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CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
MINUTES
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2026
WEST HOLLYWOOD PARK PUBLIC MEETING ROOM - COUNCIL CHAMBERS 625 N. SAN VICENTE BOULEVARD
6: 00 P. M. — ADJOURNED 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 Heilman called the meeting to order at 6: 00 p. m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Southwestern Law School students Byron Neu, Robert Carson, Andrew Hayes, and Sean Nikpay led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL:
PRESENT: Councilmember Byers, Councilmember Erickson, Councilmember Meister, Vice Mayor Hang, and Mayor Heilman.
ALSO PRESENT: City Manager Jackie Rocco, City Attorney Lauren Langer, Director of Administrative Services Janet Jimenez, City Clerk Melissa Crowder, and Assistant City Clerk Lulu Morales.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
The City Council requested that Items E. 3., F. 1., F. 2., F. 3., FA., and F. 6. be moved to the Consent Calendar as Items B. 14., B. 15., B. 16., B. 17., B. 18., and B. 19., respectively.
Motion by Councilmember Byers, seconded by Vice Mayor Hang, and approved 5/ 0.
LEVINE ACT DISCLOSURES: None.
ADJOURNMENT MOTIONS:
Councilmember Meister requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Reverand Jesse Jackson.
Vice Mayor Danny Hang requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Sum Chiu Mew Lo.
Mayor Heilman requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Los Angeles County Sheriff Deputy Brian Sneed and Anthony Dane Sambrano.
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PRESENTATIONS: None.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
The following speakers provided public comment in Council Chambers:
TOM DEMILLE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding various issues in the City.
STEPHANIE HARKER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of Agenda Item B. 7. and spoke on concerns with an affordable housing project by the West Hollywood Housing Corporation.
SAMANTHA LAU, PLANT -BASED TREATY, spoke in support of Agenda Item F. 3. and for promoting plant -based initiatives, noting that West Hollywood' s leadership has inspired dozens of other cities to adopt similar efforts.
EDD HOLMAN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke on concerns regarding garage gate access codes being written on buildings and urged City oversight and system changes to protect residents.
JOSEPH GREEN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, shared highlights from their recent Sacramento advocacy trip, raised concerns about an inaccessible health hub vending location, and invited the public to the upcoming Disabilities Advisory Board meeting.
YOSSI ATTIA, LOS ANGELES, spoke regarding concerns with the City' s permitting process, noting that delays make it extremely difficult to complete projects and discourages development.
JEFF DOUEK, WEHO BISTRO, thanked the City for its support and asked for help or an extension on an upcoming deadline to convert his OutZone to permanent outdoor dining.
VICTOR OMELCZENKO, WEST HOLLYWOOD, referenced a survivors' rally, urged the City to stand against sexual trafficking, and called for the resignation of LA28 Chair Casey Wasserman over ties raised in the recently released Epstein records.
LYN ETCETERA, WEST HOLLYWOOD, suggested the City pursue acquiring the MTA bus lot for affordable housing, citing artist housing models and future transit changes.
NIKKI PAIGE, on behalf of the WOMEN' S ADVISORY BOARD, provided updates from the Women' s Advisory Board, including statewide legislative priorities, local efforts to address drink -spiking in nightlife venues, and an invitation to the upcoming Women' s History Month event.
MICHAEL GREEN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding concerns about the City' s lack of use of technology/ communication tools to investigate burglaries, share suspect information, or keep residents informed about neighborhood crime.
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ROBERT BREZOSKY, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding safety concerns, cited a recent burglary attempt, and urged the City to prioritize cameras, license plate readers, and other public safety technologies.
DR. LAURA DUNCAN, on behalf of HOLLOWAY/ASENCIA, thanked the City Council for their support and introduced participants in the Holloway Interim Housing Program, who thanked the City and shared personal stories about how the program has provided housing, care, and life -changing support.
JENNIFER MASTERSON, VICE PRESIDENT OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS FOR ATHENS SERVICES, shared upcoming community events, including recycling outreach and an e-waste/shredding day, and clarified that Athens does not authorize writing garage access codes on properties, citing company policy and digital security practices.
ANUP PATEL, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of Agenda Item F. 2.
The following speaker provided public comment via Zoom:
DAVID NASH, WEST HOLLYWOOD, clarified that he is not running for City Council and invited the community to a February 28 screening of a documentary about historic cannabis activism.
