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CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
MINUTES
MONDAY, AUGUST 4, 2025
WEST HOLLYWOOD PARK PUBLIC MEETING ROOM
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
625 N. SAN VICENTE BOULEVARD
6: 00 P. M. — REGULAR MEETING
THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD HAS ADOPTED BRIEF SUMMARY AND ACTION MEETING MINUTES, WHICH PROVIDE A SUMMARY OF THE ACTIONS TAKEN AND POINTS OF DISCUSSION ONLY. ADDITIONAL COMMENTS OR INDIVIDUAL
DISCUSSIONS REGARDING ANY ITEM SUMMARIZED IN THESE MINUTES MAY BE OBTAINED BY VIEWING THE ARCHIVED VIDEOS OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS AT www. weho. org/ wehotv.
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Byers called the meeting to order at 6. 05 p. m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: West Hollywood Elementary School student Nicolette Chase 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, Director of Administrative Services Janet Jimenez, City Clerk Melissa Crowder, and Assistant City Clerk Lulu Morales.
REPORT OF CLOSED SESSION AGENDA:
City Attorney Lauren Langer reported that the City Council convened the Closed Session at 5: 30 p. m. She noted that no members of the public provided public comment. She added that the Council discussed the three ( 3) items of business listed on the posted agenda and took no reportable action.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
Councilmember Erickson requested that Items D. 1., D. 2., F. 2., F. 3., FA., be moved to the Consent Calendar as B. 16., B. 17, B. 18., B. 19., and B. 20., respectively.
Vice Mayor Heilman requested that Items F. 5., F. 6., F. 7., and F. 8. be moved the Consent Calendar as B. 21., B. 22., B. 23., and B. 24., respectively.
Motion by Vice Mayor Heilman, seconded by Councilmember Erickson, and approved ( 5/ 0).
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ADJOURNMENT MOTIONS:
Mayor Byers requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Andrea Gibson and Blake Ackerman.
Councilmember Meister requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Tom Troupe.
Vice Mayor Heilman requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of David Etezadi.
Councilmember Erickson requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Jewel Thais -Williams and Martin " Marty" Margolis.
Councilmember Hang requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Peter Deng, Darrin John Brown, Carol Mary Bass, Shad Kampbell, and three ( 3) Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputies who died in a munitions explosion.
PRESENTATION:
The City Council presented a Certificate to Nicolette Chase for leading tonight' s Pledge of Allegiance.
SPECIAL PRESENTATION:
Congressmember Friedman provided a presentation on legislative actions that she has taken. The City Council expressed their appreciation for Congressmember Friedman' s support to the West Hollywood community.
PRESENTATIONS ( continued):
The City Council presented a Certificate to Nicolette Chase for leading tonight' s Pledge of Allegiance.
Councilmember Erickson presented a Certificate honoring Chanelta in recognition of being crowned Ms. Sobriety World 2025.
Councilmember Hang presented a Certificate in honor of National Paralegal Day.
A. PUBLIC COMMENT:
SEVEN GRAHAM, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of Item F. 8.
SCOTT SCHMIDT, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of Item D. 2. and shared outreach and publicity efforts by Emerald Village.
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STEPHANIE HARKER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding Item B. S. and requested that the City Council consider adopting a congestion toll. She thanked the Staff for their efforts and commented on the importance of community unity.
CATHY BLAIVAS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of lowering speed limits, specifically on Fountain Avenue, and creating safer roads.
GREG RANG, LOS ANGELES, spoke regarding Items B. 11., C. 1., and D. 1.
VICTOR OMELCZENKO, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding concerns with Item F. 2.
KEVIN BURTON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke to share information on the upcoming Fountain Avenue Community Meeting on August 19t"
ANITA GOSWANI, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding Items F. 1. and F. 2.
ALEX SILVERMAN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of safer streets, specifically on Fountain Avenue.
A. LEE WALKUP, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding his recent health challenges and gratitude for his recovery.
ANDREW SOLOMON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding traffic safety concerns on Fountain Avenue.
JOSH CHRISTIAN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding a small group of community members that wants to allow off -leash dogs at Plummer Park.
REED DEVGENIO, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke to thank the Council for his recent recognition.
STEVE MARTIN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke to invite the community to attend National Night Out and regarding Item F. 9.
JORDAN BEARD, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding street safety and the incident on Fountain Avenue.
NICK RENTERIA, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding safety in the community.
MIKE NUTTALL, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding his personal experience with threats and harassment. He thanked the City Council and the Sheriff's Department for their assistance.
ALEC WHITE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in memory of Blake Ackerman and safety along Fountain Avenue.
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MICHAEL COX, UNKNOWN, spoke regarding various items.
The City Council took a brief recess to address a decorum issue in Council Chambers ADAM DARVISH, WEST HOLYWOOD, spoke regarding an unhoused individual on his property and a recent speeding vehicle in his neighborhood.
GILBERT LEGAC, spoke regarding an incident at a nightclub.
Victor Omelczenko submitted Citizen position slips in support of Items F.4., F. 5., and F. 6.
CITY MANAGER' S REPORT:
City Manager David Wilson provided updates on safety improvements along Fountain Avenue and offered his condolences to Blake Ackerman' s family.
FISCAL IMPACT ON CONSENT CALENDAR:
City Clerk Melissa Crowder stated that the fiscal impact on tonight's Consent Calendar with the addition of Items D. 1., D. 2., F. 2., F. 3., FA., F. 5., F. 6., F. 7., and F. 8. was 11, 795, 602 in expenditures, $ 0 in revenue, and ($ 7, 418) in waived fees.
City Clerk Melissa Crowder read the title of Ordinances from Items B. 16. and B. 17. into the record on first reading.
