1 David Yakobson
From: karen Ginsberg <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, July 24, 2026 6:22 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Lana Negrete; Barry Snell; Jesse Zwick; Ellis Raskin; Natalya Zernitskaya
Cc: Misti Kerns (Santa Monica Travel & Tourism)
Subject: June 28th Council Meeting Item 16C, Reappointment to Santa Monica Travel & Tourism Inc.
EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Torosis, Mayor Pro-Tem Zwick and Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council:
While I am currently out of town and unable to attend next Tuesday's Council meeting, I am writing to formally express my interest in being reappointed to a second term on the Santa Monica Travel and Tourism (SMTT) Board of Directors.
It has been a privilege to serve on the Board. During my first term I have been an Executive Officer, initially in the capacity of Treasurer and currently as Board Secretary. I am eager to continue contributing to the growth and success of Santa Monica’s tourism industry.
As a long time Santa Monica resident and former City Department Head, I remain deeply committed to the city’s economic vitality through strategic tourism initiatives. Being reappointed to a second term would allow me to continue providing a valuable perspective on the Board.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Karen Ginsberg
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
2 David Yakobson
From: Mark SmithTV <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, July 24, 2026 6:25 PM
To: Council Mailbox
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Airport Commission
EXTERNAL
Dave Hopkins is exceptionally well qualified to serve on the Santa Monica Airport Commission.
He is a longtime Santa Monica resident, licensed pilot, aircraft owner, and certified flight instructor who has attended more than thirty Airport Commission meetings. His extensive aviation experience and commitment to the community make him uniquely qualified to serve.
Diane Reynolds has completed her appointed term, has a conflict of interest and lives next to the airport.
She has zero aviation knowledge or experience. There may be concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest involving this commissioner's family member, those issues should be reviewed under the City's ethics rules and applicable California law.
Mark Smith
310 213 0790
http://duenorthproduction.com
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
3 David Yakobson
From: Ryan Haid <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, July 25, 2026 12:51 PM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Dave Hopkins for Airport Commission
EXTERNAL
Dear City Council,
I'm writing to request that you consider Dave Hopkins for the Airport Commission. Dave is exceptionally well qualified. As a longtime Santa Monica resident, he brings both a deep understanding of the community and decades of firsthand aviation experience. Dave is a licensed pilot, certified flight instructor and aircraft owner, giving him practical knowledge of airport operations, aviation safety, and the needs of the general aviation community. He has also demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to public service by attending more than 30 Airport Commission meetings, where he has consistently followed the Commission's work and engaged thoughtfully in issues affecting the airport. His combination of technical aviation expertise, civic involvement, and long-standing ties to Santa Monica would make him a knowledgeable and effective member of the Commission. The Airport Commission exists to advise the City Council on matters relating to the Municipal Airport and aviation issues affecting the City, and Dave's experience is directly aligned with that mission. Current Airport Commission members have no aviation knowledge - this is a safety liability for the City and the entire community.
Thank you,
Ryan Haid
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
4 David Yakobson
From: Ann Hoover <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, July 25, 2026 5:10 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Lana Negrete; Barry Snell; Ellis Raskin; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick
Subject: July 28, 2026 City Council Meeting - Agenda Item 16C: Annual Appointments - Airport Commission
EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Torosis and Esteemed Councilmembers -
I write today to encourage you to reappoint Diane Reynolds to the Airport Commission.
Diane and I met each other many years ago working together on the Samohi PTSA Executive Board. She is unfailingly thorough, diligent, organized, thoughtful, kind, well-spoken, and possesses pretty much every other excellent quality you might hope to find in a CoSM appointed board or commission member.
Further, she has served with balance, prudence, and distinction as a past Chair of the Airport Commission.
Her calm, steady, and bridge-building presence will be a continuing asset on this commission as the City proceeds toward anticipated closure at the end of 2028.
Thank you for your time in reading this and I hope you'll vote to reappoint Diane! All the best,
Ann Bowman
Santa Monica resident, 29+ years
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
5 David Yakobson
From: John Fairweather <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, July 25, 2026 5:17 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Dan Hall; Lana Negrete; Natalya Zernitskaya; Ellis Raskin
Subject: July 28 - Please re-appoint Diane Reynolds to the Airport Commission
EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor and City Council Members,
I write in support of Diane Reynolds re-appointment to the Airport Commission which is before you on July 28th.
