CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
MINUTES
MONDAY, JANUARY 22, 2024
WEST HOLLYWOOD PARK PUBLIC MEETING ROOM - COUNCIL CHAMBERS 625 N. SAN VICENTE BOULEVARD
6:00 P.M. – REGULAR MEETING
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Erickson called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. and Karen Eyres read the Land Acknowledgement.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Jack Michalski led the pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL:
PRESENT: Councilmember Heilman, Councilmember Meister
Councilmember Shyne, Vice Mayor Byers, and Mayor
Erickson.
ALSO PRESENT: City Manager Wilson, City Attorney Langer, Administrative Services Director Jimenez, and Assistant City Clerk Morales.
REPORT OF CLOSED SESSION AGENDA:
City Attorney Lauren Langer reported that the Closed Session was called to order at 5:30 p.m. She stated that there was one member of the public who spoke under Public Comment on Item 4.a.1. She reported that the City Council discussed the two (2) items of business on the posted agenda and that there was no reportable action taken on the first item (4.a.1). She further reported that the City Council gave unanimous direction to join as a friend of the Court in the matter of Jane Doe and the Transgender American Veterans Association vs. Secretary of Veterans Affairs, which is a case in which the Transgender Veterans Association (TAV) has brought suit against the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for its rules, specifically denying health care coverage for gender confirming surgery for Transgender veterans, on the second item (4.a.2). She stated that the TAV is challenging the VA’s unreasonable delay in rescinding their rule under the Administrative Procedures Act and is currently petitioning the US Court of Appeals to order the VA to proceed with amending the repeal in the rule.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
Assistant City Clerk Morales noted that there were no changes from staff.
Councilmember Shyne requested that Items 5.A.,6.A.,6.B., and 6.C., be moved to the Consent Calendar as Items 2.MM.,2.NN.,2.OO., and 2.PP., respectively.
Motion by Councilmember Heilman, seconded by Vice Mayor Byers, to approve the January 22, 2024 agenda, as amended.
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ADJOURNMENT MOTIONS:
Mayor Erickson requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Ivan Daniel III.
PRESENTATIONS:
The City Council presented a certificate to Jack Michalski.
The City Council presented a Proclamation to the LA County Lesbian, Bisexual & Queer Women’s Health Collaborative in recognition of their 15th anniversary.
The City Council presented a Proclamation to Corri Planck for her years of service.
Amanda Laflen, Field Deputy from County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath's office, presented a Scroll and Joshua Marin-Mora, Field Representative from Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur’s office presented a Proclamation to Corri Plank.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
STEVEN BIENEMAN, LOS ANGELES, spoke in support of Item 2.V.
KEVIN BURTON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of Items 2.T., 2.W., 2.Z. and
6.C.
VICTOR OMELCZENKO, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of Items 2.DD., 6.B. and 6.C.
GEORGE NICKLE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of Item 6.A. and the announcement of the doomsday clock.
NICHOLAS ROYBAL, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of Items 2.R. and 2.GG.
JERRY VALENCIA, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding his struggles with securing housing and asked for assistance.
MIKIE FRIEDMAN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding scooters and recent traffic collisions in the City involving scooters.
CATHERINE ENG, WEST HOLLYWOOD, congratulated Mayor Erickson on his new role.
ANNIE JUMP VICENTE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding various concerns about COVID, Block by Block, and the Transgender Community.
SARAH ADOLPHSON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke on behalf of the Human Services Commission and their support of Item 2.V. and reminded everyone that January is National Cervical Cancer Month and the services the City offers for preventive testing.
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MICHAEL CARTER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of the City’s many services and initiatives.
SHANE NASH, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding sexual assault victims and survivors.
NICHOLE NASH, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding sexual assault victims and survivors.
LUCIAN TUDOR, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding outdoor dining at his business and safety concerns throughout the City. He thanked the City Council for their leadership and support.
The following member of the public submitted a Citizen Position Slip:
VICTOR OMELCZENKO, WEST HOLLYWOOD, in support of Agenda Item 2.GG.
CITY MANAGER’S REPORT:
City Manager David Wilson thanked Corri Planck for her years of service to the West Hollywood community members and congratulated her on her retirement. He announced that the state-funded Earthquake Brace & Bolt Seismic Retrofit Grant Program is open through February 21st, which provides single-family homes with grant money to assist with seismic retrofits. He encouraged interested individuals to visit the website at EarthquakeBraceBolts.com or call the City’s seismic program team at 323- 848-6848 for additional information. Additionally, he announced that the City entered into an agreement with the County of Los Angeles Department of Consumer and Business Affairs to assist with the minimum wage program and introduced Joel Ayala, Chief of Staff and Rose Basmadgean, Acting Deputy Director who provided an update on the implementation process.
FISCAL IMPACT ON CONSENT CALENDAR:
Assistant City Clerk Morales stated that the Fiscal Impact on the Consent Calendar with the addition of Items 5.A.,6.A.,6.B., and 6.C. was $16,569,164 in expenditures, $70,000 in revenue, and ($25,390) in waived fees.
Assistant City Clerk Morales read the title for First reading of the ordinances listed under Agenda Items 2.E. and 2.LL. She noted that as indicated on the Agenda, Item 3.A. was continued to February 20, 2024, at the request of the Appellant.
2. CONSENT CALENDAR:
2.A.,B.,C.,D.,E.,F.,H.,I.,J.,K.,L.,M.,N.,O.,P.,Q.,R.,T.,U.,V.,W.,X.,Y.,Z.,AA.,BB.,CC.,DD., EE.,FF.,II.,JJ.,KK.,LL.,MM.,NN.,OO.,PP. Motion by Councilmember Heilman, seconded by Councilmember Meister, and approved, noting Vice Mayor Byers no” vote on Item 2.GG.
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2.A. POSTING OF AGENDA:
SUBJECT: The agenda for the meeting of Monday, January 22, 2024 was posted at City Hall, Plummer Park, the Sheriff’s Station, and at the West Hollywood Library on Wednesday, January 17, 2024.
ACTION: Received and filed. 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: Approved the minutes of January 16, 2024. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.C. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER NO. 941 [ L. QUIJANO, C.
CORRALES, S. HERNANDEZ]:
SUBJECT: The City Council shall receive the Demand Register for period ending January 12, 2024 pursuant to Sections 37201 to 37210 of the Government Code of the State of California.