B. CONSENT CALENDAR:
113. 1., 2., 3., 4., 5., 6., 7., 8., 9., 10., 11., 12., 13., 14., 15., 16., 17., 18., 19., 20., 21., 22.,
23., and 24. Motion by Vice Mayor Heilman, seconded by Councilmember Meister, and approved ( 5/ 0).
B. 1. POSTING OF AGENDA [ M. CROWDER]:
SUBJECT. The agenda for the meeting of Monday, August 4, 2025, was posted at City Hall, Plummer Park, and the Aquatics & Recreation Center ARC) on Wednesday, July 30, 2025.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
113. 2. APPROVAL OF THE JULY 7, 2025 CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES [ J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT. The City Council is requested to approve the minutes of the July 7, 2025 City Council Meeting Minutes.
ACTION: Approved the City Council meeting minutes of July 7, 2025.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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B. 3. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER NO. 974 [ E. TSIPIS, K.
BARENG, S. HERNANDEZ]:
SUBJECT: The City Council shall receive the Demand Register for period ending July 25, 2025 pursuant to Sections 37201 to 37210 of the Government Code of the State of California.
ACTION: Approved Demand Register No. 974 and Adopt Resolution No. 25- 053: " A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
WEST HOLLYWOOD ALLOWING AND APPROVING THE PAYMENT
OF DEMANDS ON DEMAND REGISTER NO. 974". 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 two ( 2) Claims for Damages from Miguel Angel Rebollar and Tali Elbaz.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 5. ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 25- 15 ( 2ND READING): " AN ORDINANCE
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
AMENDING TITLE 10, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC OF THE WEST
HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE, UPDATING THE LIST OF
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)" J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 25- 15, amending Title 10, Vehicles and Traffic of the West Hollywood Municipal Code, updating the list of 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).
ACTION: Waived further reading and adopted Ordinance No. 25- 15: " AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD AMENDING TITLE 10, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC OF
THE WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE, UPDATING THE LIST
OF 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)".
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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B. 6. COMMISSION AND ADVISORY BOARD MEETING SYNOPSES [ J.
JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive Synopses from the Arts and Cultural Affairs Commission, the Human Services Commission, and the Rent Stabilization Commission.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 7. AGREEMENT FOR CONSULTING SERVICES WITH PARK
CONSULTING GROUP INC. [ E. TSIPIS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving a consulting service agreement with Park Consulting Group, Inc., for services related to support and enhancements to the Tyler Enterprise Permitting and Licensing software.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved an Agreement for Consulting Services with Park Consulting Group, Inc., for a total not -to -exceed amount of $ 350, 000; and 2) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to the Agreement. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 8. AMENDMENT NO. 5 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH
MAGNA CONSULTING & DESIGN FOR DESIGN SERVICES FOR CIP
2204, RULE 20B OVERHEAD TO UNDERGROUND CONVERSION LA
PEER DRIVE & ALMONT DRIVE [ H. COLLINS, J. GILMOUR]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider amending the Agreement for Services with Magna Consulting & Design for design services for CIP 2204, Rule 20B Overhead to Underground Conversion La Peer Drive & Almont Drive, to increase the not -to -exceed amount of the Agreement.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved Amendment No. 5 to the Agreement for Services with Magna Consulting & Design to increase the Amount of the Agreement by $ 120, 000 for a total not -to -exceed amount of $ 588, 678; and 2) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to the Agreement. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 9. AWARD OF MAINTENANCE CONTRACTS TO OMEGA
CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC. AND OLYMPOS CONSTRUCTION,
INC. FOR ON -CALL CITYWIDE PAINTING SERVICES [ H. COLLINS, E.
HAMANT]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider awarding maintenance contracts to provide on -call Citywide painting services to Omega Construction Company, Inc. and Olympos Construction, Inc.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved an Agreement for Maintenance Services with Omega Construction Company, Inc. to provide on -call Citywide painting services for a total not -to -exceed amount of $ 600, 000; 2) Approved an Agreement for Maintenance Services with Olympos Construction, Inc. to provide on -call Citywide painting services for a total not -to -exceed amount of $ 600, 000; and 3) Authorized the City Manager, or designee, to Docusign Envelope ID: BD34FEDB- 563A- 4E22- ADA9- F8331F31A426 City Council Minutes
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execute all documents incident to these Agreements. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 10. AUTHORIZE THE USE OF COOPERATIVE PURCHASING
AGREEMENTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025- 2026 [ E. TSIPIS, B. ROSEN]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider authorizing the use of cooperative Purchasing Agreements for the procurement of goods and related services for Fiscal Year 2025- 2026.
ACTIONS: 1) Authorized the Finance & Technology Services Department to issue Fiscal Year 2025- 2026 Purchase Orders for new cooperative purchasing agreements, subject to the review by the City Attorney, for contracts that are competitively bid contracts under Purchasing Alliances, as needed, in an amount not -to exceed $ 75, 000; and 2) Authorized the Finance & Technology Services Department to issue Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Purchase Orders for existing contracts in an amount not -to -exceed the authorized amount listed in table. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 11. QUARTERLY ECONOMIC DATA AND ECONOMIC STUDY UPDATE [ L.
BIERY, P. KESPRADIT, L. D' AMBROSIA]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive an update on the City's Economic Data and progress on the 2024 Economic Study action items.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 12. FIRST LEGISLATIVE UPDATE FOR YEAR 1 OF THE 2025- 2026
REGULAR SESSION OF THE CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE AND
FEDERAL ADVOCACY EFFORTS [ Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, H.
MOLINA]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will receive the first legislative update report on the City's lobbying efforts in the California State Legislature during Year 1 of the 2025- 2026 regular legislative session and a brief description of current advocacy efforts at the federal level.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 13. FISCAL YEAR 2025- 26 CULTURAL EVENTS AND WAIVER OF FACILITY USE FEES FOR EVENTS SUPPORTING THE RUSSIANSPEAKING COMMUNITY [ Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO, T.