Diane has gained and applied irreplaceable expertise during the last four years on all matters relating the airport, and has served as the commission's chair for the last two years. While performing her commission duties, Diane has been a key voice for the public, while at the same time calmly facing down continuous harassment from those seeking to overturn the City’s clear and stated positions on the airport’s future.
The city and community simply cannot afford to enter these last crucial airport years without Diane’s skill and expertise in the airport commission.
Please re-appoint Diane Reynolds to another term in the Airport Commission.
Sincerely,
John Fairweather
Board Member: Great Park Coalition & Airport2Park, and chair of Measure LC Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
6 David Yakobson
From: [email protected]
Sent: Saturday, July 25, 2026 5:30 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Lana Negrete
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Council 7/28 item 16-A - Airport Comm - Support re-appointment of Diane Reynolds
EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Torosis and City Council members,
I write to support the re-appointment of Diane Reynolds to the Airport Commission.
Diane has served on the Commission for 4 years and is currently the Chair.
I have attended Airport Commission meetings and observed that Diane is always extremely well prepared for the meetings, and that she works collaboratively and effectively with her fellow Commissioners and with staff.
I hope that you will give Diane an opportunity to serve for 4 more more years on the Airport Commission.
Thank you for your consideration.
Zina Josephs
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
7 David Yakobson
From: Patti Braun <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, July 25, 2026 7:01 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Dan Hall; Lana Negrete; Natalya Zernitskaya; Ellis Raskin
Subject: Agenda Item 16c: Annual Appointments
EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Torosis and City Council Members,
We are writing in strong support of the reappointment of Diane Reynolds to the Santa Monica Airport Commission.
We have known Diane as a neighbor and a school and community volunteer for over 25 years. We have worked together with her on numerous school and civic projects.
We have also attended Airport Commission meetings where she serves as Chair, and we have seen firsthand the capable, prepared, and professional manner in which she conducts meetings and carries out her responsibilities.
Diane takes the Commission’s work seriously and approaches difficult issues with diligence, fairness, and respect for the public. In this and in all her volunteer leadership efforts, she listens carefully, and asks thoughtful, intelligent questions. Diane is committed to making well-informed decisions in the best interests of Santa Monica and its residents.
As the City continues planning for the airport’s scheduled closure and the future of this important public land, experienced and dedicated commissioners like Diane provide valuable continuity and much-needed leadership.
We give Diane our highest recommendation for reappointment to the Airport Commission.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Patti and Reiner Braun
Santa Monica Residents
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
8 David Yakobson
From: [email protected]
Sent: Saturday, July 25, 2026 9:14 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 16C: Annual Appointments -- Airport Commission
EXTERNAL
It is a pleasure to commend Airport Commissioner Diane Reynolds for her past service on the SM Airport Commission and to endorse her re-appointment.
The City is fortunate to have a dedicated, knowledgeable resident like Diane, who also has the temperament for such a role. Diane has proven herself to be a thoughtful, effective Commissioner and is a credit to Santa Monica.
Jennifer L. Polhemus
Resident and Small Busines Owner
Santa Monica, CA
[email protected]
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
9 David Yakobson
From: Robb Curtis Brown <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, July 25, 2026 9:26 PM
To: Caroline Torosis; Barry Snell; Jesse Zwick; Lana Negrete; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; councilmtgitems; Natalya Zernitskaya
Subject: IN SUPPORT OF THE REAPPOINT OF DIANE REYNOLDS AS AIRPORT COMMISSIONER
EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Torosis and City Council Members,
I am writing with unqualified wholehearted support for the reappointment of Diane Reynolds to the Santa Monica Airport Commission.
I have known Diane as a school and community volunteer, a gifted therapist, a dedicated problen solver, a devoted mother and my wife for 35 years. We have worked together on numerous school and civic committees.
I have also attended Airport Commission meetings where she serves as Chair, and have seen firsthand the capable, prepared, and professional manner in which she conducts meetings and carries out her responsibilities.
Diane takes the Commission’s work very seriously and approaches difficult issues with diligence, fairness, and respect for the public. In this and in all her volunteer leadership efforts, she listens carefully, and asks thoughtful, intelligent questions despite the efforts of the aviation community to undermine her work by whatever means possible. Diane is committed to making well-informed decisions in the best interests of Santa Monica and its residents.