CITY MANAGER' S REPORT:
City Manager Jackie Rocco provided updates on shared cultural programming, announcing the final Winter Sounds concert on February 21 featuring Nikka Costa and Julian Forest at the Sunrose, and invited the public to the Stories We Tell Jazz Theater Experience on February 22 at the Pacific Design Center in honor of Black History Month; both free events with RSVP required.
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. 3., F. 1., F. 2., F. 3., FA., and F. 6., was $ 14, 390, 381 in expenditures, $ 0 in revenue, and ($ 22, 383) in waived fees.
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 Byers, and approved 5/ 0).
B. 1. POSTING OF AGENDA:
SUBJECT: The agenda for the meeting of Tuesday, February 17, 2026, was posted at City Hall, Plummer Park, and the Aquatics & Recreation Center (ARC) on Wednesday, February 11. 2026.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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B. 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
SUBJECT.- The City Council is requested to approve the minutes of the prior Council meeting.
ACTION: Approved the minutes of February 2, 2026. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 3. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER NO. 986 [ O. JONES, K.
BARENG, Y. MARTINEZ]:
SUBJECT.- The City Council shall receive the Demand Register for period ending February 06, 2026 pursuant to Sections 37201 to 37210 of the Government Code of the State of California.
ACTION: Approved Demand Register No. 986 and Adopt Resolution No. 26- 011: " A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
WEST HOLLYWOOD ALLOWING AND APPROVING THE PAYMENT
OF DEMANDS ON DEMAND REGISTER NO. 986". Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 4. TREASURER' S REPORT FOR DECEMBER 2025 [ O. JONES, K.
BARENG, S. PELOSO, S. STEPHENS]:
SUBJECT.- The City Council will receive the Treasurer' s Reports for the month ended December 2025 pursuant to Section 53646 of the Government Code of the State of California.
ACTION: Received and filed the December 2025 Treasurer' s Report.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 5. COMMISSION MEETING SYNOPSES [ M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT.- The City Council will receive synopses from the Public Facilities, Recreation, and Infrastructure Commission and the Transportation and Mobility Commission regarding actions taken at their recent meetings.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 6. SUBMITTAL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD' S ANNUAL
COMPREHENSIVE FINANCIAL REPORT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR
ENDED JUNE 30, 2025 [ O. JONES, K. BARENG, A. RUIZ, S. PELOSO]:
SUBJECT.- The City Council will receive the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025.
ACTION: Received and filed the City of West Hollywood' s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and related documents for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 7. APPROVAL OF 2027 ARTS GRANT PROGRAM [ L. BIERY, R.
EHEMANN, E. ANGELOFF]:
SUBJECT.- The City Council will consider approving the City of West Hollywood' s 2027 Arts Grant Program guidelines, schedule, and funding as recommended by the Arts and Cultural Affairs Commission.
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ACTION: Approved the implementation of the City of West Hollywood' s 2027 Arts Grant Program guidelines, schedule, and funding as recommended by the Arts and Cultural Affairs Commission. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
113. 8. NATIONAL WOMEN' S HISTORY MONTH 2O26 [ J. ROCCO, A.
LOVANO, J. DEL TORO, L. FOOKS]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider approval of programming in celebration of National Women' s History Month 2026.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved programming for National Women' s History Month 2026 and direct the appropriate City staff to coordinate the production and promotion of National Women' s History Month activities; 2) Authorized the use of the City' s name and logo on invitations, programs, and other collateral materials; 3) Directed the Communications Department to utilize all appropriate communications tools to promote the City' s celebration of National Women' s History Month via social media platforms and distribution of information; and 4) Approved the use of the West Hollywood City Council Chambers and waiver of parking fees in the five -story parking structure, film permit fees for the Mazer Lesbian Archives Poetry Event for the costs associated with technical support Waveguide). Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
113. 9. NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR CIP 2501, MELROSE AVENUE AND NORWICH DRIVE WEAVER' S WALK PROJECT [ H. COLLINS, J.
GILMOUR]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving the Notice of Completion for CIP 2501, Melrose Avenue and Norwich Drive Weaver' s Walk Project by CS Legacy Construction, Inc.