RODZINEK]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving the programming of cultural events for Fiscal Year 2025- 26, hosted by local non-profit organizations in support of the Russian -Speaking community.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved programming of cultural events hosted by local non- profit organizations in support of the Russian -speaking community during FY 2025-26; 2) Allowed nonprofit organizations to charge fees or accept donations to offset production costs for performances or related Docusign Envelope ID: BD34FEDB- 563A- 4E22- ADA9- F8331F31A426 City Council Minutes
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projects; 3) Authorized use of the City's name and logo on promotional and collateral materials; 4) Directed the Communications Department to utilize all appropriate communication tools to promote the events including, but not limited to, the City's website, press release, and social media tools; 5) Authorized the City Manager or his designee to negotiate and approve the related contractual agreements with the selected local non- profit organizations in support of the Russian -speaking community during FY 2025-26; 6) Approved the waiver of facility use fees for organizations as listed in this report; 7) Authorized an additional hour of validated parking for event participants at the 5- story West Hollywood Park garage, up to a total of 3 hours; 8) Approved the waiver of the 3- hour parking restrictions at Plummer Park for events that exceed 2 hours; and 9) Authorized staff to waive other special events permit fees and other ancillary fees as deemed necessary. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 14. ACCEPT AN EASEMENT AND RIGHT OF WAY FOR PUBLIC STREET
AND SIDEWALK PURPOSES ALONG THE DICKS STREET
FRONTAGE OF THE SERAI CAPITAL LLC DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
AT 9012 DICKS STREET [ H. COLLINS, J. GILMOUR]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider accepting an easement and right of way for street and sidewalk purposes along the Dicks Street frontage of the Serai Capital LLC development project located at 9012 Dicks Street.
This item is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ( CEQA), acceptance of the Grant of Easement for Public Sidewalk and Parkway Purposes pursuant to CEQA Guidelines sections 15301 and 15305.
ACTIONS: 1) Adopted Resolution No. 25- 054: " A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
ACCEPTING GRANT OF EASEMENT FOR PUBLIC SIDEWALK AND
PARKWAY PURPOSES AT 9012 DICKS STREET IN THE CITY OF
WEST HOLLYWOOD"; and 2) Directed the City Clerk to submit a certified copy of Resolution No. 25-054, as well as the Easement in Exhibit A of Attachment A for recordation by the office of the Recorder of the County of Los Angeles. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 15. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION APPOINTING ONYX JONES AS AN
INTERIM DIRECTOR OF FINANCE AND TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
PERSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 21221( H) [ J.
JIMENEZ, R. NAPPER, C. LEUNG, C. KOKUBUN, D. WILSON]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider adopting a Resolution approving an Interim Director of Finance and Technology Services pursuant to Government Code Section 21221( h) to temporarily employ Onyx Jones to perform limited duration work and fill the critically needed vacant Director of Finance and Technology Services position.
ACTION: Adopted Resolution No. 25- 055: " A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD APPOINTING
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ONYX JONES AS AN INTERIM DIRECTOR OF FINANCE AND
TECHNOLOGY SERVICES PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE
SECTION 21221( H)." Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 16. ( D. 1.) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING ARTICLE VI,
COMMERCIAL DISTRICTS," OF TITLE 5 OF THE WEST
HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE AND ADDING CHAPTER 5. 132 TO
TITLE 5 TO ESTABLISH THE WEST HOLLYWOOD RAINBOW
DISTRICT [ L. BIERY, P. KESPRADIT, L. D' AMBROSIA]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider an Ordinance adding Article Vl, Commercial Districts," and Chapter 5. 132, " West Hollywood Rainbow District," to Title 5 of the West Hollywood Municipal Code to formally establish the West Hollywood Rainbow District and find the action exempt from CEQA.
ACTION: Introduced on first reading, by title only, Ordinance No. 25- 16:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING ARTICLE VI,
COMMERCIAL DISTRICTS," OF TITLE 5 OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE, ADDING CHAPTER 5. 132 TO ARTICLE VI OF TITLE 5 TO ESTABLISH THE WEST HOLLYWOOD RAINBOW DISTRICT, AND FINDING THE ACTION EXEMPT FROM CEQA." Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 17. ( D. 2.) AMENDMENT NO. 3 TO THE MARKETING SUPPORT
AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH WEST HOLLYWOOD TOURISM
MARKETING FUND, DBA EMERALD VILLAGE WEST HOLLYWOOD
AND INTRODUCE ON FIRST READING AN ORDINANCE AMENDING
CHAPTER 3. 36 ( BUSINESS LICENSE TAX) OF THE WEST
HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE TO EXTEND FOR ONE YEAR A
TEMPORARY TAX REBATE FOR ALL ELIGIBLE CANNABIS
BUSINESSES THROUGH JUNE 30, 2026 [ L. BIERY, P. KESPRADIT, L.
D' AMBROSIA, E. TSIPIS, A. RUIZ]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider amending the Agreement for Marketing Support with West Hollywood Tourism Marketing Fund, DBA Emerald Village West Hollywood, for cannabis marketing extending the term and consideration of the Agreement and introduce on first reading an Ordinance to extend the temporary 2% cannabis rebate to June 30, 2026, including a fiscal impact of $590, 000.