As the City continues planning for the airport’s scheduled closure and the future of this important public land, experienced and dedicated commissioners and long time stakeholders like Diane provide valuable continuity and much-needed leadership. I give Diane my highest recommendation for reappointment to the Airport Commission.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Robert Brown
Sent from my iPhone
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
10 David Yakobson
From: Alan Levenson <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, July 26, 2026 4:58 AM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Barry Snell; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Ellis Raskin
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda Item 16C: Annual Appointments - Airport Commission
EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Torosis and Council Members,
I strongly support Diane Reynold's reappointment to the Santa Monica Airport Commission. During her four years on the Commission, including serving as Chair, she has demonstrated thoughtful leadership, careful preparation, and a genuine commitment to hearing community concerns.
Her experience and institutional knowledge will be especially valuable as Santa Monica prepares for the airport’s closure and the property’s transition to public use. I urge you to reappoint her.
She and her husband, Robb Brown, have been active in supporting the community as long as I have known them, and that has been for well over twenty years.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Alan Levenson
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
11 David Yakobson
From: Brent Cohen <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, July 26, 2026 1:17 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda Item 16C: Annual Appointments
EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Torosis and Councilmembers,
I write in support of reappointing Diane Reynolds to the Santa Monica Airport Commission.
I have lived in Santa Monica for thirty years. I have known Diane for most of that time. In that time, I have watched her listen to people who disagree with her, follow through on something unglamorous, and stay in a room after the interesting part was over.
That is the quality I would want on a commission facing the decisions this one faces. The airport's closure and the future of that land will be argued over for years, by people with strong views and real stakes. Diane is not the loudest person in those conversations. She is the one who has read the material and can tell you what it actually says.
I have no interest in the outcome beyond living here. I would be glad to see her continue.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Brent Cohen
Sunset Park, Santa Monica
30-year resident
To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.
photo Brent Cohen
310-613-0204 | [email protected]
GMT -8
Santa Monica, CA
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To help
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Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
12 David Yakobson
From: Stacey AS <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, July 26, 2026 9:03 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Diane Reynolds.
EXTERNAL
I would like to put forth my support for Diane Reynolds to continue as an Airport Commissioner.
Thank you for your consideration.
Best,
Stacey Abrams-Sherick
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
13 David Yakobson
From: Cathy Larson <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, July 26, 2026 9:22 PM
To: Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Dan Hall; Lana Negrete; Natalya Zernitskaya; Ellis Raskin; councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda Item 16C: Airport Commission Appointment
EXTERNAL
Councilmembers,
I support Diane Reynolds for re-appointment to the Airport Commission.
Ms. Reynolds has a proven track record on the Airport Commission. She currently serves as chair.
She has led the Commission with an even hand, thoughƞully listening to all points of view and engaging in meaningful dialogue with her fellow commissioners.
Ms. Reynolds supports the creaƟon of a Great Park and is the best choice to shepherd the transformaƟon of the Airport Land aligned with the City and the people’s vision of the Great Park for all.
Thank you,
Cathy Larson
Santa Monica Resident
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
14 David Yakobson
From: Cathy Larson and Roger Allen <[email protected]> Sent: Sunday, July 26, 2026 9:41 PM
To: Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Dan Hall; Lana Negrete; Natalya Zernitskaya; Ellis Raskin; councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda Item 16C: Airport Commission Appointment
EXTERNAL
Councilmembers,
I support Diane Reynolds for re-appointment to the Airport Commission.
She has proven leadership as the Commission Chair, manages the meetings in a fair unbiased manner, thoughtfully listens to all points of view, and engages in a meaningful dialogue with her colleagues.
Ms. Reynolds is also the only applicant aligned with the City and the community’s goals of transforming the Airport land into a Great Park.
Thank you,
Roger Allen
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
15 David Yakobson
From: Dawn Joyal <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, July 27, 2026 6:10 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Diane Reynolds for Airport Commission
EXTERNAL
Endorsing Diane for Airport Commission
She has served the community as a dedicated, thoughtful, and fair Commissioner.
Critically, she is aligned with the City's position and goals regarding the airport.
Dawn Joyal
Marine St
Santa Monica
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
16 David Yakobson
From: Ron Joyal <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, July 27, 2026 6:27 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Dan Hall; Lana Negrete; Natalya Zernitskaya; Ellis Raskin
Subject: Agenda Item 16C: Annual Appointments
EXTERNAL
I recommend reappointing Diane Reynolds as an airport commissioner. She has the greatest amount of experience without any conflict of interest.
We need a strong, committed leader.
Regards
Ron
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
17 David Yakobson
From: Brian Sweeney <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, July 27, 2026 10:34 AM
To: Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Lana Negrete; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Ellis Raskin
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16C: Please appoint Matt Goldenberg to Rec & Parks
EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Torosis and Honorable City Council Members:
I am writing to wholeheartedly endorse Matt Goldenberg for the Recreation & Parks Commission.
