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CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
MINUTES
TUESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2025
WEST HOLLYWOOD PARK PUBLIC MEETING ROOM
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
625 N. SAN VICENTE BOULEVARD
5:00 P.M. - SPECIAL MEETING
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Erickson called the meeting to order at 5:03 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Andy Harland led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL:
PRESENT: Councilmember Hang, Councilmember Heilman,
Councilmember Meister, Vice Mayor Byers, and Mayor
Erickson.
ALSO PRESENT: City Manager Wilson, City Attorney Langer, Administrative Services Director Janet Jimenez, City Clerk Melissa Crowder, and Assistant City Clerk Lulu Morales.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
City Clerk Crowder indicated that Item E.1. would be Tabled; however, Recommendation #3 in the item would be moved to the Consent Calendar as Item B.20. She also indicated that Staff is requesting that Item F.10 be Tabled to the February 3, 2025 City Council meeting.
Mayor Erickson requested that Agenda Items F.2.,F.3.,F.4.,F.6.,F.7., and F.8. be moved to the Consent Calendar as Items B.21.,B.22.,B.23.,B.24.,B.25., and B.26., respectively.
He also requested that Agenda Item F.1. be moved and immediately heard after the Public Hearing. It was moved as a Special Item.
Councilmember Meister noted her "no" vote on Agenda Item F.2. (B.21.).
Motion by Vice Mayor Byers, seconded by Councilmember Heilman, and approved (5/0).
ADJOURNMENT MOTIONS:
Councilmember Meister requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Charles Anteby and Dan Siegel.
Vice Mayor Byers requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Brianna Welker.
Mayor Erickson requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of the victims of the LA fires, Dale Sieverding, Cecile Richards, Nicolette Didiemar, and Harriet Young Torres.
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Robert Lewis and Austin Cyr administered the Oath of Office to newly elected Mayor Chelsea Byers.
City Clerk Melissa Crowder administered the Oath of Office to newly elected Vice Mayor John Heilman.
PRESENTATION TO OUTGOING MAYOR JOHN M. ERICKSON:
The City Council presented outgoing Mayor Erickson a Proclamation for his service as Mayor and thanked him for his leadership. He provided outgoing comments.
MAYOR CHELSEA BYERS COMMENTS:
Mayor Byers thanked everyone in attendance, spoke regarding the fires affecting the Los Angeles Region, and identified her goals for the upcoming year. **The City Council recessed at 5:35 p.m. and reconvened at 5:46 p.m.
INTRODUCTION OF DIGNITARIES:
The following dignitaries provided their well wishes to newly installed Mayor Byers and Vice Mayor Heilman: Field Deputy Amanda Laflen on behalf of Supervisor Lindsey P.
Horvath, former West Hollywood Councilmember Sepi Shyne, Culver City Councilmember Freddy Puza, Culver City Unified School District Boardmember Tristan Ezidore, District Representative Sam Gallegos on behalf of Senator Ben Allen, and Field Representative Joshua Marin Mora on behalf of Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
ALEC WHITE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, congratulated Mayor Byers and Vice Mayor Heilman and thanked Councilmember Erickson for his service.
MICHAEL PACITTI, WEST HOLLYWOOD, congratulated Mayor Byers and Vice Mayor Heilman.
MICHAEL NUTTALL, WEST HOLLYWOOD, congratulated Mayor Chelsea Byers and Vice Mayor Heilman and thanked Councilmember Erickson for his service.
LOUISE SMITH, WEST HOLLYWOOD, thanked Mayor Byers and the City Council for all that they do. She requested that the City Council evaluate resources for people who are aging and disabled when an emergency occurs.
KEVIN BURTON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding Item B.16.
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IRA HANDELMAN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, expressed his support for Mayor Byers and thanked Councilmember Erickson for his service as Mayor.
KAREN EYRES, WEST HOLLYWOOD, congratulated Mayor Byers and Vice Mayor Heilman. She commented on her efforts with Community Cats and requested the City Council's assistance to share information on the City's Community Cat program.
ADAM DARVISH, WEST HOLLYWOOD, congratulated Mayor Byers and Vice Mayor Heilman. He also thanked Councilmember Erickson and the City Council for all that they do.
JESI HARRIS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, congratulated Mayor Byers and Vice Mayor Heilman and expressed her love for the City. She also spoke in support of Item C.1.
SAMANTHA, ON BEHALF OF PLANT BASED TREATY, congratulated Mayor Byers and Vice Mayor Heilman and thanked the City Council for their advocacy of plant based food.
JONATHAN WILSON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, thanked the City Council for their work, thanked Council member Erickson for his work as Mayor this past year, and congratulated Mayor Byers and Vice Mayor Heilman.
ANNIE JUMP VICENTE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding public safety concerns for the Transgender community.
JUSTINE BLOCK, WEST HOLLYWOOD, congratulated Mayor Byers and Vice Mayor Heilman and highlighted former Mayor Erickson's environmental accomplishments.
CAROLINE NAGY, WEST HOLLYWOOD, congratulated Mayor Byers and Vice Mayor Heilman and thanked the City Council for supporting local artists and invited the public to attend her art installation.
JORDAN SLACK, WEST HOLLYWOOD, thanked former Mayor Erickson for his service, and provided his well wishes to Vice Mayor Heilman and Mayor Byers.
WENDY GOLDMAN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding the devastation of the recent Los Angeles region fires and trees in the City.
EDD H., WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding various concerns in his neighborhood.
YASMIN MCMORRIN, CULVER CITY COUNCILMEMBER, congratulated Mayor Byers and thanked former Mayor Erickson for his leadership.
JEFF M. MULLEN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding his gratitude for the City's response to the recent emergencies, thanked Council member Erickson for his leadership, and congratulated Vice Mayor Heilman and Mayor Byers.
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GENEVIEVE MORRILL, PRESIDENT/CEO OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, thanked Councilmember Erickson for his leadership and commented on the Chambers' efforts to assist people in need from the recent fires.
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT:
City Manager David Wilson congratulated Mayor Byers and Vice Mayor Heilman and indicated that he looks forward to working with them this year. He expressed his gratitude to outgoing Mayor Erickson. He thanked the public for their support and input on the recent regional fires and commented on the impact the fires had on the community. He acknowledged the City's public safety partners, City staff, and the City Council for their leadership during the crisis. He enumerated the efforts that the City took during the recent regional fires, and the resources the City made available to the community and employees.
FISCAL IMPACT ON CONSENT CALENDAR:
City Clerk Crowder stated that the Fiscal Impact on the Consent Calendar with the addition of Items E.1. (Recommendation #3 only), F.2.,F.3.,F.4.,F.6.,F.7., and F.8. was $1,139,456 in expenditures, $150,000 in revenues, and ($0) in waived fees.
