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CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
MINUTES
MONDAY, MARCH 3, 2025
WEST HOLLYWOOD PARK PUBLIC MEETING ROOM
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
625 N. SAN VICENTE BOULEVARD
6: 00 P. M. — REGULAR MEETING
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Byers called the meeting to order at 6: 01 p. m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: West Hollywood Elementary Kindergarten and 1st grade students and Girl Scout Troop Imani Gist, Isla Neal, Alessandra Solano, Emma Kale, and Margot Reschke led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL:
PRESENT: Councilmember Erickson, Councilmember Hang, Councilmember Meister, Vice Mayor Heilman, and Mayor Byers.
ALSO PRESENT: City Manager David Wilson, City Attorney Lauren Langer, and City Clerk Melissa Crowder.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
City Clerk Crowder clarified the recommendation for Consent Calendar Item B. 7. indicating that the contract for Rincon is for $200,00 per fiscal year for a total of $400,000.
She further indicated that the contract included with the agenda packet is correct.
Councilmember Erickson requested that Items E. 1., F. 3., F. S., be moved to the Consent Calendar as Items B. 15., B. 16., and B. 18., respectively.
Vice Mayor Heilman requested that Items FA. and F. 6. be moved to the Consent Calendar as Items B. 17. and B. 19, respectively.
Motion by Councilmember Erickson, seconded by Vice Mayor Heilman, and approved ( 5/ 0).
LEVINE ACT DISCLOSURES: None.
ADJOURNMENT MOTIONS:
Councilmember Erickson requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of former Lesbian and Gay Advisory Boardmember Robert Gamboa' s mother, Lupe Gamboa.
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PRESENTATIONS:
Mayor Byers presented Proclamations to West Hollywood Elementary Kindergarten and 1 st grade students and Girl Scout Troop Imani Gist, Isla Neal, Alessandra Solano, Emma Kale, and Margot Reschke for leading the Pledge of Allegiance.
Mayor Byers also presented a Proclamation to members of the Women' s Advisory Board in recognition of the month of March as National Women' s History Month.
1. PUBLIC COMMENT:
NICK WYVILLE, on behalf of the Human Services Commission, spoke regarding the upcoming Social Services contract cycle and March as National Nutrition Month.
LOUISE SMITH, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to Item F. 2.
YOLA DORE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding accessibility to information and in opposition to Item F. 2.
DAVID NASH, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to Item F. 2.
DEBRA TOROK, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to Item F. 2.
TOD HALLMAN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding the construction noise and infrastructure damage on the Eastside of the City.
TONY SOLANO, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke about the blood drive he hosted at the Tropicana that aided 36 lives.
NICOLE SANFORD, EL CAJON, spoke about Trans rights and requested assistance on the arrest of Trans rights advocate resident Annie Jump Vicente.
JERI LUCKENBAUGH, LA JOLLA, spoke about Trans rights and requested assistance on the arrest of Trans rights advocate resident Annie Jump Vicente.
TSUKURU FORS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke about Trans rights and requested assistance on the arrest of Trans rights advocate resident Annie Jump Vicente.
MIKE NUTTAL, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke to thank City Hall staff and to speak about his condo association election.
WENDY GOLDMAN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke to thank Councilmember Erickson and Vice Mayor Heilman for their attendance at the Kol Ami event.
DORIAN JACKSON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to the At -large selection portion of Item F. 2.
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KELLY PILARSKI, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke about the increased bike ridership in the City and pedestrian safety.
RICHARD GEISBRET, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding the permitting process for building development.
STEVE MARTIN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of Item B. 10., requested that the City Council adjourn in memory of the child from Lubbock, Texas who recently died from Measles, and in support of former Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley.
CITY MANAGER' S REPORT:
City Manager David Wilson announced the " Know Your Rights Campaign" to raise awareness for people in immigrant communities. He also announced that the City is hosting in -person and virtual community workshops related to zoning and housing in March.
FISCAL IMPACT ON CONSENT CALENDAR:
City Clerk Melissa Crowder stated that the fiscal impact on tonight' s Consent Calendar with the addition of Items E. 1., F. 3., FA., F. S., and F. 6. was $ 3, 520, 604 in expenditures, 0 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. Motion by Councilmember Erickson, seconded by Councilmember Hang, and approved ( 5/ 0), noting the " no" vote of Councilmember Meister on Item B. 13.
