CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
MINUTES
MONDAY, MARCH 20, 2023
WEST HOLLYWOOD PARK PUBLIC MEETING ROOM - COUNCIL CHAMBERS 625 N. SAN VICENTE BOULEVARD
6:00 P.M. – REGULAR MEETING
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Pro Tempore Erickson called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
A.A. TELECONFERENCE MEETING ATTENDANCE REQUEST PURSUANT TO AB 2449:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider a request under AB 2449 to allow attendance via teleconference for Councilmember(s).
City Attorney Langer provided the exemptions pursuant to AB 2449 for Councilmember Heilman to attend the meeting via teleconference.
Councilmember Heilman confirmed no individuals were present over the age of eighteen.
ACTION: Identify and apply the applicable findings pursuant to AB 2449 and approve the request for Councilmember( s) to participate via teleconference.
Motion by Councilmember Byers, seconded by Councilmember Meister and approved.
This meeting was a hybrid meeting held via teleconference and in-person. ** Mayor Pro Tempore Erickson read the Land Acknowledgment.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Nicholas Roybal led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL:
PRESENT: Councilmember Byers, Councilmember Heilman,
Councilmember Meister, and Mayor Pro Tempore Erickson.
ABSENT: Mayor Shyne.
ALSO PRESENT: City Manager Wilson, City Attorney Langer, Administrative Services Director Jimenez, City Clerk Crowder, and Assistant City Clerk Morales.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
City Clerk Crowder indicated that Item 2.J. would be moved to Excluded Consent for a brief presentation by staff to rectify the incorrect staff report included with the online agenda packet. She also indicated that Item 2.N. will be moved to New Business as Item 5.E. as indicated on the staff report as it was it was inadvertently placed under the Consent Calendar.
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Councilmember Byers requested that Items 5.B. and 5.E. ( please see the City Clerk’s comments above regarding Item 5.E.) be moved to the Consent Calendar as Items 2.R, and 2.N, as respectively.
Councilmember Meister requested that Agenda Items 5.C. and 6.A. be moved to the Consent Calendar as Items 2.S. and 2.T., as respectively. She also requested that Item
2.E. be moved to Excluded Consent.
Councilmember Heilman requested Item 4.B. be moved to Consent Calendar as Item
2.Q.
Motion by Councilmember Meister, seconded by Councilmember Byers, to approve the March 20, 2023 agenda, as amended.
ADJOURNMENT MOTIONS:
Mayor Pro Tempore Erickson requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Darlene Zulof.
PRESENTATIONS:
Mayor Pro Tempore Erickson presented a proclamation to Sean Inoue, Executive Director at the Western Los Angeles Office and Jay Winkerbach, Regional Doner Services Executive, from the American Red Cross.
Mayor Pro Tempore Erickson presented a certificate to Doralin “ Liz” Blanco from MV Transportation.
1. PUBLIC COMMENT:
YOLA DORE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, thanked Mayor Pro Tempore Erickson for honoring Doralin “ Liz” Blanco from MV Transportation and thanked the City Council for supporting individuals with disabilities.
MIKIE FREIDMAN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding Items 2.L., 2.O., and 2.S. as well as, the distractions during meetings due to texting by elected and appointed officials.
ALLAN WILLION, UNKNOW, spoke in opposition to reducing public comment time during City Council meetings, objected to municipal appeal procedures, and commented on Item 2.K.
ADAM DARVISH, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding Item 2.E. He spoke about safety in the community.
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MARNE CARMEAN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of Doralin “ Liz” Blanco from MV Transportation, and her assistance to both Ms. Carmean and her son, Brendon.
ANNIE JUMP VICENTE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding Items 2.P. and 5.D.
She also spoke about the City becoming a Tran sanctuary City LIZA CEBALLOS, LOS ANGELES, spoke in support of Eugene Maysky and CES.
MARK WILLINGHAM, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding the increase in the number of mentally ill homeless individuals and shared a recent incident involving his wife being chased by one of these individuals.
JOHN ALLENDORFER, WEST HOLYWOOD, spoke to congratulate Councilmembers Meister, Byers, and Heilman on their elections and announced the return of Seniors in Action to in person sessions.
KHINDRID SOL, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of Item 2.P. and additional support for the Trans community.
DAVID NASH, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke to thank Liz from MV Transportation for her services. He also spoke regarding the capability for teleconferencing at Plummer Park for other Commissions and Advisory Board. Additionally, he commented on sidewalk safety.
