CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
MINUTES
MONDAY, AUGUST 5, 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 6:00 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Alex Steiner 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, City Clerk Crowder, and Assistant City Clerk Morales.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
Councilmember Heilman requested that Items 5.B., and 6.D be moved to the Consent Calendar, as Items 2.R. and 2.S., respectively.
Councilmember Shyne requested that Item 2.M. be moved to the Excluded Consent Calendar.
Councilmember Meister requested that Item 2.I. be moved to the Excluded Consent Calendar and noted her “no” vote on Agenda Item 2.E.
Motion by Councilmember Heilman, seconded by Vice Mayor Byers, and approved as amended (5/0).
LEVINE ACT DISCLOSURES: None.
ADJOURNMENT MOTIONS: None.
PRESENTATIONS:
The City Council presented a Certificate to Alexa Steiner for leading the Pledge of Allegiance.
Mayor Erickson presented a proclamation to the Women’s Advisory Commission in honor of Women’s Equality Day.
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PUBLIC COMMENT:
LOS ANGELES COUNTY SUPERVISOR LINDSEY HORVATH thanked the City Council for their attendance at the Log Cabin and announced the amount allocated for this project and spoke in appreciation for the Council’s leadership and investment.
KEVIN BURTON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in appreciation and support of Agenda Item 2.N.
BRAD KEISTLER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of Agenda Item 2.N.
ANDY SHORT, WEST HOLLYWOOD, SENIOR REGIONAL MANAGER OF THE PHOENIX, spoke in appreciation of their co-sponsorship agreement.
RICK WATTS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding the Paris Olympics with disabilities.
STEVE MARTIN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding the Log Cabin and tomorrow’s National Night Out event.
CITY MANAGER’S REPORT:
City Manager David Wilson thanked Supervisor Lindsey Horvath for her support and partnership on the Log Cabin project. He further congratulated Yellena Orloff on her retirement and thanked her for her years of service to the City of West Hollywood. He announced the upcoming National Night Out event scheduled for Tuesday, August 6 th
throughout the City and directed the public to visit www.weho.org/nno for more information. Additionally, he encouraged community input on the DEIR Metro K Line extension, until September 5th and invited community members to attend an upcoming meeting to review parking considerations and provide feedback on the proposed changes along Vista Gardner on Thursday, August 22nd. Lastly, he welcomed the community to pick up a Get Involved brochure, a guide for civic involvement, including information on ways to stay informed, get involved, and participate in public meetings.
FISCAL IMPACT ON CONSENT CALENDAR:
City Clerk Crowder stated that the Fiscal Impact on the Consent Calendar with the addition of Items 5.B. and 6.D., and the exclusion of Items 2.I. and 2.M., was 3,024,022 in expenditures, $657,600 in revenues, and ($42,187) in waived fees.
2. CONSENT CALENDAR:
2.A.,B.,C.,D.,E.,F.,G.,H.,J.,K.,L.,N.,O.,P.,Q.,R.,S. Motion by Councilmember Heilman, seconded by Vice Mayor Byers, noting Councilmember Meister’s “ no” vote on Item 2.E., and approved (5/0).
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2.A. POSTING OF AGENDA:
SUBJECT: The agenda for the meeting of Monday, August 5, 2024, was posted at City Hall, Plummer Park, the Sheriff’s Station, and at the West Hollywood Library on Wednesday, July 31, 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 July 15, 2024. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.C. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER NO. 953 [ L. QUIJANO, C.
CORRALES, S. HERNANDEZ]:
SUBJECT: The City Council shall receive the Demand Register for period ending July 26, 2024 pursuant to Sections 37201 to 37210 of the Government Code of the State of California.
ACTION: Approved Demand Register No. 953 and adopted Resolution No. 24-071, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
WEST HOLLYWOOD ALLOWING AND APPROVING THE PAYMENT OF
DEMANDS ON DEMAND REGISTER NO. 953”. 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 three ( 3) Claims for Damages from Arnold Duran, BMB Corp., and Luke Mitzman.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.E. ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 24-22 (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 AND PLAZA
IMPROVEMENTS AT 8590 SUNSET BOULEVARD, WEST
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA” [ M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 24-22, approving a development agreement in conjunction with the new off-site advertising billboard and plaza improvements at 8590 Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, California.
