CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
MINUTES
MONDAY, JUNE 24, 2024
WEST HOLLYWOOD PARK PUBLIC MEETING ROOM - COUNCIL CHAMBERS 625 N. SAN VICENTE BOULEVARD
6:00 P.M. – ADJOURNED REGULAR MEETING
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Erickson called the meeting to order at 6:03 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Sophia Mitzman 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.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
Assistant City Clerk Morales indicated that staff requested that Item 2.M. be Tabled and noted for the record that Items 3.A., 3.B., and 3.C. are continued to the July 15, 2024 City Council meeting.
Mayor Erickson requested that Items 4.A., 5.A., 6.C., and 6.E. be moved to the Consent Calendar as Items 2.S., 2.T., 2.U., and 2.V., respectively.
Vice Mayor Byers requested that Item 2.R. be pulled to the Excluded Consent Calendar.
Councilmember Meister noted her “no” votes for Items 2.F. and 2.G.
Motion by Councilmember Heilman, seconded by Councilmember Shyne, and approved ( 5/0).
LEVINE ACT DISCLOSURES: None.
ADJOURNMENT MOTIONS:
Councilmember Meister requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Harriett Block.
Councilmember Heilman requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Lucille Polachek.
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PRESENTATIONS:
The City Council presented a Certificate to Sophia Mitzman for leading the Pledge of Allegiance.
1. PUBLIC COMMENT:
ALEX CERUSSI, MERCY FOR ANIMALS, thanked the City Council for their support of Item 5.A.
LEAH KELLY, NATIONAL NON-PROFIT CENTER FOR BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY, spoke in support of Item 5.A.
JAMIE BAKER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF BEING ALIVE, thanked the City Council for their support of Item 6.E. and provided resources offered to the community.
STEVE MARTIN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of announcing the City’s statement of values during public meetings and expressed safety concerns with Fountain Avenue’ s lane reduction.
MIKIE FRIEDMAN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding safety concerns for pedestrians and the importance of public comment.
JIMMY PALMIERI, spoke regarding security measures for booths during Pride.
CATHY BLAIVAS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding concerns with the last City Council meeting’ s contract discussion related to Tennacity and requested additional community input.
MIKE CARTER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, thanked the City Council for Item 2.N., commented on concerns with sidewalk robots, endangerment of monarch butterflies, and traffic safety on Gardner.
CITY MANAGER’ S REPORT:
City Manager David Wilson announced a marketing effort called WeHo Loves Locals where businesses provide offers exclusively for West Hollywood residents and directed patrons to visit www.weholocals. com for more information. He apologized for the booth incident at Pride and stated that the City is collaborating with JJLA and public safety partners to further investigate the event and enhance future safety protocols.
FISCAL IMPACT ON CONSENT CALENDAR:
Assistant City Clerk Morales stated that the Fiscal Impact on the Consent Calendar with the addition of Items 4.A., 5.A., 6.C., and 6.E. and the exclusion of Items 2.M. and 2.R. was $7,816,847 in expenditures, $ 306,050 in revenues, and ($600) in waived fees.
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Assistant City Clerk Morales read the title of the Ordinance in Item 2.S., introducing it on first reading.
2. CONSENT CALENDAR:
2.A.,B.,C.,D.,E.,F.,G.,H.,I.,J.,K.,L.,N.,O.,P.,Q.,S.,T.,U.,V. Motion by Councilmember Heilman, seconded by Vice Mayor Byers, and approved ( 5/0) noting the “ no” vote of Councilmember Meister on Items 2.F. and 2.G.
2.A. POSTING OF AGENDA:
SUBJECT: The agenda for the meeting of Monday, June 24, 2024 was posted at City Hall, Plummer Park, the Sheriff’s Station, and at the West Hollywood Library on Tuesday, June 18, 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 June 10, 2024. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.C. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER NO. 951 [ L. QUIJANO, C.
CORRALES, S. HERNANDEZ]:
SUBJECT: The City Council shall receive the Demand Register for period ending June 24, 2024 pursuant to Sections 37201 to 37210 of the Government Code of the State of California.
ACTION: Approved Demand Register No. 951 and adopted Resolution No. 24-053: “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
WEST HOLLYWOOD ALLOWING AND APPROVING THE PAYMENT OF
DEMANDS ON DEMAND REGISTER NO. 951”. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.D. CLAIMS ADMINISTRATION [ J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, Y. ZHOSAN]:
SUBJECT: The City Council is receiving notification that the City’s thirdparty administrator Carl Warren & Co. has denied one ( 1) Claim for Damages from Nicole Freire.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.E. ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 24-16 ( 2ND READING) “ AN ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
ADOPTING AMENDMENTS TO TITLE 2, ADMINISTRATION AND
PERSONNEL; TITLE 5, BUSINESS LICENSES, REGULATIONS AND
PERMITS; TITLE 9 PUBLIC PEACE AND SAFETY; TITLE 13,
BUILDINGS AND CONSTRUCTION; TITLE 17, RENT STABILIZATION; TITLE 19, ZONING ORDINANCE; AND TITLE 20, SUBDIVISION
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REGULATIONS OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE, TO
CHANGE ALL REFERENCES TO THE PLANNING AND
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND DIRECTOR TO THE
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT AND DIRECTOR, AND
OTHER MINOR ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES, AND FINDING THE
ACTION CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT FROM CEQA” [ M. CROWDER, L.
MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 24-16, adopting amendments to Title 2, Administration and Personnel; Title 5, Business Licenses, Regulations and Permits; Title 9, Public Peace and Safety; Title 13, Buildings and Construction; Title 17, Rent Stabilization; Title 19, Zoning Ordinance; and Title 20, Subdivision Regulations of the West Hollywood Municipal Code, to change all references to the Planning and Development Services Department and Director to the Community and other minor administrative changes, and finding, the action categorically exempt from CEQA.
ACTION: Waived further reading and adopted Ordinance No. 24-16: “AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD ADOPTING AMENDMENTS TO TITLE 2,
ADMINISTRATION AND PERSONNEL; TITLE 5, BUSINESS LICENSES, REGULATIONS AND PERMITS; TITLE 9 PUBLIC PEACE AND SAFETY; TITLE 13, BUILDINGS AND CONSTRUCTION; TITLE 17, RENT
STABILIZATION; TITLE 19, ZONING ORDINANCE; AND TITLE 20,
SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD
MUNICIPAL CODE, TO CHANGE ALL REFERENCES TO THE
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND
DIRECTOR TO THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
AND DIRECTOR, AND OTHER MINOR ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES,
AND FINDING THE ACTION CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT FROM CEQA”.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.F. ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 24-17 (2ND READING) “ AN ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
APPROVING A DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT IN CONJUNCTION
WITH REPLACING A PREVIOUSLY APPROVED STATIC BILLBOARD
WITH A NEW FULL- MOTION DIGITAL BILLBOARD AT 8497 SUNSET BOULEVARD, WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA” [ M. CROWDER, L.
MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 24-17, approving a development agreement in conjunction with replacing a previously approved static billboard with a new full-motion digital billboard at 8497 Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, California.
ACTION: Waived further reading and adopted Ordinance No. 24-17: “AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD APPROVING A DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT IN
CONJUNCTION WITH REPLACING A PREVIOUSLY APPROVED
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AT 8497 SUNSET BOULEVARD, WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA”.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar, noting the “ no” vote of Councilmember Meister.
2.G. ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 24-18 (2ND READING) “ AN ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
APPROVING A ZONING MAP AMENDMENT IN CONJUNCTION WITH
REPLACING A PREVIOUSLY APPROVED STATIC BILLBOARD WITH
A NEW FULL- MOTION DIGITAL BILLBOARD AT 8497- 8499 SUNSET BOULEVARD, WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA” [ M. CROWDER, L.
MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 24-18, approving a zoning map amendment in conjunction with replacing a previously approved static billboard with a new full-motion digital billboard at 8497-8499 Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, California.
ACTION: Waived further reading and adopted Ordinance No. 24-18: “AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD APPROVING A ZONING MAP AMENDMENT IN
CONJUNCTION WITH REPLACING A PREVIOUSLY APPROVED
STATIC BILLBOARD WITH A NEW FULL- MOTION DIGITAL BILLBOARD AT 8497-8499 SUNSET BOULEVARD, WEST HOLLYWOOD,
CALIFORNIA”. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar, noting the no” vote of Councilmember Meister.
2.H. COMMISSION AND ADVISORY BOARD MEETING SYNOPSES [ M.
CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive Synopses from the Rent Stabilization Commission, Disabilities Advisory Board, and Transgender Advisory Board regarding actions taken at their recent meetings.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.I. TREASURER’ S REPORT FOR APRIL 2024 [ L. QUIJANO, C.
CORRALES, K. BARENG, S. STEPHENS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive the Treasurer’s Reports for the month ended April 2024 pursuant to Section 53646 of the Government Code of the State of California.
ACTION: Received and filed the April 2024 Treasurer’ s Report.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.J. AUTHORIZE THE USE OF COOPERATIVE PURCHASING
AGREEMENTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024- 2025 [ L. QUIJANO, B.
ROSEN]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider authorizing the use of cooperative purchasing agreements for the procurement of goods and related services for fiscal year 2024-2025.