WEST SEEGMILLER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke on the end of the local emergency and requested that the City Council direct staff to draft a Public Impact Report.
CITY MANAGER’ S REPORT:
City Attorney Langer clarified Item 6.A. which codifies the change to the City Council meeting time and make the rules of decorum more visible under legislative item on the agenda did not modify any aspects of the public comment period.
City Manager David Wilson announced upcoming events in the City and provided an update on the mid-year budget.
FISCAL IMPACT ON CONSENT CALENDAR:
City Clerk Crowder stated that the fiscal impact on the Consent Calendar with the addition of Items 4.B., 5.B., 5.C., and 6.A. was $ 3,000 in expenditures, $ 19,937 in revenue, and ($1,540) in waived fees.
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2. CONSENT CALENDAR:
2.A.,B.,C.,D.,F.,G.,H.,I.,K.,L.,M.,N.,O.,P.,R.,S.,T. Motion by Councilmember Meister, seconded by Councilmember Byers, and approved, noting the “ no” vote by Councilmember Meister on Item 2.F. and Mayor Shyne as “ absent”.
2.A. POSTING OF AGENDA:
SUBJECT: The agenda for the meeting of Monday, March 20, 2023 was posted at City Hall, Plummer Park, the Sheriff’s Station, and at the West Hollywood Library on Wednesday, March 15, 2023.
ACTION: Receive and file. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
SUBJECT: The City Council is requested to approve the minutes of the prior Council meeting.
ACTION: Approve the minutes of March 6, 2023. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.C. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER NO. 925 [ L. QUIJANO, C.
CORRALES, S. HERNANDEZ]:
SUBJECT: The City Council shall receive the Demand Register for period ending March 10, 2023 pursuant to Sections 37201 to 37210 of the Government Code of the State of California.
ACTION: Approve Demand Register NO. 925 and adopt Resolution No. 23-023, “ A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
WEST HOLLYWOOD APPROVING PAYMENT OF DEMANDS
PRESENTED ON DEMAND REGISTER NO. 925.” Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.D. CLAIMS ADMINISTRATION [ J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER]:
SUBJECT: The City Council is receiving notification that the City’s thirdparty administrator Carl Warren & Co. have denied one ( 1) Claims for Damages filed against the City.
ACTION: Receive and file. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.E. ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 23-09 (2ND READING) “ AN ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CITY COMMISSION NAMES AND
PURVIEW, AMENDING COMMISSION MEMBER ATTENDANCE AND
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS, AND UPDATING COMMISSION
REFERENCES THROUGHOUT THE MUNICIPAL CODE” [ M.
CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 23-09, amending the West Hollywood Municipal Code regarding City Commission names and purview, Commission Member attendance, and eligibility requirements.
ACTION: This item was moved to Excluded Consent.
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2.F. ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 23-10 (2ND READING) “ AN ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 11.28 OF THE WEST
HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING OUTDOOR DINING IN
THE PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAY” [ M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 23-10, amending Chapter 11.28 of the West Hollywood Municipal Code to reflect new policy updates relating to outdoor dining in the public right of way.
ACTION: Waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 23-10, “ AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 11.28 OF THE
WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING OUTDOOR
DINING IN THE PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAY”. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar, noting the “ no” vote of Councilmember Meister.
2.G. COMMISSION AND ADVISORY BOARD MEETING SYNOPSES [ M.
CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive Synopses from the Human Services Commission and Russian Speaking Advisory Board regarding actions taken at their recent meetings.
ACTION: Receive and File. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.H. TREASURER’ S REPORT FOR JANUARY 2023 [ L. QUIJANO, C.
CORRALES, K. BARENG]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive the Treasurer’s Reports for the month ended January 2023 pursuant to Section 53646 of the Government Code of the State of California.
ACTION: Receive and file the January 2023 Treasurer’ s Report.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.I. UPDATE ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ON-DEMAND
MICROTRANSIT PILOT PROGRAM [ C. SCHROEDER, L. ISENBERG, F. GOMEZ]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive an update on the City’s transition from Dial-A-Ride, a traditional demand-response program, to MicroTransit, an on-demand rideshare pilot program that prioritizes older adults and people living with disabilities while serving the general public.
ACTION: Receive and File. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.J. HOUSING ELEMENT ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2022 [ J. KEHO, F. CONTRERAS, T. FARRIS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive the Annual Housing Element Report for calendar year 2022, including progress toward the 6th Cycle RHNA, and authorize staff to submit the report to the California DocuSign Envelope ID: 1FCF5E54- DFF3- 4AA1-998D-8FF7D624AD38 City Council Minutes
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Department of Housing and Community Development in compliance with state requirements.