B. 1. POSTING OF AGENDA:
SUBJECT: The agenda for the meeting of Monday, March 3, 2025 was posted at City Hall, Plummer Park, the West Hollywood Library, and the Aquatics & Recreation Center (ARC) on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.
ACTION: Receive and file. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
SUBJECT: The City Council is requested to approve the minutes of the prior Council meeting.
ACTION: Approve the minutes of February 18, 2025. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 3. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER NO. 965 [ L. QUIJANO, K.
BARENG, S. STEPHENS]:
SUBJECT. The City Council shall receive the Demand Register for period ending February 21, 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. 965 and Adopt Resolution No. 25- 013, " A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
WEST HOLLYWOOD ALLOWING AND APPROVING THE PAYMENT OF
DEMANDS ON DEMAND REGISTER NO. 965". Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 4. ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 25- 05 ( 2ND READING): " AN ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD,
APPROVING AMENDMENTS TO SECTION 10. 28. 050 OF THE
MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING UTILIZING THE PARKING CREDITS
POOL" [ J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 25-05, approving amendments to Section 10.28.050 of the Municipal Code regarding utilizing the Parking Credits Pool.
ACTION: Waived further reading and adopted Ordinance No. 25- 05: " AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD, APPROVING AMENDMENTS TO SECTION 10. 28. 050 OF
THE MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING UTILIZING THE PARKING
CREDITS POOL." Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. S. COMMISSION AND ADVISORY BOARD MEETING SYNOPSIS [ J.
JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive a Synopsis from the Rent Stabilization Commission.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 6. RECOGNITION AND APPRECIATION PLAQUE TO HONOR CITY COUNCILMEMBERS [ H. COLLINS, J. SCHARE, E. TAYLOR]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider staff recommendations for the design of the recognition and appreciation plaque honoring and remembering Councilmembers who served the City of West Hollywood.
ACTION: Approved the recognition and appreciation plaque design and the installation location in the lobby of City Hall on the west wall to the right of the main entrance. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 7. AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH RINCON CONSULTANTS INC. TO PROVIDE TEMPORARY PLANNING STAFF SERVICES [ N. MARICICH, J. ALKIRE]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider approval of an agreement for services with Rincon Consultants Inc. to provide temporary planning staff services on an " as -needed" basis for the Sunset Arts and Advertisement Program.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved agreement for services with Rincon, Inc. in the amount of $ 400,000 over two fiscal years; and 2) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to the agreement.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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B. B. AGREEMENT WITH KOONTZ BUILDING, LLC TO AMEND THE LEASE AGREEMENT AT 8916 SANTA MONICA BOULEVARD FOR AN
ADDITIONAL TWO YEARS [ S. CAMPBELL, B. LEAGUE, A. BARTLE]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider approving an Amendment to an existing Lease Agreement with Koontz Building LLC ( City Hall West) to extend the term of the Agreement by an additional two years commencing on April 1, 2025.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved Amendment No. 2 to extend the term of the Lease Agreement with Koontz Building LLC, for City staff office space ( City Hall West) at 8916 Santa Monica Blvd, by two years commencing April 1, 2025 with the right to terminate the agreement with 90- day notice; 2) Authorized an increase to the Lease Agreement amount of $ 1, 818, 514. 58 to add 533, 004 for a new total not to exceed $ 2, 351, 518. 58; and 3) Authorized the City Manager, or designee, to execute documents incident to the Agreement. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 9. AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT FOR CITYWIDE ELEVATOR
MAINTENANCE SERVICES WITH THURSTON ELEVATOR CONCEPTS,
INC. [ H. COLLINS, E. HAMANT]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider approving Amendment No. 1 to the Agreement for Maintenance Services with Thurston Elevator Concepts, Inc. to provide citywide elevator maintenance services.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved Amendment No. 1 to the Agreement for Maintenance Services with Thurston Elevator Concepts, Inc. to provide citywide elevator maintenance services for an increased amount of 600, 000 and a new total not -to -exceed amount of $ 816, 944; and 2) Authorized the City Manager, or designee, to execute all documents incident to the award of the Amendment. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 10. AMENDMENT NO. 3 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR DESIGN SERVICES
FOR THE HOLLOWAY MOTEL HOMEKEY TRANSITIONAL HOUSING