ACTION: Waived further reading and adopted Ordinance No. 24-22: “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 PLAZA IMPROVEMENTS AT 8590 SUNSET BOULEVARD, WEST
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HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA”. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.F. 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, & Infrastructure Commission, Rent Stabilization Commission, Disabilities Advisory Board, Older Adults Advisory Board, Transgender Advisory Board, and the Social Justice Advisory Board regarding actions taken at their recent meetings.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.G. VOTER OUTREACH COMMUNICATION PLAN FOR NOVEMBER 5,
2024 ELECTION [ J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES, J.
SCHARE, E. TAYLOR, S. LUNN]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive information on the Voter Outreach efforts planned for the November 5, 2024 General Election.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.H. CITY HISTORIAN LAUREATE PROGRAM UPDATE [ J. SCHARE, S.
LUNN]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving a Scope of Work SOW) and updated timeline for the City Historian Laureate Program.
ACTIONS: Approved a Scope of Work (SOW) and updated timeline for the City Historian Laureate Program. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.I. APPROVE THE APPOINTED LAUREATES LIST OF PRE-APPROVED ORGANIZATIONS AND EVENTS FOR CITY TRAVEL [ L. BIERY, R.
EHEMANN, J. SCHARE, S. LUNN]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving a list of organizations and events for appointed Laureate positions to present at an event that takes place outside of the city limits.
ACTION: This Item was moved to Excluded Consent.
2.J. AMENDMENTS TO THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION BY-LAWS CHANGING THE MEETING DATE [ J. JIMENEZ, M.
CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving an amendment to the Historic Preservation Commission’s By-Laws changing their meeting date from the 4th Monday of the month to the 2nd Monday of the month.
ACTION: Amended Section 2.1 of the Historic Preservation Commission By-Laws changing their meeting date from the 4th Monday of the month to the 2nd Monday of the month. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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2.K. AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH SASAKI ASSOCIATES INC. FOR
HOUSING ELEMENT IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CITYWIDE
DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS & BONUS INCENTIVE PROGRAMS
FEASIBILITY STUDY [ N. MARICICH, F. CONTRERAS, T. FARRIS, M.
MONTENEGRO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approval of an Agreement for Services with Sasaki Associates Inc. to assist in analyzing, developing, and recommending updates to citywide development standards and bonus incentive programs, significant components of the implementation of the 6th Cycle Housing Element. This item is not subject to CEQA.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved the Agreement for Services with Sasaki Associates Inc. for $763,030 with an expiration date of June 30, 2026; and 2) Authorize the City Manager or designee to sign and execute all documents related to this Agreement. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.L. AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR CITYWIDE STREET SWEEPING SERVICES [H. COLLINS, H. COLLINS, E. HAMANT]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving Amendment No. 1 to the Agreement with SCA of CA, LLC dba CleanStreet, LLC to provide citywide street sweeping services.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved Amendment No. 1 to the Agreement with SCA of CA, LLC dba CleanStreet, LLC to provide citywide street sweeping services for an increased amount of $1,595,991.57 and a new total not-toexceed amount of $3,386,612.67; and 2) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to the Agreement. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.M. REQUEST TO NAME THE FUTURE THEATER AT THE CITY
PLAYHOUSE IN HONOR OF THE CITY'S FORMER ARTS MANAGER
ANDREW CAMPBELL [V. GUARINO, H. COLLINS, E. HAMANT]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider a request to name the future theater at the City Playhouse the “Andrew Campbell Theater” to honor the life, work, and contributions of the City’s former Arts Manager Andrew Campbell and refer the item to the City’s Public Facilities, Recreation, and Infrastructure Commission for further consideration.
ACTIONS: This Item was moved to Excluded Consent.
2.N. CICLAVIA: MEET THE HOLLYWOODS PLANNING UPDATE [ Y.