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ACTIONS: 1) Authorized the Finance & Technology Services Department to issue Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Purchase Orders for new cooperative purchasing agreements, subject to the review by the City Attorney, for contracts that are competitively bid contracts under Purchasing Alliances, as needed, in an amount not-to exceed $ 75,000; and 2) Authorized the Finance & Technology Services Department to issue Fiscal Year 2024- 2025 Purchase Orders for existing contracts in an amount not-to-exceed the authorized amount listed in table. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.K. ASSIGNMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF MALIBU AND
THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD FOR THE EXCHANGE OF
PROPOSITION A LOCAL RETURN FUNDS [ L. BIERY, T. COYNE, L.
QUIJANO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider a General Funds trade agreement with Proposition A Local Return Funds with the City of Malibu.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved an Assignment Agreement for Proposition A local return fund exchange with the City of Malibu for $ 328,500 in City of West Hollywood General Fund dollars in exchange for $ 450,000 in City of Malibu 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 $ 328,500 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.L. AGREEMENTS AND AMENDMENTS WITH VARIOUS CONTRACTORS FOR PROVISION OF ANNUAL SERVICES [ J. JIMENEZ, M.
CROWDER, N. MCCLINTON]:
SUBJECT: The Agreements and Amendments with various Contractors for the provision of annual services provides for continuation of services required for business continuity. A brief description of each request is included in the Recommendation below. All terms presented by the City have been agreed to by the Contractors.
ACTION: The City Council approved the following agreements and Amendments from the departments summarized in the report. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.M. LESBIAN SPEAKERS SERIES EVENTS [ C. SCHROEDER, D.
MURRAY, D. SAUNDERS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving the Human Services Division to host and create up to six Lesbian Speakers Series events during fiscal year 2025.
ACTIONS: This Item was Tabled.
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2.N. NATIONAL NIGHT OUT AGAINST CRIME IN WEST HOLLYWOOD [ D.
RIVAS, A. SHANDI]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider designating Tuesday, August 6, 2024, as National Night Out Against Crime in West Hollywood and approve various administrative requests to assist in the success of National Night Out events.
ACTIONS: 1) Proclaimed August 6, 2024 as “National Night Out” in West Hollywood; 2) Approved all street closures for National Night Out block parties and allow the City Manager to approve additional street closures for National Night Out 2024 as deemed appropriate; 3) Approved the City’s official sponsorship of all West Hollywood National Night Out events and waive all City fees associated with this event; and 4) Approved lifting parking restrictions within neighborhood watch/resident association National Night Out activation vicinities between 4:00 P.M. to 10:00 P.M.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.O. STREET MAINTENANCE ASSESSMENT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024- 2025 [ L. QUIJANO, B. ROSEN]:]
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider adopting a resolution determining and imposing a street maintenance assessment within the 1996 Street Maintenance Assessment District for Fiscal Year 2024-2025.
The assessment rate is unchanged from 2023-2024.
ACTION: Adopted Resolution No. 24-054: “ A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD DETERMINING
THE COST OF STREET MAINTENANCE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025
AND DETERMINING AND IMPOSING A STREET MAINTENANCE
ASSESSMENT WITHIN 1996 STREET MAINTENANCE ASSESSMENT
DISTRICT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 PURSUANT TO THE
PROVISIONS OF THE BENEFIT ASSESSMENT ACT OF1982,
CHAPTER 6.4 OF PART 1 OF DIVISION 2 OF TITLE 5 OF THE
CALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT CODE.” Approved as part of the
Consent Calendar.
2.P. CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD INVESTMENT POLICY [ L. QUIJANO, C.
CORRALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider adopting the annual resolution for the City’s investment policy.
ACTION: Adopted Resolution No. 24-055: “ A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD CONFIRMING A
STATEMENT OF INVESTMENT POLICY AND RESCINDING
RESOLUTION NO. 23-054”. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.Q. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD APPROVING THE INCREASE OF GENERAL FUND
EMERGENCY RESERVES, APPROVING RELATED CHANGES TO THE
CLASSIFICATION OF THE GENERAL FUND BALANCE RESERVES
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AND RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 11-4186, AND A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
APPROVING CHANGES TO THE FINANCE POLICIES AND
RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 01-2603 [ D. WILSON, C. SAFRIET, M.
LINDLEY, L. QUIJANO, C. CORRALES, A. RUIZ, K. BARENG]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider adopting a Resolution approving the increase of General Fund Emergency Reserves, including rescinding an outdated Resolution No. 11-4186, approving related changes to the classification of the General Fund Balance Reserves, and a Resolution approving revising the Finance Policies, including rescinding an outdated Resolution No. 01-2603.