PROJECT [ H. COLLINS, E. HAMANT]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider approving Amendment No. 3 to the Agreement for Licensed Design Professionals with John Kaliski Architects, Inc. ( JKA) to increase the not -to -exceed amount of the Agreement to provide design services for the Holloway Motel Homekey Transitional Housing Project.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved Amendment No. 3 to the Agreement for Licensed Design Professionals with John Kaliski Architects, Inc. to provide design services for the Holloway Motel Homekey Transitional Housing Project for an increased amount of $ 50, 000 and a new total not -to -exceed amount of 583, 509. 94; and 2) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to the amendment to the Agreements. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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B. 11. AWARD OF AN AGREEMENT FOR MAINTENANCE SERVICES TO
WESTERN A/ V FOR AUDIO AND VIDEO EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE
SERVICES [ H. COLLINS, E. HAMANT]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider approving the award of an Agreement for Maintenance Services to Western A/ V to provide audio and video equipment maintenance services.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved an Agreement for Maintenance Services with Western A/V to provide audio and video equipment maintenance services for a total not -to -exceed amount of $ 294,600; and 2) Authorized the City Manager, or designee, to execute all documents incident to the Agreement.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 12. ASSIGNMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAKEWOOD
AND THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD FOR THE EXCHANGE OF
PROPOSITION A LOCAL RETURN FUNDS [ L. BIERY, P. KESPRADIT]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider a General Funds trade agreement with Proposition A Local Return Funds with the City of Lakewood.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved an Assignment Agreement for Proposition A local return fund exchange with the City of Lakewood for $ 1, 400, 000 in City of West Hollywood General Fund dollars in exchange for $2, 000, 000 in City of Lakewood Proposition A funds and authorize the City Manager to execute documents incident to the Agreement; and 2) Authorized the Director of Finance and Technology Services to allocate $ 1, 400, 000 from reserves committed for Proposition A purchases in the General Fund, to the Expenditure for Traded Funds account. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 13. ISSUE A SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCING LOAN COMMITMENT LETTER
AMENDING THE TERMS OF THE FINANCING AND LOAN FROM THE
AFFORDABLE HOUSING TRUST FUND FOR CONSTRUCTION AND
PERMANENT FINANCING AT 910- 916 N WETHERLY DRIVE AND
300, 000 FOR ASSOCIATED PLAN CHECK FEES [ S. CAMPBELL, B.
LEAGUE, A. BARTLE]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider issuing a supplemental financing loan commitment letter to the West Hollywood Community Housing Corporation (" WHCHC'), a non-profit housing developer and operator, to amend the terms of already committed funds in the amount of $10, 000, 000 for Construction and Permanent Financing at 910-916 N. Wetherly Drive.
ACTIONS: 1) Authorized the City Manager to sign a supplemental commitment letter in substantially the form attached, pledging $ 10, 000, 000 to the modified terms and conditions for the affordable housing development of 89 units at 910- 916 N. Wetherly Drive; 2) Authorized the Director of Finance and Technology Services to allocate $ 300, 000 from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund to cover the costs associated with plan check services; and 3) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute all documents Docusign Envelope ID: AB445819- A632- 4456- A1B5- 2669CF4A3489 City Council Minutes
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incident to the agreement. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar, noting Councilmember Meister' s " no" vote.
B. 14. CO- SPONSORSHIP OF LOS ANGELES CITY' S CIVIL, HUMAN RIGHTS AND EQUITY DEPARTMENT' S TRANS JOB FAIR [ Y. QUARKER, A.
LOVANO, J. DEL TORO, M. MARQUEZ]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider co -sponsoring Los Angeles City's Civil, Human Rights and Equity Department' s Trans Job Fair, to be held at the LA City College on March 27, 2025.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved a Co -Sponsorship Agreement with the Los Angeles City' s Civil, Human Rights, and Equity Department for the Trans Job Fair, to be held on Thursday, March 27, 2025 at the LA City Community College; 2) Waived the City's Co -Sponsorship Policy requirement that a Co - Sponsored event be held in West Hollywood City limits for the Trans Job Fair event on March 27, 2025; 3) Authorized the City Manager to execute documents incident to the Agreement; 4) Authorized the use of the City name and logo on invitations, programs, and other collateral materials; 5) Direct the Communications Department to utilize all appropriate communications tools to promote the event; and 6) Approved the use of 3, 000 for the Trans Job Fair from budgeted funds in account 100- 3- 50- 15- 533022, Lesbian and Gay Programs ( CLA) for costs associated with the Trans Job Fair. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 15. ( E. 1.) AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES
WITH THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS
AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS FOR MINIMUM WAGE ENFORCEMENT [ L.