QUARKER, C. SMITH, M. REATH, B. SMITH]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive a planning update regarding CicLAvia: Meet the Hollywoods, which is scheduled for Sunday, August 18, 2024. The City Council will consider approving street closures associated with the event as well as approving Agreements with CicLAvia, and the City of Los Angeles related to the event.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved an Agreement for Services with CicLAvia, in an amount not to exceed $ 190,000 to produce CicLAvia: Meet the Docusign Envelope ID: AEB1CE38- 20C6-4D71- 89F4- C40039E653C6 City Council Minutes
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Hollywoods on August 18, 2024; 2) Approved the waiver of Special Event Permit fees, Encroachment Permit fees, Street Closure fees, Engineering fees, and Building and Safety Permit fees associated with the CicLAvia event ( estimated at $ 12,000) as well as potential loss of revenue in parking meter fees ( estimated at $ 2,400); 3) Approved the waiver of Special Event Permit fees and Encroachment fees for City businesses activating their storefronts during the CicLAvia event ( estimated at 20,000 in waived fees); 4) Authorized up to $ 12,500 to cover Los Angeles County Fire Department site plan review fees related to the waived Special Event Permits associated with City business activations between August 16 and 18; 5) Received an update on funding sources for CicLAvia: Meet the Hollywoods event; 6) Authorized the City Manager and the City Attorney to negotiate and execute an M.O.U. with the City of Los Angeles regarding the share of Metro’s Open Streets Grant; 7) Authorized the Director of Finance and Technology Services to increase budgeted revenues in the Miscellaneous Grants Fund by the amount of the grant award and budgeted expenditures in the Miscellaneous Grants Fund; and 8) Approved the closure of Santa Monica Boulevard between La Brea Avenue and San Vicente Boulevard on Sunday, August 18, 2024, from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.O. 2025 LOS ANGELES MARATHON STREET CLOSURES [ Y.
QUARKER, C. SMITH, M. REATH, J. HEREDIA]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving street closures of portions of Sunset Boulevard, North San Vicente Boulevard, Santa Monica Boulevard, and North Doheny Drive to accommodate the Los Angeles Marathon for its event on Sunday, March 16, 2025.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved the closure of Sunset Boulevard between Marmont Lane and Clark Street/North San Vicente Boulevard on Sunday, March 16, 2025, from 4:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; 2) Approved the closure of North San Vicente Boulevard between Sunset Boulevard and Melrose Avenue on Sunday, March 16, 2025, from 4:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; 3) Approved the closure of Santa Monica Boulevard between La Cienega Boulevard and North Doheny Drive on Sunday, March 16, 2025, from 4:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; 4) Approved the closure of North Doheny Drive between Santa Monica Boulevard and Beverly Boulevard on Sunday, March 16, 2025, from 4:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; and 5) Authorized the City Manager or his designee to negotiate with event producers regarding additional route, programming, or sponsorship requests. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.P. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD IN SUPPORT OF PROPOSITION 3, THE
CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT TO MARRIAGE EQUALITY AND REPEAL
OF PROPOSITION 8 [ Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, H. MOLINA, M.
WATSON]:
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SUBJECT: The City Council will consider adopting a resolution in support of Proposition 3, The Constitutional Right to Marriage Equality and Repeal of Proposition 8, which will enshrine the right to marriage equality into the California Constitution and repeal Proposition 8 of 2008. Proposition 3 will appear on the November 5, 2024 ballot.
ACTIONS: 1) Adopted Resolution No. 24-072: “A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD IN SUPPORT
OF PROPOSITION 3, THE CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT TO MARRIAGE
EQUALITY AND REPEAL OF PROPOSITION 8”; and 2) Directed the Communications Department to share information on the adopted resolution with the public. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.Q. RESOLUTION TO APPLY FOR CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ( HCD) LOCAL
HOUSING TRUST FUNDS ( LHTF) MATCHING GRANT FOR
CREATION, REHABILITIATION OR PRESERVATION OF
AFFORDABLE HOUSING [S. CAMPBELL, B. LEAGUE, A. BARTLE]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider authorizing the submittal of an application to the California State Department of Housing and Community Development for funding under the Local Housing Trust Fund Program.
ACTIONS: 1) Adopted Resolution No. 24-073: ”A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD AUTHORIZING
APPLICATION FOR, AND RECEIPT OF, LOCAL HOUSING TRUST
FUND PROGRAM FUNDS IN AN AMOUNT OF UP TO $5,000,000”; and 2) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to the Agreement and all necessary contracts, payment requests, and amendments for the purposes of securing the grant funds. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.R. ( 5.B.) A RESOLUTION EXTENDING THE DEADLINE TO REMOVE OR
CONVERT TEMPORARY OUTZONES ON PRIVATE PROPERTY TO
PERMANENT OUTDOOR DINING [ D. WILSON, J. ROCCO, N.
MARICICH, J. ALKIRE, B. GALAN, H. COLLINS, J. GILMOUR, L.