ACTIONS: 1) Adopted Resolution No. 24-056: " A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD APPROVING
THE INCREASE OF GENERAL FUND EMERGENCY RESERVES AND
APPROVING RELATED CHANGES TO THE CLASSIFICATION OF THE
GENERAL FUND BALANCE RESERVES AND RESCINDING
RESOLUTION NO. 11-4186”; and 2) Adopt Resolution No. 24-057: " A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD APPROVING CHANGES TO THE FINANCE POLICIES
AND RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 01-2603”. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.R. RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD AMENDING THE RULES AND REGULATIONS
GOVERNING THE USE AND OPERATION OF CITY PARKS AND
AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 90-648 [S. CAMPBELL, H. COLLINS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider amending Resolution No. 90- 648, the Rules and Regulations Governing the Use and Operation of City Parks, by adopting Title 17 Parks, Beaches and other Public Areas, Chapter 17.04 Parks and Recreation Areas, Part 3 Park Rules and Regulations, Section 17.04.412 Dog Off-Leash Area Rules, and Regulations, Los Angeles County Code, in full with a noted exception.
ACTION: This Item was moved to Excluded Consent Calendar.
2.S. ( 4.A.) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
AMENDING WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION
2.08.070(B) TO INCREASE COMPENSATION FOR CITY
COUNCILMEMBERS TO $ 1,724.49 PER MONTH AND A RESOLUTION
INCREASING THE STIPEND AMOUNT PAID TO ADVISORY BOARD
AND COMMISSION MEMBERS TO $ 100 PER MEETING [ J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider amending Section 2.080.070(b) of the West Hollywood Municipal Code to increase the compensation for City Councilmembers to $1,724.79 per month, as well as increasing the stipend amount paid to Advisory Board and Commission members to $100 per meeting.
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ACTIONS: 1) Introduced on first reading Ordinance 24-19: “ AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD AMENDING WEST
HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 2.08.070(b) TO INCREASE COMPENSATION FOR CITY COUNCILMEMBERS”; and 2) Adopted
Resolution No. 24-058: “ A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD INCREASING THE STIPEND
AMOUNT PAID TO ADVISORY BOARD AND COMMISSION MEMBERS
AND RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 16-4872”. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.T. ( 5.A.) DEVELOPMENT OF A CITY POLICY REQUIRING
SUSTAINABLE AND CLIMATE- FRIENDLY FOOD CHOICES FOR CITYSPONSORED EVENTS [ Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, H. MOLINA]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider a resolution mandating that all City-sponsored events in which food/refreshments are provided be plantbased foods by default and allow people to opt into food/refreshments that contain animal products.
ACTIONS: 1) Adopted Resolution No. 24-059: “ A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD ESTABLISHING
A POLICY TO REQUIRE SUSTAINABLE AND CLIMATE- FRIENDLY
FOOD CHOICES FOR CITY-SPONSORED EVENTS;” and 2) Directed the Communications Department staff to educate the public about the benefits of including plant-based products in their diet. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.U. ( 6.C.) APPROVE A FIVE-YEAR MUNICIPAL LAW ENFORCEMENT
SERVICES AGREEMENT BY AND BETWEEN THE COUNTY OF LOS
ANGELES AND THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD [ D. WILSON, D.
RIVAS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving a five-year Municipal Law Enforcement Services Agreement by and between the County of Los Angeles and the City of West Hollywood.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved the Municipal Law Enforcement Services Agreement by and between the County of Los Angeles and the City of West Hollywood; and 2) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to this agreement. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.V. ( 6.E.) RECOGNITION OF AUGUST 31ST AS OVERDOSE
AWARENESS DAY [ J. ERICKSON, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO, J. DUCKWORTH]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider recognizing August 31, 2024, as Overdose Awareness Day to honor the lives lost to drug overdoses and raise awareness about the importance of harm reduction and overdose prevention.
ACTIONS: 1) Directed the City’s Facilities & Field Services Division to light City Hall and the City’s lanterns over Santa Monica Boulevard in Docusign Envelope ID: 3657F268- 7295-4C2C-AA76-B0CC3591EBF5 City Council Minutes
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purple on August 31, 2024, in recognition of Overdose Awareness Day; and 2) Directed the Communications Department to utilize all appropriate communication tools to promote Overdose Awareness Day including, but not limited to, the City’s website, a press release, and social media tools.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
3. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
3.A. COLLECTION OF SOLID WASTE, RECYCLING, AND ORGANIC
WASTE CHARGES ON THE TAX ROLL FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 S. CAMPBELL, J. GILMOUR, M. MAGENER]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will conduct a public hearing to consider whether to collect the annual solid waste, recycling, and organic waste fees for residential properties on the property tax roll.
ACTION: This Public Hearing was continued to the July 15, 2024 City Council meeting.
3.B. COLLECTION OF SEWER CHARGES ON THE TAX ROLL FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024- 2025 [ S. CAMPBELL, J. GILMOUR]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will conduct a public hearing to consider whether to collect the annual FY 2024-25 sewer service charges on the property tax roll.