ACTION: This item was moved to Excluded Consent.
2.K. APPROVAL OF FINAL MAP NO. 83133 FOR THE CONDOMINIUM PROJECT LOCATED AT 1006 HANCOCK AVENUE [ S. CAMPBELL, J.
GILMOUR]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approval of Final Map No. 83133, a 6 unit condominium subdivision, located at 1006 Hancock Ave.
This item does not require CEQA findings.
ACTIONS: 1) Make findings for the Final Map as follows: a. That this project will not violate any of the provisions of Sections 66474, 66474. 1, and 66474. 6 of the Subdivision Map Act, b. That the proposed subdivision, together with the provisions for its design and improvement, is consistent with the General Plan required by Article 5 ( commencing with Section 65300) of Chapter 3 of Division 1 of the Government Code or any specific plan adopted pursuant to Article 8 ( commencing with Section 65450) of Chapter 3 of Division 1 of the Government Code, c. That the development of the property in the manner set forth on the subject division of land will not unreasonably interfere with the free and complete exercise of any public entity and/or public utility rights of way and/or easements within the subject division of land, pursuant to Section 66436( a)3A(i-viii) of the Subdivision Map Act; 2) Approve Final Map No 83133; and 3) Instruct the City Clerk to endorse on the face of the map of Final Map No. 83133 the certificate that embodies the approval of said map. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.L. CO-SPONSORSHIP OF BOYS DON’ T WEAR DRESSES FILM
SCREENING [ Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, L. FOOKS]:
SUBJECT: The West Hollywood City Council will consider a request to co-sponsor a community screening of the award-winning short film “Boys Don’t Wear dresses “ as part of the City’s recognition of Autism Acceptance Month.
ACTIONS: 1) Approve the Co-sponsorship of Spectrum Laboratory’ s community screening of “ Boys” Don’t Wear Dresses” on Saturday, April 15, 2023 in Fiesta Hall; 2) Waive any Facility Use Fees and any other City fees that may be incurred ( estimated $ 300); 3) Authorize the City Manager or his designee to execute documents incident to the Co-Sponsorship agreement between the City and Spec Labs, Inc.; 4) Authorize the use of the City name and logo on collateral materials; 5) Direct the Communications Department to utilize all appropriate communication tools to promote the event, including, but not limited to, the City’s website and social media channels; and 6) Authorize the City Manager or his designee to execute documents incident to the Co-Sponsorship agreement between the City and Spec Labs, Inc. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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2.M. A RESOLUTION TERMINATING THE LOCAL EMERGENCY
DECLARED BY THE CITY AS A RESULT OF THE COVID- 19
PANDEMIC, CLARIFYING EXISTING CITY COVID- 19 RELATED
MEASURES THAT WILL AUTOMATICALLY EXPIRE UPON THE
TERMINATION OF THE LOCAL EMERGENCY AND AMENDING THE
TOLLING PERIOD FOR THE SEISMIC RETROFIT ORDINANCE [ D.
WILSON, L. LANGER, J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: Pursuant to state law, and the Municipal Code of the City of West Hollywood (“ City”), the City proclaimed a local emergency in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The City Council will consider adopting a resolution terminating such proclamation effective March 31, 2023, and amending the tolling period provided for the seismic retrofit ordinance. The City Council will also clarify existing emergency executive orders, resolutions, and ordinances issued by the City in response to the pandemic that will automatically expire upon the termination of the local emergency.
ACTION: Adopt Resolution No. 23-024: “ A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD TERMINATING THE
LOCAL EMERGENCY DECLARED BY THE CITY AS A RESULT OF THE COVID- 19 PANDEMIC, RESCINDING SPECIFIED CITY LEGISLATION RELATED TO THE COVID- 19 PANDEMIC AND EXTENDING THE
TOLLING PERIOD FOR THE CITY’S SEISMIC RETROFIT
ORDINANCE.” Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.N. ( 5.E.) CO-SPONSORSHIP OF LAVO VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT [ J.
ERICKSON, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO, M. MÁRQUEZ]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider a request to Co-Sponsor the Los Angeles Volleyball Organization’s ( LAVO) Volleyball Tournament in West Hollywood Park’s Aquatic and Recreation Building on April 1 and 2, 2023.