Acting Director of Economic Development Laura Biery introduced Business Development Manager Paolo Kespradit who provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated August 4, 2025.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved Amendment No. 3 to the Marketing Support Agreement with the West Hollywood Tourism Marketing Fund, DBA Emerald Village West Hollywood to extend the term of the agreement by eleven months to June 30, 2026 and to increase the not -to -exceed Docusign Envelope ID: BD34FEDB- 563A- 4E22- ADA9- F8331F31A426 City Council Minutes
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amount by $ 200, 000 ( for a total not -to -exceed amount of $ 440, 146); 2) Introduced on first reading Ordinance No. 25- 17: " AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD AMENDING CHAPTER 3. 36
BUSINESS LICENSE TAX) OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL
CODE TO EXTEND FOR ONE YEAR A TEMPORARY TAX REBATE
FOR ALL ELIGIBLE CANNABIS BUSINESSES THROUGH JUNE 30,
2026"; 3) Authorized the Director of Finance & Technology Services to allocate $ 200, 000 from unallocated reserves in the General Fund to increase the expenditure budget for the Marketing Support Agreement; 4) Directed staff to adjust revenues during the FY26 Mid -Year Budget process to reflect the anticipated revenue decrease of $ 390, 000 associated with the proposed Ordinance to extend the temporary 2% cannabis rebate to June 30, 2026; and 5) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to the Agreement. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 18. ( F.2.) RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD APPROVING THE GROUND LEASE WITH THE OPTION
TO PURCHASE REAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT 8327- 8329 SANTA
MONICA BOULEVARD, IN THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD [ S.
CAMPBELL, B. LEAGUE, A. BARTLE]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider adopting a Resolution approving the ground lease with an option to purchase real property located at 8327-8329 Santa Monica Boulevard in the City of West Hollywood. Approval of the property ground lease and purchase option Agreement is not a " project" under State CEQA Guidelines section 15378(a) and, alternatively, is exempt from CEQA review.
ACTIONS: 1) Adopted Resolution No. 25- 056: " A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD APPROVING
THE GROUND LEASE WITH AN OPTION TO PURCHASE REAL
PROPERTY LOCATED AT 8327- 8329 SANTA MONICA BOULEVARD,
IN THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD"; 2) Authorized the Director of Finance and Technology Services to allocate $ 9, 539, 164 from Unallocated General Fund Reserves in Fiscal Year 2026 to account number 301- 4- 40- 57- 702030 for the Ground Lease and Option to Purchase Agreement. The total purchase price includes the exclusive 6, 000,000 option to purchase at the end of the 10- year period, the 300,000 base rent for the lease per year with an annual 3% escalation, a deposit of $ 75, 000, and up to $ 25, 000 for due diligence and closing costs; and 3) Authorized the City Manager to negotiate and execute all necessary documents for the Ground Lease with the option to purchase and any easements or restrictive covenants necessary for the purchase of real property located at 8327-8329 Santa Monica Boulevard. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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B. 19. ( F.3.) CO- SPONSORSHIP OF REWRITE THE BILINE' S " BI+ NARRATIVES IN FILM, TV, AND THE ARTS" PANEL [ C. BYERS, Y.
QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO, M. MARQUEZ]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider a Co -Sponsorship Agreement with Re Write the BiLine' s panel " Bi+ Narratives in Film, TV, and the Arts'; to be held in the West Hollywood City Council Chambers on Friday, September 19, 2025 in recognition of BiVisibility Week.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved a Co -Sponsorship Agreement with ReWrite the BiLine for the " Bi+ Narratives in Film, TV, and the Arts" panel to be held in the West Hollywood City Council Chambers on Friday, September 19, 2025; 2) Authorized the City Manager to execute documents incident to the Agreement; 3) Authorized the use of the City name and logo on invitations, programs, and other collateral materials; 4) Waived the Facility Use Fee for the use of the West Hollywood City Council Chambers ($390); 5) Waived parking at the 5- story parking structure for an estimated 100 attendees ($ 1, 028); and 6) Directed the Communications Department to utilize all appropriate communication tools to promote the event.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 20. ( F.4.) CO- SPONSORSHIP OF ONE ARCHIVES CIRCA: LGBTQ+ HISTORIES FESTIVAL [ C. BYERS, J. HEILMAN, Y. QUARKER, A.
LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving a Co -Sponsorship Agreement with ONE Archives Foundation dba " ONE Institute" for its third annual month -long event, Circa: LGBTQ+ Histories Festival, taking place in October 2025 at various locations in West Hollywood and surrounding cities.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved a Co -Sponsorship Agreement with ONE Archives Foundation dba " ONE Institute" for the Circa: LGBTQ+ Histories Festival, taking place during the month of October 2025 in West Hollywood and surrounding cities; 2) Authorized the City Manager or his designee to execute documents incident to the Co-sponsorship Agreement between the City and ONE Archives Foundation; 3) Authorized the Director of Finance & Technology Services to approve the use of $30, 000 from Fiscal Year 2026 budgeted funds in the Special Council Programs account number 100- 1- 01- 00- 531001 for costs associated with these events; 4) Authorized the use of the City name and logo on invitations, programs, and other collateral materials for this event; and 5) 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. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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B. 21. ( F.5.) NAMING OF AN ANNUAL AWARD IN HONOR OF GENEVIEVE MORRILL [ J. ERICKSON, D. HANG, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider working with the Women' s Advisory Board to name an annual award in honor of Genevieve Morrill, in recognition of her years of dedicated service to the business community in West Hollywood, and to present the award as part of future Women in Leadership Awards events.
ACTION: Directed staff to work with the Women' s Advisory Board to name an annual award in honor of Genevieve Morrill, in recognition of her years of dedicated service to the business community in West Hollywood, and to present the award as part of future Women in Leadership Awards events. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 22. ( F.6.) DIRECTION TO INCLUDE EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION
REQUIREMENT IN SOCIAL SERVICES AGREEMENTS FOR THE
OCTOBER 1, 2025 — SEPTEMBER 30, 2028 TERM [ L. MEISTER, Y.
QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing staff to develop and, as feasible, include language in all Agreements for Services with social services providers for the upcoming new three-year contract term from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2028 to require contracted agencies, at the request of the City, to coordinate and assist in emergency communications — such as evacuation notices or public safety alerts — with their West Hollywood clients.