ACTION: This Public Hearing was continued to the July 15, 2024 City Council meeting.
3.C. PLACEMENT OF DELINQUENT SOLID WASTE FEES ON THE
PROPERTY TAX BILL OF PROPERTY OWNERS [ S. CAMPBELL, J.
GILMOUR, M. MAGENER]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider a request to have the County Auditor place delinquent solid waste charges on the property tax bills of delinquent solid waste account holders.
ACTION: This Public Hearing was continued to the July 15, 2024 City Council meeting.
3.D. REQUEST TO REPLACE AN EXISTING ONE- SIDED STATIC
BILLBOARD WITH A NEW TWO-SIDED, FULL-MOTION DIGITAL
BILLBOARD AT 8501 SUNSET BOULEVARD IN CONJUNCTION WITH
NEW INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR BUILDING AND SITE
IMPROVEMENTS [ L. BIERY, B. LEAGUE, N. MARICICH, J. ALKIRE, J.
DAVIS, R. ABRAMSON]:
SUBJECT: This proposal is for construction of a new two-sided fullmotion digital billboard, replacing an existing one-sided billboard, on the rooftop of 8501 Sunset (The Sterling Building) and for the improvement of both the interior and exterior of the building to accommodate West Hollywood small businesses with free workspace, mentorship, and educational programs for approximately three to five local businesses for the term of the development agreement. Site improvements will also be Docusign Envelope ID: 3657F268- 7295-4C2C-AA76-B0CC3591EBF5 City Council Minutes
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made to accommodate this new use. The City Council will hold a public hearing and make a decision regarding the approval of Master Project MP21-0021) including Sign Permit ( BB21-0003), Administrative Permit AP21-0021), Zoning Map Amendment (ZMA21-0003) and Development Agreement ( DA21-0004) for the construction and installation of the new billboard and site and building improvements. This item is subject to CEQA and an addendum to the Sunset Arts & Advertising Billboard Policy Negative Declaration was prepared for the project.
Mayor Erickson opened the Public Hearing.
Assistant City Clerk Morales noted that the Public Hearing was noticed as required by law.
The City Council provided their disclosures.
Property Development Manager Brian League provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated June 24, 2024.
Councilmember Heilman provided a clarifying statement regarding the oversight of the building.
Councilmember Meister inquired if staff included the word “ private” in section 3.4.5 to specify private development. City Attorney Langer stated it was not changed and rather, the entire gateway protection of any signs was removed to address concerns.
The applicant expressed their acceptance of all terms and stated he looked forward to the Council’ s deliberations.
The following members of the public came forward to speak:
AARON KAMIN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding traffic concerns and driver distraction associated with the billboard.
STEVE MARTIN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of the retail space solution and in appreciation of the applicant’ s team attendance in the chambers.
The public testimony portion of the Public Hearing was closed.
Councilmember Meister requested that the condition encompassing 50% qualifying occupancy be modified to a minimum of 50% occupied on the ground floor level.
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Councilmember Shyne expressed her appreciation to the applicants for considering previous Council comments and spoke in support of the project.
Councilmember Heilman also indicated his support for this project and recommended including language in the Development Agreement that provides for a reopener to allow the City Council to address future traffic safety concerns.
Vice Mayor Byers spoke in support of the project.
Mayor Erickson spoke in support of all the conditions brought forth by his colleagues an thanked all the speakers for their input.
City Attorney Langer read into the record the following: Adding Section
8.29, “ Notwithstanding anything herein the parties agree to meet in good faith and negotiate appropriate amendments in the event of documented safety problems in the intersection that result from the billboard. The parties agree to reopen if safety problems result from the billboard.” Additionally, a “minimum of 50% occupied on the ground floor level” was included in the amended Development Agreement.
ACTIONS: 1) Introduced on first reading Ordinance No. 24-20: “ 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 AND BUILDING REMODEL AT 8501 SUNSET BOULEVARD, WEST
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA” with amendments noted by the City Council; 2) Introduced on first reading Ordinance No. 24-21: “ 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 AND BUILDING REMODEL AT 8501 SUNSET BOULEVARD, WEST
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA”; and 3) Approved the applications requested by adopting Resolution No. 24-060: “A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD ADOPTING AN
ADDENDUM TO A NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND APPROVING A
SIGN PERMIT AND ADMINISTRATIVE PERMIT IN CONJUNCTION
WITH THE NEW OFF-SITE ADVERTISING BILLBOARD AND BUILDING REMODEL AT 8501 SUNSET BOULEVARD, WEST HOLLYWOOD,
CALIFORNIA”. Motion by Councilmember Heilman seconded by Vice Mayor Byers and approved ( 5/0).