BIERY, P. KESPRADIT]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider approving Amendment No. 2 to the Agreement for Services with the County of Los Angeles Department of Business and Consumer Affairs to provide minimum wage enforcement services.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved Amendment No. 2 to the Agreement for Services with the County of Los Angeles Department of Business and Consumer Affairs for minimum wage enforcement services for an increased amount of 110, 000 and a new total not -to -exceed amount of $260, 000; 2) Authorized the Director of Finance & Technology Services to allocate $ 110, 000 from unallocated reserves in the General Fund to account number 100- 3- 10- 13- 531005 for minimum wage enforcement services and related costs; and 3) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to the amendment to the agreement. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 16. ( F.3.) AMEND THE CITY COUNCILMEMBER LIST OF PRE -APPROVED
ORGANIZATIONS/ EVENTS TO INCLUDE THE CAPITAL PRIDE
ALLIANCE AND THE YEO NETWORK [ J. ERICKSON, Y. QUARKER, A.
LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
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SUBJECT. The City Council will consider amending the City Councilmember list of pre -approved organizations and events to include events organized by both the Capital Pride Alliance and the Young Elected Officials ( YEO) Network.
ACTION: Approved the addition of both the Capital Pride Alliance and the Young Elected Officials ( YEO) Network 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.
B. 17. ( F.4.) IMMIGRATION SERVICES IN RESPONSE TO THREATS AND ACTIONS BY THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION [ L. MEISTER, J.
HEILMAN, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider directing staff to take immediate steps to provide additional immigration services for West Hollywood community members if/when needed to address the threats and actions by the Trump administration.
ACTIONS: 1) Directed staff to partner with social services providers to augment existing immigration services for West Hollywood community members who may be impacted by the threats and actions of the Trump administration; 2) Authorized the Director of Finance and Technology Services to allocate up to $ 25, 000 from unallocated General Fund reserves to the Special Council Programs Account 100- 1- 01- 00- 531001 for costs associated with this direction, and increase the budget for Special Council Programs by the same amount; 3) Authorized the Director of Finance & Technology Services to allocate up to $ 25, 000 from budgeted funds in the Special Council Programs account number 100- 1- 01- 00- 531001 for costs associated with these services; 4) Directed City staff to evaluate this shortterm funding allocation and determine if additional funding and services should be prioritized as part of the upcoming Request for Proposals process to address the level of need in the community; and 5) Directed the Communications Department to utilize all appropriate communication tools to promote the services including, but not limited to, the City' s website, a press release, and social media tools. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 18. ( F.5.) WEST HOLLYWOOD LIBRARY DONOR PLAQUES [ J. HEILMAN, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider directing staff to reinstall the West Hollywood Library donor recognition plaques in West Hollywood Park.
ACTIONS: 1) Directed staff to determine an appropriate permanent location in West Hollywood Park for the recognition plaques for donors to the West Hollywood Library Project; and 2) Authorized staff to reinstall the plaques.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 19. ( F. 6.) CO- SPONSORSHIP AGREEMENT WITH FRIENDS OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD ELEMENTARY FOR ITS ANNUAL GALA AND AUCTION
J. ERICKSON, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
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SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approval of a Co -Sponsorship Agreement with Friends of West Hollywood Elementary for its annual Gala and Auction event, taking place on Friday, March 21, 2025 at the Mondrian Hotel located in West Hollywood.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved a Co -Sponsorship Agreement with Friends of West Hollywood Elementary for its annual Gala and Auction event, taking place on Friday, March 21, 2025 at the Mondrian Hotel located in West Hollywood; 2) Authorized the City Manager or his designee to execute documents incident to the Co -Sponsorship Agreement between the City and Friends of West Hollywood Elementary; 3) Authorized the Director of Finance and Technology Services to allocate $ 5, 000 from unallocated General Fund reserves to the Special Council Programs Account 100- 1 - 01 - 00- 531001 for costs associated with this event, and increase the budget for Special Council Programs by the same amount; 4) Authorized the Director of Finance & Technology Services to allocate $ 5, 000 from budgeted funds in the Special Council Programs account number 100- 1- 01- 00- 531001 for costs associated with this event; 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 event including, but not limited to, the City' s website, a press release, and social media tools. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
C. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
C. 1. REQUEST TO AMEND THE PACIFIC DESIGN CENTER SPECIFIC PLAN TO ALLOW MORE FLEXIBILITY IN THE TENANT MIX [ N. MARICICH, J.