BIERY]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider adopting a resolution extending the date by which temporary outdoor dining areas on private property shall convert to permitted permanent outdoor dining or removed permanently.
ACTION: Adopted Resolution No. 24-074: “ A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA,
UPDATING THE DATE BY WHICH TEMPORARY OUTDOOR DINING
AREAS ON PRIVATE PROPERTY SHALL CONVERT TO PERMANENT
OUTDOOR DINING.” Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.S. ( 6.D.) CO-SPONSORSHIP OF LADIES OF COURAGE ARTS FESTIVAL Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, L. FOOKS]:
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SUBJECT: The City Council will consider a request to co-sponsor the Ladies of Courage Arts Festival”, a free outdoor event to be held on Saturday, September 28, 2024 at West Hollywood Park.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved the co-sponsorship of the “Ladies of Courage Arts Festival” to be held on Saturday, September 28, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at West Hollywood Park; 2) Authorized the City Manager or his designee to execute documents incident to the Co-Sponsorship Agreement between the Eye Poet, LLC; 3) Authorized the Director of Finance and Technology Services to approve the use of $ 5,000 from Fiscal Year 2024-25 budgeted funds in the Special Council Programs account number 100-1-01-00-531001 for costs associated with the event; 4) Approved the use of the Great Lawn Area, Great Lawn Picnic Area, Promenade Area, Robertson Lawn Area, Robertson Picnic Area and South Lawn Area at West Hollywood Park; 5) Waived fees for Special Event Permit, Film Permit, Encroachment Permit, Major Event Park Space Use Fee, and Building and Safety Permits (estimated $8,987); 6) Waived parking at the 5-story parking structure for the event performers, vendors and staff (estimated $1,200); 7) Authorized the use of the City name and logo on invitations, programs, and other collateral materials; and 8) Directed the Communications Department to utilize all appropriate communications tools to promote the event such as the City’s website and social media tools. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
3. PUBLIC HEARINGS: None.
4. LEGISLATIVE: None.
5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
5.A. STRATEGY FOR LEASING OF CITY-OWNED REAL PROPERTY [ S.
CAMPBELL, B. LEAGUE, A. BARTLE, H. COLLINS, L. BIERY, T.
COYNE]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive an overview of City-owned facilities with lease agreements and approve a strategy for leasing Cityowned real property.
Acting Deputy City Manager Steve Campbell and Facilities and Field Services Division Manager Helen Collins provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated August 5, 2024.
Councilmember Heilman expressed concerns with the priority process of leasing City-owned property as it may not encompass the demands of each location appropriately.
Councilmember Meister agreed that every location required different needs and requested staff utilize block-by-block ambassadors at the Docusign Envelope ID: AEB1CE38- 20C6-4D71- 89F4- C40039E653C6 City Council Minutes
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proposed CARES location. City Manager Wilson clarified that each property would be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Councilmember Shyne spoke in support of the Item and in agreement with Councilmember Meister’s request to install block-by-block ambassadors at the CARES location.
Vice Mayor Byers spoke in support of the Item and granting the City Manager the ability to have oversight of the use of space.
Councilmember Heilman commented on the suggestive language in the report that there is a hierarchy of use and provided clarifying direction that each location be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Mayor Erickson spoke in agreement with the City Council’s requests.
ACTION: Received an overview of City-owned facilities that could potentially be leased to tenants and approved a strategy for leasing Cityowned real property. Motion by Heilman, seconded by Vice Mayor Byers, and approved (5/0).
5.B. A RESOLUTION EXTENDING THE DEADLINE TO REMOVE OR
CONVERT TEMPORARY OUTZONES ON PRIVATE PROPERTY TO
PERMANENT OUTDOOR DINING [ D. WILSON, J. ROCCO, N.
MARICICH, J. ALKIRE, B. GALAN, H. COLLINS, J. GILMOUR, L.
BIERY]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider adopting a resolution extending the date by which temporary outdoor dining areas on private property shall convert to permitted permanent outdoor dining or removed permanently.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
5.C. PLACEMENT OF A GENERAL TAX MEASURE ON THE BALLOT FOR THE NOVEMBER 5, 2024 GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO
ENACT A SUPPLEMENTAL GENERAL TRANSACTIONS AND USE
TAX ( SALES TAX) AT THE RATE OF ONE-QUARTER CENT THAT
WILL ONLY TAKE EFFECT IF A FUTURE DISTRICT SALES TAX
WITHIN THE COUNTY QUALIFIES FOR A BALLOT AND IS ENACTED D. WILSON, C. SAFRIET, J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider placement of a general sales tax measure on the ballot for the November 5, 2024 General Municipal Election to enact a supplemental general transactions and use tax (sales tax) at the rate of one-quarter cent (¼¢), that will only take effect if a future district sales tax within the County qualifies for a ballot and is enacted.