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Monday, June 24, 2024
4. LEGISLATIVE:
4.A. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD AMENDING WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 2.08.070(B) TO
INCREASE COMPENSATION FOR CITY COUNCILMEMBERS TO
1,724.49 PER MONTH AND A RESOLUTION INCREASING THE
STIPEND AMOUNT PAID TO ADVISORY BOARD AND COMMISSION
MEMBERS TO $ 100 PER MEETING [ J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L.
MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider amending Section 2.080.070(b) of the West Hollywood Municipal Code to increase the compensation for City Councilmembers to $1,724.79 per month, as well as increasing the stipend amount paid to Advisory Board and Commission members to $100 per meeting.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
5.A. DEVELOPMENT OF A CITY POLICY REQUIRING SUSTAINABLE AND
CLIMATE- FRIENDLY FOOD CHOICES FOR CITY-SPONSORED
EVENTS [ Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, H. MOLINA]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider a resolution mandating that all City-sponsored events in which food/refreshments are provided be plantbased foods by default and allow people to opt into food/refreshments that contain animal products.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
5.B. FISCAL YEARS 2024-25 & 2025-26 TWO-YEAR OPERATING BUDGET AND CAPITAL WORK PLAN [ D. WILSON, C. SAFRIET, M. LINDLEY, L. QUIJANO, A. RUIZ]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider adopting the City of West Hollywood Two-Year Operating Budget and Capital Work Plan for Fiscal Years 2024-25 & 2025-26.
Budget Officer Melissa Lindley provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated June 24, 2024.
Councilmember Heilman asked about annual funding for the Housing Trust Fund. He inquired about operating hours of the ARC and programming for older adults in the community. City Manager Wilson responded.
Mayor Erickson inquired about internet availability at City parks, fiberoptic cable, and broadband budgeting and if there are short-term solutions.
Information Technology Manager Eugene Tsipis responded about the broadband and Wi-Fi at City facilities.
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Mayor Erickson inquired about the timeline to upgrade the air conditioning system at Fiesta Hall and Facilities. Field Services Division Manager Helen Collins responded.
The following member of the public came forward to speak:
ANDREW SOLOMON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke on behalf of the
Public Facilities Commission to thank staff for securing funding for improvements at City parks and recreational facilities.
Councilmember Heilman commented about appropriate budgeting for Halloween and considering longer weekend festivities with Halloween falling on a Thursday this year; in support of additional activation programing for the ARC; requested action to move revenue- generating signage from planning stages to approvals and construction; made suggestions regarding the WeHo Loves Locals campaign; and inquired about the future of the Fire Station on the east side.
Councilmember Meister supports additional programming at the ARC; making Wi-Fi accessible to residents at home; allocating additional funds to the Housing Trust Fund; increasing staffing levels at the ARC; looking into additional cameras to make recording easier for events at City facilities; enhancing the permitting program; and supports funding for public safety technology and security personnel.
Councilmember Shyne inquired if the Care Team mobile behavioral health crisis response unit was now fully funded and operating 24/7. Director of Human Services & Rent Stabilization Christof Schroeder responded.
Vice Mayor Byers thanked staff for their hard work on the budget as she served on the Finance & Budget Subcommittee. She commented on how pleased she was to see an increase in the City’s reserve policy, new Planning and Recreation positions, and in-house staffing for the City’s Playhouse. She expressed her appreciation for the increase in funding for the Mishka Festival and her interest in additional funding related to providing social services. She mentioned funding for public arts. She mentioned the costs and revenues related to parking meters and parking fines.
Mayor Erickson thanked the commentor for their input, staff for their hard work, and the community effort in partnership on the City budget. He discussed the importance of increasing the City’s reserve policy. He noted that the budget is a statement of the City’s priorities and values. He encouraged expanding ARC program including open swim and inquired about community safety related to stationary cameras and the status of the City’s budgeted Public Information Officer position at the West Hollywood Sheriff’ s Station.
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ACTIONS: 1) Adopted Resolution No. 24-061: “ A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD ADOPTING THE BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-25” as specified in the Statement of Changes to Fund Balance, or as amended by the City Council; 2) Adopted the division and capital work plans presented in the Two-Year Operating Budget and Capital Work Plan, as previously provided to the City Council and the public on the City’s website, www.weho.org/budget; 3) Authorized the Director of Finance & Technology Services to allocate $ 2 million in General Fund Reserves for purchase of Proposition A Funds; 4) Approved the list of Pre-Approved Organizations and Events for City Councilmembers to attend at the City’s expense; 5) Approved the list of Budgeted Special Events; and 6) Authorized the Director of Finance & Technology Services to make transfers in and out of Capital and General Funds, for Fiscal Years 2023-24 and 2024-25, based on expended amounts drawn from Designated Reserves Assigned for Capital Projects for projects previously approved. Motion by Councilmember Heilman, seconded by Vice Mayor Byers and approved ( 5/0).