I've had the pleasure of working with Matt over the past year, and I think you'd be hard-pressed to find someone -- even in a city lucky to have so many phenomenal advocates -- more dedicated to the excellence of our public spaces and programming.
Matt is indefatigable, unfailingly kind, and excited to work with folks from all corners of Santa Monica political life to get things done. I mean, really...who else has managed to get SM Dems, SMRR, SM Forward, and every single neighborhood organization on the same page regarding any issue? No one I can think of! :)
In short, I urge you to appoint Matt Goldenberg to the Recreation & Parks Commission — our public spaces will be better for it.
Best wishes,
Brian Sweeney
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
18 David Yakobson
From: Daniela Morato <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, July 27, 2026 10:51 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Item C
EXTERNAL
Please don’t rezone our neighborhood!
Keep R-1 zoning
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
19 David Yakobson
From: Council Mailbox
Sent: Monday, July 27, 2026 11:33 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FW: David Hopkins for Airport Commission
Thanks,
Amy Larkin
Administrative Staff Assistant- City Council Office
From: CHRISTIAN FRY <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, July 27, 2026 10:48 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Subject: David Hopkins for Airport Commission
EXTERNAL
Dave Hopkins is exceptionally well qualified to serve reon the Santa Monica Airport Commission. As a 28 year Santa Monica resident, pilot, and tenant of the Santa Monica Airport, I am writing in support of David Hopkins for Airport Commissioner.
As a longtime Santa Monica resident, David brings both a deep understanding of the community and decades of firsthand aviation experience. Dave is a licensed pilot, certified flight instructor and aircraft owner, giving him practical knowledge of airport operations, aviation safety, and the needs of the general aviation community.
He has also demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to public service by attending more than thirty Airport Commission meetings, where he has consistently followed the Commission's work and engaged thoughtfully in issues affecting the airport. His combination of technical aviation expertise, civic involvement, and long-standing ties to Santa Monica would make him a knowledgeable and effective member of the Commission.
The Airport Commission exists to advise the City Council on matters relating to the Municipal Airport and aviation issues affecting the City, and Dave's experience is directly aligned with that mission. Current Airport Commission members lack of aviation knowledge is a liability for the City and the entire community.
Respectfully,
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
20 Christian Fry
953 5th Street Unit 8
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
21 David Yakobson
From: Tim Cashin <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, July 27, 2026 11:47 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Appointment to the Airport Commission
EXTERNAL
City Council Members:
Please appoint Dave Hopkins to the Santa Monica Airport Commission. He is exceptionally well qualified to serve in that role.
As a longtime Santa Monica resident, he brings both a deep understanding of the community and decades of firsthand aviation experience. Dave is a licensed pilot, certified flight instructor and aircraft owner, giving him practical knowledge of airport operations, aviation safety, and the needs of the general aviation community.
He has also demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to public service by attending more than thirty Airport Commission meetings, where he has consistently followed the Commission's work and engaged thoughtfully in issues affecting the airport. His combination of technical aviation expertise, civic involvement, and long-standing ties to Santa Monica would make him a knowledgeable and effective member of the Commission.
The Airport Commission exists to advise the City Council on matters relating to the Municipal Airport and aviation issues affecting the City, and Dave's experience is directly aligned with that mission.
Current Airport Commission members have no aviation knowledge - this is a safety liability for the City and the entire community.
With Dave Hopkins as a member of the Airport Commission, the quality of information the council receives
will be significantly improved. The council, and the city, will benefit.
Tim Cashin
Sunset Park
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
1 David Yakobson
From: Mati Fuchs-Lynch <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, July 24, 2026 8:25 PM
To: Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Lana Negrete; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Natalya Zernitskaya
Cc: councilmtgitems; Oliver Chi; Council Mailbox
Subject: Architectural Review Board Appointments
EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor and Council,
I’m writing in support of Mohamed Sharif’s appointment to the architectural review board. I can personally speak to his many years of experience both practicing and training the next generation of architects.
Sharif Lynch Architecture has been a leader on ADU construction, and has designed buildings in high fire-risk zones. Mohamed Sharif’s years leading a local Santa Monica architecture firm make him well acquainted with Santa Monica’s review environment, and well prepared for the work of the Architectural Review Board.
I urge you to appoint Mohamed Sharif to the ARB.