B. CONSENT CALENDAR:
B.1.,2.,3.,4.,5.,6., 7 .,8.,9., 10., 11., 12., 13., 14., 15., 16., 17 ., 18., 19.20.,21.,22.,23.,24.,25.,26.
Motion by Councilmember Vice Mayor Heilman, seconded by Councilmember Erickson, and approved (5/0), noting Councilmember Meister's "no" vote on Item
8.21. (F.2.).
B.1. POSTING OF AGENDA [M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The agenda for the meeting of Tuesday, January 21, 2025 was posted at City Hall, Plummer Park, the Sheriff's Station, the West Hollywood Library, and the Aquatics & Recreation Center (ARC) on Wednesday, January 15, 2025.
ACTION: Received and filed . Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B.2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES [J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council is requested to approve the minutes of the prior City Council meeting.
ACTION: Approved the meeting minutes of December 16, 2024. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B.3. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER NO. 962 [L. QUIJANO, K. BARENG, 5.
STEPHENS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council shall receive the Demand Register for period ending January 10, 2025 pursuant to Sections 37201 to 37210 of the Government Code of the State of California.
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ACTION: Approved Demand Register No. 962 and Adopt Resolution No. 25-001 :
"A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD ALLOWING AND APPROVING THE PAYMENT OF DEMANDS ON DEMAND REGISTER NO. 962". Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B.4. CLAIMS ADMINISTRATION [J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, Y. ZHOSAN]:
SUBJECT: The City Council is receiving notification that the City's third -party administrator Carl Warren & Co. has denied nine (9) Claims for Damages from Elahe Savis, Yesenia Monroy, Pari Askari, Alberto Gallegas Vazquez, Erik Lerner, Kyle Fallon, Ralph Varela, Charter Communications via Phoenix Loss Control - two (2) claims.
ACTION: Received and filed . Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B.5. COMMISSION AND ADVISORY BOARD MEETING SYNOPSES [J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive Synopses from the Public Facilities, Recreation, & Infrastructure Commission, the Disabilities Advisory Board, and the Older Adults Advisory Board.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B.6. TREASURER'S REPORT FOR NOVEMBER 2024 [L. QUIJANO, K. BARENG, S. STEPHENS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive the Treasurer's Reports for the month ended November 2024 pursuant to Section 53646 of the Government Code of the State of California.
ACTION: Received and filed the November 2024 Treasurer's Report. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B.7. REPORT ON GENDER BALANCE ON THE CITY'S COMMISSIONS AND ADVISORY BOARDS [J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]: SUBJECT:
The City Council will receive a report regarding gender balance on the City's 16 Commissions and Advisory Boards.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B.8. CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN [D. WILSON, J. SCHARE, E. TAYLOR, S.
LUNN, D. RIVAS, A. SHANDI]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive the City of West Hollywood's Crisis Communications Plan to assist the City regarding crisis communications and management.
ACTION: Received and filed the City's Crisis Communications Plan. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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B.9. 2023-24 YEAR-END REPORT ON SOCIAL SERVICES PROGRAMS [C.
SCHROEDER, C. SAFRIET, D. MURRAY]:
SUBJECT: The Human Services Commission will receive the Year-End Report on Social Services Programs for the 2023-2024 contract year.
ACTION: Received and filed the Year-End Report on Social Services Programs.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B.10. GRANTS IN THE SCHOOLS PROGRAM UPDATE [C. SCHROEDER, C.
SAFRIET, D. MURRAY, D. SAUNDERS, A. VALDEPENA]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive a report on the 2024-25 Grants in the Schools Program.
ACTION: Approved eight Grants in the Schools applications totaling $22,406.40.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B.11. RECOMMENDATION TO JOIN THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY HOMELESS
INITIATIVE GOOD NEIGHBOR PLEDGE FOR COORDINATED REGIONAL SOLUTIONS TO HOMELESSNESS [C. SCHROEDER, C. SAFRIET, F.
GOMEZ, B. LUBIN]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider joining the Los Angeles County Homeless Initiative Good Neighbor Pledge for coordinated regional solutions to homelessness.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved joining the Los Angeles County Homeless Initiative Good Neighbor Pledge for coordinated regional solutions to homelessness; 2) Authorized the Mayor to execute the Los Angeles County Homeless Initiative Good Neighbor Pledge on behalf of the City of West Hollywood; and 3) Directed staff in the City to align with the principles outlined in the Los Angeles County Homeless Initiative Good Neighbor Pledge when developing and implementing partnerships and solutions to addressing homelessness. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B.12. REJECT ALL BIDS RECEIVED AND RE-ADVERTISE FOR 8305 SANTA MONICA BOULEVARD BUILD-OUT PROJECT [H. COLLINS, E. HAMANT]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider rejecting the bids received for the 8305 Santa Monica Boulevard Build-Out Project and authorizing staff to re-issue and re-advertise the bid.
ACTIONS: 1) Rejected the bids for the 8305 Santa Monica Boulevard Build-Out Project, as submitted on November 7, 2024, and return the associated bid bonds; and 2) Authorized staff to re-issue and re-advertise for the 8305 Santa Monica Boulevard Build-Out Project. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B.13. AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH FLOCK GROUP INC. FOR A LIVE AND
RECORDED VIDEO CAMERA SUBSCRIPTION AND A MOBILE SECURITY
TRAILER SUBSCRIPTION TO SUPPORT COMMUNITY SAFETY IN WEST HOLLYWOOD [D. RIVAS, A. SHANDI]:
SUBJECT: The City of West Hollywood ("City') City Council will consider the approval of a professional services agreement ("PSA'J with Flock Group, Docusign Envelope ID: EE038F49-1 EEB-47F2-822E-508DEFA36C20 vlLY vuu11v11 1v1111utt::::, January 21, 2025
Incorporated ("Flock') to purchase subscriptions for live and recorded video cameras at fixed locations City-wide and for a mobile security trailer equipped with live and recorded video cameras that can be deployed in the City.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved a PSA with Flock to purchase subscriptions for live and recorded video cameras at fixed locations and a mobile security trailer for up to five (5) years for a total not-to-exceed amount of nine hundred sixty-eight thousand seven hundred fifty dollars ("$968, 750") ($220,750 for first year including installation costs and $187,000 every year after should the program receive approval to continue), with the option of the City to terminate the PSA after giving Flock at least thirty (30) calendar days written notice; and 2) Authorized the City Manager, or designee, to execute all documents incident to the Agreement.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B.14. AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH FLYING LION INC. TO PROVIDE
TRAINING AND USE OF DRONES AS FIRST RESPONDERS TO SUPPORT COMMUNITY SAFETY IN WEST HOLLYWOOD [D. RIVAS, A. SHANDI]:
SUBJECT: The City of West Hollywood ("City') City Council will consider the approval of a professional services agreement ("PSA'J with Flying Lion, Incorporated ("Flying Lion') for the training, equipment, software, staffing, and use of drones as first responders that will be deployed in the City.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved a PSA with Flying Lion for the training, equipment, software, staffing, and use of drones as first responders for a total not-to-exceed amount of two hundred and fifty thousand dollars ("$250,000"); and 2) Authorized the City Manager, or designee, to execute all documents incident to the Agreement. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B.15. AMENDMENT NO. 4 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH BERG &
ASSOCIATES FOR CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AND INSPECTION
SERVICES [H. COLLINS, J. GILMOUR]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider amending the Agreement for Services with Berg & Associates for construction management and inspection services to increase the not-to-exceed amount of the Agreement.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved Amendment No. 4 to the Agreement for Services with Berg & Associates, to increase the amount of the agreement by $150,000 for a total not-to-exceed amount of $4,487,137.26; and 2) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to the agreement. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B.16. NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR CIP 2305, SAN VICENTE BLVD & ROSEWOOD AVE STREET IMPROVEMENTS [H. COLLINS, J. GILMOUR, R.