ACTIONS: Accepted the work and authorize the following: a. File the Notice of Completion by the City Clerk with the Los Angeles Recorder' s Office, b. Issue the final payment to the contractor at the end of the 35 day lien period, c. Release of the Performance Bond on the date of recordation of the Notice of Completion, and d. Release of the Payment Bond 35 days after the date of recordation of the Notice of Completion, pending no receipt of Stop Notices from material suppliers or subcontractors. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 10. AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH EMERGENCY- 1 RESPONSE, INC.
FOR ON -SITE MEDICAL CARE CENTER SERVICES DURING MAJOR
EVENTS [ D. RIVAS, A. SHANDI, M. KUSTANOVICH]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving a multi -year agreement for services with Emergency- 1 Response, Inc. to provide on - site medical care center services during the West Hollywood Pride and West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval events.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved the Agreement for Services with Emergency- 1 Response, Inc. for a not -to -exceed amount of $ 650, 966. 50 ($ 135, 283. 50 FY 2025- 26; $ 135, 913. 50 - FY 2026- 27; $ 136, 711. 50 - FY 2027- 28; Docusign Envelope ID: 26B7BB87- 9BED- 4A5A- 95AA- 6A82E715D005 City Council Minutes
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137, 817. 00 - FY 2028- 29; and $ 105, 241. 00 - FY 2029- 30) for on -site medical care center services during the West Hollywood Pride and Halloween Carnaval events; and 2) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute all documents incident to this agreement. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 11. CONSTRUCTION AGREEMENT WITH POLO ENGINEERING, INC. TO CONSTRUCT CIP 2507, HAMMOND & ALTA LOMA BOLLARDS
REPLACEMENT PROJECT [ H. COLLINS, J. GILMOUR, J. RICO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approval of a Construction Agreement with Polo Engineering, Inc. to construct CIP No. 2507, Hammond & Alta Loma Bollards Replacement Project.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved a Construction Agreement with Polo Engineering, Inc. in the amount of $598, 420. 00 for the construction of CIP No. 2507, Hammond & Alta Loma Bollards Replacement Project, and authorize the City Manager or designee to execute the documents incident to the Agreement; 2) Authorized the City Engineer to approve change orders to the Construction Agreement in the amount not to exceed 25% ($ 149, 605) of the total Agreement amount; 3) Adopted Resolution No. 26- 012: " A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD APPROVING THE DESIGN AND
PLANS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF CIP 2507, HAMMOND & ALTA
LOMA BOLLARDS REPLACEMENT PROJECT, PURSUANT TO
GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 830. 6." Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 12. CO- SPONSORSHIP OF LOS ANGELES CITY' S CIVIL, HUMAN RIGHTS AND EQUITY DEPARTMENT' S 2026 TRANS JOB FAIR [ J. ROCCO, 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 LGBT Center on March 26, 2026.
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 26, 2026 at the LA LGBT Center; 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; and 4) Directed the Communications Department to utilize all appropriate communications tools to promote the event. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 13. CO- SPONSORSHIP OF AMERICAN BORN CHINESE FOUNDATION' S 2026 LOS ANGELES CHILDREN' S BOOK FESTIVAL [ J. ROCCO, A.
LOVANO, J. DEL TORO, M. MARQUEZ]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider co -sponsoring the American Born Chinese Foundation' s ( ABCF) Los Angeles Children' s Book Festival in West Hollywood Park on Sunday, August 23, 2026.
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ACTIONS: 1) Approved a Co -Sponsorship Agreement with the American Born Chinese Foundation for the Los Angeles Children' s Book Festival in West Hollywood Park on Sunday, August 23, 2026; 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, Special Event Permit Fee, Encroachment fee, parking at the 5- story parking structure for up to 35 event volunteers and vendors, peddler' s permits and business tax licensing fees for vendors at the event, and any other ancillary fees for vendors and event organizers ( estimated $ 13, 397); and 5) Directed the Communications Department to utilize all appropriate communication tools to promote the event such as the City' s website and social media tools.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 14. ( E.3.) FINDING OF DEFAULT OF ESTATE DESIGN AND
CONSTRUCTION, INC. REGARDING CIP NO. 2506, FY2025
CONCRETE REHABILITATION PROJECT AND AUTHORIZATION TO
PROCEED WITH TERMINATION FOR DEFAULT [ H. COLLINS, J.