ACTION: Approved Demand Register No. 941 and adopted Resolution No. 24-002, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
WEST HOLLYWOOD ALLOWING AND APPROVING THE PAYMENT OF
DEMANDS ON DEMAND REGISTER NO. 941”. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.D. CLAIMS ADMINISTRATION [ J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, R.
RICHARDS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council is receiving notification that the City’s thirdparty administrator Carl Warren & Co. has denied two ( 2) Claims for Damages from Ides Shinder and Laurel Manor, LLC.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.E. ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 23-25 (2ND READING) “ AN ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD,
AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 22-1186 TO FIX A NUMBERING ERROR AND RENUMBER WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE TITLE 19,
ARTICLE 19-4, CHAPTER 19.44.020 APPLICABILITY (LAND USE AND
DEVELOPMENT PERMIT PROCEDURES, ADMINISTRATIVE
PERMITS, APPLICABILITY)” [ M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will read and adopt Ordinance No. 23-25, amending Ordinance No. 22-1186 to fix a numbering error and renumber West Hollywood Municipal Code Title 19, Article 19-4, Chapter 19.44.020 applicability (land use and development permit procedures, administrative permits, applicability)”.
ACTION: Read and adopted Ordinance No. 23-25, “AN ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD,
AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 22-1186 TO FIX A NUMBERING ERROR DocuSign Envelope ID: 7B5FE5F4- DE38-4D10-A536-D64F8C46E964 City Council Minutes
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AND RENUMBER WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE TITLE 19,
ARTICLE 19-4, CHAPTER 19.44.020 APPLICABILITY (LAND USE AND
DEVELOPMENT PERMIT PROCEDURES, ADMINISTRATIVE PERMITS,
APPLICABILITY)”. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.F. ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 23-26 (2ND READING) “ AN ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD,
CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE
LANDSCAPING STANDARDS OF TITLE 19, ZONING ORDINANCE OF
THE WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE TO UPDATE EXISTING
AND ESTABLISH NEW CITYWIDE TREE CANOPY AND LANDSCAPE
STANDARDS IN THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA”
M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 23-26, adopting an ordinance amending the landscape standards of Title 19, Zoning Ordinance of the West Hollywood Municipal Code to updated existing and establish new citywide tree canopy and landscape standards in the City of West Hollywood.
ACTION: Waived further reading and adopted Ordinance No. 23-26, “AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING AN ORDINANCE AMENDING
THE LANDSCAPING STANDARDS OF TITLE 19, ZONING ORDINANCE
OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE TO UPDATE
EXISTING AND ESTABLISH NEW CITYWIDE TREE CANOPY AND
LANDSCAPE STANDARDS IN THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD,
CALIFORNIA”. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.G. ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 23-27 (2ND READING) “ AN ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
ADOPTING AMENDMENTS TO TITLE 19, ZONING ORDINANCE OF
THE WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE, TO PERMIT ZERO
EMISSION VEHICLE (ZEV) SHOWROOMS IN ALL COMMERCIAL AND
PUBLIC FACILITIES ZONING DISTRICTS, ADOPT NEW POLICIES
REGULATING ZEV SHOWROOMS, AND FINDING THE ACTION
CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT FROM CEQA” [ M. CROWDER, L.
MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 23-27, adopting amendments to Title 19, Zoning Ordinance or the West Hollywood Municipal Code, to permit zero emission vehicle ZEV) showrooms in all commercial and public facilities zoning districts, adopt new policies regulating ZEV showrooms, and finding the action categorically exempt from CEQA.
ACTION: Waived further reading and adopted Ordinance No. 23-27, “AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD ADOPTING AMENDMENTS TO TITLE 19, ZONING
ORDINANCE OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE, TO
PERMIT ZERO EMISSION VEHICLE ( ZEV) SHOWROOMS IN ALL
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COMMERCIAL AND PUBLIC FACILITIES ZONING DISTRICTS, ADOPT
NEW POLICIES REGULATING ZEV SHOWROOMS, AND FINDING THE
ACTION CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT FROM CEQA”. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.H. ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 23-28 (2ND READING) “ AN ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
APPROVING A DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT IN CONJUNCTION
WITH THE NEW OFF-SITE ADVERTISING BILLBOARD AT 9009
SUNSET BOULEVARD, WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA” [ M.
CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 23-28, approving a development agreement in conjunction with the new off-site advertising billboard at 9009 Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, California.
ACTION: Waived further reading and adopted Ordinance No. 23-28, “AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD APPROVING A DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT IN
CONJUNCTION WITH THE NEW OFF-SITE ADVERTISING BILLBOARD AT 9009 SUNSET BOULEVARD, WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA”.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.I. ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 23-29 (2ND READING) “ AN ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
APPROVING A DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT IN CONJUNCTION
WITH THE NEW OFF-SITE ADVERTISING BILLBOARD AT 9015
SUNSET BOULEVARD, WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA” [ M.
CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 23-29, approving a development agreement in conjunction with the new off-site advertising billboard at 9015 Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, California.
ACTION: Waived further reading and adopted Ordinance No. 23-29, “AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD APPROVING A DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT IN
CONJUNCTION WITH THE NEW OFF-SITE ADVERTISING BILLBOARD AT 9015 SUNSET BOULEVARD, WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA”.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.J. ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 23-30 (2ND READING) “ AN ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
APPROVING A ZONING MAP AMENDMENT IN CONJUNCTION WITH
THE NEW OFF-SITE ADVERTISING BILLBOARD AT 9009 AND 9015 SUNSET BOULEVARD, WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA” [ M.
CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 23-30, approving a zoning map amendment in conjunction DocuSign Envelope ID: 7B5FE5F4- DE38-4D10-A536-D64F8C46E964 City Council Minutes
Monday, January 22, 2024
with the new off-site advertising billboard at 9009 and 9015 Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, California.
ACTION: Waived further reading and adopted Ordinance No. 23-30, “AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD APPROVING A ZONING MAP AMENDMENT IN
CONJUNCTION WITH THE NEW OFF-SITE ADVERTISING BILLBOARD AT 9009 AND 9015 SUNSET BOULEVARD, WEST HOLLYWOOD,
CALIFORNIA”. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.K. COMMISSION AND ADVISORY BOARD MEETING SYNOPSES [ M.
CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive Synopses from the Human Services Commission, Public Facilities, Recreation, and Infrastructure Commission, and the Rent Stabilization Commission, regarding actions taken at their recent meetings.