Best,
Mati Fuchs-Lynch
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
2 David Yakobson
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, July 27, 2026 11:00 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16C Landmarks Commission Appointment
EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor and City Council,
I enthusiastically recommend Roger Genser for reappointment to another term on the Santa Monica Landmarks Commission. I have had the pleasure of knowing Roger for many years, both in my previous capacity as a landmarks commissioner and through our ongoing shared interest in Santa Monica history, and I can say without hesitation that Roger’s continued service on the Commission would be a significant asset to our community.
This being his second tenure as Landmarks Commissioner, Roger brings extraordinary depth of institutional knowledge to his decision-making. He understands not only the procedural and regulatory dimensions of the Commission's work, but also the historical context and nuanced significance of our historic resources. It is important to keep a person with Roger’s experience and knowledge in place while newer commissioners grow into the role.
Roger always ensures that preservation decisions are grounded in accurate, well-researched history and precedent. His value as a local historian is based on his extensive and veryimportant personal collection of historic photographs, which he generously draws upon time and again to inform the Commission's work. This invaluable primary resource, built over a lifetime has directly enhanced the quality and accuracy of the Commission's assessments.
For these reasons, I give my strongest endorsement to Roger Genser's reappointment for another term. His institutional knowledge, historical expertise, and unique resources make him an exceptional asset to the Landmarks Commission, and I believe the community would be well served by his continued leadership in this role.
Sincerely,
Nina Fresco
Former Landmarks Commissioner
Local Historian
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
1 David Yakobson
From: William Reardon <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, July 27, 2026 2:13 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: David Yakobson
Subject: Appointment to the Santa Monica Library Board
EXTERNAL
To the Honorable Mayor and City Council,
I am writing to share my enthusiasm for the opportunity to serve on the Santa Monica Library Board. Apologies for not being able to attend in person, due to a prior work travel obligation.
I believe that a robust and thriving library system is the heart of a healthy city. My desire to serve stems from a genuine commitment to ensuring our libraries continue to be safe, vibrant, and welcoming spaces for all, from our children and students to our seniors. I am eager to bring my perspective and dedication to this role and to support the ongoing success of our library facilities.
Thank you for your leadership and for considering my appointment.
Sincerely,
-Bill Reardon
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
1 David Yakobson
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, July 27, 2026 3:57 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Santa Monica City Manager's Office
Subject: 7/28 meeting - Item 16-A - Airport Commission
EXTERNAL
Mayor Torosis, Councilmembers,
Please re-appoint Diane Reynolds to the Airport Commission.
Ms. Reynolds serves in a role not everyone would choose for themselves.
She has acted in the interests of the people of Santa Monica, even while the hobbyists, lobbyists and polluters currently occupying public land strive relentlessly to make her life, and all our lives, miserable.
Diane Reynolds has gained 4 years of invaluable experience; please give her the opportunity to help take the Airport Commission through the final stretch.
Here’s to 1/1/2029, which is getting closer by the day.
Andrew Gledhill
Ocean Park
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
1 David Yakobson
From: David Kaplan <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, July 27, 2026 4:16 PM
To: Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Dan Hall; Lana Negrete; Natalya Zernitskaya; Ellis Raskin; councilmtgitems
Subject: Support Diane Reynolds for Airport Commission
EXTERNAL
Please support Diane Reynolds for another term on the SM Airport commission.
Diane Reynolds is recognized as having a reasonable voice on the Airport Commission, offering a balanced approach for the City while also representing the interests of residents in the immediate area.
Diane was immediately recognized for her leadership and quickly became chair of the Commission.
Diane Reynolds is a outstanding condidate and hopefully she can continue her excellent work for the Airport Commission.
thanks
David Kaplan
2419 Pier Avenue
Santa Monica, CA 90
David Kaplan | KCK ARCHITECTS
2526 Eighteenth Street
Santa Monica, CA 90405
310 452 7505
310 713 5446 cell
www.kckarchitects.com
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
1 David Yakobson
From: Cris Gutierrez <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 28, 2026 9:42 AM
To: Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Lana Negrete; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda Item 16-C: Appointments to Airport, Recreation & Parks, and Sustainability Commissions
EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Torosis, Mayor Pro Tem Zwick and City Council Members:
As a community leader with respect for the manner in which our City Council is advised by commissions, I write with full support of the following applicants to be appointed to three City Commissions as indicated below. Each candidate has demonstrated substantive knowledge, capacity and caring to merit appointment to the respective commissions.