ACTIONS: 1) Approve a Co-sponsorship of LAVO’ s Volleyball Tournament to be held at West Hollywood Park on Saturday, April 1 and Sunday, April 2, 2023; 2) Authorize the City Manager or his designee to execute documents incident to the Co-Sponsorship agreement between the City and LAVO; 3) Approve waiving the Facility Use Fee for the West Hollywood Park Aquatic and Recreation Building or any other Permit Fees required for the successful execution of the event. ( Estimated $ 640 in waived fees); 4) Approve the waiver of parking fees at the 5-story parking lot for tournament participants of the event on both days ( estimated $ 600 in waived fees); 5) Authorize the use of the City name and logo on invitations, programs, and other collateral materials for the event; and 6) Direct the Communications Department to utilize all appropriate communication tools to promote the LAVO Volleyball Tournament, including, but not limited to, the City’s website and social media tools.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar. ( Please see the City Clerk’s comment under Approval of the Agenda.)
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2.O. SPONSORSHIP OF A SCREENING AND DISCUSSION OF THE FILM AIDS DIVA: THE LEGEND OF CONNIE NORMAN AS PART OF THE
HUMAN RIGHTS SPEAKERS SERIES [ J. ERICKSON, Y. QUARKER, A.
LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider sponsoring a film screening of AIDS DIVA: The Legend of Connie Norman followed by an interactive discussion in conjunction with ONE Archives Foundation, as part of the Human Rights Speakers Series.
ACTIONS: 1) Approve the sponsorship of a Human Rights Speakers Series event, a special screening of the film AIDS DIVA: The Legend of Connie Norman, followed by an interactive discussion in conjunction with ONE Archives Foundation; 2) Authorize the use of the City name and logo on invitations, programs, and other collateral materials for the event; and 3) Direct the Communications Department to utilize all appropriate communication tools to promote the events including, but not limited to, the City’s website, a press release, and social media tools. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.P. A RESOLUTION DENOUNCING TENNESSEE’ S SENATE BILL 3, BANNING DRAG SHOWS IN PUBLIC SPACES [ J. ERICKSON, S.
SHYNE, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider adopting a resolution to denounce the State of Tennessee’s Senate Bill 3, which bans drags shows in public spaces. The City Council will also consider suspending official travel to Tennessee and other states that adopt similar drag bans until such time as the new legislation is revoked or amended.
ACTIONS: 1) Adopt Resolution No. 23-025 “ A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD DENOUNCING
TENNESSEE’ S SENATE BILL 3 AND SUSPENDING OFFICIAL TRAVEL
TO TENNESSEE AND ANY OTHER STATE WHICH ADOPTS SIMILAR
ANTI-DRAG LEGISLATION UNTIL SUCH TIME AS THE NEW LAW IS REVOKED, AMENDED, OR STRUCK DOWN;” 2) Direct staff to send copies of the resolution to Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, California Governor Gavin Newsom, California State Senator Ben Allen, California State Assembly Member Rick Chavez Zbur, and others as deemed appropriate; 3) Authorize the City Manager to suspend official travel Tennessee and any other state identified by the Community & Legislative Affairs Division as having adopted anti-drag legislation substantially similar to Tennessee’ s SB 3 until such time as the law is revoked, amended, or struck down by the courts; 4) Direct the Community & Legislative Affairs Division to maintain and update the list of states and cities to which the City has suspended official travel due to anti-drag legislation and make this list available on the City’s website; and 5) Direct the City Manager, City Attorney, and City Clerk to review all current and likely future contracts with Tennessee- based businesses in order to examine the feasibility of procuring such products and services elsewhere until such DocuSign Envelope ID: 1FCF5E54- DFF3- 4AA1-998D-8FF7D624AD38 City Council Minutes
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time as Tennessee’ s SB 3 is revoked, amended, or struck down by the courts. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.Q. ( 4.B.) UPDATE OF THE FISCAL YEAR 2022-23 MID-YEAR OPERATING BUDGET AND WORK PLAN PRIORITIES [ D. WILSON, C. SAFRIET]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive a report on revenues and expenditures for Fiscal Year 2021 22 and a mid-year budget update for the first half of Fiscal Year 2022-23. Updates include proposed mid-year budget adjustments and a report on departmental work plan priorities.
ACTIONS: 1) Receive a report on Fiscal Year 2021-22 revenues and expenditures. 2) Receive an update on the Fiscal Year 2022-23 Budget and approve budget adjustments identified in the attached “ Proposed MidYear Adjustments to the Fiscal Year 2022-23 Budget” ( Attachment A). 3) Receive and file the Departmental Work Plan Priorities ( Attachment B), Summary of Council- Initiated Items ( Attachment C), and FY2023- 24 Budget Schedule ( Attachment D). Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.R. ( 5.B) SECOND ANNUAL PRIDE PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT [ J.