ACTION: Received and Filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.L. ATTENDANCE REPORTS FOR CITY COMMISSIONS AND ADVISORY BOARDS [M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive the attendance reports for City Commissions and Advisory Board meetings convened between January 2023 through December 2023.
ACTION: Received and filed the attendance reports. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.M. TREASURER’S REPORT FOR NOVEMBER 2023 [ L. QUIJANO, C.
CORRALES, K. BARENG, S. STEPHENS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive the Treasurer’s Reports for the month ended November 2023 pursuant to Section 53646 of the Government Code of the State of California.
ACTION: Received and filed the November 2023 Treasurer’s Report.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.N. GRANTS IN THE SCHOOLS PROGRAM UPDATE [C. SCHROEDER, C.
PLANCK, L. ISENBERG, D. SAUNDERS, M. LIBERMAN]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive a report on the 2023-24 Grants in the Schools Program.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.O. 2022-23 YEAR-END REPORT ON SOCIAL SERVICES PROGRAMS [C.
SCHROEDER, C. PLANCK, L. ISENBERG]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive the year-end report on Social Services programs for the 2022-23 contract year.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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2.P. WEST HOLLYWOOD HOMELESS INITIATIVE: UPDATE ON FIVEYEAR PLAN TO ADDRESS HOMELESSNESS [ C. SCHROEDER, C.
PLANCK, D. KAHN EPSTEIN, F. GOMEZ]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive an update on the City of West Hollywood's Five-Year Plan to Address Homelessness in Our Community, changes in regional homeless services, and program outcomes from Cityfunded non-profit agency partners.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.Q. ANNUAL UPDATE ON THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY LESBIAN,
BISEXUAL AND QUEER WOMEN’S HEALTH COLLABORATIVE [ C.
SCHROEDER, C. PLANCK, J. IVANOVA]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive an update on the work of the Los Angeles County Lesbian, Bisexual and Queer Women’s Health Collaborative from July 2022 through June 2023.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.R. UPDATE ON THE WEST HOLLYWOOD PILOT FOR GUARANTEED
INCOME [C. SCHROEDER, C. PLANCK, D. KAHN-EPSTEIN]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive an update on the West Hollywood Pilot for Guaranteed Income.
ACTION: Received and filed.
2.S. WEHO CIVIC ENGAGEMENT ACADEMY CURRICULUM [ D. WILSON, C. SAFRIET]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive the draft curriculum for the WeHo Civic Engagement Academy.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.T. UPDATE ON THE CLIMATE ACTION & ADAPTATION PLAN (WEHO CLIMATE ACTION) IMPLEMENTATION [ N. MARICICH, F.
CONTRERAS, C. SHEN]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive an update on the implementation of the City’s Climate Action and Adaptation Plan.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.U. ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATION FOR RECRUITMENT AND
SELECTION PROCEDURES [J. JIMENEZ, R. NAPPER]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive draft Administrative Regulation Number 412 (Recruitment and Selection Procedures), which provides the procedures for the City recruitment and selection process. ACTION:
Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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2.V. HIV ZERO INITIATIVE YEAR 6 EVALUATION REPORT [ C.
SCHROEDER, C. PLANCK, L. ISENBERG, D. MURRAY]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive the HIV Zero Initiative Year 6 Evaluation Report and consider extending the hours of mobile HIV/STI testing to expand preventative health services for West Hollywood community members.
ACTIONS: 1) Received and filed the HIV Zero Year 6 Evaluation Report; 2) Extended HIV testing hours for two designated parking meters from 7 p.m. on Fridays through 2 a.m. on Sundays and adjusted signage to reflect the extended hours; and 3) Allowed the mobile HIV/STI testing clinic to remain overnight in those metered spots on Fridays and Saturdays. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.W. WESTSIDE CITIES COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS BUS
INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES [ N. MARICICH, F.
CONTRERAS, D. FENN]:
SUBJECT: Staff will update the City Council on opportunities related to Westside Cities Council of Governments (WSCCOG) funding for regional bus infrastructure and bus rapid transit ( BRT) corridors previously identified in regional planning documents that could potentially serve West Hollywood but are not included in existing City plans and seek City Council authorization to advocate for consideration of such improvements in the West Hollywood vicinity in the WSCCOG process.
ACTIONS: 1) Received and filed an update on WSCCOG bus
infrastructure funding and previously identified BRT corridors; 2) Authorized staff to advocate for additional bus infrastructure upgrades beneficial to West Hollywood transit riders as part of the WSCCOG’s deliberations on how to allocate Subregional Equity Program ( SEP) funding, including but not limited to potential upgrades to La Cienega Blvd. and La Brea Avenue; and 3) Directed staff to send a letter to Metro supporting further consideration of the La Cienega/Jefferson corridor for bus infrastructure upgrades through Metro’s Measure M Countywide BRT program or the WSCCOG’s Subregional Equity Program ( SEP) while reiterating the Metro K Line Northern Extension as the City’s primary transit infrastructure priority. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.X. ADOPT AN UPDATE TO THE CITY’S TITLE VI COMPLIANCE PLAN FOR TRANSPORTATION PROGRAMS [L. BIERY, D. NGUYEN]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will approve and adopt the attached “Title VI Plan Update 2024-2027” for the City’s Transportation Programs.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved and adopted the Title VI Plan Update 2024-2027, effective February 1, 2024; and 2) Directed staff to submit the attached Title VI Plan Update 2024-2027 to LACMTA (Metro), as required, and to implement the associated program. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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2.Y. 2023-24 AWARD OF AGENCY DEVELOPMENT GRANTS [ C.
SCHROEDER, C. PLANCK, L. ISENBERG, M. ULLOA]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive a report on the 2023-24 awards for Agency Development Grants.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved recommendations for Human Services contracts based on the approved FY24 budget allocation of $ 25,000 for Agency Development Grant services: a. Being Alive: Executed a new contract for Agency Development services, in accordance with Attachment B, for an amount not to exceed $9,900, b. Housing Works: Executed a new contract for Agency Development services, in accordance with Attachment C, for an amount not to exceed $10,000, c. Maple Counseling: Executed a new contract for Agency Development services, in accordance with Attachment D, for an amount not to exceed $ 5,100; and 2 Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to the Agreement.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.Z. AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH STEER DAVIES & GLEAVE INC.
FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CITY'S
TRANSPORTATION DEMAND MANAGEMENT PROGRAM [ N.
MARICICH, F. CONTRERAS, B. CHEUNG, P. PORTWOOD]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approval of an Agreement for Services with Steer Davies & Gleave Inc. to develop and implement the City's Transportation Demand Management Program in accordance with the City’s Transportation Demand Management Ordinance, outlined in the West Hollywood Municipal Code (WHMC) Chapter 10.16.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved a two-year Agreement for Services with Steer Davies & Gleave Inc. in an amount not to exceed $428,535.00 for program development, outreach, and ongoing reporting for the City’s Transportation Demand Management Program; and 2) Authorized the City Manager or designee to sign and execute all documents related to this Agreement. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.AA. AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH COMMUNITY PARTNERS FOR
THE DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CITY'S NEW
GREEN BUSINESS PROGRAM [ N. MARICICH, F. CONTRERAS, C.
SHEN, P. PORTWOOD]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approval of an Agreement for Services with 501c3 nonprofit, Community Partners, to develop and implement the City's new Green Business Program in association with the California Green Business Network.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved the Agreement for Services with Community Partners for $189,760 with an expiration date of June 30, 2025; and 2) Authorized the City Manager or designee to sign and execute all documents related to this Agreement. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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2.BB. AWARD OF AGREEMENT FOR ON-CALL ARCHITECTURAL AND
ENGINEERING DESIGN SERVICES WITH LPA, INC. [ S. CAMPBELL, H. COLLINS, E. HAMANT]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider the award of an Agreement for Professional Services to LPA, Inc. to provide on-call architectural and engineering services for various capital projects and ongoing workplan items.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved an Agreement for Professional Services with LPA, Inc. to provide on-call architectural and engineering design services for a total not-to-exceed amount of $ 500,000; and 2) Authorized the City Manager, or designee, to execute documents incident to the Agreement.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.CC. ASSIGNMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAKEWOOD
AND THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD FOR THE EXCHANGE OF
PROPOSITION A LOCAL RETURN FUNDS [L. BIERY, D. NGUYEN]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider a General Funds trade agreement with Proposition A Local Return Funds with the City of Lakewood.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved an Assignment Agreement for Proposition A local return fund exchange with the City of Lakewood for $1,400,000 in City of West Hollywood General Fund dollars in exchange for $2,000,000 in City of Lakewood Proposition A funds and authorize the City Manager to execute documents incident to the Agreement; and 2) Authorized the Director of Finance and Technology Services to allocate $1,400,000 from reserves committed for Proposition A purchases in the General Fund, to the Expenditure for Traded Funds account ( 100-1-03-31-531016).
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.DD. AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH ASCENCIA FOR THE
OPERATION OF THE HOLLOWAY INTERIM HOUSING PROGRAM [C.
SCHROEDER, C. PLANCK, D. KAHN EPSTEIN, F. GOMEZ]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approval of an Agreement for Services with Ascencia, a non-profit homeless services provider, to manage the Holloway Interim Housing Program and provide supportive services to unhoused community members who participate in the program.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved an Agreement for Services with Ascencia for a total not-to-exceed amount of $ 6,636,659 over the next 4.5 years to manage and operate the Holloway Interim Housing Program; and 2) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute documents related to the Agreement. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.EE. AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT FOR DESIGN SERVICES FOR
THE HOLLOWAY MOTEL HOMEKEY TRANSITIONAL HOUSING
PROJECT [S. CAMPBELL, H. COLLINS]:
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SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving an Amendment to the Agreement for Licensed Design Professionals with John Kaliski Architects, Inc. ( JKA) to increase the not-to-exceed amount of the Agreement to provide design services for the Holloway Motel Homekey Transitional Housing Project.
ACTIONS: 1) Approve Amendment No. 1 to the Agreement for Licensed Design Professionals with John Kaliski Architects, Inc. to provide design services for the Holloway Motel Homekey Transitional Housing Project for an increased amount of $75,000 and a new total not-to-exceed amount of 463,509.94; and 2) Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to the amendment to the Agreements. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.FF. AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT FOR FIRE LIFE SAFETY
SERVICES WITH KORD FIRE PROTECTION [ S. CAMPBELL, H.
COLLINS, E. HAMANT]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving an Amendment to the Agreement with Kord Fire Protection (formerly named Majestic Fire, Inc.) to increase the not-to-exceed amount of the Agreement for fire life safety systems, equipment, and repairs as identified in the annual Title 19 inspections at City facilities.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved Amendment No. 11 to the Agreement with Kord Fire Protection to provide citywide fire life safety systems services for an increased amount of $197,260 and a new total not-to-exceed amount of 926,260; and 2) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to the award of the Amendment. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.GG. APPROVE ADDING ONE DEPUTY TO THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT CONTRACT EFFECTIVE FEBRUARY 1,
2024 [D. WILSON, D. RIVAS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider adding one Deputy to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department contract effective February 1, 2024.
ACTION: Approved adding one Deputy to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department contract effective February 1, 2024. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar, noting Vice Mayor Byers’ “no” vote.
2.HH. APPROVE THE ACCEPTANCE OF PROP 56 TOBACCO GRANT
AWARD FUNDING [D. RIVAS, A. SHANDI, J. ANUKAM]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider authorizing the acceptance of 75,000 of tobacco grant funding awarded to the City of West Hollywood as a result of the application submitted under Prop 56.
ACTIONS: 1) Authorized staff to accept the $ 75,000 Prop 56 grant funding awarded to the City of West Hollywood; 2) Authorized the City Manager or his designee to execute all documents incident to the grant award; 3) Upon receipt of grant funds, authorize the Director of Finance and Technology Services to increase revenues and expenditures by an DocuSign Envelope ID: 7B5FE5F4- DE38-4D10-A536-D64F8C46E964 City Council Minutes
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equal amount of $75,000; and 4) Authorized the expenditure of Prop 56 funds for the purposes specified in the grant application. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.II. APPROVAL OF FISCAL YEAR 2023-24 CITYWIDE SALARY
SCHEDULE IN COMPLIANCE WITH CALPERS SALARY SCHEDULE
REQUIREMENTS [J. JIMENEZ, R. NAPPER, C. LEUNG]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving the Fiscal Year 2023- 24 Salary Schedule, reflecting all City positions and associated salaries to meet the California Public Employees’ Retirement System requirements of Government Code § 20636(b)(1).