Commission on Sustainability, Environmental Justice and the Environment • Robert Lempert has served on the Commission on Sustainability, Environmental Justice and the Environment (Sustainability Commission) with grace and keen acumen. Robert Lempert clearly deserves an additional term on the Sustainability Commission to represent the needs of our community and to uphold the integrity of the City’s sustainability leadership. His knowledge, understanding and skills, particularly pertaining to water, climate and participatory democracy have been enriching and practical.
He has brought to the City’s Sustainability Commission insights and abilities that enable Santa Monica’s local measures and initiatives to embody our values and commitments, to strengthen our community and to deepen Santa Monica's influence. As a member of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change team that was awarded the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize, his reputation and accomplishments reinforce Santa Monica’s esteem and forward thinking at a time when the climate crisis is searing and communities need sensible, responsive leadership. • Benjamin Kay is a remarkable environmental science and marine biology teacher at Santa Monica High School and Santa Monica College. His appointment to the Sustainability Commission will help ensure that this body advances the City’s sustainability imperatives and the City’s follow-up on its many initiatives. In addition, Ben can help identify how the school district and the college can align with and implement better the policy and practices of Santa Monica’s sustainability and environmental justice expectations and commitments. He also can help the voice of diverse young people and students to be heard. (They are paying attention.) Ben's creative, even ground-breaking, scholarship and research with students, including with Team Marine, has had profound effects. One example is how the testimony and advocacy of his students has helped the California legislature to establish and then strengthen the single-use plastic bag ban. That work continues and extends to many other plasticreduction fronts most importantly, to safeguard the Santa Monica Bay, our natural environment and our public health. Those efforts have consistently enriched Ben's service on the Clean Beaches & Ocean Parcel Tax Citizens Oversight Committee and can now uplift the Sustainability Commission’s work.
Recreation and Parks Commission
Matthew Goldenberg is a physician and a community leader who would be a strong and hard-working Recreation and Parks Commissioner. He can bring to the commission a personal commitment to convene people to see the potential of our green open spaces as significant quality-of-life resources. His professional capacities add to the knowledge of how parks and recreation are vital for personal and public health.
Airport Commission
Diane Reynolds has been a conscientious, smart and open-minded Airport Commissioner who warrants another term. Her attention to the Santa Monica Airport operations and impact on the community have been practical and thorough. With the anticipated closure of the airport in a little more than two years, it is important to have Diane’s participation on the commission continue for thoughtful and meaningful discussions and sound advice to the City Council Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
2 to ensue. She knows the details of the pertinent issues well and contends with them assuredly and calmly. Diane also fosters good community relationships and communication.
I trust that the City Council will appoint Robert Lempert, Benjamin Kay, Matthew Goldenberg and Diane Reynolds to the respective commissions noted above. With these appointments the Council can receive significant, salient advice to make good and trustworthy decisions.
With respect,
Cris Gutierrez
Santa Monica Resident
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
3 David Yakobson
From: Info <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 28, 2026 11:45 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16C Landmarks Commission Appointments
Attachments: 2026-0728-SMCRecommendationsForLandmarkCommAppointments.pdf
EXTERNAL
Dear City Council,
Please accept the attached letter recommending the reappointment of Roger Genser and Carol Lemlein to the Landmarks Commission.
Thank you.
Santa Monica Conservancy
Preservation Resource Center
at the Shotgun House
2520 Second Street
Santa Monica, CA 90405
(310) 496-3146
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
2520 SECOND STREET
SANTA MONICA, CA 90405
310-496-3146
www.smconservancy.org
July 28, 2026
Dear City Council,
The Santa Monica Conservancy recommends the appointment of Roger Genser and Carol Lemlein to the Landmarks Commission. Roger currently serves in the historian position, and Carol was recently appointed as a member-at-large.
Roger’s life work has been dedicated to researching Santa Monica’s history through his vast personal collection of historic photographs, postcards, artwork and documents. He brings scholarship and passion to building these collections, which he shares with the Landmarks Commission in its deliberations. These are unique qualifications for his appointment.
Roger’s devotion to our history, and sharing that knowledge with the public, are vital assets to the work of the Landmarks Commission. His views bring historical context and valuable perspectives to the Commission’s deliberations. His lengthy service on the Commission provides insight into prior cases that help inform his fellow commissioners in their discussions. His willingness to continue his service indicates a generosity and dedication to Santa Monica for which we can be grateful. He is deeply connected to Santa Monica through his archival collections, his lengthy residence in Ocean Park, and as a cousin of former Councilman Ken Genser. He cares very much about our civic wellbeing, and the role that landmarks play in the City’s distinctive identity.