ALKIRE, G. YOLLES, D. VU, A. GALLO]:
SUBJECT: The proposal is a request to amend the Pacific Design Center Specific Plan to ( 1) allow more flexibility for the vacant space to be occupied by new tenants, ( 2) eliminate the minimum square footage requirements for design showrooms and other defined uses, and ( 3) revise the applicable parking rate for uses within the Pacific Design Center. No expansion, addition, or physical change to the existing Blue, Green, and Red Buildings is proposed. This request is subject to CEQA and an addendum to Pacific Design Center Final Environmental Impact Report was prepared, and which analyzed the project.
Mayor Byers opened the Public Hearing.
The City Councilmembers provided their disclosures.
City Clerk Melissa Crowder noted that the Public Hearing was noticed as required by law.
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Community Development Director Nick Maricich introduced the item.
Associate Planner Adrian Gallo provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated March 3, 2025.
Applicant representative DJ Moore of Latham & Watkins provided a presentation on behalf of the Applicant.
The City Council proceeded with questions for Staff and the Applicant.
The following Public Speakers came forward to speak:
SPENCER RUDIN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke of his experience as an occupant in the Pacific Design Center and in support of the item.
MICHAEL FANT, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke as the owner/tenant in the green building of the Pacific Design Center and in support of the item.
RYAN WELCH, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of the item and the additional parking availability.
JONATHAN FINESTONE, on behalf of the West Hollywood West Residents Association, spoke in support of the item.
RICHARD GEISBRET, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of the item and suggested exposing more local artists in future spaces.
CHRISTIAN GRIER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of the item.
Citizen position slip from Steve Martin in support of the item.
The Applicant's representative declined to provide a rebuttal.
Mayor Byers closed the public testimony portion of the Public Hearing; however, she indicated that the City Councilmembers may still ask questions of staff and the Applicant team.
Councilmember Meister expressed her support of the item and inquired about the number of nighttime parking spaces prior to the proposed number of parking spaces. Associate Planner Gallo responded. She also asked about no parking signage around the coffee shop on Melrose.
Councilmember Erickson expressed his support of the item.
Councilmember Hang thanked staff for their work on the item and indicated his support of the item.
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Vice Mayor Heilman supported the item and greater flexibility on the usage of space. He asked for clarification on the provisions for the art gallery, and Associate Planner Gallo responded. Vice Mayor Heilman also inquired about the CEQA analysis noting that parking was analyzed, but he did not see a per trip analysis. Michelle Finneyfrock, City consultant from Dudek, indicated that the change wasn' t significant and did not require an amendment to the CEQA analysis. Vice Mayor Heilman requested that additional direction be included requiring staff provide an annual report on the art gallery to the motion. He also indicated his support of the item.
Mayor Byers added that vacant property numbers will be decreased, she mentioned pedestrian safety, the art gallery, and expressed her support of the item.
Mr. Gallo read the changes to the Pacific Design Center Specific Plan into the record, specifically operational measures for City events and parking operations on Melrose. Vice Mayor Heilman requested that location and duration for City events be included in the language and part of the motion.
ACTIONS: 1) Adopted Resolution No. 25- 014: " A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD ADOPTING THE
ADDENDUM TO THE CERTIFIED FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
REPORT AND APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO THE PACIFIC DESIGN CENTER SPECIFIC PLAN LOCATED AT 8687 MELROSE AVENUE,
WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA, AND 750 N. SAN VICENTE
BOULEVARD, WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA"; 2) Provide an annual report on the art gallery to the City Council; and 3) Include the location and duration of City events in the Pacific Design Center Specific Plan. Motion by Councilmember Erickson, seconded by Councilmember Hang, and approved ( 5/ 0).
D. LEGISLATIVE: None.
E. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
E. 1. AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH THE
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS AND
CONSUMER AFFAIRS FOR MINIMUM WAGE ENFORCEMENT [ L.
BIERY, P. KESPRADIT]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider approving Amendment No. 2 to the Agreement for Services with the County of Los Angeles Department of Business and Consumer Affairs to provide minimum wage enforcement services.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
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F. NEW BUSINESS:
F. 1. CONSTRUCTION AGREEMENT WITH C. S. LEGACY CONSTRUCTION TO CONSTRUCT CIP 2501, MELROSE AVENUE AND NORWICH DRIVE WEAVER' S WALK; AMENDMENT NO. 5 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR
SERVICES WITH BERG & ASSOCIATES; AMENDMENT NO. 9 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH KABBARA ENGINEERING [ S.