ACTION: Approved the Fiscal Year 2023-24 Salary Schedule, reflecting all City positions and associated salaries to meet the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS) requirements of Government Code § 20636(b)(1). Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.JJ. ROE V WADE ANNUAL COMMEMORATION AND LEGACY [ Y.
QUARKER, A. LOVANO, L. FOOKS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving programming commemorating the ongoing importance and legacy of the Roe v. Wade decision, “Beyond Roe: Intersection of Abortion Access, Economic Justice and Religious Liberty”.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved programming commemorating the ongoing importance and legacy of the landmark Supreme Court decision Roe v.
Wade, “Beyond Roe: Intersection of Abortion Access, Economic Justice and Religious Liberty” to be held on Sunday, January 28, 2024 virtually; 2) Authorized the use of the City name and logo on invitations, programs, and other collateral materials; and 3) Directed the Communications Department to utilize all appropriate communications tools to promote the City’s annual Roe v. Wade commemoration, with a focus on sharing resources via social media platforms. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.KK. CITY SPONSORSHIP OF A PUBLIC HEARING OF THE CALIFORNIA STATE ASSEMBLY’S SELECT COMMITTEE ON RETAIL THEFT [ Y.
QUARKER, A. LOVANO, H. MOLINA]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving the sponsorship of a public hearing by the California State Assembly’s Select Committee on Retail Theft, which is chaired by Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur, (DWest Hollywood), who represents the 51st District of the California State Assembly.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved the sponsorship of a public hearing in West Hollywood of the California State Assembly’s Select Committee on Retail Theft, which is tentatively scheduled for Friday, February 9, 2024 at the West Hollywood City Council Chambers at a time to be determined; 2) Waived the Facility Use Fee for the use of the City Council Chambers for the hearing; 3) Authorized the use of the City’s name and logo on DocuSign Envelope ID: 7B5FE5F4- DE38-4D10-A536-D64F8C46E964 City Council Minutes
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invitations and other collateral materials for the hearing by the Select Committee; 4) Directed the Communications Department to utilize all appropriate communication tools to promote the public hearing, including, but not limited to, the City’s website, a press release, and social media tools; 5) Approved the broadcast and livestreaming of the public hearing on the City’s WeHoTV; and 6) Authorized an additional hour of validated parking for up to 50 vehicles, at the 5-story West Hollywood Park garage, for a total of three hours (estimated $150 in waived fees). Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.LL. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD REPEALING SECTION 3.36.092 OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE,
WAIVING BUSINESS TAX CERTIFICATE FEES AND SELECT
OUTDOOR DINING FEES AND WAIVING PARKING CREDIT FEES
UNDER MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 10.28 [ D. WILSON, J. ROCCO, C. SAFRIET, P. KESPRADIT, L. BIERY]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider an Ordinance to repeal an outdated section of the Municipal Code related to the 1999 Santa Monica Boulevard reconstruction project, waive business tax certificate fees, waive select outdoor dining fees, and waive parking credit fees for those businesses that are current as of January 31, 2024.
ACTION: Introduced on first reading Ordinance No. 24-01, “ AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD REPEALING
SECTION 3.36.092 OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE,
WAIVING BUSINESS TAX CERTIFICATE FEES AND SELECT
OUTDOOR DINING FEES AND WAIVING PARKING CREDIT FEES
UNDER MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 10.28.” Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.MM. (5.A.) WEHO PRIDE 2024 PLANNING UPDATE [ Y. QUARKER, C.
SMITH, M. REATH, K. MCCORMACK, D. RIVAS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving various items related to production and programming elements for WeHo Pride 2024.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved an Addendum to the City’s existing three-year Agreement for Services with JJLA for production of WeHo Pride 2024 in an amount not to exceed $1,800,000 and authorized the City Manager to approve change orders to the Agreement in an amount not to exceed 15%; 2) Approved a Permit to Use City Property Agreement with JJLA for JJLA’s OUTLOUD (held in West Hollywood Park) and for the WeHo Pride Parade ( held on Santa Monica Boulevard.); waived City fees associated with the events; subsidized the events at an amount not to exceed 1,150,000; and authorized the City Manager to approve change orders to the OUTLOUD and Parade subsidies included in the Permit Agreement in an amount not to exceed 15%; 3) Authorized JJLA to sell beer, wine, and spirits at “OUTLOUD” in West Hollywood Park, on May 31, June 1, and June 2 until 30 minutes prior to close of the event each night; 4) Approved a Co-Sponsorship Agreement for the 2024 Women’s Freedom Festival DocuSign Envelope ID: 7B5FE5F4- DE38-4D10-A536-D64F8C46E964 City Council Minutes
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and Dyke March for an amount not to exceed $80,000; 5) Approved street closures and facilities usages as outlined in this report, as they relate to WeHo Pride 2024; 6) Authorized the City Manager or his designee to facilitate an application process and execute co-sponsorship agreements with LGBTQ+ affiliated community groups and organizations to produce independent events under the larger WeHo Pride brand in 2024 for a total amount not to exceed $150,000; 7) Approved the waiver of Special Event Permit fees and Encroachment Permit fees, in an amount estimated at 14,000 for City businesses hosting events on May 31, June 1 and June 2, 2024, in celebration of WeHo Pride; 8) Authorized up to $ 12,500 for basic Los Angeles County Fire Department site plan review fees related to Pride weekend activations at City businesses, which is included in the Community Safety Budget; 9) Waived residential permit parking restrictions citywide from Friday, May 31, 2024, at 4:00 P.M. through Monday, June 3, 2024, at 7:00 A.M.; 10) Authorized the City of West Hollywood’s participation in the LA Pride Parade on Sunday, June 9, 2024, including the expenditure of approximately $ 10,000 in associated costs, which have already been budgeted; and 11) Approved a budget of 6,999,500 for WeHo Pride 2024 and authorize the Director of Finance & Technology Services to allocate $1,034,500 from unallocated reserves in the General Fund for costs related to WeHo Pride 2024. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.NN. (6.A.) SPONSORSHIP OF A WATER SYMPOSIUM [ L. MEISTER, C.
BYERS, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider sponsoring a symposium on water as a natural resource, focused on its indispensable role in supporting urbanized environments, and will look ahead at issues, opportunities, and challenges in West Hollywood and the Greater Los Angeles region as we look toward the future.