Carol Lemlein was first appointed to the Landmarks Commission just a few months ago to fill the unexpired term of Dolores Sloan and is now offering her services for a full term. Carol has a comprehensive understanding of Santa Monica’s built environment, its historic resources, and the challenges involved in sustaining them for the future. Serving for many years as President of the Santa Monica Conservancy, she regularly attended Landmarks Commission meetings, learning the essential concepts and framework for historic preservation here. She is very thoughtful, intelligent and unbiased in her approach to historic preservation issues. She seeks solutions that allow historic resources to evolve with new development so they contribute to the City’s prosperity and future.
The City of Santa Monica is fortunate to have such highly qualified residents offering their services to the public. We hope you will support the appointments of Roger Genser and Carol Lemlein to the Landmarks Commission.
Sincerely,
Mario Fonda-Bonardi
Board President
Santa Monica Conservancy
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
4 David Yakobson
From: Carol Lemlein <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 28, 2026 11:59 AM
To: Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Lana Negrete; [email protected]; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Dan Hall; councilmtgitems
Subject: Re: Item 16c - Landmarks Commission Appointment
EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem, and Council Members,
I am writing to request your support for my appointment to the Landmarks Commission. I am listed on your agenda as an incumbent, but you may remember that I was appointed to serve as a replacement for Commissioner Dolly Sloan this past March, when only 3 months remained on her term.
My goal was to leverage my comprehensive understanding of local, regional and national preservation policy to help ensure that the Commission’s decisions are made with knowledge of best practices and regulatory compliance. I looked forward to bringing this knowledge, as well as my experience in community outreach, to the Landmarks Commission’s mission of protecting and promoting the City’s historic and cultural heritage for the benefit of our residents and visitors.
After only a few months, there is much left to be done! We need to ensure that the Commission’s work reflects the full diversity and history of Santa Monica’s neighborhoods, and to do so using the insights gained from the work of the Commission’s Subcommittee on Social Justice/Equity in Preservation.
The Landmarks Commission could be a key contributor to the strategic priorities of the City’s Realignment Plan, supporting the revitalization of our economy by increasing the visibility of our City’s cultural heritage and thereby making the City a more attractive place to live, work and visit.
Please support my reappointment to the Commission tonight! Sincerely,
Carol Lemlein
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
1 David Yakobson
From: Rachel Lozano <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, July 27, 2026 9:04 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Lana Negrete; Barry Snell; Jesse Zwick; Ellis Raskin; Natalya Zernitskaya
Subject: June 28th Council Meeting | Santa Monica Pier Corporation Board of Directors
EXTERNAL
Mayor Torosis, Mayor Pro Tem Zwick, and Honorable Members of the Santa Monica City Council:
Hello,
I am writing to express my interest in being appointed to the Santa Monica Pier Corporation Board of Directors. Unfortunately, I have a prior commitment and could not join you in person on Tuesday, July
28. I have been working in Santa Monica for more than 30 years and love this city. As a tourism professional, I am passionate about supporting Santa Monica's economic vitality and preserving the Pier as one of the city's most iconic destinations. The rich history, culture and varied experiences are to be celebrated today and in the future. Through my work with Santa Monica Travel & Tourism (SMTT), I have developed strong relationships with pier and local businesses, community partners, and city stakeholders, and feel my skills would be a compliment to the work of the Board and staff. I welcome the opportunity to bring that experience to the Pier Corporation Board of Directors.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I would be honored to serve our community in this important role.
Sincerely,
Rachel Lozano
Rachel Lozano
Chief People Officer
Santa Monica Travel & Tourism
email: [email protected]
website: www.santamonica.com
phone: 310.319.6263
address: 2427 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90405
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
2 David Yakobson
From: Stacey Grigas <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, July 27, 2026 6:36 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Written Public Comment — Annual Board Appointments - Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. (Applicant: Stacey Grigas)
EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Torosis, Mayor Pro Tem Zwick, and Councilmembers, I am writing in support of my application for a Council-appointed seat on the Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. Board of Directors. I had intended to introduce myself in person, but I will be traveling during tomorrow's meeting and am submitting my remarks in writing instead.
I have lived in Downtown Santa Monica for five years. I don't drive, and I move through the city on foot and via public transit every day. Living here that way is where the difference between Downtown as a neighborhood and Downtown as a corridor becomes most visible, and that perspective is what I would bring to this board. The Council's appointments are where residents of the district are represented, and I would take that responsibility seriously.