GARLAND]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving the Notice of Completion for GIP 2305, San Vicente Blvd & Rosewood Avenue Street Improvements by Select Electric, Inc.
ACTIONS: Accepted the work and authorize the following: a. File the Notice of Completion by the City Clerk with the Los Angeles Recorder's Office, b. Issue the Docusign Envelope ID: EE038F49-1 EEB-47F2-822E-508DEFA36C20 vlLY vuu11v11 1v1111utt::::, January 21, 2025
final payment to the contractor at the end of the 35 day lien period, c. Release of the Performance Bond on the date of recordation of the Notice of Completion, d.
Release of the Payment Bond 35 days after the date of recordation of the Notice of Completion, pending no receipt of Stop Notices from material suppliers or subcontractors. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
8.17. CONSTRUCTION AGREEMENT WITH HARDY & HARPER, INC. TO CONSTRUCT CIP 2503, CONCRETE REPAIR PROGRAM PHASE XIV - CDBG PROJECT NO. 602685-24 [H. COLLINS, J. GILMOUR, P. TICUN]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approval of a Construction Agreement with Hardy & Harper, Inc. to construct GIP No. 2503, Concrete Repair Program Phase XIV - CDBG Project No. 602685-24. This project is categorically exempt from CEQA.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved a Construction Agreement with Hardy & Harper, Inc. in the amount of $247,000.00 for the construction of GIP No. 2503, Concrete Repair Program Phase XIV - CDBG Project No. 602685-24, and authorize the City Manager or designee to execute the documents incident to the Agreement; 2) Authorized the City Engineer to approve change orders to the Construction Agreement in the amount not to exceed 15% ($37,050.00) of the total Agreement amount; 3) Adopted Resolution No. 25-002: "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD APPROVING THE DESIGN AND PLANS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF GIP 2503, CONCRETE REPAIR PROGRAM PHASE XIV - CDBG PROJECT NO. 602685-24, PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 830.6;" and 4) Make a finding that pursuant to the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA - Public Resources Code, Section 21084 et. Seq.), GIP No. 2503, Concrete Repair Program Phase XIV - CDBG Project No. 602685-24, meets the requirements for a categorical exemption in compliance with Article 19, Section 15301, (Class 1 - Existing Facilities). Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
8.18. AWARD OF 2024-25 AGENCY DEVELOPMENT GRANTS [C. SCHROEDER, C. SAFRIET, D. MURRAY, I. ARREDONDO, M. ULLOA]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive a report on the recommended funding awards for the 2024-25 Agency Development Grants.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved recommendations for various Agreements for Services based on the approved FY25 budget allocation of $25,000 for Agency Development Grant services; 2) Disability Community Resources Center:
Approve a new Agreement for Services, in accordance with Attachment B, for an amount not to exceed $7,988; 3) Healthcare In Action : Approved a new Agreement for Services, in accordance with Attachment C, for an amount not to exceed $7,012; 4) Episcopal Diocese of LA/Seeds of Hope: Approved a new Agreement for Services, in accordance with Attachment D, for an amount not to exceed $10,000; and 5) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to the Agreements for Services. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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B.19. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS FOR A REGIONAL EARLY ACTION
PLANNING GRANT PROGRAM OF 2021 AWARD (N. MARICICH, J. ALKIRE, F. CONTRERAS, T. FARRIS, E. ROTMAN]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider adopting a Resolution to enter a Memorandum of Understanding for REAP 2. 0 Notice of Funds Available for Lasting Affordability Program Grant ("MOU'? with the Southern California Association of Governments ("SCAG'? as part of the Regional Early Action Planning Grant Program of 2021 ("REAP 2.0'). The grant will support the City's feasibility study for establishing a Community Land Trust ("CL T'? and exploring alternative strategies and models to preserve, improve, and develop permanent affordable housing, as outlined in the City's certified 6th Cycle Housing Element.
This action is exempt from CEQA.
ACTIONS: 1) Adopted Resolution 25-003: "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD AUTHORIZING
ACCEPTANCE OF REGIONAL EARLY ACTION PLANNING GRANT
PROGRAM OF 2021 FUNDING IN AN AMOUNT UP TO $150,000;
AUTHORIZING CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A MEMORANDUM OF
UNDERSTANDING AND ANY OTHER NECESSARY DOCUMENTS TO MEET THE GRANT REQUIREMENTS; AND FINDING THE MEMORANDUM OF
UNDERSTANDING NOT A PROJECT UNDER CEQA PURSUANT TO STATE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15378(8)(4) OR ALTERNATIVELY EXEMPT FROM CEQA PURSUANT TO STATE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15262;" and 2) Authorized City Manager or designee to execute the memorandum of understanding and all necessary contracts, payment requests, and amendments for the purposes of securing grant funds, and to implement and carry out the purposes specified in the grant application. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B.20. (E.1.) PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP WITH PLENARY BROADBAND
INFRASTRUCTURE WH LLC TO CONSTRUCT AND OPERATE A CITYWIDE FIBER NETWORK TO IMPROVE BROADBAND SERVICES CITYWIDE [L.