CAMPBELL, H. COLLINS, J. GILMOUR]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider the approval of a Construction Agreement with C. S. Legacy Construction to construct CIP 2501, Melrose Avenue and Norwich Drive, Weaver' s Walk, and the approval of Amendment No. 5 to the Agreement for Services with Berg & Associates and Amendment No. 9 to the Agreement for Services with Kabbara Engineering to provide construction inspection services and construction engineering services, respectively.
Deputy City Manager Steve Campbell provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated March 3, 2025.
The following Public Speakers came forward to speak:
LESLIE KARLISS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to the concession to one business owner rather than serving the public, and expressed support for Option A.
RICHARD GEISBRET, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of Option A that was approved last year and not the changes in this item.
JONATHAN FINESTONE, on behalf of the West Hollywood West Residents Association, spoke in opposition to the item on behalf of 2, 100 residents and 1, 000 homes in West Hollywood West and urges approval of Option A.
LAWRENCE CHAMBLEE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to the item.
KIMBERLY WINICK, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to the item and urged the Council to litigate.
DANIEL ST. HILAIRE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to the item and expressed support of Option A.
Vice Mayor Heilman commented on the frustration expressed by the residents of the neighborhood and explained the reasoning for tonight's item. He indicated that for the reasons that he has enumerated, he supports staff' s recommendation. He requested that staff reach out to the West Hollywood West residents to discuss their frustration and concerns and find a path forward to assist them.
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Councilmember Meister commented that this change had not been through the various commissions and boards for vetting. She expressed disappointment in the change with the number and species of trees. She does not support the item.
Councilmember Hang noted that he understands the frustration by residents; however, he supports the item to prevent further delays on the project.
Councilmember Erickson asked the City Attorney about the risks of litigation, and City Attorney Langer responded.
Mayor Byers commented on her gratefulness to the residents of the neighborhood and their advocacy over the years. However, despite her the frustration that she shares with the residents, she expressed her support of staff recommendations.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved the design changes outlined in the staff report including the relocation of trees, reduction in the amount of trees, and changes to tree species selection; 2) Approved a Construction Agreement with C. S. Legacy Construction, in the amount of $ 1, 411, 615. 78, for the construction of CIP 2501 Melrose Avenue & Norwich Drive — Weaver' s Walk Project; 3) Authorized the Director of Finance to create an Owner' s Contingency Fund to allow for unforeseen circumstances in an amount not to exceed 20% ($ 282, 323. 16) of the total Agreement amount and authorize the City Engineer to approve Change Orders to the Construction Agreement not -to -exceed that amount; 4) Approved Amendment No. 5 to the Agreement for Services with Berg & Associates, to increase the amount of the agreement by $ 594, 353. 15 for a total not -to -exceed amount of 5, 081, 490. 41; 5) Approved Amendment No. 9 to the Agreement for Services with Kabbara Engineering, to increase the amount of the Agreement by $ 50, 000 for a total not -to -exceed amount of $ 2, 886, 352; 6) Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to the Agreements; 7) Adopted Resolution No. 25- 015: " A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
APPROVING THE DESIGN AND PLANS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF
CIP 2501, MELROSE AVENUE AND NORWICH DRIVE WEAVER' S WALK PROJECT, PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 830. E"; and 8) Requested that staff meet with the West Hollywood West Residents Association. Motion by Vice Mayor Heilman, seconded by Mayor Byers, and approved ( 3/ 2), noting the " no" votes of Councilmember Erickson and Councilmember Meister.
F. 2. UPDATES TO THE CITY' S ADVISORY BOARDS AND DISCUSSION
REGARDING POTENTIAL FUTURE CHANGES TO THE CITY' S
COMMISSIONS AND ADVISORY BOARDS [ J. JIMENEZ, M.
CROWDER, L. MORALES, D. WILSON, C. SAFRIET]:
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SUBJECT: The City Council will consider and discuss various proposed changes to the City' s Commissions and Advisory Boards including:
reducing the number of At -large appointees to the City's Advisory Boards from four (4) members to two ( 2) thus reducing the number of appointed officials from nine ( 9) to seven ( 7) members, amending the meeting frequency for the City's Advisory Boards from monthly to every other month, revising the Attendance Policy for the City's Advisory Boardmembers, and discussion of future changes that may be implemented over time.
City Clerk Melissa Crowder provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated March 3, 2025.
The following Public Speakers came forward to speak:
MAGNUS MANN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke of regarding appointed officials ability to attend meetings virtually and in opposition to the item.