What compelled me to seek involvement with Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. was witnessing firsthand what the impending closure of The Britannia Pub, displaced to make room for a Taco Bell Cantina, means not only for its owners but for the many people who have made that place a second home. It brought home how much of Downtown's character rests on what DTSM already does, from public safety and cleanliness to programming, placemaking, and the businesses that give a block its identity. I would find contributing to that genuinely energizing.
Professionally, my background is executive operations. For more than ten years I have supported senior leaders in technology, currently as Executive Assistant to the CEO of LegalOn Technologies, an AI legaltech software startup. The substance of that role is budget stewardship, vendor and venue negotiation, event production, and the design of systems that allow small teams to operate well beyond their headcount. I have produced $250K+ offsites end to end, managed board meeting logistics, and built onboarding programs and internal infrastructure from the ground up. DTSM's programming and activation sits close enough to my professional practice that I could contribute immediately.
I am especially excited about the upcoming LA28 Olympic Games. Santa Monica will be in front of a global audience, and I would love to help build on what is already underway to make Downtown a destination in its own right. LA28 is an extraordinary opportunity for this city, and the caliber of planning and coordination it calls for is something I have built a career on.
I would be grateful for your support of my appointment, and I would welcome the opportunity to speak with any Councilmember before or after the vote.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
3 Respectfully,
Stacey Grigas
1455 4th Street, Apt 506
Santa Monica, CA 90401
[email protected]
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
1 David Yakobson
From: Terence Young <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 28, 2026 4:32 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Airport commission candidacy
EXTERNAL
I want to urge support for candidate Zachary Hoevet for the position on the Santa Monica airport commission. His years of experience around design, planning, cost control, the realities of project development, plus his understanding of maintenance and operations and life cycle costs of large projects give him a unique perspective. His qualifications as an excellent architect at one of the world‘s largest design and planning firms designing, renovating and rehabilitating airports, creating mixed use housing and community outdoor space-places his candidacy as extremely qualified for this commission. As a more than 30 year resident under the flight path I think we need to have his voice on decisions around our airport and its future.
Terence Young 3007 11th St., Santa Monica resident
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
2 David Yakobson
From: Mike Feinstein <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 28, 2026 1:08 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Dan Hall
Cc: Oliver Chi; Denise Anderson-Warren
Subject: Landmarks Reappointment - In support of Roger Genser
EXTERNAL
Dear Council members
I am writing in support of re-appointing Roger Genser to the Landmarks Commission in the role of Commission Local Historian.
The history and institutional memory that Roger Genser brings to landmarks issues in Santa Monica is irreplaceable. Retaining that knowledge and background in our landmarks process is exactly why we have the five-vote super majority process to appoint someone like Roger to an extra term, particularly as a Commission Local Historian.
Thanks for considering my input on this important appointment.
Mike Feinstein
Ocean Park
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
1 David Yakobson
From: Hajar Muqtasid St. Claire <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, July 14, 2026 11:54 AM
To: councilmtgitems; councilmtgitems; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Lana Negrete; Robbie J5; Janet McKeithen; Joanne Berlin; Joanne Berlin; Angela Scott
Subject: Black Apology Action Steps
EXTERNAL
Please consider the Restorative Justice applicants with more scrutiny. Are they in alignment with the Black Apology given by City Council in November 2022? Please review the following document about tje Black Apology Action Steps.
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Black Apology Action Steps
Thank you,
Hajar Muqtasid St. Claire
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
2 David Yakobson
From: Joanne Berlin <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 14, 2026 11:46 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: CRJ input on item 16A
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council Members,
Congratulations for your work in establishing a new commission that will be dealing with restorative justice to historically underserved communities of color in Santa Monica. You have heard from the Committee For Racial Justice (CRJ) over the years on many topics and I am pleased to write to you today to share our endorsements of the following persons to serve on this important commission to be named this evening in item 16A on your agenda: Hajar Muqtasid St. Claire, Karen Gunn, Schinal Herrington, Willa Wells, and Alisa Ortiz.
I am writing to you on behalf of the Housing subcommittee of the Committee For Racial Justice. At our recent meeting, we discussed the importance of the new Restorative Justice Commission for Santa Monica and are recommending the five names mentioned above for your consideration.
Thank you for your votes tonight on this landmark commission to address harms done and move us forward in the quest for more equity in Santa Monica.
Joanne Berlin, CRJ Coordinator
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026
Item 16-A
September 8, 2026