ACTIONS: 1) Directed staff to organize a symposium on the topic of water addressing pertinent issues, challenges, and opportunities in West Hollywood and the Greater Los Angeles region, as we look toward the future; 2) Authorized the use of the City name and logo on invitations, programs, and other collateral materials for the event; 3) Directed the Communications Department to utilize all appropriate communication tools to promote the event including, but not limited to, the City’s website, a news release, and social media; 4) Directed the Communications Department and Urban Design & Architecture Studio Division to coordinate efforts to capture end-to-end video of the event for posted ondemand viewing; 5) Authorized the Director of Finance and Technology Services to allocate up to $8,500 from Fiscal Year 2023-24 funds in the Special Council Programs account number 100-1-01-00-531001 for costs associated with the event; and 6) Waived the Facility Use fee for the City Council Chambers for the event, parking fees at the 5-story parking lot for attendees, and any other ancillary City permits that may be required for DocuSign Envelope ID: 7B5FE5F4- DE38-4D10-A536-D64F8C46E964 City Council Minutes
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the event ( estimated $ 1,240 in waived fees). Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.OO. (6.B.) SPONSORSHIP OF SCREENING OF “ FREEDOM ON FIRE:
UKRAINE’S FIGHT FOR FREEDOM” AND PANEL DISCUSSION AS
PART OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS SPEAKERS SERIES [J. ERICKSON, Y.
QUARKER, H. MOLINA, J. DEL TORO, J. DUCKWORTH, L. BIERY, R.
EHEMANN, J. TRIBBLE]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider sponsoring the screening of the film “Freedom on Fire: Ukraine's Fight for Freedom”, followed by a panel discussion, as part of the Human Rights Speakers Series. The film chronicles the experiences of people in Ukraine amid the Russian invasion and the current humanitarian crisis.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved the sponsorship of the screening of “Freedom on Fire: Ukraine’s Fight for Freedom” and a panel discussion, as part of the Human Rights Speakers Series; 2) Authorized the use of the City name and logo on invitations, programs, and other collateral materials for the event; 3) Directed 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; and 4) Authorized the Director of Finance and Technology Services to approve the use of $1,000 from budgeted funds in the Special Council Programs account 100-1-01-01-531001 for costs associated with this event.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.PP. (6.C.) AMEND THE CITY COUNCILMEMBER LIST OF PRE-APPROVED
ORGANIZATIONS/EVENTS TO INCLUDE YIMBYTOWN AND THE
CALIFORNIA BICYCLE SUMMIT [ J. ERICKSON, C. BYERS, Y.
QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider amending the City Councilmember list of pre-approved organizations and events to include YIMBYtown and conferences and events organized by the California Bicycle Coalition.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved the addition of YIMBYtown to the list of preapproved organizations and events that members of the City Council are permitted to attend each year; and 2) Approved the addition of California Bicycle Coalition to the list of pre-approved organizations and events that members of the City Council are permitted to attend each year. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
3. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
3.A. CONTINUANCE OF AN APPEAL OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION’S
APPROVAL TO DEMOLISH TWO DWELLING UNITS ON THREE
ABUTTING PARCELS AND CONSTRUCT A NEW SEVEN-STORY, 89-
UNIT, 100% AFFORDABLE MULTI-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL BUILDING AND A THREE-LEVEL SUBTERRANEAN PARKING GARAGE AT 910-
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916 WETHERLY DRIVE INCLUDING A FINDING THAT THE PROJECT IS EXEMPT FROM CEQA UNDER CLASS 32 CATEGORICAL
EXEMPTION FOR IN-FILL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS ( 14 CCR §
15332) AND AFFORDABLE HOUSING EXEMPTION (14 CCR § 15194) N. MARICICH, J. ALKIRE, A. CASTILLO, R. RATH]:
SUBJECT: The appellants have requested a continuance due to conflict with the scheduled date. Staff recommends that the continuance request be granted.
ACTION: The City Council continued the public hearing to February 20, 2024. Approved by unanimous consent.
4. LEGISLATIVE:
4.A. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD AMENDING SECTION 5.70.035 ( APPLICATION
PERIOD, SCORING, AND REVIEW) OF CHAPTER 5.70 ( CANNABIS
USES) OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE TO REVISE
WAITLIST RULE PROVISIONS AND PAUSING EXISTING DEADLINES AND AMENDING CHAPTER 3.36 (BUSINESS LICENSE TAX) OF THE
WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE TO CREATE A TEMPORARY
TAX REBATE FOR ALL CANNABIS BUSINESSES FOR SIX MONTHS
D. WILSON, L. LANGER, D. RIVAS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will discuss adopting an ordinance to revise waitlist rule provisions and pausing the deadlines reflected in Section
5.70.035 (Application, Period, Scoring, and Review) of the City of West Hollywood’s Cannabis Licensing Ordinance to allow additional outreach with cannabis businesses and stakeholders to reach consensus on additional outstanding changes to the cannabis ordinance requested by various local stakeholders, and to provide financial relief through a temporary tax rebate and marketing support to cannabis businesses.
Director of Community Safety, Danny Rivas provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated January 22, 2024.
The following members of the public came forward to speak:
AARON GREEN, LOS ANGELES, spoke in support of the item and encouraged the City Council to decide how businesses should proceed.
JACKIE SUBECK, WEST HOLLYWOOD, congratulated Mayor Erickson, and Vice Mayor Byers on their appointments and spoke in support of the item, noting her appreciation to the City Council for their thoughtfulness to provide businesses with relief.
SCOTT SCHMIDT, WEST HOLLYWOOD, thanked the City Council and staff for their support and spoke in favor of the item. He requested the City DocuSign Envelope ID: 7B5FE5F4- DE38-4D10-A536-D64F8C46E964 City Council Minutes
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Council consider requesting proof of a lease or title to grant this benefit to businesses.
JASON BECK, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of the item, requesting the City Council consider granting rebates of 2.25% and require proof of a lease or title from a business to grant the pause.
Councilmember Meister thanked the public speakers and expressed her support of the item. She stated that the item before them is a pause to deadlines, rather than an amendment and suggested the City request proof of a lease or title upon expiration of the pause. She inquired if businesses were required to go before the Business License Commission if their business location changed. City Attorney Langer affirmed that every license was granted for a specific location and a change required approval from the Business License Commission to ensure the conditions are appropriate for the new location. Councilmember Meister spoke in favor of retaining the 1.5% rebate offered to businesses.