QUIJANO, E. TSIPIS]:
SUBJECT: Approve the tentative terms and high-level conceptual design for the implementation of a Public-Private partnership with Plenary Broadband Infrastructure WH LLC (Plenary) to construct and operate a fiber network to improve broadband services citywide.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved the tentative terms and high-level conceptual design, including the City's anticipated financial contribution, for the Implementation Agreement with Plenary (TABLED); 2) Direct the City Manager or designee to negotiate the Implementation Agreement with Plenary based on the terms (TABLED); and 3) Amended the Exclusive Negotiation Agreement by adding 90 days to allow sufficient time to complete negotiations. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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B.21. (F.2.) RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD APPROVING A PLAN INCLUDING THE ISSUANCE OF
REVENUE BONDS BY THE CALIFORNIA MUNICIPAL FINANCE AUTHORITY
TO FINANCE AND REFINANCE A QUALIFIED RESIDENTIAL PROJECT FOR THE BENEFIT OF WHCHC WETHERL Y, L.P. [S. CAMPBELL, B. LEAGUE, A.
BARTLE]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will review the minutes and adopt a Resolution acknowledging that a public hearing was conducted on December 19, 2024 under the Tax and Equity Fiscal Responsibility Act (''TEFRA'? in connection with the proposed issuance of revenue bonds by the California Municipal Finance Authority the ("CMFA'?, a Joint Exercise of Powers Authority and Public Entity of the State of California, in an amount not to exceed $60,000,000, (the "Bonds'?, to finance and refinance the acquisition, construction, development and equipping of an 89-unit qualified residential rental project (the "Project'? to be located at 910- 916 Wetherly Drive within the City of West Hollywood, California (the "City').
ACTIONS: 1) Reviewed the minutes of the public hearing that was held under the Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act ("TEFRA") and Internal Revenue Code of 1986 in connection with the proposed issuance of tax-exempt bonds by the California Municipal Finance Authority in an amount not to exceed $60,000,000 for the purpose of financing and refinancing the acquisition, construction, development and equipping of 910-916 N. Wetherly Drive, an 89-unit multifamily rental housing development located in the City of West Hollywood, California (the "Project"); and 2) Adopted Resolution No. 25-004: "RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD APPROVING A PLAN OF
FINANCE INCLUDING THE ISSUANCE OF REVENUE BONDS BY THE
CALIFORNIA MUNICIPAL FINANCE AUTHORITY TO FINANCE AND
REFINANCE A QUALIFIED RESIDENTIAL RENTAL PROJECT FOR THE BENEFIT OF WHCHC WETHERL Y, L.P., AND CERTAIN OTHER MATTERS RELATING THERETO." Approved as part of the Consent Calendar, noting Councilmember Meister's "no" vote.
B.22. (F.3.) ASSESSMENT OF PEDESTRIAN LIGHTING IN WEST HOLLYWOOD [D. HANG, C. BYERS, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing staff to hire a consultant to perform an assessment of pedestrian lighting with an emphasis on residential neighborhoods in West Hollywood. This is a public safety item; whereas, pedestrian safety, crime reduction, safer walking conditions with bright illuminated sidewalks, all add to an overall increase in public safety. Nighttime safety is critical to live, work, and play in West Hollywood. The assessment will include conducting a survey of current lighting, while correlating specific areas of lighting to existing public safety Part 1 and Part 2 crime data and providing recommendations to the City on potential interventions to increase visibility and enhance public safety. The City Council will also consider providing direction to staff to research options to retrofit and modernize the blue globe pedestrian lights along Santa Monica Boulevard.
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ACTIONS: 1) Directed staff to hire a consultant to perform an assessment of current pedestrian lighting with an emphasis on residential neighborhoods in West Hollywood; and correlate areas of lighting with Public Safety Part 1 and Part 2 crime data to identify locations to target interventions as needed; 2) Directed staff to hire a lighting designer or a lighting design firm to design and/or purchase new fixtures, bulbs, transformers, etc. to retrofit and modernize the existing notable blue globe pedestrian lighting infrastructure along Santa Monica Boulevard; and 3) Return to City Council with recommendations for improvements to pedestrian lighting with the goal of increasing visibility and enhancing public safety.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
8.23. (F.4.) AMEND THE CITY COUNCILMEMBER LIST OF PRE-APPROVED
ORGANIZATIONS/EVENTS TO INCLUDE THE CALIFORNIA ASIAN
AMERICAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER LEGISLATIVE CAUCUS AND ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN LEADERSHIP FOUNDATION [D. HANG, 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 events organized by both the California Asian American and Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus and Asian Pacific American Leadership Foundation.
ACTION: Approved the addition of both the California Asian American and Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus and Asian Pacific American Leadership Foundation 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.
8.24. (F.6.) EDUCATIONAL FORUM FOCUSED ON HOMELESSNESS AND CITY RESPONSE [C. BYERS, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing Staff to organize an educational forum focused on homelessness, local and regional responses, and services available.
ACTIONS: 1) Direct Staff to host an educational forum focused on homelessness, local and regional response, and services available; 2) Authorize the Director of Finance and Technology Services to allocate $2,000 from unallocated General Fund reserves to the Special Council Programs Account 100-1-01-00-531001, and increase the budget for Special Council Programs by the same amount; 3) Authorize the Director of Finance & Technology Services to allocate $2,000 from budgeted funds in the Special Council Programs account number 100-1-01-00- 531001 for costs associated with this event; and 4) Direct the Communications Department to utilize all appropriate communication tools to promote the information session including, but not limited to, the City's website, a press release, and social media tools. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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8.25. (F.7.) COMMUNITY CLEANUP EVENTS [C. BYERS, J. ERICKSON, Y.
QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider sponsoring a series of community cleanup events, each focusing on a specific area within the City of West Hollywood. The community cleanup events will be an opportunity for residents, businesses, and other stakeholders to volunteer to serve the community, to pick up litter, to engage with one another, and to address community beautification needs.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved the sponsorship of a series of community cleanup events, focusing on specific areas within the City of West Hollywood, to take place during spring and summer 2025; 2) Directed staff to coordinate the community cleanup events in partnership with residents, businesses, neighborhood watch groups, and other stakeholders interested in volunteering; 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; 4) Authorized the Director of Finance and Technology Services to allocate $4,000 from unallocated General Fund reserves to the Special Council Programs Account 100-1-01-00-531001, and increase the budget for Special Council Programs by the same amount; and 5) Authorized the Director of Finance & Technology Services to allocate $4,000 from budgeted funds in the Special Council Programs account number 100-1-01-00-531001 for costs associated with supplies for the community cleanup events. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
8 .26. (F.8.) COMMUNITY GROUP TOWN HALL & RESOURCE SHARING [J.
ERICKSON, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing staff to partner with local organizations to host a community group town hall and resource sharing event to address questions and provide resources in response to actions by the incoming Trump Administration.