ERICKSON, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing staff to organize a Pride Pickleball Tournament during the month of June at the pickleball courts at Plummer Park in West Hollywood.
ACTIONS: 1) Direct staff to work with Tennacity – the City’s tennis/pickleball concessionaire to organize a Pride Pickleball Tournament at the pickleball courts at Plummer Park in West Hollywood during the month of June; and 2) Direct the Communications Department to utilize all appropriate communication tools to promote the pickleball tournament, such as the City’s website and social media tools. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.S. ( 5.C.) FIRE DEPARTMENT REVIEW OF NEW DEVELOPMENT
PROJECTS [ L. MEISTER, J. ERICKSON, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J.
DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing staff to discuss with Los Angeles County Fire Department ways to improve the review and evaluation of new development projects prior to new developments receiving entitlements.
ACTIONS: 1) Direct staff to discuss with Los Angeles County Fire Department ways to improve the review and evaluation of new development projects prior to new developments receiving entitlements; 2) Direct staff to modify the environmental review questionnaire sent to the Los Angeles County Fire Department to include specific questions related to issues that could impact design, mitigations, or conditions of approval, such as access, required tree removal, width of street or parkway required, etc.; and 3) Direct staff to discuss the Fire Department’ s project review and requirements on a Countywide level with relevant parties, DocuSign Envelope ID: 1FCF5E54- DFF3- 4AA1-998D-8FF7D624AD38 City Council Minutes
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which may include the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, California Contract Cities Association, and League of California Cities, to ensure consistency and accuracy. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.T. ( 6.A) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
AMENDING PORTIONS OF TITLE 2, ARTICLE 1, SECTION 2.08.040
OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE AND REVISING CITY
COUNCIL BYLAWS [ J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider amending Sections 2.08.040 of the West Hollywood Municipal Code to codify the start time of City Council meetings and revising City Council bylaws in Resolution No. 23-13 as Attachment B.
ACTIONS: 1) Introduce on First Reading Ordinance 23-11 “ AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD AMENDING
PORTIONS OF TITLE 2, ARTICLE 1, SECTION 2.08.040 OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE”; and 2) Rescind Resolution No, 23-13 and adopt Resolution No. 23-026 “ A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD ESTABLISHING
RULES FOR THE CONDUCT OF CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS AND
RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 23-13” shifting Legislative Section after Public Hearing Section and adding rules of decorum to the agenda.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
3. PUBLIC HEARINGS: None.
4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
4.A. UPDATE ON UTILIZATION OF WEST HOLLYWOOD EMERGENCY
FUNDS IN RESPONSE TO COVID- 19 [ C. SCHROEDER, L. ISENBERG, D. MURRAY, J. HOLUB, Y. SPITERI, D. WILSON, C. SAFRIET, P.
KESPRADIT]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive an update on the utilization of emergency funds in response to COVID-19 and will consider an allocation of additional funds for the Eviction Prevention and Defense program.
Director of Human Services and Rent Stabilization, Human Services Manager Leslie Isenberg, and Rent Stabilization Manager Jonathan Holub provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated March 20, 2023.
Councilmember Heilman inquired about the recommendation to only extend CES’ contract through June 30, 2023 rather than 2024, as recommended for the Bet Tzedek’ s contract. Mr. Schroeder responded.
RAPHAEL GAMON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of extending the CES contract to 2024.
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SHANNON MARTELLARO, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of extending the CES contract to 2024.
ROBERTO GONZALEZ, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of
extending the CES contract to 2024.
STEVE LEGRAND, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of extending the CES contract to 2024.
KIMBERLY STRAUS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of
extending the CES contract to 2024.
JAILYN SCHOENFELD, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of
extending the CES contract to 2024.
ANNIE JUMP VICENTE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of this item and commented on her personal experiences as a tenant.
JEREMY SPENCER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of
extending the CES contract to 2024.
IZMA MAJID, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of extending the CES contract to 2024.
MARIE KATE LEIBMAN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of extending the CES contract to 2024.
MARIA HEIFETZ, LOS ANGELES, spoke in support of extending the CES contract to 2024.
EVE AND YVONNE BARYOTAM, spoke in support of extending the CES contract to 2024.
Councilmember Meister inquired of Eugene Maysky of CES about the comments made that he has assisted tenants with short-term rental issues that they are experiencing in their buildings. Mr. Maysky spoke about the ways he has assisted tenants.