City Manager David Wilson and Richard Bernard from FM3 Research provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated August 5, 2024.
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Mayor Erickson inquired if this Item required a 2/3rds vote. City Manager Wilson responded affirmatively.
Councilmember Meister inquired what the temperature of the voters was.
Mr. Bernard responded.
Councilmember Heilman provided clarifying inquiries noting this item was preempting measure to ensure revenue was locally incurred in the event any other government entity selected to impose a tax.
Mayor Erickson clarified that a supermajority of the City Council is needed for approval of this item and that it requires 50%+1 of voter approval to pass if placed on the November ballot.
TED GREEN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of this Item.
MARK R. EDWARDS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of this Item.
JACKIE SUBECK, WEST HOLLYWOD, spoke in support of this Item.
JORDAN COCKERAN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of this Item.
STEVE MARTIN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of this item and on concerns to apply this tax solely for public safety.
NIK ROYBALL, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding concerns with the outcome and investments in public safety.
JAMIE FRANCIS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke on concerns with this measure and the increase of tax.
Councilmember Heilman provided information regarding the urgency to approve this item and clarification on the distribution of funds. He spoke in support of the Item.
Councilmember Meister spoke in support of the language of the report and Item.
Councilmember Shyne also spoke in support.
Vice Mayor Byers spoke in support of the item and requested clarification on the urgency to approve this Item. City Manager Wilson provided a response.
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Mayor Erickson inquired if individuals polled regarding homelessness issues were disappointed with the results of the use from the tax. Richard responded.
ACTIONS: 1) Received a presentation of the results of a public opinion survey regarding a City one-quarter cent sales tax measure from Fairbank, Maslin, Maullin, Metz & Associates; 2) Approved the ballot question as shown below: “West Hollywood Local Control, Public Safety Measure: “ Shall the measure providing funding for general services, including keeping public areas safe/clean; preventing/responding to crime; retaining/attracting local businesses; addressing homelessness; by redirecting to West Hollywood a ¼¢ sales tax if a future district sales tax within the County qualifies for a ballot and is enacted, generating approximately $5,000,000 annually in locally controlled revenue for West Hollywood residents until ended by voters, requiring audits/spending disclosure, be adopted?” 3) Adopted Resolution No. 24-075: “ A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA CALLING FOR THE PLACEMENT OF A
GENERAL TAX MEASURE ON THE BALLOT FOR THE NOVEMBER 5,
2024 GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION FOR THE SUBMISSION TO
THE QUALIFIED VOTERS OF AN ORDINANCE TO ENACT A
SUPPLEMENTAL GENERAL TRANSACTIONS AND USE TAX ( SALES
TAX) AT THE RATE OF ONE-QUARTER CENT ( 1/4¢), THAT WILL
ONLY TAKE EFFECT IF A FUTURE DISTRICT SALES TAX WITHIN THE COUNTY QUALIFIES FOR A BALLOT AND IS ENACTED;” 4) Adopted Resolution No. 24-076: “ A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA, REQUESTING THE
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES TO
CONSOLIDATE A GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON
NOVEMBER 5, 2024 WITH THE STATEWIDE GENERAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON THAT DATE PURSUANT TO §10403 OF THE ELECTIONS CODE;” and 5) Adopted Resolution No. 24-077: “ A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD,
CALIFORNIA, PROVIDING FOR THE FILING OF PRIMARY AND
REBUTTAL ARGUMENTS AND SETTING RULES FOR THE FILING OF
WRITTEN ARGUMENTS REGARDING A CITY MEASURE TO BE
SUBMITTED AT THE NOVEMBER 5, 2024 GENERAL MUNICIPAL
ELECTION.” Motion by Councilmember Heilman seconded by Vice Mayor Byers and approved (5/0).
6. NEW BUSINESS:
6.A. ROUTE 66 SIGNAGE REDESIGN [ J. ERICKSON, L. MEISTER, Y.
QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing staff to work with West Hollywood artist Sküt to redesign the Route 66 signs along Santa Monica Boulevard. There will be two complementary designs developed, one with Docusign Envelope ID: AEB1CE38- 20C6-4D71- 89F4- C40039E653C6 City Council Minutes
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a rainbow LGBTQ theme in the Rainbow District and one in the traditional Route 66 sign colors.
Councilmember Shyne inquired why this item was not considered by the Arts and Cultural Affairs Commission. Councilmember Meister responded.
A Citizen Position Slip in Support of the Item was submitted by Scott Schmidt.
Councilmember Heilman commented in disagreement with changing the current signage design.
Vice Mayor Byers spoke on her excitement of this item; however, stated the item fell short, and proposed that this item be combined with the 100th year anniversary celebration of Route 66 on November 11, 2026.
Councilmember Meister spoke in favor of Vice Mayor Byers suggestion.
Councilmember Heilman referred this item to staff to consider a regular process with the Arts division to incorporate to the 100th year anniversary celebration of Route 66.
ACTIONS: 1) Directed staff to open a call for artists via a typical bidding process, to develop Route 66 signs for parts of the City in conjunction with the 100th year anniversary celebration of Route 66. Motion by Councilmember Heilman, seconded by Vice Mayor Byers and approved (5/0).
6.B. EXPEDITE ZONE TEXT AMENDMENTS TO ENABLE THE EARLY
ISSUANCE OF DEMOLITION PERMITS FOR CERTAIN VACANT
PROPERTY BUILDINGS [J. ERICKSON, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing staff to expedite a Zone Text Amendment to enable the early issuance of demolition permits for certain vacant properties based on public safety impacts. The Zone Text Amendment will include a two-year sunset date to allow staff time to assess this as a permanent code change.
Mayor Erickson provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated August 5, 2024.
Councilmember Meister inquired if a property actively involved in litigation could be demolished. City Attorney Langer stated it could potentially be done at the developers’ risk; however, most developers select not to proceed with permits until the case is resolved. In this matter, the City was successful in the trial court and was subsequently appealed, which could be risky to go through a demolition process, if we’re not sure that the Court would uphold the City’s decision.
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Councilmember Heilman stated the City Council provided previous direction.
RICK WATTS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding concerns with the delayed process with vacant properties.
JAMIE FRANCIS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, commented on the liability of having vacant properties.
Mayor Erickson provided clarification noting it was difficult for the City to determine if a property could be demolished based on the condition.
Councilmember Heilman agreed that the code needed to be revised, however, due to the previous direction wanted to know why this item was necessary. City Manger Wilson stated this Item intends to expedite the process.
Councilmember Meister spoke on concerns and requested the City Council consider other opportunities for the use of vacant properties, like leasing them to universities for housing.
Councilmember Shyne spoke in support of finding innovative ideas.
Councilmember Heilman spoke in opposition to leaving a void in residential neighborhoods and in opposition to considering properties be used to house students.
Vice Mayor Byers spoke in support of the Item.
Councilmember Shyne inquired if staff knew how many vacant properties were available. Director of Community Safety Danny Rivas responded.
ACTIONS: 1) Directed staff to draft a Zone Text Amendment with a twoyear sunset date to enable the early issuance of demolition permits for vacant properties based on public safety impacts for residential and commercial projects with or without entitlements; and 2) Directed staff to expedite the process for the Zone Text Amendment according to the timeline outlined in this staff report. Motion by Mayor Erickson, seconded by Vice Mayor Byers and approved ( 4/1), noting Councilmember Meisters “no” vote.
6.C. CO-SPONSORSHIP OF ONE INSTITUTE’S CIRCA: LGBTQ+
HISTORIES FESTIVAL [ J. ERICKSON, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J.
DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider co-sponsoring ONE Institute’s second annual month-long event, Circa: LGBTQ+ Histories Festival, Docusign Envelope ID: AEB1CE38- 20C6-4D71- 89F4- C40039E653C6 City Council Minutes
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taking place in October 2024 at various locations in West Hollywood and surrounding cities.