ACTIONS: 1) Directed staff to partner with local organizations to host a community group town hall and resource sharing event to address actions by the incoming Trump Administration; 2) Authorized the Director of Finance and Technology Services to allocate $2,000 from unallocated General Fund reserves to the Special Council Programs Account 100-1-01-00-531001, and increase the budget for Special Council Programs by the same amount; 3) Authorized the Director of Finance & Technology Services to allocate $2,000 from budgeted funds in the Special Council Programs account number 100-1-01-00-531001 for costs associated with promotion and technical support for the event; and 4) Directed the Communications Department to utilize all appropriate communication tools to promote the community gathering including, but not limited to, the City's website, a press release, and social media tools. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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C. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
C.1. WEHO TARGET VISION ZERO - PROPOSED SPEED LIMIT REDUCTIONS AND ENABLING MUNICIPAL CODE CHANGES [N. MARICICH, J. ALKIRE, F.
CONTRERAS, D. FENN, H. COLLINS, J. GILMOUR, R. GARLAND]: SUBJECT:
The City Council will hold a public hearing to consider proposed speed limit reductions, enabling Municipal Code changes, and the associated designation of safety corridors and business activity districts, as recommended in the WeHo Target Vision Zero Action Plan. This item is not subject to CEQA ("Public Resources Code section 21000 et seq.) because it does not qualify as a ''project" under CEQA.
Mayor Byers opened the Public Hearing.
City Clerk Crowder noted that the Public Hearing was noticed as required by law.
Director of Community Development Nick Maricich, Long Range Planning Manager Francisco Contreras, and Senior Planner David Fenn provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated January 21, 2025.
Councilmember Meister inquired what the speed limit for Melrose was and if they had the ability to lower the speed limit further. Mr. Fenn responded.
Councilmember Erickson asked if the speed limit on Fountain Avenue was previously decreased, and if the speed and roadway conditions fluctuated depending on the time of day. Mr. Fenn responded.
Sean Carney, City consultant with OKS, provided additional clarification regarding Melrose Avenue indicating that after the streetscape redesign, the City could look at designating it as a "Business Activity District," but that coordination with adjacent cities would be required.
Councilmember Erickson indicated his general support of the Item; however, he expressed concern regarding enforcement of the posted speed limits and inquired how the Sheriffs can increase enforcement. Director of Public Safety Danny Rivas responded.
Councilmember Hang inquired if reducing speed limits help in decreasing fatalities and requested clarifications on the high injury network and safety corridor designations. Mr. Fenn responded.
Vice Mayor Heilman inquired why speed surveys were not conducted during rush hour. Mr. Carney responded, noting that State law dictates when speed surveys may be conducted. Vice Mayor Heilman inquired why certain streets were identified as a "high pedestrian or bicycle activity zones." Mr. Fenn responded.
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Mayor Byers closed the Public Testimony portion of the Public Hearing.
Councilmember Erickson spoke in support of the Item. He requested quarterly WeHo Target Vision Zero reports be added to future agendas. City Manager Wilson suggested that Staff provide semi-annual updates to the City Council moving forward.
Councilmember Meister requested that Staff conduct additional analysis or to evaluate potentially reducing speed limits on additional roadways such as streets that are cul-de-sacs, one way, or differently-designed.
Mayor Byers requested clarification about speed surveys as a tool to reduce speeds on local streets. Mr. Contreras shared information about the neighborhood traffic management program petition process.
The Public Hearing was closed.
ACTIONS: 1) Reviewed the proposed speed limit reductions and directed Staff to implement the proposed speed limits after the associated Municipal Code changes and safety corridor and business activity district designations have gone into effect; 2) Introduced on First Reading Ordinance No. 25-01: "AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD AMENDING TITLE 10, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD
MUNICIPAL CODE, TO INCORPORATE THE UPDATED SPEED LIMIT
REGULATIONS OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY CODE TO ENABLE SPEED LIMIT REDUCTIONS PURSUANT TO STATE LAW; TO DESIGNATE SAFETY
CORRIDORS AND BUSINESS ACTIVITY DISTRICTS FOR ENHANCED ROAD SAFETY; ESTABLISHING UPDATED CONTEXT-APPROPRIATE SPEED
LIMITS IN CONFORMANCE WITH THE CALIFORNIA VEHICLE CODE; AND
FINDING THAT SUCH ACTION DOES NOT QUALIFY AS A PROJECT
SUBJECT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT AND IS
OTHERWISE EXEMPT UNDER STATE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION
15061 (B)(3);" 3) Directed staff to prepare a public awareness and education campaign around the enaction of the new speed limits; 4) Directed staff to coordinate with the Cities of Los Angeles and Beverly Hills to explore implementing speed limit reductions on shared corridors and with the Los Angeles County Sheriff Department (LASO) on enforcement of the updated speed limits; 5) Direct staff to evaluate designating Melrose Avenue as a Business Activity District to further reduce speed limits once the streetscape redesign is complete; 6) Direct staff to further evaluate additional streets that are cul-de-sacs, one way, or differently-designed to potentially lower speed limits; and 7) Provide semiannual updates on the WeHo Target Vision Zero plan to the City Council. Motion by Councilmember Erickson, seconded by Councilmember Hang, and approved (4/1 ), noting Vice Mayor Heilman's "no" vote.
D. LEGISLATIVE: None.
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URGENCY ITEM:
F.1. EMERGENCY URGENCY ORDINANCE IN RESPONSE TO FIRES [D.
WILSON, L. LANGER]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider adopting an urgency ordinance to assist in housing people displaced from the recent wildfires in the region, including suspension of the one-year lease requirement for dwelling units and authorizing hotels to house displaced persons for more than 30 days, and consideration of other emergency response measures relating to recent wildfires in the region.
ACTIONS: 1) Adopted Urgency Ordinance No. 25-02U: "AN URGENCY
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD, PROVIDING
EMERGENCY EXCEPTIONS TO CERTAIN RENTAL RESTRICTIONS FOR PERSONS DISPLACED BY THE 2025 FIRES AND SETTING FORTH THE FACTS CONSTITUTING SUCH URGENCY". The Urgency Ordinance takes effect immediately; 2) Authorized and directed the City Attorney to send out notices of violation (NOVs) for price gouging in the rental market.
City Attorney Lauren Langer provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated January 21, 2025.
Vice Mayor Heilman inquired if the City has the ability to verify that the applicants are displaced from the recent fires. Ms. Langer responded.
The following individuals spoke on the Item:
JERERD WRIGHT, GREATER LOS ANGELES REAL TORS, spoke in support of the Item and congratulated Mayor Byers and Vice Mayor Heilman.
ERIC TURN IC, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of this item.