ACTION: Directed staff to work with the City Attorney's office to develop and, as feasible, include language in all Agreements for Services with social services providers for a three-year term covering the period from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2028 to require, at the request of the City, contracted agencies coordinate and assist in emergency communications — such as evacuation notices or public safety alerts — with their West Hollywood clients. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 23. ( F.7.) PROHIBITING SALE AND USE OF ALGORITHMIC DEVICES FOR RESIDENTIAL RENTAL PRICES [ C. BYERS, J. ERICKSON, Y.
QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO, J. CARTER]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider directing Staff and the City Attorney to draft an ordinance to prohibit the sale and use of algorithmic devices to set residential rental prices.
ACTIONS: 1) Directed Staff and the City Attorney to research and draft an ordinance prohibiting the sale and use of algorithmic devices to set residential rental prices; and 2) Return to the City Council within six months with a draft ordinance for review and consideration. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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B. 24. ( F.8.) RECOGNITION
J. ERICKSON, Y.
CARTER]:
OF INTERSEX AWARENESS — FLAG DISPLAY
QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO, J.
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing Staff to fly the intersex flag at City Hall and on the Santa Monica Boulevard medians from October 19, 2025 through October 26, 2025, in recognition of October as Intersex Awareness Month in the City of West Hollywood.
ACTION: Directed Staff to fly the intersex flag at City Hall and on the Santa Monica Boulevard medians from October 19, 2025 through October 26, 2025, in recognition of Intersex Awareness Month. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
C. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
C. 1. PROPOSED ZONE TEXT AMENDMENT TO STREAMLINE THE
REGULATIONS AND APPROVAL OF ACCESSORY BUSINESS USES
AND INCIDENTAL BUSINESS ACTIVITIES [ J. ALKIRE, F.
CONTRERAS, T. FARRIS, P. PORTWOOD, M. MONTENEGRO, R.
SHARMA]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider a Zone Text Amendment (ZTA) to simplify the approval process for Accessory Business Uses (ABUs) and Incidental Business Activities, fostering innovation, adaptability, and a broader mix of creative business models. The proposed ZTA aligns with the goals and objectives of the West Hollywood Small Business Initiative.
The proposed Ordinance is categorically exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act ( CEQA), pursuant to Sections 15061( b)( 3) and 15378( b)( 5) of the State CEQA Guidelines, as it has no potential for significant environmental impact.
Mayor Byers opened the public hearing.
There were no disclosures by the City Councilmembers.
City Clerk Crowder stated that the public hearing was noticed as required by law.
Assistant Director of Community Development Jennifer Alkire introduced Long Range Planning Manager Francisco Contreras and Associate Planner Paige Portwood who provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated August 4, 2025.
The following speaker provided public testimony:
ANITA GOSWANI, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke on concerns with the noise and nuisance.
Mayor Byers closed the public testimony portion of the public hearing.
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The City Council discussed the proposed amendment regarding accessory business uses and incidental business activities in commercial zones. Staff clarified that administrative permits for such activities are discretionary and, public notice requirements. It was confirmed that the amendment applies only within commercial zones.
The Council expressed support for the amendment, noting it would enhance flexibility for businesses to engage in secondary activities that are ongoing, recurring, and continuous in nature. These activities are distinct from special event permits, which cover one-time or temporary events. Staff clarified that certain uses —such as live music in a coffee shop —would still require a conditional use permit and would not qualify as incidental activities.
Councilmembers recognized the benefits of the amendment for small businesses and acknowledged the collaborative role of the Chamber of Commerce in initiating the proposal. The overall sentiment reflected support for reducing regulatory burdens while maintaining appropriate oversight for more intensive or entertainment - based uses.
ACTION: Introduced on first reading Ordinance No. 25- 18: " AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD ADOPTING AN AMENDMENT TO TITLE 19, ZONING
ORDINANCE OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE, TO
STREAMLINE THE REGULATIONS AND APPROVAL OF ACCESSORY
BUSINESS USES AND INCIDENTAL BUSINESS ACTIVITIES, AND
FINDING 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) and 15378( b)( 5)." Motion by Vice Mayor Heilman, seconded by Councilmember Meister, and approved (5/ 0).
C. 2. ZONE TEXT AMENDMENT TO ADOPT NEW POLICIES,
REGULATIONS, DESIGN STANDARDS, AND DEFINITIONS FOR
SHARED HOUSING BUILDINGS AND SHARED HOUSING UNITS IN
THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD [ N. MARICICH, J. ALKIRE, F.
CONTRERAS, T. FARRIS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider introducing on first reading an Ordinance approving a Zone Text Amendment ( ZTA) to adopt new policies, regulations, design standards, and definitions for Shared Housing Buildings and Shared Housing Units. The proposed Ordinance is categorically exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act ( CEQA), pursuant to section § 15061( b)( 3) ( Common Sense Exemption) of the State CEQA Guidelines.
Mayor Byers opened the public hearing.
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There were no disclosures by the City Councilmembers.
City Clerk Crowder stated that the public hearing was noticed as required by law.
Assistant Director of Community Development Jennifer Alkire introduced Long Range Planning Manager Francisco Contreras and Senior Planner Tahira Farris who provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated August 4, 2025.
The following speaker provided public testimony:
VICTOR OMELCZENKO, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke to share that the proposal is similar to dormitory living and raised concerns about maintenance of shared spaces, asking who would be responsible for cleaning common areas. He also questioned whether certain neighborhoods would be disproportionately impacted by such developments and if the model would expand to areas like the congregate living facility on Palm Avenue.
Mayor Byers closed the public testimony portion of the public hearing.
The Council held a comprehensive discussion on the proposed Zone Text Amendment ( ZTA) addressing shared housing typologies. The intent of the amendment is to close a gap in the City's municipal code by clearly defining shared or communal living arrangements, prompted by prior appeals and ambiguities related to such projects.