Councilmember Heilman indicated that he supports extending the contract with CES through June 30, 2024 and supports the other items recommended by staff. He inquired about pandemic- related housing programs i.e. emergency funding for National Council for Jewish Women and Alliance for Housing and Healing. Ms. Isenberg responded. He also commented that the intent of the Rent Stabilization Ordinance was to ensure that City staff enforce the provisions in a proactive manner and DocuSign Envelope ID: 1FCF5E54- DFF3- 4AA1-998D-8FF7D624AD38 City Council Minutes
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expressed concern that it appears that tenants are shouldering the burden.
Councilmember Meister noted that she supports extending the contract with CES through June 30, 2024. She suggested that the City Council Finance & Budget Subcommittee review ongoing funding for the services that CES is providing. She also suggested adding additional items to the scope of services to include tenant maintenance issues as well as, issues with short-term rentals.
Councilmember Byers commented that Los Angeles County is considering extending tenant protections through March 2024. She indicated her support to extend the contract with CES through June 30, 2024.
Additionally, she indicated that the tenant protection burden should fall on the City, not tenants.
Mayor Pro Tempore Erickson noted that he agrees with his colleagues’ comments. He inquired about the status of expanded enforcement of illegal short-term rentals as well as, filing a lawsuit against AirBnB.
Councilmember Heilman suggested that the services provided by CES be folded into the Social Services RFP process.
City Manager Wilsons suggested that the City Council extend the contract with CES through June 30, 2024 and direct staff to return with a new contract with an extended scope of services.
ACTIONS: 1) Receive an update on the utilization of emergency funds in response to COVID 19; 2) Approve a new agreement for services with Bet Tzedek Legal Services for a total not-to-exceed amount of $ 321,203 to provide intervention and legal representation for West Hollywood tenants through June 30, 2024, and authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all documents incident to the agreement; 3) Approve Amendment No. 2 to the agreement for services with The Coalition for Economic Survival to increase the amount by $ 15,000 for a total not-to-exceed amount of $ 135,000 to provide legal services education and outreach through June 30, 2024 and authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all documents incident to the agreement; and 4) Direct staff to negotiate a new contract with CES expanding the scope of services.
Motion by Councilmember Heilman, seconded by Mayor Pro
Tempore Erickson, and approved.
The City Council recessed at 7:42 pm and reconvened at 7:52 pm.**
4.B. UPDATE OF THE FISCAL YEAR 2022- 23 MID-YEAR OPERATING BUDGET AND WORK PLAN PRIORITIES [ D. WILSON, C. SAFRIET]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive a report on revenues and DocuSign Envelope ID: 1FCF5E54- DFF3- 4AA1-998D-8FF7D624AD38 City Council Minutes
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expenditures for Fiscal Year 2021 22 and a mid-year budget update for the first half of Fiscal Year 2022-23. Updates include proposed mid-year budget adjustments and a report on departmental work plan priorities.
ACTION: This item was moved to Consent Calendar.
5. NEW BUSINESS:
5.A. COMMISSION AND ADVISORY BOARD APPOINTMENTS AND REAPPOINTMENTS [ J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider making direct and at-large appointments to City Commissions and Advisory Boards.
Councilmember Meister requested that the at-large appointments be Tabled until the Direct appointments are concluded.
ANNIE JUMP VICENTE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding her attendance at the recent Public Safety Commission. She inquired about the purpose of the City’s Commissions and Advisory Boards.
JESI HARRIS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of a thorough review of commission appointments.
STEPHEN J. POST, WEST HOLLYWOOD, commented on his interest to serve on the Public Safety Commission and requested the City Council’ s support.
City Clerk Crowder provided clarification on the terms of service for appointed officials and when newly- appointed officials can expect to begin their service.