RICK WATTS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to the item.
JONATHAN WILSON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke about equity in
meeting frequency between the City' s Advisory Boards.
JONATHAN FINESTONE, on behalf of the West Hollywood West Residents Association, spoke in opposition to the item.
Citizen Position Slip: Steve Martin, West Hollywood, in opposition to staff's recommendations.
A lengthy City Council discussion ensued.
Recommendation 1 — Reduce the number of appointed officials on the City' s Advisory Boards from nine ( 9) members to seven ( 7) members with five ( 5) direct appointments and two ( 2) At -large appointments. Consensus by the City Council.
Recommendation 2 — Reduce the meeting frequency from every month to every other month. The City Council did not reach consensus on this recommendation. They directed staff to return with an item proposing eight 8) to 10 meetings per year based on the Advisory Board.
Recommendation 3 — Change the attendance notification of appointed officials to the City Council from three ( 3) absences to two ( 2) absences to address quorum issues. Consensus by the City Council.
Recommendation 4 — Pilot one At -large appointment only Advisory Board.
The City Council did not reach consensus on this recommendation.
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Mayor Byers brought forward discussion on the last recommendation which was a Council discussion on proposed potential future changes to the City' s Commissions and Advisory Boards. She highlighted the idea of creating a task force to discuss consolidation of awards and events that various Advisory Boards give and host throughout the year.
Councilmember Erickson added direction to the City Clerk and City Attorney to provide a framework on a process for the City Council to address problematic appointed officials.
Vice Mayor Heilman added direction that the City Clerk return with an item to discuss a different mechanism for paying Boardmember stipends.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved an amended Resolution No. 25- 016:
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD CHANGING THE NUMBER OF MEMBERS APPOINTED
TO THE CITY' S ADVISORY BOARDS;" 2) They directed staff to return with an item proposing eight ( 8) to 10 meetings per year based on the Advisory Board; 3) Change the attendance notification of appointed officials to the City Council from three ( 3) absences to two ( 2) absences to address quorum issues; the idea of creating a task force to discuss consolidation of awards and events that various Advisory Boards give and host throughout the year; 4) Directed the City Clerk and City Attorney to provide a framework on a process for the City Council to address problematic appointed officials; 5) Directed the City Clerk to return with an item to discuss a different mechanism for paying Boardmember stipends; and 6) Recommended creating a task force or other mechanism to address the number of awards and events put on by the City' s Advisory Boards. Motion by Councilmember Meister, seconded by Councilmember Erickson, and approved ( 5/ 0).
F. 3. AMEND THE CITY COUNCILMEMBER LIST OF PRE -APPROVED
ORGANIZATIONS/ EVENTS TO INCLUDE THE CAPITAL PRIDE
ALLIANCE AND THE YEO NETWORK [ J. ERICKSON, 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 Capital Pride Alliance and the Young Elected Officials ( YEO) Network.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
FA. IMMIGRATION SERVICES IN RESPONSE TO THREATS AND ACTIONS BY THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION [ L. MEISTER, J. HEILMAN, Y.
QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing staff to take immediate steps to provide additional immigration services for West Hollywood Docusign Envelope ID: AB445819- A632- 4456- A1B5- 2669CF4A3489 City Council Minutes
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community members if/when needed to address the threats and actions by the Trump administration.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F. S. WEST HOLLYWOOD LIBRARY DONOR PLAQUES [ J. HEILMAN, Y.
QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing staff to reinstall the West Hollywood Library donor recognition plaques in West Hollywood Park.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F. 6. CO- SPONSORSHIP AGREEMENT WITH FRIENDS OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD ELEMENTARY FOR ITS ANNUAL GALA AND AUCTION
J. ERICKSON, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider approval of a Co -Sponsorship Agreement with Friends of West Hollywood Elementary for its annual Gala and Auction event, taking place on Friday, March 21, 2025 at the Mondrian Hotel located in West Hollywood.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F. 7. COMMISSION APPOINTMENTS AND RE -APPOINTMENTS [ J.
JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider making direct appointments to City Commissions.
City Clerk Melissa Crowder provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated March 3, 2025. The City Council made direct appointments as indicated below.