Councilmember Heilman thanked staff and the public speakers. He spoke in agreement with Councilmember Meister’s comments and stated the recommendation before them is a reasonable compromise.
Councilmember Shyne spoke in support of this item and expressed concerns with requiring a business to provide proof of a title or lease agreement within 60 days. Clarification was provided by Councilmember Meister that businesses would be required to show proof of progress upon expiration of the pause, withing a six-month period.
Vice Mayor Byers thanked staff for their work on this item and spoke in support of the tax rebate and 60 day pause.
Councilmember Heilman stated that direction could be provided to staff on further requirements, however, noted that did not need to be part of the motion for tonight’s consideration.
Mayor Erickson thanked staff and the businesses that came forward to speak and also spoke in support of the item.
ACTIONS: 1) Introduced on first reading Ordinance No. 24-02: “ AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD PAUSING THE DEADLINES AND AMENDING THE
WAITLIST PROVISIONS IN SECTION 5.70.035 OF CHAPTER 5.70
CANNABIS USES) OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE
AND AMENDING CHAPTER 3.36 (BUSINESS LICENSE TAX) OF THE
WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE TO CREATE A TEMPORARY
TAX REBATE FOR ALL CANNABIS BUSINESSES FOR SIX MONTHS;” 2) Paused processing any amendments to the West Hollywood Municipal DocuSign Envelope ID: 7B5FE5F4- DE38-4D10-A536-D64F8C46E964 City Council Minutes
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Code as it relates to cannabis licensing categories and for any variance requests regarding transfer of licenses from January 22, 2024, through July 1, 2024; 3) Authorized the City Manager or designee to negotiate an agreement of up to $ 50,000 with Emerald Village West Hollywood for marketing and outreach support for local cannabis businesses; and 4) Authorized the Director of Finance and Technology Services to allocate 50,000 from unallocated General Fund Reserves to account number 100-3-10-13-533057, Business Retention & Attraction, for marketing and outreach to support local cannabis businesses. Motion by Councilmember Shyne, seconded by Councilmember Heilman, and approved (5/0).
5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
5.A. WEHO PRIDE 2024 PLANNING UPDATE [Y. QUARKER, C. SMITH, M.
REATH, K. MCCORMACK, D. RIVAS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving various items related to production and programming elements for WeHo Pride 2024.
ACTION: This item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
5.B. PENDING COUNCIL-INITIATED ITEMS [D. WILSON, C. SAFRIET]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider closing certain pending items that were previously initiated by individual City Councilmembers and approved by the City Council.
Councilmember Meister inquired about the reasoning behind closing out certain items like the community conversations regarding the future of the Sunset Strip and recommended items be incorporated into the 2050 vision. She also inquired about incorporating measures to increase community resilience, business interruption policy, and covid preparedness into workplans.
City Manager Wilson clarified that some of the items listed in this report were moved onto the regular workplan and some were closed out because they were outdated. He stated that if it was the wish of the Council, items could be included in the Vision 2050 Strategic Plan or other work plans. Additionally, Facilities and Field Services Division Manager, Helen Collins addressed the Councilmembers inquiries regarding Covid supplies.
AARON GREEN, LOS ANGELES ON BEHALF OF CLIENTS, spoke
regarding the initiative about illegal non-conforming billboards on Santa Monica Boulevard and encouraged the City Council not to remove this item from the list.
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KEVIN BURTON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to staff’s recommendation to close the item regarding the traffic signal at Fountain Avenue and Poinsettia Place.
ANNIE JUMP VICENTE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke about concerns on the availability of face masks at Council Chambers and pending items related to the Transgender Community.
VICTOR OMELCZENKO, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke about addressing definitions for congregate facilities, living facilities, co-living units, and micro-units before closing them out and recommended a completion date be attached to the list of active items and additional information on the public’s benefit.
Councilmember Shyne spoke about the Business Recovery Task Force initiative and requested an update. City Manager Wilson provided an update.
Councilmember Heilman requested staff conduct further research to determine if the City Council could allow signage on occupied properties to encourage well maintained properties and discourage the use of a lease solely for the purposes of signage, which often lead to unkept areas.
Vice Mayor Byers agreed with Councilmember Heilman and
Councilmember Meister’s suggestions and recommended holding off closing safety protocols and protections in support for Jewish people.
Mayor Erickson thanked all the public speakers and staff for the report. He too spoke in agreement with his colleagues’ comments and in support of an Ad-hoc committee for Santa Monica Boulevard signage. He stated he would like to activate grants for businesses in need and requested a report back on the installation of the traffic signal at Fountain Avenue and Poinsettia place.
City Manager Wilson addressed concerns raised by Mayor Erickson and confirmed he would report back.
Councilmember Heilman also agreed to move forward with a report back on the crosswalk rather than integrating this item with the Fountain streetscape.
ACTION: Approved closing 24 pending items as recommended on the list of Pending Council-Initiated Items to Close with additional direction provided by the City Council to report back on certain items. Motion by Councilmember Heilman, seconded by Councilmember Meister, and approved (5/0).
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6. NEW BUSINESS:
6.A. SPONSORSHIP OF A WATER SYMPOSIUM [ L. MEISTER, C. BYERS, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider sponsoring a symposium on water as a natural resource, focused on its indispensable role in supporting urbanized environments, and will look ahead at issues, opportunities, and challenges in West Hollywood and the Greater Los Angeles region as we look toward the future.
ACTION: This item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
6.B. SPONSORSHIP OF SCREENING OF “ FREEDOM ON FIRE:
UKRAINE’S FIGHT FOR FREEDOM” AND PANEL DISCUSSION AS
PART OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS SPEAKERS SERIES [J. ERICKSON, Y.
QUARKER, H. MOLINA, J. DEL TORO, J. DUCKWORTH, L. BIERY, R.
EHEMANN, J. TRIBBLE]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider sponsoring the screening of the film “Freedom on Fire: Ukraine's Fight for Freedom”, followed by a panel discussion, as part of the Human Rights Speakers Series. The film chronicles the experiences of people in Ukraine amid the Russian invasion and the current humanitarian crisis.