GILMOUR, J. RICO]:
SUBJECT.- The City Council will consider finding Estate Design and Construction, Inc. in default on CIP No. 2506, FY2025 Concrete Rehabilitation Project, and authorizing City staff to terminate the contractor and award a contract to complete the project to Gentry General Engineering, Inc.
ACTIONS: 1) Found Estate Design and Construction, Inc. (" Existing Contractor") in default with respect to CIP No. 2506, FY2025 Concrete Rehabilitation Project (" Project"); and 2) Authorized City staff to terminate Estate Design and Construction, Inc. for default and complete the Project, including awarding a Construction Agreement to Gentry General Engineering, Inc. in the amount of $ 142, 185. 00, and authorized the City Manager or designee to execute the Construction Agreement and any related documents and take actions necessary to implement the Agreement. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 15. ( F. 1.) CONSTRUCTION AGREEMENT WITH CROSSTOWN
ELECTRICAL & DATA, INC. TO CONSTRUCT CIP 2004,
SUNSET/ SANTA MONICA FIBER LOOP PROJECT [ H. COLLINS, J.
GILMOUR]:
SUBJECT.- The City Council will consider approval of a Construction Agreement with Crosstown Electrical & Data, Inc. to construct CIP 2004, Sunset/Santa Monica Fiber Loop Project.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved a Construction Agreement with Crosstown Electrical & Data, Inc., in the amount of $5, 411, 882. 00 for the construction of CIP 2004, Sunset/Santa Monica Fiber Loop Project, and authorized the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to the Agreement; 2) Authorized the City Engineer to approve change orders to the Construction Agreement in an amount not to exceed 25% Docusign Envelope ID: 26B7BB87- 9BED- 4A5A- 95AA- 6A82E715D005 City Council Minutes
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1, 352, 970. 50) of the total Agreement amount; 3) Authorized the Director of Finance & Technology Services to release the $ 14, 700, 000 allocated in the Debt Funded Capital Projects Fund previously intended to support a broadband initiative and allocate $ 4, 766, 580 from Unallocated General Fund Reserves to account number 100- 4- 08- 84- 705040 for the Sunset/Santa Monica Fiber Loop Project; and 4) Adopted Resolution No. 26- 013: " A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
WEST HOLLYWOOD APPROVING THE DESIGN AND PLANS FOR THE
CONSTRUCTION OF CIP 2004, SUNSET/ SANTA MONICA FIBER LOOP PROJECT, PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 830. 6."
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 16. ( F.2.) REQUEST FOR FINANCING COMMITMENT LETTER AND
AUTHORIZATION TO ISSUE LOAN FROM THE AFFORDABLE
HOUSING TRUST FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $ 4, 245, 000 FOR
ACQUISITION FINANCING AT 1006 AND 1010 N. EDINBURGH
AVENUE [ S. CAMPBELL, A. BARTLE]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider issuing a commitment letter and loan from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund to West Hollywood Community Housing Corporation, a non-profit housing developer and operator, in the amount of $4, 245,000 for acquisition financing at 1006 and 1010 N. Edinburgh Avenue.