Councilmember Meister spoke on concerns with the sponsorship amount and location. Mayor Erickson provided clarification.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved the co-sponsorship of ONE Institute’s Circa:
LGBTQ+ Histories Festival, taking place during the month of October 2024 in West Hollywood and surrounding cities; 2) Authorized the City Manager or his designee to execute documents incident to the co-sponsorship agreement between the City and ONE Archives Foundation; 3) Authorized the Director of Finance & Technology Services to approve the use of 20,000 from budgeted funds in the Special Council Programs account number 100-1-01-00-531001 for costs associated with these events; 4) Waived the Facility Use Fee for Use of the Great Lawn at West Hollywood Park, other ancillary fees, and parking at the 5-story parking structure for event organizers and participants (estimated $600); 5) Authorized the use of the City name and logo on invitations, programs, and other collateral materials for this event; and 6) 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. Motion by Mayor Erickson, seconded by Vice Mayor Byers and approved (5/0).
6.D. CO-SPONSORSHIP OF LADIES OF COURAGE ARTS FESTIVAL [ Y.
QUARKER, A. LOVANO, L. FOOKS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider a request to co-sponsor the Ladies of Courage Arts Festival”, a free outdoor event to be held on Saturday, September 28, 2024 at West Hollywood Park. ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
6.E. UPDATE REGARDING THE SOCIAL JUSTICE ADVISORY BOARD [ J.
JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive an update from the City Clerk on the Social Justice Advisory Board meeting frequency and discuss next steps.
City Clerk Melissa Crowder provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated August 5, 2024.
Councilmember Shyne stated her opposition to this board meeting quarterly.
RICK WATTS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to meeting quarterly rather than monthly.
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Councilmember Shyne inquired about member absences and the delay in creating a workplan. City Clerk Crowder responded.
Councilmember Heilman suggested moving this board to quarterly meetings to provide the opportunity for the City Council to provide a more appropriate recommendation at a later time.
Vice Mayor Byers expressed concerns with the possible lack of work this board is tasked to review.
Councilmember Meister suggested leaving quarterly meetings and holding special meetings if the work warrants it.
Mayor Erickson inquired if other commissions are having issues meeting quorum. City Clerk Crowder responded.
Councilmember Shyne spoke in support of bimonthly meetings and gave direction for the board to develop a thorough workplan. She further directed the City Clerk to conduct outreach and revisit this matter in six months.
ACTIONS: 1) Received an update from the City Clerk on a request from the Social Justice Advisory Board regarding their meeting frequency; and 2) Directed the Social Justice Advisory Board to meet twice before the end of the year, develop a workplan, and return to the City Council with an update in January 2025. Motion by Councilmember Heilman, seconded by Vice Mayor Byers and approved ( 4/1), noting Councilmember Shyne’s “no” vote.
6.F. APPOINTMENTS TO THE RUSSIAN-SPEAKING ADVISORY BOARD J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: Vice Mayor Byers will make her direct appointment to the Russian-Speaking Advisory Board, and the City Council will make an atlarge appointment to the Russian-Speaking Advisory Board.
ACTIONS: 1) Vice Mayor Byers appointed Myroslava Rytko to the Russian-Speaking Advisory Board for a term ending February 28, 2025; and 2) The City Council appointed Oleg Volovik at-large to the RussianSpeaking Advisory Board for a term ending February 28, 2025.
EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR:
2.I. APPROVE THE APPOINTED LAUREATES LIST OF PRE-APPROVED ORGANIZATIONS AND EVENTS FOR CITY TRAVEL [ L. BIERY, R.
EHEMANN, J. SCHARE, S. LUNN]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving a list of organizations and events for appointed Laureate positions to present at an event that takes place outside of the city limits.
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Councilmember Meister expressed concerns regarding the reference to the pre-approved City Councilmembers list of organizations and events being included in the larger list of events for pre-approval for the Laureate Travel List and requested that the pre-approved City Councilmembers list be excluded and an item brought back those lists only those specific events from the City Councilmembers pre-approved list.
Director of Communications Joshua Share, Director of Economic Development Laura Biery, and Arts Coordinator Michael Che provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated August 5, 2024, and responded to Councilmember Meister’s inquiry providing a list of 6 possible events from the pre-approved City Councilmembers list of organizations and events (CalCities, LGBTQ Victory Fund, US Conference of Mayors, National League of Cities, Equality CA, and Visit West Hollywood).
Councilmember Meister requested that the US Conference of Mayor’s be excluded from the list.
Mayor Erickson agreed with Councilmember Meister’s request.
ACTION: Approved the appointed Laureates List of Pre-approved Organizations and Events with the removal of the pre-approved City Councilmembers list of organizations and events and the addition of Cal Cities, LGBTQ Victory Fund, National League of Cities, Equality CA, and Visit West Hollywood to the list of Laureate pre-approved organizations and events for city travel. Motion by Mayor Erickson, seconded by Vice Mayor Byers and approved (5/0).