ACTIONS: Make new appointments or re-appointments to City Commissions and Advisory Boards with terms ending February 28, 2025, as follows: 1) Councilmember Meister made the following direct appointments: Arts & Cultural Affairs Commission – Catherine “ Cat” Lee, Business License Commission – Elyse Eisenberg, Historic Preservation Commission – Matt Dubin, Human Services Commission – Sarah Adolphson, LGBTQ+ Commission – Renee Sotile, Planning Commission Kimberly Copeland, Public Facilities, Recreation, & Infrastructure Commission – Elaine Polachek, Public Safety Commission – George Nickle, Rent Stabilization Commission – Agassi Topchian, Transportation & Mobility Commission – Alexander Bazley, Disabilities Advisory Board – Louise Smith, Russian- Speaking Advisory Board – Raisa Aguf, Senior Advisory Board – Pat Dixon, Transgender Advisory Board – Luckie Alexander Fuller, and Women’ s Advisory Board – Helane Wilbourne; 2) Councilmember Heilman made the following direct appointment: Public Safety Commission – Bill Harrison; 3) Councilmember Byers made the following direct appointments: Human DocuSign Envelope ID: 1FCF5E54- DFF3- 4AA1-998D-8FF7D624AD38 City Council Minutes
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Services Commission – Karen Eyres, Planning Commission – Mark Edwards, Public Facilities, Recreation, & Infrastructure Commission – Nicole Payton, and Transportation Commission – Jesi Harris; and 4) Mayor Pro Tempore Erickson made the following direct appointments:
Arts & Cultural Affairs Commission – Lindsey Deaton, Business License Commission – Catherine Eng, Historic Preservation Commission – Jacob Sotsky, Human Services Commission – Barbara Meltzer, LGBTQ+ Commission – Ron Cortes, Planning Commission – Rogerio
Carvalheiro, Public Facilities, Recreation, & Infrastructure Commission – Andrew Solomon, Public Safety Commission – Tod Hallman, Transportation & Mobility Commission – Adam Kroll, Russian- Speaking Advisory Board – Eugene Maysky, and Senior Advisory Board – Bill McNeely.
5.B. ( 2.R.) SECOND ANNUAL PRIDE PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT [ J.
ERICKSON, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing staff to organize a Pride Pickleball Tournament during the month of June at the pickleball courts at Plummer Park in West Hollywood.
ACTION: This item was moved to Consent Calendar.
5.C. ( 2.S.) FIRE DEPARTMENT REVIEW OF NEW DEVELOPMENT
PROJECTS [ L. MEISTER, J. ERICKSON, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J.
DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing staff to discuss with Los Angeles County Fire Department ways to improve the review and evaluation of new development projects prior to new developments receiving entitlements.
ACTION: This item was moved to Consent Calendar.
5.D. APPRECIATION LUNCHEON IN WEST HOLLYWOOD TO RECOGNIZE
LOS ANGELES COUNTY SHERIFF AND FIRE DEPARTMENT
PERSONNEL [ J. ERICKSON, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL
TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing staff to organize an appreciation event to recognize Los Angeles County Sheriff and Fire Department personnel that serve the West Hollywood community.
ANNIE JUMP VICENTE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition of this item.
Councilmember Heilman spoke in favor of holding this event during dinner hours and requested this event be by invitation; with input from Councilmember Meister that the event be held in conjunction with the Public Safety Awards event.
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ACTIONS: 1) Approve an appreciation event in West Hollywood to recognize Los Angeles County Sheriff and Fire Department personnel in conjunction with the annual Public Safety Awards; and 2) Authorize the Director of Finance and Technology Services to reserve $ 15,000 from Fiscal Year 2023-24 funds in the Special Council Programs account number 100-1-01-00-531001 for costs associated with the event. Motion by Councilmember Heilman, seconded by Councilmember Meister, and approved.
5.E. (2.N.) CO-SPONSORSHIP OF LAVO VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT [ J.
ERICKSON, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO, M. MÁRQUEZ]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider a request to Co-Sponsor the Los Angeles Volleyball Organization’s ( LAVO) Volleyball Tournament in West Hollywood Park’s Aquatic and Recreation Building on April 1 and 2, 2023.
ACTION: This item was moved to Consent Calendar.
EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR:
2.E. ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 23-09 (2ND READING) “ AN ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CITY COMMISSION NAMES AND
PURVIEW, AMENDING COMMISSION MEMBER ATTENDANCE AND
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS, AND UPDATING COMMISSION
REFERENCES THROUGHOUT THE MUNICIPAL CODE” [ M.
CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 23-09, amending the West Hollywood Municipal Code regarding City Commission names and purview, Commission Member attendance, and eligibility requirements.
Councilmember Meister requested that the City Council Commission & Advisory Board Purview Subcommittee reconvene to review the Planning Commission members eligibility requirements as well as, identifying potential conflicts of interest during the application process.
ACTION: Waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 23-09, “ AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CITY COMMISSION NAMES
AND PURVIEW, AMENDING COMMISSION MEMBER ATTENDANCE
AND ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS, AND UPDATING COMMISSION
REFERENCES THROUGHOUT THE MUNICIPAL CODE”. Motion by
Councilmember Heilman, seconded by Councilmember Meister, and approved.