ACTIONS: 1) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute a commitment letter in substantially the form attached, pledging $ 4, 245, 000 for acquisition financing for the development of between 55 and 65 affordable housing units at 1006 and 1010 N. Edinburgh Avenue; 2) Authorized the Director of Finance and Technology Services to allocate 200,000 from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund to cover the costs associated with plan check services; 3) Authorized the City Manager or designee to designate $ 4, 445,000 from the City' s General Fund to the City' s Affordable Housing Trust Fund; 4) Authorized the Director of Finance and Technology Services to: allocate $ 4, 445, 000 from unallocated reserves in the General Fund; establish a $ 4, 445, 000 budget for an interfund transfer from the General Fund to the Affordable Housing Trust fund; establish a $ 4, 245, 000 budget for the purposes of funding the loan; and establish a $ 200, 000 budget to fund the costs associated with plan check services; and 5) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute all documents incident to the agreement. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 17. ( F.3.) CO- SPONSORSHIP OF PLANT BASED TREATY' S 2026 FOOD DAY IN WEHO EVENT [ C. BYERS]:
SUBJECT.- The City Council will consider approving a Co -Sponsorship Agreement for the " Food Day in WeHo" event, organized by Plant Based Treaty Los Angeles on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at Plummer Park.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved a Co -Sponsorship Agreement for the " Food Day in WeHo" event, organized by the Plant Based Treaty Los Angeles on Docusign Envelope ID: 26B7BB87- 9BED- 4A5A- 95AA- 6A82E715D005 City Council Minutes
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Sunday, April 12, 2026, in Plummer Park; 2) Authorized the City Manager to execute documents incident to the Co -Sponsorship Agreement between the City and Plant Based Treaty Los Angeles; 3) Waived the Facility Use Fee, Special Event Permit Fee, Encroachment fee, 3- hour parking limit at the Plummer Park parking lot for event participants, and any other ancillary fees for vendors and event organizers ( estimated $ 7136); 4) Approved the waiver of Temporary Peddler' s License Permit Fees and Business Tax Certificates for merchants participating in the event in an amount estimated to be $ 4, 550 in waived fees; 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; 6) Authorized the Director of Finance and Technology Services to allocate $ 10, 000 from unallocated General Fund reserves to the FY 26 Special Council Programs Account 100- 1- 01- 00- 531001 for costs associated with the event, and increase the budget for Special Council Programs by the same amount; and 7) Authorized the Director of Finance and Technology Services to allocate 10, 000 from budgeted funds in the Special Council Programs account number 100- 1- 01- 00- 531001 for costs associated with the event. Or Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 18. ( F.4.) RUSSIAN LANGUAGE PUBLIC LIBRARY ENHANCEMENTS [ J.
HEILMAN, C. BYERS]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider evaluating possible enhancements to the Russian Language Public Library, located at: 7362 Santa Monica Boulevard. This evaluation may include increasing funding, consideration of transitioning the funding structure to a grant -based approach, and space optimization strategies to support expanded programming to better serve the community.
ACTIONS: 1) Directed staff to evaluate potential enhancements to the Russian Language Public Library, including increased funding, the feasibility of transitioning from a reimbursement -based funding model to a grant -based structure, and space optimization strategies to support expanded programming; and 2) Directed staff to return to the City Council with a report that includes recommendations. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 19. ( F.6.) AMEND THE CITY COUNCILMEMBER LIST OF PRE -
APPROVED ORGANIZATIONS / EVENTS TO INCLUDE THE
SOCIABLE CITY SUMMIT HOSTED BY THE RESPONSIBLE
HOSPITALITY INSTITUTE [ D. HANG]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider amending the City Councilmember list of pre -approved organizations and events to include the annual Sociable City Summit hosted by the Responsible Hospitality Institute.
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organizations and events that members of the City Council are permitted to attend each year. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
C. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
C. 1. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION DECLARING RESULTS OF
MAJORITY PROTEST PROCEEDINGS AND MODIFYING THE TERM
OF THE MANAGEMENT DISTRICT PLAN OF THE WEST
HOLLYWOOD TOURISM IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT [ L. BIERY, P.
KESPRADIT, L. D' AMBROSIA]:
SUBJECT: The City Council ( Council) of the City of West Hollywood City) will consider adopting a Resolution modifying the term of the West Hollywood Tourism Improvement District' s ( WeHoTID) Management District Plan ( Plan).
Mayor Heilman opened the public hearing.
City Clerk Melissa Crowder stated that the public hearing was noticed as required by law.
The City Council noted there were no disclosures.
Business Development Manager Paolo Kespradit and Tom Kiely of Visit West Hollywood provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated February 17, 2026.
The following speaker provided public comment in Council Chambers:
LEONARD LANZI, on behalf of the WEST HOLLYWOOD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, spoke in support of Items C. 1. and C. 2.
Mayor Heilman closed the public hearing.
Councilmembers praised Visit West Hollywood' s marketing and tourism efforts, including major media exposure, hotel and nightlife promotion, and event branding, while encouraging expanded outreach to small and midsized conferences. Staff and Mr. Kiely responded with updates on new sales hires, targeted meetings recruitment despite space limits, and the upcoming launch of a redesigned tourism website.
ACTION: Adopted Resolution No. 26- 014: " A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD DECLARING
RESULTS OF MAJORITY PROTEST PROCEEDINGS AND MODIFYING
THE TERM OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD TOURISM IMPROVEMENT
DISTRICT' S ( WeHoTID) MANAGEMENT DISTRICT PLAN." Motion by Councilmember Byers, seconded by Councilmember Meiser, and approved 5/ 0.