2.M. REQUEST TO NAME THE FUTURE THEATER AT THE CITY
PLAYHOUSE IN HONOR OF THE CITY'S FORMER ARTS MANAGER
ANDREW CAMPBELL [V. GUARINO, H. COLLINS, E. HAMANT]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider a request to name the future theater at the City Playhouse the “Andrew Campbell Theater” to honor the life, work, and contributions of the City’s former Arts Manager Andrew Campbell and refer the item to the City’s Public Facilities, Recreation, and Infrastructure Commission for further consideration.
Councilmember Shyne requested this Item be presented to the Arts and Cultural Affairs Commission for study and recommendation. Facilities and Field Services Division Manager Helen Collins provided clarification.
ACTIONS: 1) Referred the naming request to the Arts and Cultural Affairs Commission, and the Public Facilities, Recreation, and Infrastructure Commission for study and subsequent recommendation to the City Council; 2) Directed staff to follow the procedures outlined in the Naming Policy; and 3) Waived the Naming Policy’s requirement that the naming of Docusign Envelope ID: AEB1CE38- 20C6-4D71- 89F4- C40039E653C6 City Council Minutes
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land, buildings, or facilities in honor of a deceased person shall not be initiated until two years after their death. Motion by Councilmember Meister, seconded by Vice Mayor Byers and approved (5/0).
PUBLIC COMMENT:
RICK WATTS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding Commission and Advisory Board meeting frequencies and concerns regarding virtual meetings.
JAIME FRANCIS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding Item 5.C., concerns on the affordable housing selection process, and the contract with Urban Futures.
RAMESSES S., WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding harassment and homelessness concerns during the campaign period.
COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS AND MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORTS:
Councilmember Meister reiterated her “no” vote on Item 2.E. and 6.B., expressed her desire to enhance the use of the street sweeper regarding Item 2.L., and requested staff review preservation on affordable housing concerning Item 2.Q. She reported her attendance at the WEHO 40 Strategic Plan meeting, Whoopy Goldberg Key to the City event, and invited the community to attend tomorrow’s National Night Out and Sunday’s CicLAvia events.
Councilmember Shyne reported her attendance to the World Culture Film Festival, the Whoopy Goldberg Key to the City event, and presided over the Cal Cities LGBTQ+ Caucus July membership meeting. She requested staff research more frequent trash pick-up days with the City’s trash hauler. Additionally, she reminded pet parents to keep their pets paws safe during hot days.
Councilmember Heilman encouraged the community to stay up to date on their vaccines and use the City’s cooling stations during extreme heat. He requested staff review approved building typologies concerning Item 2.K. and evaluate the delays with construction.
Vice Mayor Byers reported her attendance at the Los Angeles County Affordable Housing Solutions Agency ( LACAHSA) Board meeting, the Local Progress National Convening, thanked staff and Athens for their collaboration in hosting the Sustainability Town Hall, and invited the community to enjoy the City’s Summer Sounds concert at Plummer Park taking place after the CicLAvia event.
Mayor Erickson reported his attendance at the Contract Cities Board of Directors meeting, conducted Kenneth Jone’s oath of office to the Social Justice Advisory Board, met with US Department of State International Visitors from Germany, attended the Contract Cities Legislative Committee, the Disabilities Advisory Board Meeting, the Rent Stabilization Commission meeting, the West Side Cities Mayor’s breakfast, briefing with Sheriff Luna, briefing on the DEIR K Line expansion, grand opening of Total Wine and Docusign Envelope ID: AEB1CE38- 20C6-4D71- 89F4- C40039E653C6 City Council Minutes
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More, met with Governor Newsom’s office, attended the California Contract Cities Strategic Planning meeting, and the Log Cabin photo-op. He requested staff to follow up on aquatic lane concerns, thanked his colleagues for presenting Whoopy Goldberg with the Key to the City and for their support on Items 2.M., 6.B., and 6.C. He requested staff submit an explicit report to the Planning Commission on vacant properties for their feedback and invited the community to attend the CicLAvia event.
ADJOURNMENT: The City Council adjourned at 8:44 p.m. its next regular adjourned meeting, which will be on Monday, August 26, 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 16th day of September, 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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