MEG OSTROW, BEVERLY HILLS REALTOR, spoke in support of this Item.
RICK WATTS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of this Item, noting his opposition to the change in the definition of "short term." Vice Mayor Heilman requested that the City add a verification mechanism to the process to ensure that they are displaced due to the recent fires.
Councilmember Meister requested that the City include information on the State's price gouging. (Governor Newsom's Emergency Order protects fire victims from price gouging.)
Mayor Byers inquired if verification for applicants could be administratively applied or if the Urgency Ordinance needed to be amended. City Attorney Langer responded that this can be done administratively.
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The City Council expressed concern with unintended consequences, the City's rent stabilized units, and price gouging. City Attorney Langer addressed these concerns.
ACTIONS: 1) Adopted Urgency Ordinance No. 25-02U: "AN URGENCY
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD, PROVIDING
EMERGENCY EXCEPTIONS TO CERTAIN RENTAL RESTRICTIONS FOR PERSONS DISPLACED BY THE 2025 FIRES AND SETTING FORTH THE FACTS CONSTITUTING SUCH URGENCY". The Urgency Ordinance takes effect immediately; 2) Create an administrative process requiring both hotels and landlords to provide the City with documentation that the individual(s) was displaced by the fires; and 3) Report back to the City Council by June 30, 2025.
Motion by Councilmember Vice Mayor Heilman, seconded by Councilmember Hang, and approved (5/0).
E. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
E.1. PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP WITH PLENARY BROADBAND
INFRASTRUCTURE WH LLC TO CONSTRUCT AND OPERATE A CITYWIDE FIBER NETWORK TO IMPROVE BROADBAND SERVICES CITYWIDE [L.
QUIJANO, E. TSIPIS]:
SUBJECT: Approve the tentative terms and high-level conceptual design for the implementation of a Public-Private partnership with Plenary Broadband Infrastructure WH LLC (Plenary) to construct and operate a fiber network to improve broadband services citywide.
ACTION: Recommendations 1 and 2 were TABLED and Recommendation 3 was approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
E.2. UPDATE ON COMMUNITY SAFETY & WELL-BEING STRATEGY [D.
WILSON, C. SAFRIET, D. RIVAS, A. SHANDI, C. SCHROEDER, C.
KISSINGER, N. MARICICH, J. ALKIRE, F. CONTRERAS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive an update on progress advancing the strategic priorities outlined in the West Hollywood Community Safety & Well-Being Strategy.
Assistant to the City Manager Christine Safriet provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated January 21, 2025. She was joined by Director of Human Services and Rent Stabilization Christof Schroeder.
The City Council discussed the Item and provided feedback to Staff including:
providing resources for government issued assistance, unhoused individuals who are severely mentally ill or have substance abuse issues and the need for the CARES Team to visit the City's parks, older adults and fraud protection, Block by Block, utilizing the east/west alleyways as bike routes, ways to communicate with our older adult communities regarding emergencies who may not use technology, Docusign Envelope ID: EE038F49-1 EEB-47F2-822E-508DEFA36C20 vlLY vuu11v11 1v1111utt::::, January 21, 2025
additional resources for those with substance abuse issues, and free drink spiking strips.
The following individuals spoke on the Item:
RICK WATTS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke on personal experiences with people in need of services and the impact this Item will have on residents.
KAREN EYRES, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding concerns with a recent incident at Plummer Park during the SOVA Community Food Distribution.
NIK ROYBAL, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding concerns with the lack of communication during the Sunset Fire, and the need to collaborate with the cities of Los Angeles and Beverly Hills.
ACTION: 1) Received an update on the implementation of the City's Community Safety & Well-Being Strategy; 2) Received an update on the working group of regional service and safety partners to provide guidance and develop collaborative solutions related to CSWB priorities; and 3) The City Council provided feedback to Staff as outlined above. The Item approved by consensus.
**The City Council recessed at 8:30 pm and reconvened at 8:44 pm.
E.3. SEMI-ANNUAL COMMUNITY SAFETY UPDATE [D. RIVAS, A. SHANDI]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive an update on community safety activities, including year to date crime data from January to December 2024.
Director of Community Safety Danny Rivas, Public Safety Manager Anita Shandi, Erica Leon with Block by Block, Los Angeles County Fire Department Battalion Chief Kenneth Price, Los Angeles County Sheriff's Captain Bill Boulder, and Neighborhood and Business Safety Manager Vyto Adomaitis provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated January 21, 2025.
The City Council received reports from Block by Block, Los Angeles County Fire Department, Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department, and the City's Neighborhood and Business Safety Division for the past six months.
The City Council inquired about the renovation of Fire Station 8. City Manager Wilson shared that the City was looking to acquire the property across the street to move it elsewhere. They also suggested that medical calls be evaluated to identify those that the CARES T earn can respond to rather than the fire department, explore parking options for firefighters at Station 8, recommended including information about the City's ordinance prohibiting smoking in multi-unit residential dwellings in the next Rent Stabilization Building Blocks newsletters, Docusign Envelope ID: EE038F49-1 EEB-47F2-822E-508DEFA36C20 vlLY vuu11v11 1v1111utt::::, January 21, 2025
suggested that City staff receive active shooter and CERT training, and requested that moving forward the reports include data from 2018 and 2019.
The following individuals spoke on the Item:
RICK WATTS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, thanked the Director of Public Safety, the Sheriff's Department, and Fire Department for their hard work during the fires. He also spoke regarding vacant properties in the City.
RAM ESSES SETEPENRE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke on issues regarding public safety.
ACTION: Received an update and provided feedback on community safety activities. Item approved by consensus.
E.4. UPDATE REGARDING A PROPOSED COMMUNITY SAFETY OFFICER PROGRAM [D. RIVAS, A. SHANDI]:
SUBJECT: The City of West Hollywood ("City') City Council will receive an update and consider approving the implementation of an unarmed Community Safety Officer ("CSO') program to support community safety efforts in West Hollywood.
Director of Community Safety Danny Rivas and Public Safety Manager Anita Shandi provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated January 21, 2025.
Vice Mayor Heilman indicated that he supports the Item and inquired with LASO Captain Bill Moulder why LASO discontinued this program. Captain Moulder responded. Vice Mayor Heilman asked how many officers have been established.
Ms. Shandi stated that the information would be provided to the City Council once the RFP process is concluded.
Councilmember Hang inquired about the number of Community Safety Officers (CSO's). Mr. Rivas responded.
Councilmember Meister supports the Item; however, she wants to ensure that the CSO's are supplementing our Sheriff's Deputies and not replacing any. She inquired if CSO's would replace any Block by Block Security Ambassadors. Mr.
Rivas responded.