The City Council recessed the meeting at 7:25 p.m. and reconvened at 7:35 p.m.
6. NEW BUSINESS:
6.A. REVISIONS TO THE EVENT CO-SPONSORSHIP POLICY [ A.
LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider amending the City’s Event Cosponsorship Policy to establish a bi-annual application process with an established evaluation criteria and approval process.
Community & Legislative Affairs Manager Andi Lovano provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated June 24, 2024.
Councilmember Heilman expressed his concern about the open call for events.
Councilmember Meister commented on the shared concern with Councilmember Heilman.
Councilmember Shyne inquired if Councilmembers can still bring items forward via City sponsorship. Ms. Lovano responded.
Mayor Erickson stated there was consensus on the concept of excluding appointed officials from applying for co-sponsorships, stakeholder definition, and monetary tier.
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City Attorney Langer clarified that the Council would not vote for the approval of this policy tonight, but for the item coming back with improvements noted by Council and staff.
ACTION: The City Council provided direction to enhance the Revised Event Co-sponsorship Policy by consensus.
6.B. AGREEMENT FOR MARKETING SUPPORT WITH WEST
HOLLYWOOD TOURISM MARKETING FUND DBA EMERALD
VILLAGE WEST HOLLYWOOD FOR CANNABIS MARKETING AND
EDUCATION SERVICES AND CONSIDER EXPANDING THE
PROPOSED SCOPE OF WORK [ D. WILSON, L. LANGER, D. RIVAS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving an Agreement for Marketing Support with West Hollywood Tourism Marketing Fund dba Emerald Village West Hollywood for cannabis marketing and education services to West Hollywood cannabis businesses and consider expanding the proposed Scope of Work.
Director of Community Safety Danny Rivas provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated June 24, 2024.
Councilmember Heilman inquired why this item is under Community Safety and not Economic Development. Mr. Rivas responded.
The following member of the public came forward to speak:
SCOTT SCHMIDT, WEST HOLLYWOOD, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF
EMERALD VILLAGE, thanked the City Council for their support in the past and hopes for an approval on the initial contract as they are ready to hit the ground running for their event in July.
Councilmember Meister expressed favor for both recommendations.
Councilmember Heilman commented that marketing contracts are overseen by Economic Development, and he hopes to see collaboration from this department. He expressed his support for this item.
Vice Mayor Byers indicated her support of the industry as a whole and the item.
Mayor Erickson summarized that the City Council would like staff to come back with an expanded scope of services at a future meeting.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved the Marketing Support Agreement with West Hollywood Tourism Marketing Fund dba Emerald Village West Hollywood in a “not-to-exceed” amount of $ 50,000 for local cannabis marketing and education services; and 2) directed staff bring back an expanded Docusign Envelope ID: 3657F268- 7295-4C2C-AA76-B0CC3591EBF5 City Council Minutes
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proposed Scope of Services included in the West Hollywood Tourism Marketing Fund dba Emerald Village West Hollywood Agreement. Motion by Councilmember Heilman, seconded by Vice Mayor Byers, and approved ( 5/0).
6.C. APPROVE A FIVE-YEAR MUNICIPAL LAW ENFORCEMENT
SERVICES AGREEMENT BY AND BETWEEN THE COUNTY OF LOS
ANGELES AND THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD [ D. WILSON, D.
RIVAS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving a five-year Municipal Law Enforcement Services Agreement by and between the County of Los Angeles and the City of West Hollywood.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
6.D. CONSIDERATION TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF ALLOWABLE
SPECIAL EVENTS AND ACTIVATIONS AND TO CHANGE WHAT
ACTIVITIES ARE CONSIDERED SPECIAL EVENTS OR ACTIVATIONS J. HEILMAN, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing staff and the City Attorney to draft an ordinance increasing the number of special events and activations allowed per year and directing staff to change what activities are considered special events or activations.
Councilmember Meister commented that perhaps this is not necessary and is concerned that some of the businesses who use this all the time are where the noise complaints originate. She requested more analysis of special event permits and if there was public input before or after such events before the number expanded.
Councilmember Heilman expressed he has no problem with an analysis and explained that activations are happening that have no impact on the public that are counting against a business.
Councilmember Shyne spoke in support of this item and requested clarification on the commentary on minimum wage. Councilmember Heilman responded.
Vice Mayor Byers also expressed support for the item.
ACTIONS: 1) Directed staff and the City Attorney to draft an ordinance to increase the number of allowable special events and activations in the City’s municipal code; 2) Directed staff to change policy with respect to those activities which are considered special events or activations as described in the staff report; and 3) Directed staff to research the appropriate increase and return to the City Council with a draft ordinance for further consideration. Motion by Councilmember Heilman, seconded by Councilmember Meister, and approved ( 5/0).
