
From: Sophie Dornstreich <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 9:51 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the entire city and county.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1600 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 206
Sincerely,
Sophie Dornstreich
841 6th Street Apt B
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1601 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 207
Mitchell Kois
From: Jim Worms <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 9:48 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: 413/825 Ocean Avenue
Attachments: Letter to City Counsel et al.pdf

EXTERNAL
All – Please read the attached brief letter with respect to the above-referenced mental health facilities.

Respectfully,
James Worms
Law OƯices of James R. Worms
503 9th Street
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Tel: 310.433.5203
Email: [email protected]
This email may contain confidential material for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). Any review, reliance, distribution or other use by others without express permission is strictly prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender and delete all copies.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1602 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) Law Offices of James R. Worms
503 9th Street
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Email: [email protected]
October 13, 2025
The Honorable Lindsey P. Horvath
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District
500 West Temple Street, Room 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
[Sent via email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]]
RE: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework
Dear Supervisor Horvath, Mayor Negrete, Honorable Members of the City Council, and City Manager Chi, Since you have already received many communications discussing in great detail the issues with the above-referenced mental health facilities, I will make my views brief:

1. These sites were chosen in violation of California law for reasons only known to those who secretly processed the applications, and hide behind an opaque bureaucratic process.

2. Facilities for persons with “serious mental health issues”, as described by St. Joseph’s, the operator, is not “supportive housing” in violation of law and totally inappropriate for residential neighborhoods.

3. It is obvious that locating these facilities in a residential neighborhood will endanger the elderly, young children and others as the patients will voluntarily leave the facilities looking for off-site things to do – few will be happy to remain “supervised” all day in a small room when they could be roaming free in the park across the street or elsewhere in the City.

4. This will be a continuous nightmare for the understaffed SMPD who already have their hands full with the homeless and mentally ill in the park and elsewhere in the City.

5. Common sense dictates that these locations would rank at the very bottom when choosing locations for mental health facilities in Santa Monica or elsewhere.

I stand with my fellow Santa Monicans to request the County work with the City to suspend approvals for the facilities at 413 Ocean Ave and 825 Ocean Ave and to launch a new process that is in compliance with all local and state laws as well as common sense and reason.

Sincerely,
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1603 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 208
Mitchell Kois
From: Kanika Soni <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 9:48 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Natalya Zernitskaya; Ellis Raskin; [email protected]; Barry Snell; Dan Hall; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the entire city and county.

Sincerely,
Kanika Soni
740 21st Place
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1604 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 209
Mitchell Kois
From: Laura Richardson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 9:48 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Request to Pause Approvals for the Mental Health Facilities 413/825 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica and Require a New Process that Follows State Law and the City’s Strategic Plan, Using the Item 16-B Memo as a Framework

Our community supports compassionate, accountable care that promotes the well-being of the entire city and county.

Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1605 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 210
Sincerely,
Laura Richardson
266 19th Street
Santa Monica, CA 90402
[email protected]
310-422-0762
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025
Item 16-B
October 14, 2025

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1606 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 211
Mitchell Kois
From: PATRICK GIGLIOTTI <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2025 9:48 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: RE: Request to Delay Opening of Proposed Mental Health Facilities with Voluntary Entry/Exit Procedures at 413 & 825 Ocean Ave, Per Item 16-B

EXTERNAL
October 13, 2025
The Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
RE: Request to Delay Opening of Proposed Mental Health Facilities with Voluntary Entry/Exit Procedures at 413 & 825 Ocean Ave, Per Item 16-B
Dear Mayor Negrete, City Manager Chi, and Honorable Members of the City Council, First off, I write to offer my heartfelt support and appreciation for Mayor Lana Negrete who has been a staunch supporter of every Santa Monican, as she seeks transparency for all our communities – both retrospectively and prospectively. In her memo associated with Item 16-B, she has constructively outlined a way forward for the entire city to engage on the important decisions surrounding the compassionate care of the city’s unhoused populations, and particularly those with severe mental health challenges.

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1607 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 212
Operated Housing Projects.” This proposal offers a thoughtful and balanced framework that promotes compassion and transparency while ensuring accountability, public safety, and community trust for the entire population of Santa Monica. While this item is specific to one community currently, every single community in Santa Monica deserves notification and public input in any projects that affect their community, writ large. Sunset Park, Pico Blvd, and Palisades Park have shown that while it is these communities today, it can be any neighborhood tomorrow.

Specifically, as it relates to Item 16-B:

4. Public Explanation of Land Use and Operational Standards Direction #4 calls for a clear public explanation of the legal basis that allows these facilities to operate without a discretionary City permit. Residents must understand the distinctions between a mental health facility, a transitional housing facility, an emergency shelter, and supportive housing—and how each is governed under City and State law. The Mayor’s proposed public communications strategy—including a dedicated FAQ webpage, hotline for concerns, and clear follow-up protocols—is precisely the kind of accessible, fact-based communication the community needs. The fact that no one has yet been able to access any public documentation regarding the process and application in which these facilities were approved and funded with taxpayer funds speaks to the lack of transparency the law requires.

16.B.b
Packet Pg. 1608 Attachment: Written Comment [Revision 2] (7359 : Mayor Negrete: LA County and Nonprofit Operated Housing Projects) 213
published documentation, and needs analyses that demonstrate funding needs are matched to the highest and best use, instead of driven by calls from developers who are seeking subsidized operations while they seek entitlements.

6. Retrospective Review and Corrective Action
Direction #6 ensures that the entire City of Santa Monica benefits from a thoughtful approach to compassionate care. We must learn from past experience by reviewing similar projects in Sunset Park and the Pico Neighborhood. If community engagement was inadequate in earlier projects, the City should take corrective steps now—establishing consistent contact systems, feedback channels, and neighborhood support mechanisms. This proactive stance prevents repeated errors and strengthens long- term public trust. Given the City’s financial challenges with cut services, particularly in public safety, we must provide support to all affected services across the City that no department is overly burdened by County-driven decisions that silence City taxpayers.

In addition, on page 5 of the City of Santa Monica’s Homelessness Strategic Plan, one of the first stated values of the plan is to be transparent. I quote: “Transparent. We strive to communicate clearly and openly, sharing our intentions, decisions, and results to foster the trust of our community.” The mission statement of the strategic plan also claims to “promote the wellbeing of all”, which clearly was not followed in the case of 413/825 Ocean Avenue.

Santa Monica City CouncilOctober 14, 2025

Santa Monica City Council
October 14, 2025