ACTIONS: 1) Received an update on the review completed of unarmed CSO programs; and 2) Approved the implementation of an unarmed CSO program in West Hollywood. Motion by Councilmember Erickson, seconded by Vice Mayor Heilman, and approved (510).
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E.5. EXPLORATION OF ALTERNATIVE AND ADDITIONAL PUBLIC RESTROOMS AT PLUMMER PARK [H. COLLINS, DANNY RIVAS, A. SHANDI, Y.
QUARKER, 5. MARTINEZ]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider the approval of a design for the renovations to the two exterior restrooms at the Plummer Park Community Center and authorize staff to include this scope of work in the Community Center Security Upgrade Project.
Acting Director of Public Works Helen Collins provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated January 21, 2025.
Vice Mayor Heilman commented that the Item is premature, since Staff hasn't analyzed the staffing needs. Ms. Collins shared that it needs to be addressed because unhoused individuals are nesting in the restrooms at Plummer Park.
Councilmember Erickson inquired if the CARES Team could be used for this function. Director of Human Services and Rent Stabilization Christof Schroeder clarified the duties of the CARES Team, and further indicated that this would not be an appropriate use for our social service providers.
Councilmember Hang inquired about the Portland Loos as recommended by the Public Facilities, Recreation, and Infrastructure Commission. Ms. Collins responded.
The following individual spoke on the Item:
RAMESSES SETEPENRE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke on concerns with restroom maintenance.
Mayor Byers indicated that she supports the Item and commented on addressing maintenance concerns and supervision of the restrooms.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved the design for the renovations to the two exterior restrooms at the Plummer Park Community Center and authorize staff to include this scope of work in the Community Center Security Upgrade Project; and 2) Directed staff to return to the City Council after construction for further consideration of operational hours. Motion by Vice Mayor Heilman, seconded by Councilmember Erickson, and approved (5/0).
E.6. UPDATE ON THE WEST HOLLYWOOD CARE TEAM-ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND PROGRAM PLANS [C. SCHROEDER, C. SAFRIET, F. GOMEZ, B.
LUBIN]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive a progress update on the West Hollywood Care Team including information about the first year of program implementation and plans to increase service to the community in the second year of the program.
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Director of Human Services and Rent Stabilization Christof Schroeder, Assistant to the City Manager Christine Safriet, Social Services Supervisor Derek Murray, and Strategic Initiatives Program Administrator Rebecca Lubin provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated January 21, 2025.
The City Council had a robust discussion on this Item. They inquired about call data and inquired if Staff was tracking individuals who were not West Hollywood residents. They noted the cost associated with this program and asked about the metrics utilized to determine success. They expressed concern with the ongoing challenges with the unhoused community.
ACTION: Received report on Year 1 of Care Team operations and provided feedback on Year 2 plans. Item approved by consensus.
E.7. PROGRESS REPORT ON THE "FIVE-YEAR PLAN TO ADDRESS
HOMELESSNESS IN OUR COMMUNITY" AND REQUEST FOR INPUT ON A
PLANNED ASSESSMENT OF THE APPROACH TO ADDRESSING
HOMELESSNESS [C. SCHROEDER, C. SAFRIET, F. GOMEZ, B. LUBIN]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive an update on the "City of West Hollywood Five-Year Plan to Address Homelessness in Our Community" (2018). Building on the progress of the plan and in response to evolving challenges and opportunities in housing and homelessness, the City proposes to evaluate its current approach and explore potential updates for the future. To guide a scope of work for this assessment, the City seeks input from the City Council, including in areas such as outcomes to achieve in 2025 and beyond, stakeholder groups to consult during the assessment, and focus areas for policy and other research.
Director of Human Services and Rent Stabilization Christof Schroeder, Assistant to the City Manager Christine Safriet, and Strategic Initiatives Program Administrator Rebecca Lubin provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated January 21, 2025.
The following individuals spoke on the Item:
SAM ELBAZ, WEST HOLLYWOOD, recognized the work staff does for the community and shared a personal experience.
RAMESSES SETEPENRE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke on concerns with homelessness.
Vice Mayor Heilman expressed concerns regarding the success rate of this program, the lack of enforcement, and limited advertising.
Councilmember Meister agreed with Vice Mayor Heilman and expressed frustration.
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Councilmember Erickson requested that Staff review the services that are being duplicated by other agencies.
Mayor Byers stated that this Item will be continued to a future study session. It was also noted that the City Council Subcommittee on Homelessness will discuss it and provide a framework for the study session.
ACTIONS: 1) Receive and file an update on the "City of West Hollywood FiveYear Plan to Address Homelessness in Our Community" (2018); and 2) Continue the Item to a Study Session with a date to be determined. Motion by Councilmember Erickson, seconded by Councilmember Hang, and approved (5/0).
F. NEW BUSINESS:
F.1. EMERGENCY URGENCY ORDINANCE [L. LANGER]:
SUBJECT: Consideration of an urgency ordinance to assist in housing people displaced from the recent fires in the region, including suspension of the one-year lease requirement for dwelling units and authorizing hotels to house displaced persons for more than 30 days, and consideration of other emergency response measures relating to the recent fires in the region. If approved, the Urgency Ordinance would go into effect immediately upon 4/5 vote of the City Council.
ACTION: This Item was moved to its own section on the Agenda which is after D - Legislative.
F.2. RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
APPROVING A PLAN INCLUDING THE ISSUANCE OF REVENUE BONDS BY
THE CALIFORNIA MUNICIPAL FINANCE AUTHORITY TO FINANCE AND
REFINANCE A QUALIFIED RESIDENTIAL PROJECT FOR THE BENEFIT OF WHCHC WETHERL Y, LP. [5. CAMPBELL, B. LEAGUE, A. BARTLE]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will review the minutes and adopt a Resolution acknowledging that a public hearing was conducted on December 19, 2024 under the Tax and Equity Fiscal Responsibility Act (''TEFRA'J in connection with the proposed issuance of revenue bonds by the California Municipal Finance Authority the ("CMFA'J, a Joint Exercise of Powers Authority and Public Entity of the State of California, in an amount not to exceed $60,000,000, (the "Bonds'), to finance and refinance the acquisition, construction, development and equipping of an 89-unit qualified residential rental project (the "Project') to be located at 910- 916 Wetherly Drive within the City of West Hollywood, California (the "City').
ACTION: This item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F.3. ASSESSMENT OF PEDESTRIAN LIGHTING IN WEST HOLLYWOOD [D.