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6.E. RECOGNITION OF AUGUST 31ST AS OVERDOSE AWARENESS DAY J. ERICKSON, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO, J.
DUCKWORTH]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider recognizing August 31, 2024, as Overdose Awareness Day to honor the lives lost to drug overdoses and raise awareness about the importance of harm reduction and overdose prevention.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
6.F. APPOINTMENTS TO THE LGBTQ+ AND PLANNING COMMISSIONS J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: Councilmember Shyne will make her direct appointment to the LGBTQ+ Commission and Vice Mayor Byers will make her direct appointment to the Planning Commission.
ACTIONS: 1) Councilmember Byers appointed Andrew Solomon to the Planning Commissioner for a term ending February 28, 2025.
EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR:
2.R. RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD AMENDING THE RULES AND REGULATIONS
GOVERNING THE USE AND OPERATION OF CITY PARKS AND
AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 90-648 [ S. CAMPBELL, H. COLLINS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider amending Resolution No. 90- 648, the Rules and Regulations Governing the Use and Operation of City Parks, by adopting Title 17 Parks, Beaches and other Public Areas, Chapter 17.04 Parks and Recreation Areas, Part 3 Park Rules and Regulations, Section 17.04.412 Dog Off-Leash Area Rules, and Regulations, Los Angeles County Code, in full with a noted exception.
Vice Mayor Byers commented on lack of consensus of this item from the Public Facilities Commission due to community members having different sized dogs.
Facilities and Field Services Division Manager Helen Collins provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated June 24, 2024.
Councilmember Meister encouraged a weight requirement on the small dog parks.
Councilmember Shyne suggested placing the limit on the small dog parks only.
City Attorney Langer read into the record the following: Adding to Section N: “large dogs over 35 pounds are permitted only in large dog areas”.
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ACTION: The City Council adopted Resolution No. 24-062:
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD AMENDING THE RULES AND REGULATIONS
GOVERNING THE USE AND OPERATION OF CITY PARKS AND
AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 90-648. Motion by Vice Mayor Byers, seconded by Councilmember Meister, and approved ( 5/0).
PUBLIC COMMENT:
NICK ROYBAL, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke to uplift some community members who needed safety support as well as animal rescuers.
MANTU, WEST HOLLYWOOD, requested assistance with racial tensions that happened with his family.
COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS AND MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORTS:
Councilmember Heilman reported his attendance at the Westside Cities Council of Governments and attended various community events.
Vice Mayor Byers thanked everyone who had a hand in making Pride month happen this year. She commented on the heat and hopes everyone, and their pets, are taking proper precautions. She noted her attendance at the National League of Cities Summer Board Meeting and served at the Federal Transportation Infrastructure Services Committee and provided an update on the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
Councilmember Meister thanked the community for their support regarding the loss of her father and apologized for not being able to be out at events recently. She reported her attendance at Juneteenth and hopes to look at stationary camera options for these types of events so they can be replayed. She reminded the community that there is only one City Council meeting on July 15th and wished everyone a Happy 4th of July.
Councilmember Shyne reported her attendance at the Juneteenth event, a briefing with the CalCities LGBT Caucus as well as several meetings as president of the LGBT Caucus.
Mayor Erickson reported his attendance at the presentation for the Q Agenda’ s 100th episode with Vice Mayor Byers, Streets for All happy hour on Zoom, Urban Land Institute LGBTQI Month Mixer at Or Bar, WeHo Community Networking Mixer at Dubbs Organic Coffee Blends, the LGBTQ+ Commission Meeting, WeHo Pride Arts Festival Exhibit Opening and Poetry Scrabble, Saturday in Plummer Park event, QCon Rainbow Family Fun Day, Being Alive Pride & Progress event, Gay Men’s Chorus event, held a meeting with the West Hollywood West Neighborhood Association, the Juneteenth event, Greater Los Angeles Association of Realtors Fashion Show, US Conference of Mayors where the City received a Climate Protection Award, and received the Westies Housing Champion Award. Lastly, he and Vice Mayor Byers sat on a panel for WeHo Queer Urbanism. He thanked Nik Roybal for connecting him with Daniel, Matthew, and Docusign Envelope ID: 3657F268- 7295-4C2C-AA76-B0CC3591EBF5 City Council Minutes
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Enrique and he has been talking with them consistently and thanked first responders.
He requested the City Manager arrange a meeting with the Community Gardens organizers.
ADJOURNMENT: The City Council adjourned at 8:31 P.M. in memory of Harriett Block to its next regular meeting, which will be on Monday, July 15, 2024, at 6:00 P.M. at West Hollywood Park Public Meeting Room - Council Chambers.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of West Hollywood at a regular meeting held this 15th day of July, 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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