2.J. HOUSING ELEMENT ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2022 [ J. KEHO, F. CONTRERAS, T. FARRIS]:
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SUBJECT: The City Council will receive the Annual Housing Element Report for calendar year 2022, including progress toward the 6th Cycle RHNA, and authorize staff to submit the report to the California Department of Housing and Community Development in compliance with state requirements.
The City Council recessed at 8:17 pm and reconvened at 8:20 pm to address technical issues**
Senior Planner Tahirah Farris provided a brief presentation as outlined in the staff report dated March 20, 2023. She also indicated a correction to the staff report as follows: Affordable units account for 16% of units (5 out of 31) in multifamily developments with 10 or more units that were issued a building permit in 2022. This calculation provides a snapshot of affordable units for projects that are more likely to propose units at affordable levels. Therefore, single family residences, ADUs, and projects with fewer than 10 units, which are more likely to pay an in-lieu fee rather than provide one affordable unit, are excluded.
ACTION: Authorize staff to submit the 2022 Annual Housing Element Report to the California State Department of Housing and Community Development. Motion by Councilmember Heilman, seconded by Mayor Pro Tempore Erickson, and approved.
6. LEGISLATIVE:
6.A. ( 2.T.) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD AMENDING PORTIONS OF TITLE 2, ARTICLE 1, SECTION 2.08.040
OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE AND REVISING CITY
COUNCIL BYLAWS [ J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider amending Sections 2.08.040 of the West Hollywood Municipal Code to codify the start time of City Council meetings and revising City Council bylaws in Resolution No. 23-13 as Attachment B.
ACTION: This item was moved to Consent Calendar.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
VICTOR OMELZENKO, WEST HOLLYWOOD, thanked the City Council for approving Agenda Item 4.A.
STEVE MARTIN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, congratulated newly appointed planning Commissioners and spoke in favor of the approval of Item 4.A.
RICK WATTS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of the approval of Item 4.A. and congratulated Eugene Maysky and Louise Smith on their appointments. He also spoke on teleconference accommodations for the Disabilities Advisory Board.
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COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS AND MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORTS:
Councilmember Meister reported on her attendance at the active shooter preparedness workshop, LGBTQ+ dialogue with the deputy, noted her no vote on Agenda Item 2.F., and announced a Cultural Arts Celebration and Festival Ladies celebrating the achievements of women on March 25th and March 26th from 2-10 pm at the West Hollywood Park; and requested a proactive code enforcement initiative be revisited.
Councilmember Byers reported her attendance to the Playhouse Design Committee meeting, Civic Well Policy Conference in Monterey County, the Legue of California Cities Environmental Committee, and the Clean Power Alliance Energy Committee, and the USC Executive Leadership Forum for Local Leaders; wished all a happy first day of spring and happy Women’ s History Month; announced the Women’ s Leadership Reception hosted by the Chamber of Commerce event; thanked the City Manager for the CERT training and thanked staff for facilitating teleconference meetings, and asked for support to LAUSD staff during the strike.
Mayor Pro Tempore Erickson attended Log Cabin Meeting with the West Hollywood Recovery Center, Tour with Congressman Schiff’ s team, the active shooter preparedness workshop, LGBTQ+ dialogue with the deputy event, the Elton John event, the 38th Woman of the Year awards for LA County, the 7th annual History award, SCAG Leadership in Infrastructure, Artist and Icons event, 639 La Peer Drive Topping Out Luncheon, California Cities Transportation & Public Works Policy Committee Meeting, and hosted the 20th Saturdays with John event at Plummer Park. He congratulated former Mayor/ Councilmember Abbe Land on becoming Woman of the Year, congratulated Mike Aguilera on his promotion to Captain in the National Guard and congratulated and thanked staff and participants of the LA Marathon.
ADJOURNMENT: The City Council adjourned at 8:46 P.M. in memory of Darlene Zulof to an adjourned regular meeting, which will be on Monday, April 3, 2023 at 6:00 P.M. at West Hollywood Park Public Meeting Room - Council Chambers.
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PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of West Hollywood at an adjourned regular meeting held this 3rd day of April, 2023 by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmember: Byers, Heilman, Meister, Mayor Pro Tempore Erickson, and Mayor Shyne.
NOES: Councilmember: None.
ABSENT: Councilmember: None.
ABSTAIN: Councilmember: None.
MAYOR SEPI SHYNE
ATTEST:
MELISSA CROWDER, CITY CLERK
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