ACTION: This item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
6.C. AMEND THE CITY COUNCILMEMBER LIST OF PRE-APPROVED
ORGANIZATIONS/EVENTS TO INCLUDE YIMBYTOWN AND THE
CALIFORNIA BICYCLE SUMMIT [ J. ERICKSON, C. BYERS, Y.
QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider amending the City Councilmember list of pre-approved organizations and events to include YIMBYtown and conferences and events organized by the California Bicycle Coalition.
ACTION: This item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
6.D. APPOINTMENT OF CITY COUNCILMEMBERS AS DELEGATES AND
ALTERNATES TO VARIOUS ORGANIZATIONS, COMMITTEES AND
CONFERENCES AND TO CITY COUNCIL SUBCOMMITTEES [ J.
JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider appointments as delegates and alternates to various organizations, committees, and conferences. In addition, the City Council will consider appointments to the various City Council Subcommittees.
The following member of the public came forward to speak:
ANNIE JUMP VICENTE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding concerns with the City Council’s various appointments.
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ACTIONS: 1) Appointed Councilmembers as Delegates and Alternates to the following: A) Sanitation District No. 4 – Vice Mayor Byers (Alternate Director); Adopt Resolution No. 24-003, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD APPOINTING AN
ALTERNATE DIRECTOR TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF LOS
ANGELES COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT NO. 4”; B) California Contract Cities Association – Mayor Erickson - Voting Delegate/Vice Mayor Byers - Alternate; C) California Joint Powers Authority (CJPIA) – Councilmember Meister – Delegate; D) Clean Power Alliance – Mayor Erickson- Director/Vice Mayor Byers - Alternate Director ; E) League of California Cities – Vice Mayor Byers - Voting Delegate/Mayor Erickson Alternate Delegate; F) Los Angeles County City Selection Committee – Mayor Erickson - Delegate/Councilmember Heilman - Alternate Delegate; G) National League of Cities – Vice Mayor Byers - Delegate/Mayor Erickson - Alternate Delegate ; H) Santa Monica Bay Watershed Council – Mayor Erickson - Attending Councilmember/Vice Mayor Byers - Alternate; I) Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) - Councilmember Meister - Delegate/Vice Mayor Byers Alternate; J) Westside Cities Council of Governments WSCCOG) – Councilmember Shyne-Attending
Councilmember/Councilmember Heilman-Alternate Attending Councilmember; 2) Appoint Two (2) Councilmembers as Subcommittee Members to the following: A) Finance and Budget Subcommittee Standing) – Mayor Erickson and Vice Mayor Byers; B) West Hollywood Pride Subcommittee ( Standing) – Mayor Erickson and Vice Mayor Byers; C) Homelessness Subcommittee ( Standing) Vice Mayor Byers and Councilmember Heilman; D) Laurel House Project Subcommittee Ad Hoc) Councilmember Shyne and Councilmember Meister ; E) Plummer Park Project Subcommittee (Ad Hoc) Councilmember Meister and Mayor Erickson; F) Sunset Gateway/Wayfinding Subcommittee (Ad Hoc) Vice Mayor Byers and Councilmember Heilman ; G) AIDS Monument Subcommittee ( Ad Hoc) Mayor Erickson and
Councilmember Heilman; H) City Playhouse Design Steering Committee Ad Hoc) Councilmember Shyne and Vice Mayor Byers; 3) The City Council appointed Councilmember Heilman - Liaison/Vice Mayor Byers - Alternate Liaison to Metro; and 4) Appointed Mayor Erickson - Liaison to Mayors for Guaranteed Income. Approved by unanimous consent (5/0).
EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR: None.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
ANNIE JUMP VICENTE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke about her concerns with LASD and Block by Block Security Ambassadors as a Transgender female living in West Hollywood.
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VICTOR OMELCZENKO, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke about ethics and refurbishing the AIDS Memorial at Hart Park.
NICHOLAS ROYBAL, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke about assault victims and survivors, and requested that the globe lights along Santa Monica Boulevard be cleaned.
COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS AND MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORTS:
Councilmember Meister reported her attendance at Andrew Campbell’s celebration of life. She requested that the City increase its advertising efforts on the types of services that are available to the older adult community in relation to Item 2.O. and announced upcoming City events.
Councilmember Shyne thanked Shane Nash and his wife for their comments and expressed that the City Council has taken the matter of assaults at local nighttime establishments seriously. She highlighted the City’s efforts to reduce crime by distributing drink test strips, requiring responsible beverage service training for establishments, added LASD patrols and Block-by-Block Ambassadors throughout commercial districts, and deployed more foot patrols. Finally, she wished Jackie Steele a Happy Birthday.
Vice Mayor Byers reported her attendance at the California Contract Cities Association Legislative Tour and the California Cities Transportation Communication and Public Works Committee Orientation and the first Committee meeting of the year. She announced the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, expressed her gratitude to her colleagues for their support on the ERA’s passage, and announced upcoming events. She concluded her comments by thanking attendees, gave a shout out to Corri Planck for her dedication, and congratulated Mayor Erickson on his first meeting.
Mayor Erickson reported his attendance at the League of California Cities Community Services Committee meeting, the Celebrating Civil Rights Heros Event, and the Los Angeles Holocaust Museum. He congratulated Congressman Lui and Councilmember Mesiter on glue traps legislation and thanked his colleagues for cosponsoring Item
2.KK. and Assemblymember Chavez-Zbur for spearheading the efforts. He also reported attending the Freedom on Fire screening and commented on staff’s continued efforts on Outzones. The Mayor announced details on the upcoming Memorial Service for Sybil Zaden and Coffee with the Mayor event. He wished Yola Dore a Happy Birthday and thanked his sisters for tuning in to tonight’s meeting. He concluded his comments by stating that Senate Bill 339 passed unanimously by the State Senate 39/0) and thanked Senator Scott Wiener and Senator Rick Chavez-Zbur for ensuring the bill passed. He thanked his colleagues for a wonderful meeting.
ADJOURNMENT: The City Council adjourned at 8:19 P.M. in memory of Ivan Daniel III to its next regular meeting, which will be on Monday, February 5, 2024, 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 a regular meeting held this 5th day of February, 2024 by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmember: Heilman, Meister, Shyne, Vice Mayor Byers, and Mayor Erickson.
NOES: Councilmember: None.
ABSENT: Councilmember: None.
ABSTAIN: Councilmember: None.
JOHN M. ERICKSON, MAYOR
ATTEST:
MELISSA CROWDER, CITY CLERK
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