They discussed the characteristics of the proposed housing model, clarifying that the individual unit typically consists of a bedroom and bathroom, potentially with a kitchenette, and that common areas such as living rooms and kitchens are shared. It was confirmed that landlords would be responsible for maintaining these common areas, though tenants may also contribute to upkeep. Each unit would have a dedicated mailbox, and under State law, cities may not impose minimum unit size requirements.
The Council addressed accessibility considerations, confirming that all developments must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act ADA") and building codes. There was additional discussion about incorporating universal design standards to promote equity for people with disabilities and those aging in place.
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older adults. The proposal was viewed as a forward -looking tool that aligns with shifting urban living preferences.
ACTION: Introduced on first reading Ordinance No. 25- 19: " AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD AMENDING TITLE
19, ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
MUNICIPAL CODE IMPLEMENTING NEW POLICIES REGULATING
SHARED HOUSING BUILDINGS AND SHARED HOUSING UNITS IN
THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE
LAW AND FINDING 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)." Motion by Councilmember Erickson, seconded by Councilmember Hang, and approved ( 5/ 0).
C. 3. EQUITABLE BUILDING PERFORMANCE STANDARDS ( EBPS) [ J.
ALKIRE, F. CONTRERAS, C. SHEN]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider introducing on first reading an Ordinance to establish Building Energy Benchmarking and Performance Standards for existing buildings and finding the action to be exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act ( CEQA), pursuant to Sections 15301, 15302, and 15308 of the State CEQA Guidelines. The City Council will also consider directing Staff to issue a Request for Proposals for building performance standards implementation services and software.
Mayor Byers opened the public hearing.
There were no disclosures by the City Councilmembers.
City Clerk Crowder stated that the public hearing was noticed as required by law.
Assistant Director of Community Development Jennifer Alkire introduced Long Range Planning Manager Francisco Contreras and Senior Planner Christine Shen, who provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated August 4, 2025.
The following speakers provided public testimony:
KEVIN BURTON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of the proposed ordinance but raised concerns that the 20, 000 square foot minimum threshold was too high, noting it would cover only 6% of buildings. He argued that smaller buildings could collectively make a significant impact on emissions, questioned the exclusion of mid- century rent -controlled buildings, and supported faster implementation.
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VICTOR OMELCZENKO, on behalf of the West Hollywood Preservation Alliance, spoke to share that he appreciated the consideration of historic buildings, noting the City's many older residential structures. He asked whether dispersed complexes like the Courtyards on Kings Road would be subject to the 20, 000 square foot threshold through aggregation. He supported the standards as a means to address climate change.
Mayor Byers closed the public testimony portion of the public hearing.
The Council held a detailed discussion on the proposed ordinance, focusing on applicability, outreach, and implementation impacts. Staff confirmed that approximately 6% of buildings in the City exceed the 20, 000 square foot threshold, which is the trigger for compliance. To raise awareness, Staff conducted outreach including mailing 4, 000 postcards to individual condominium owners and agreed to enhance engagement by targeting HOA management companies.
Councilmembers emphasized the need for clarity on financial impacts, requesting examples such as the cost of roof replacements or gas -to - electric conversions. Staff was asked to provide cost modeling to help building owners plan for compliance.
The discussion also addressed potential State and regional funding sources, including California Energy Commission and Clean Power Alliance incentives. Councilmembers expressed interest in expanding support and incentives for smaller buildings, and Staff noted that assistance programs and a dedicated help desk are part of the program implementation.
Concerns were raised about rent -stabilized buildings, with Staff estimating around 100 such buildings are affected. Councilmembers stressed the importance of preventing tenant displacement and recommended exploring financial support mechanisms for these properties.
The Council supported the proposed 10- year implementation timeline, noting it is ambitious but necessary. They emphasized the importance of tenant protections, climate resilience, and continued updates on implementation progress.
Council provided additional direction to Staff to return with: building cost prototypes, financial assistance considerations for rent -stabilized housing, and additional outreach to affected buildings ( including condominium building managers or offsite property management companies).
Mayor Byers closed the public hearing.
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ACTIONS: 1) Introduced on first reading Ordinance No. 25- 20: " AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD AMENDING TITLES 9 AND 15 OF THE WEST
HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE TO ESTABLISH BUILDING ENERGY
BENCHMARKING AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR COVERED
BUILDINGS AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE EXEMPT FROM CEQA
PURSUANT TO STATE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTIONS 15301, 15302, AND 15308"; 2) Directed Staff to prepare and issue a Request for Proposals for building performance standards implementation services and software; 3) Directed Staff to include prioritization of the Equitable Building Performance Standards implementation in upcoming prioritization discussions with the City Council Finance and Budget Subcommittee; 4) Directed Staff to provide building cost prototypes, financial assistance considerations for rent -stabilized housing, and additional outreach to affected buildings ( including condominium building managers or offsite property management companies); and 4) Return with the 2nd Reading of the Ordinance when Staff returns to the Council with the additional information requested. Motion by Vice Heilman, seconded by Mayor Byers, and approved ( 510).
D. LEGISLATIVE:
D. 1. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING ARTICLE VI,
COMMERCIAL DISTRICTS," OF TITLE 5 OF THE WEST
HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE AND ADDING CHAPTER 5. 132 TO
TITLE 5 TO ESTABLISH THE WEST HOLLYWOOD RAINBOW
DISTRICT [ L. BIERY, P. KESPRADIT, L. D' AMBROSIA]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider an Ordinance adding Article Vl, Commercial Districts," and Chapter 5. 132, " West Hollywood Rainbow District," to Title 5 of the West Hollywood Municipal Code to formally establish the West Hollywood Rainbow District and find the action exempt from CEQA.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
D. 2. AMENDMENT NO. 3 TO THE MARKETING SUPPORT AGREEMENT
FOR SERVICES WITH WEST HOLLYWOOD TOURISM MARKETING
FUND, DBA EMERALD VILLAGE WEST HOLLYWOOD AND
INTRODUCE ON FIRST READING AN ORDINANCE AMENDING
CHAPTER 3. 36 ( BUSINESS LICENSE TAX) OF THE WEST
HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE TO EXTEND FOR ONE YEAR A
TEMPORARY TAX REBATE FOR ALL ELIGIBLE CANNABIS
BUSINESSES THROUGH JUNE 30, 2026 [ L. BIERY, P. KESPRADIT, L.