ACTION: The City Council made appointments to City Commissions with terms ending February 28, 2027, as follows: 1) a. Arts & Cultural Affairs Commission: Martin Gantman ( Erickson), Mito Aviles (Hang), Catherine Lee ( Meister), Business License Commission: Colin Labran- Boyd Hang), Elyse Eisenberg ( Meister), Jordan Cockeram ( Heilman), Joshua Christian ( Erickson), Historic Preservation Commission: Jacob Sotsky ( Erickson), Mark Edwards ( Hang), Matt Dubin ( Meister), Yawar Charlie ( Heilman), Lola Davidson ( Byers), Human Services Commission:
Nick Wyville ( Erickson), Anne - Marie Williams ( Hang), Sarah Adolphson ( Meister), Karen Eyres ( Byers), LGBTQ+ Commission: Ron Cortes ( Erickson), Steve Penafiel ( Hang), Renee Sotile ( Meister), Michael Roberts ( Heilman), Amber Whittington ( Byers), Planning Commission: Rogerio Carvalheiro ( Erickson), David Gregoire ( Hang), Lynn Hoopingarner ( Meister), Stacey Jones ( Heilman), Andrew Solomon ( Byers), Public Facilities, Recreation, & Infrastructure Commission: Kali Rogers ( Erickson), Jonathan Cottrell ( Hang), Dorian Jackson ( Meister), Richard Karliss ( Heilman), Nicole Payton ( Byers), Public Safety Commission: Tod E. Hallman ( Erickson), Catherine Eng Hang), George Nickle ( Meister), Bill Harrison ( Heilman), Kelly Pilarski Docusign Envelope ID: AB445819- A632- 4456- A1B5- 2669CF4A3489 City Council Minutes
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Byers), Rent Stabilization Commission: Rena Goldman ( Erickson), Kimberly Copeland ( Meister), Josh Kurpies ( Byers), and Transportation Mobility Commission: Jordan David Slack ( Erickson), Scott Korinke Hang), Steven Greene ( Meister), Helen Krieger ( Byers).
EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR: None.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
LAWRENCE CHAMBLEE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke about problematic litigation and a SLAP motion or malicious prosecution motion as it relates to Item F. 1.
KIMBERLY WINICK, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke of the neighborhood' s frustration with regards to Item F. 1.
RICK WATTS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke further on Item F. 2.
GEORGE NICKLE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke about the Eastside Neighborhood Watch and Ogden Owls.
COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS AND MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORTS:
Councilmember Erickson reported his attendance at the Clean Power Alliance Executive Team Meeting, Westside Urban Forum Mayors Panel, Santa Monica Bay Restoration Commission, Joint Study Session of the City Council and Planning Commission, Hepatitis C Task Force Quarterly Meeting, and California Contract Cities Legislative Committee.
He also shared various City events that he attended. He announced that he will be out of town for the March 17t" City Council meeting.
Councilmember Hang shared his attendance at various City events. He also mentioned that he presented a certificate at the LGBT Family Group 5-Year Anniversary.
Councilmember Meister reported her attendance at the SCAG Resilience Policy Committee Chair and Vice Chair Briefing meeting and the Joint Study Session of the City Council and Planning Commission. She also shared that she attended the MLK Day of Service event.
Vice Mayor Heilman reported his attendance at the City Council Subcommittee on Homelessness, the Joint Study Session of City Council and Planning Commission, as well as other events in the community. Lastly, he explained his experience regarding HOA Board elections in response to Mike Nuttal' s comments when he spoke under Public Comment.
Mayor Byers reported her attendance at the California League of Cities LGBTQ Officials meeting, City Council Subcommittee on Homelessness meeting, and Westside Urban Forum Mayors Panel. She also shared other City events that she attended. She noted that she met with the Consul General from the United Kingdom and looks forward to future Docusign Envelope ID: AB445819- A632- 4456- A1B5- 2669CF4A3489 City Council Minutes
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meetings with them. She provided an update on the ways that the City is engaging with various local, State, and Federal leaders to support legislation and initiatives that further the City' s values, especially in response to recent decisions by the Trump administration.
ADJOURNMENT: The City Council adjourned in memory of Lupe Gamboa at 9:44 p. m. to its next regular meeting, which will be on Monday, March 17, 2025 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 17t" day of March, 2025 by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmember:
NOES: Councilmember:
ABSENT: Councilmember:
ABSTAIN: Councilmember:
Hang, Meister, Vice Mayor
Heilman, and Mayor Byers.
None.
Erickson.
None.
FDocuSigned
by:
v ^ St A b. 15 t, v'S
F8664o^-,.
CHELSEA LEE BYERS, MAYOR
ATTEST:
Signed by:
liVl( llSSa r,V'bWAr
ME OWDER, CITY CLERK