HANG, C. BYERS, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing staff to hire a consultant to perform an assessment of pedestrian lighting with an emphasis on residential neighborhoods in West Hollywood. This is a public safety item; whereas, Docusign Envelope ID: EE038F49-1 EEB-47F2-822E-508DEFA36C20 vlLY vuu11v11 1v1111utt::::, January 21, 2025
pedestrian safety, crime reduction, safer walking conditions with bright illuminated sidewalks, all add to an overall increase in public safety. Nighttime safety is critical to live, work, and play in West Hollywood. The assessment will include conducting a survey of current lighting, while correlating specific areas of lighting to existing public safety Part 1 and Part 2 crime data and providing recommendations to the City on potential interventions to increase visibility and enhance public safety. The City Council will also consider providing direction to staff to research options to retrofit and modernize the blue globe pedestrian lights along Santa Monica Boulevard.
ACTION: This item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F.4. AMEND THE CITY COUNCILMEMBER LIST OF PRE-APPROVED
ORGANIZATIONS/EVENTS TO INCLUDE THE CALIFORNIA ASIAN
AMERICAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER LEGISLATIVE CAUCUS AND ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN LEADERSHIP FOUNDATION [D. HANG, 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 events organized by both the California Asian American and Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus and Asian Pacific American Leadership Foundation.
ACTION: This item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F.5. EXPLORE THE DEVELOPMENT OF A SOCIAL SERVICES MICRO GRANTS PROGRAM [C. BYERS, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing Staff to explore the development of a new Social Services Micro Grants Program to complement the City's existing Human Services Programs and address unmet human services needs in the community.
Vice Mayor Heilman clarified that these are contracts for services. He requested that the requirement for these grants is the same as those for our other grants.
He suggested that emergency funding is set aside during our annual social services funding, rather than a separate grant program.
Mayor Byers suggested that Staff review this during the RFP process if this makes sense or creating a new funding allocation.
ACTIONS: 1) Direct Staff to explore the development of a new Social Services Micro Grants Program to complement the City's existing Human Services Programs; and 2) Direct Staff to return to Council with the results of staff's analysis, potential overview of program guidelines, implementation timelines, and a request for funding. Motion by Mayor Byers, seconded by Councilmember Erickson, and approved (5/0).
F.6. EDUCATIONAL FORUM FOCUSED ON HOMELESSNESS AND CITY RESPONSE [C. BYERS, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
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SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing Staff to organize an educational forum focused on homelessness, local and regional responses, and services available.
ACTION: This item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F.7. COMMUNITY CLEANUP EVENTS [C. BYERS, J. ERICKSON, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider sponsoring a series of community cleanup events, each focusing on a specific area within the City of West Hollywood. The community cleanup events will be an opportunity for residents, businesses, and other stakeholders to volunteer to serve the community, to pick up litter, to engage with one another, and to address community beautification needs.
ACTION: This item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F.8. COMMUNITY GROUP TOWN HALL & RESOURCE SHARING [J. ERICKSON, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing staff to partner with local organizations to host a community group town hall and resource sharing event to address questions and provide resources in response to actions by the incoming Trump Administration.
ACTION: This item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F.9. FIRE & WIND SAFETY AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS [J. HEILMAN, C. BYERS, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing staff to evaluate the existing emergency plan in place for addressing wildfires and severe wind, review the City's response to the recent fires in Los Angeles County, and take appropriate steps to update protocols based on lessons learned and best practices.
Vice Mayor Heilman provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated January 21, 2025.
KEVIN BURTON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, thanked former Mayor Erickson, City staff, and all of the first responders for their hard work. He advocated for CERT training to ensure that everyone has the training needed respond to emergencies.
Councilmember Meister requested more direct communication with residents and inquired if the City has a designated evacuation center.
Mayor Byers added communication methods for those without resources.
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County; 2) Intensely promote the Nixie alert system with a goal of achieving 75% sign-ups in the West Hollywood community; 3) Identify appropriate opportunities during the year to recognize and thank the Los Angeles County Fire Department and the Los Angeles City Fire Department who effectively stopped the Sunset Fire from spreading to West Hollywood; 4) Authorized the City Manager or his designee to provide City support above and beyond what is currently outlined in mutual aid agreements if deemed necessary to assist areas devastated by recent fires; and 5) Provided further direction to help the City of West Hollywood address future extreme wildfire and severe wind incidents and other emergencies. Motion by Vice Mayor Heilman, seconded by Councilmember Hang, and approved (5/0).
F.10. APPOINTMENT OF CITY COUNCILMEMBERS AS DELEGATES AND
AL TERNA TES TO VARIOUS ORGANIZATIONS, COMMITTEES,
CONFERENCES, AND 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. Additionally, the City Council will consider appointments to the various City Council Subcommittees.
ACTION: This Item was Tabled to the February 3, 2025 City Council meeting.
EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR: None.
PUBLIC COMMENT: None.
RAM ESSES SETEPENRE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding concerns with divisiveness.
COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS AND MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORTS:
Councilmember Meister reported her attendance at various City events and offered her congratulations to Vice Mayor Heilman and Mayor Byers.
Councilmember Hang congratulated Vice Mayor Heilman and Mayor Byers. He reported his attendance at the VIBEZ Sober New Year event. He also reported his attendance at Contract Cities Lobby Day in Sacramento.
Councilmember Erickson reported his attendance at the Los Angeles City Selection Committee meeting and at Contract Cities Lobby Day in Sacramento. He also congratulated Mayor Byers and Vice Mayor Heilman.
Vice Mayor Heilman encouraged residents to visit the ice skating rink. He emphasized that local businesses need our support. He requested that the City Manager and Director of Economic Development to research additional incentives and promotions for our local hotels.
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Mayor Byers reported her attendance at a meeting with Speaker Albert Rivas, Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur, Senator Ben Allen, and Assemblymember Budget Chair Jesse Gabriel for a discussion with Beverly Hills, Culver City, Santa Monica, Los Angeles, and the County of Los Angeles to deal with the immediate effects of the fires in the region and how everyone can work in partnership. She also reported her attendance at Contract Cities Lobby Day and a Metro Service Council meeting. She spoke about her gratitude to the City and looks forward to the coming year.
ADJOURNMENT: The City Council adjourned in memory of Charles Anteby, Dan Siegel, Brianna Welker, Dale Sieverding, Nicolette Didiemar, and Harriet Young Torres at 12:07 a.m. to a Special Closed Session meeting on Monday, January 27, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall - First Floor Community Meeting Room.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of West Hollywood at a regular meeting held this 3rd day of February, 2025 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Councilmember:
Councilmember:
Councilmember:
Councilmember:
Erickson, Hang, Meister, Vice Mayor
Heilman, and Mayor Byers.
None.
None.
None.
CHELSEAL.BYERS,MAYOR
MELISSA CROWDER, CITY CLERK