D' AMBROSIA, E. TSIPIS, A. RUIZ]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider amending the Agreement for Marketing Support with West Hollywood Tourism Marketing Fund, DBA Emerald Village West Hollywood, for cannabis marketing extending the Docusign Envelope ID: BD34FEDB- 563A- 4E22- ADA9- F8331F31A426 City Council Minutes
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term and consideration of the Agreement and introduce on first reading an Ordinance to extend the temporary 2% cannabis rebate to June 30, 2026, including a fiscal impact of $590, 000.
Acting Director of Economic Development Laura Biery introduced Business Development Manager Paolo Kespradit who provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated August 4, 2025.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
E. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
E. 1. COMMISSION AND ADVISORY BOARD APPOINTMENTS AND REAPPOINTMENTS [ J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider making At -large appointments to the City's Commissions and Advisory Boards.
ACTIONS: The City Council called for at -large nominations and made new appointments or re -appointments to City Commissions and Advisory Boards with terms ending February 28, 2027, as follows: 1) Made the At - large appointments for the Historic Preservation Commission: Jessica Hencier and Andrew Goodrich; and 2) TABLED the At -Large appointments to the Transgender Advisory Board.
F. NEW BUSINESS:
F. 1. RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD APPROVING THE PURCHASE OF REAL PROPERTY
LOCATED AT 7710 SANTA MONICA BOULEVARD, IN THE CITY OF
WEST HOLLYWOOD [ S. CAMPBELL, B. LEAGUE, A. BARTLE]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider adopting a Resolution approving the purchase of real property located at 7710 Santa Monica Boulevard in the City of West Hollywood. Approval of the Property Purchase Sale Agreement is not a " project" under State CEQA Guidelines section 15378(a) and, alternatively, is exempt from CEQA review.
Project Development Administrator Alicen Bartle provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated August 4, 2025.
Councilmember Meister questioned the staff report' s claim that the property is " adjacent" to a city -owned parking lot, noting another property lies in between. Staff clarified they are actively working to acquire the intervening parcel and that the current tenant may remain until at least January 2027, or longer if no project is defined. Councilmember Meister also raised concerns about the absence of a defined use for the property despite public speculation about a new fire station. Staff confirmed no Council direction has been given for such a use. City Attorney Langer added that discussing specific future uses could compromise the City' s negotiating position.
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The following speaker provided public comment:
VICTOR OMELCZENKO, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding
concerns about purchasing 7710 and 7712 Santa Monica Boulevard. He questioned the future of the current fire station and suggested retrofitting it for housing.
The Council discussed the proposed property acquisition. It was emphasized that no decision has been made regarding the property's future use.
ACTIONS: 1) Adopted Resolution No. 25- 057: " RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD APPROVING
THE PURCHASE OF REAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT 7710 SANTA
MONICA BOULEVARD, IN THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD"; 2)
Authorized the Director of Finance and Technology Services to allocate 2, 000,000 plus all related closing and due diligence cost up to $ 150, 000 from unallocated General Fund Reserves in Fiscal Year 2026 to account number 301- 4- 40- 57- 702034; and 3) Authorized the City Manager to negotiate and execute all necessary documents to facilitate the purchase of real property located at 7710 Santa Monica Boulevard. Motion by Vice Heilman, seconded by Mayor Byers, and approved ( 5/ 0).
F. 2. RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD APPROVING THE GROUND LEASE WITH THE OPTION
TO PURCHASE REAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT 8327- 8329 SANTA
MONICA BOULEVARD, IN THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD [ S.
CAMPBELL, B. LEAGUE, A. BARTLE]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider adopting a Resolution approving the ground lease with an option to purchase real property located at 8327-8329 Santa Monica Boulevard in the City of West Hollywood. Approval of the property ground lease and purchase option Agreement is not a " project" under State CEQA Guidelines section 15378(a) and, alternatively, is exempt from CEQA review.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F. 3. CO- SPONSORSHIP OF REWRITE THE BILINE' S " BI+ NARRATIVES IN FILM, TV, AND THE ARTS" PANEL [ C. BYERS, Y. QUARKER, A.
LOVANO, J. DEL TORO, M. MARQUEZ]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider a Co -Sponsorship Agreement with Re Write the BiLine' s panel "Bi+ Narratives in Film, TV, and the Arts'; to be held in the West Hollywood City Council Chambers on Friday, September 19, 2025 in recognition of BiVisibility Week.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
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FA. CO-SPONSORSHIP OF ONE ARCHIVES CIRCA: LGBTQ+ HISTORIES FESTIVAL [ C. BYERS, J. HEILMAN, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J.
DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving a Co -Sponsorship Agreement with ONE Archives Foundation dba " ONE Institute" for its third annual month -long event, Circa: LGBTQ+ Histories Festival, taking place in October 2025 at various locations in West Hollywood and surrounding cities.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F. S. NAMING OF AN ANNUAL AWARD IN HONOR OF GENEVIEVE
MORRILL [ J. ERICKSON, D. HANG, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider working with the Women' s Advisory Board to name an annual award in honor of Genevieve Morrill, in recognition of her years of dedicated service to the business community in West Hollywood, and to present the award as part of future Women in Leadership Awards events.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F. 6. DIRECTION TO INCLUDE EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION
REQUIREMENT IN SOCIAL SERVICES AGREEMENTS FOR THE
OCTOBER 1, 2025 — SEPTEMBER 30, 2028 TERM [ L. MEISTER, Y.
QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider directing staff to develop and, as feasible, include language in all Agreements for Services with social services providers for the upcoming new three-year contract term from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2028 to require contracted agencies, at the request of the City, to coordinate and assist in emergency communications — such as evacuation notices or public safety alerts — with their West Hollywood clients.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F. 7. PROHIBITING SALE AND USE OF ALGORITHMIC DEVICES FOR RESIDENTIAL RENTAL PRICES [ C. BYERS, J. ERICKSON, Y.
QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO, J. CARTER]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider directing Staff and the City Attorney to draft an ordinance to prohibit the sale and use of algorithmic devices to set residential rental prices.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F. B. RECOGNITION OF INTERSEX AWARENESS — FLAG DISPLAY [ J.
ERICKSON, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO, J. CARTER]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing Staff to fly the intersex flag at City Hall and on the Santa Monica Boulevard medians from Docusign Envelope ID: BD34FEDB- 563A- 4E22- ADA9- F8331F31A426 City Council Minutes
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October 19, 2025 through October 26, 2025, in recognition of October as Intersex Awareness Month in the City of West Hollywood.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F. 9. UPDATE TO THE CITY' S FLAG POLICY AND DISPLAY OF THE PROGRESS FLAG [ J. HEILMAN, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO, J. CARTER]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider adopting a Resolution to update the City's flag policy to remove the displayed Lambda Pride Flag from the Santa Monica Boulevard medians and replace it with the Progress Flag.
The Council discussed proposed updates to the City's flag policy to better reflect the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community. Vice Mayor Heilman recommended replacing the existing median flags —the Progress and Lambda Flags —with the updated Progress Flag that includes the Intersex symbol. Councilmembers considered preserving one of the historic rainbow flags as a tribute to the City's LGBTQ+ history. Staff clarified the current configuration includes a Progress and a Lambda Flag in the Santa Monica Boulevard medians. The idea of adding an additional flagpole was raised but determined to be impractical due to logistical challenges and the wide variety of flags representing different LGBTQ+ identities. Staff also noted that flag displays are rotated periodically to commemorate special events such as Lesbian Visibility Week and Transgender Visibility.
City Attorney Langer stated that the Resolution language would be amended in sections 3. a. and 3. c. indicating " Progress Flag with Intersex Symbol".
ACTION: Adopted revised Resolution No. 25- 058: " A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
AMENDING THE FLAG POLICY", which will replace the Lambda Pride Flag currently on display in the Santa Monica Boulevard medians with the Progress Flag with Intersex Symbol ( Sections 3. a. and 3. c.). Motion by Vice Mayor Heilman, seconded by Mayor Byers, and approved (5/ 0).
EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR: None.
all 3A100191LVAIJi14LIk6
VICTOR OMELCZENKO, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke to suggest repurposing existing buildings, such as the old fire station, for housing. He also shared that the Los Angeles Unified School District (" LAUSD") is planning workforce and affordable housing on a
1. 4- acre site in West Hollywood just south of Santa Monica Boulevard on Fairfax Avenue, with a new development process underway.
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COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS AND MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORTS:
Councilmember Hang acknowledged the community's recent mourning of Blake Ackerman and thanked this evening' s public commenters. He noted that he hosted his first quarterly meeting with his direct appointees. He reported attending several community events. He reported his attendance at the National AAPI Leadership Summit in Washington, DC. He also shared that he attended Cal Cities LGBTQ Caucus' Power in Pride Reception on Sunday, July 271h. He concluded by thanking Mayor Byers for leading tonight' s meeting.
Councilmember Meister reported attending several community events and shared upcoming meetings related to Plumber Park, historic preservation, and the Fountain Avenue streetscape project. She expressed concern over delays in implementing universal design standards and requested an informational item for Planning Commissioners explaining the difference between streetscape and bike lane projects.
Councilmember Ericson thanked his colleagues for supporting items that he authored and co -sponsored. He reported attending various community and policy meetings and praised Staff outreach on the Plummer Park plan. He raised questions about the Melrose Triangle and Palm Avenue projects. He concluded his comments by speaking about Fountain Avenue and the recent tragedy.
Mayor Byers reported attending several meetings including LCASa, Metro, and the Contract Cities call with Los Angeles County Sheriff Luna regarding the recent ICE activity in Los Angeles County. She also reported her attendance at the Local Progress National Convening in Chicago. She also shared her attendance at various community gatherings. She reflected on a difficult month for the City, citing the July 4th ICE raids, the fatal accident on Fountain Avenue, and the recent death of a man near Fairfax, whom she added to the adjournment list. Acknowledging heightened tensions, she encouraged unity, kindness, and collective effort toward a stronger community.
ADJOURNMENT: The City Council adjourned at 10: 01 p. m. in memory of Peter Deng, Darrin John Brown, Carol Mary Bass, Chad Kampbell, three LA County Sheriff Deputies, Tom Troupe, David Etezadi, Jewel Thais -Williams, Martin " Marty" Margolis, Andrea Gibson, and Blake Ackerman to its next regular meeting, which will be on Monday, August 18, 2025 at 6: 00 P. M. at West Hollywood Park Public Meeting Room - Council Chambers.
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PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of West Hollywood at a regular meeting held this 18th day of August, 2025 by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmember:
NOES: Councilmember:
ABSENT: Councilmember:
ABSTAIN: Councilmember:
ATTEST: signed by:
M.c,(, iSSa r,Y'OW, t, V'
m vnF s snaao
MELISSA CROWDER, CITY CLERK
Erickson, Hang, Meister, Vice Mayor
Heilman, and Mayor Byers.
None.
None.
None.
IDocuuSigned by:
b. 6 u
D26A6FDCC4D145A...
CHELSEA LEE BYERS, MAYOR