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C. 2. RESOLUTION DECLARING RESULTS OF MAJORITY PROTEST
PROCEEDINGS TO RENEW THE WEST HOLLYWOOD TOURISM
IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT [ L. BIERY, P. KESPRADIT, L.
D' AMBROSIA]:
SUBJECT: The City Council of the City of West Hollywood ( City) will conduct a public hearing, receive public testimony on the renewal of the West Hollywood Tourism Improvement District ( WeHoTID), and consider adopting a resolution declaring the results of majority protest proceedings for the renewal of the WeHoTID, and renewing the term of the ( WeHoTID).
Mayor Heilman opened the public hearing.
City Clerk Melissa Crowder stated that the public hearing was noticed as required by law.
The City Council noted there were no disclosures.
Business Development Manager Paolo Kespradit and Tom Kiely of Visit West Hollywood provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated February 17, 2026.
There were no additional speakers wishing to speak.
Mayor Heilman closed the public hearing.
The City Council sought clarification on the majority protest proceedings, and staff confirmed no protests were received.
ACTION: 1) Adopted Resolution No. 26- 015: " A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD DECLARING
RESULTS OF MAJORITY PROTEST PROCEEDINGS FOR RENEWAL
OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD TOURISM IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
WeHoTID) AND RENEWING THE ( WeHoTID)". Motion by
Councilmember Byers, seconded by Councilmember Erickson, and approved 5/ 0.
D. LEGISLATIVE: None.
E. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
E. 1. SEMI- ANNUAL COMMUNITY SAFETY UPDATE [ D. RIVAS, A.
SHANDI]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive an update on community safety activities, including year-to- date crime data from January to December 2025.
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Community Safety Director Danny Rivas, West Hollywood Sheriff' s Station Captain Fannie Lapkin, Los Angeles County Fire Chief Drew Smith, Allied Universal Security Ambassador Program Client Manager Alan Gonzalez, and Code Enforcement Supervisor Elisa Lopez joined Public Safety Manager Anita Shandy who provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated February 17, 2026. The report gave a broad 2025 public safety update across Fire, Code Enforcement, the Security Ambassador program, and the Sheriff' s Station.
The following speakers provided public comment in Council Chambers:
KEVIN BURTON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, thanked Community Safety and emergency responders for their service, highlighted productive collaboration with LASD on bicycle enforcement, and urged completion and public communication of the City' s emergency response plan update while supporting the study of the emergency siren.
HELEN KRIEGER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, noted that while overall crime is down, traffic collisions rose sharply and urged continued investment in safe street design beyond enforcement.
ANDREW SOLOMON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, acknowledged overall
safety improvements but stressed increases in traffic violence and urged both long-term street redesigns and short-term safety measures.
KELLY PILARSKI, WEST HOLLYWOOD, highlighted rising vehicle violence, including increases in fatalities, pedestrian collisions, and hit - and -runs, urging the City to use the data to prioritize safety improvements at high - incident intersections.
The City Council largely focused on two themes, crime -response followthrough and traffic safety, and gave staff several pieces of direction.
Councilmembers questioned the Sheriff' s Department on evidence - collection delays, and staff explained lab backlogs and the criteria for usable evidence. The Council emphasized improving public understanding of how to submit video/ digital evidence ( via upload links/ online reporting) and encouraged clearer communication to residents about these tools. The City Council also asked staff to improve follow- up communications to the public on cases ( when appropriate), so residents hear not only that an incident occurred, but when arrests or resolutions happen.
On traffic and street safety, several Councilmembers echoed public concern that vehicle violence and collisions are rising, and directed staff to strengthen how traffic/street- safety data is presented in future community safety updates including more specificity, better integration with parking/ bus-lane enforcement and Vision Zero work, and consideration of Docusign Envelope ID: 26B7BB87- 9BED- 4A5A- 95AA- 6A82E715D005 City Council Minutes
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a joint Public Safety + Transportation Commission discussion. The City Council also requested updates on the City's emergency response and evacuation plans and noted an " education -first" approach for large groups of youth cyclists and a -bike riders.
Operationally, the Council discussed timelines and next steps for key programs. Staff confirmed the Community Safety Officer ( CSO) program is targeted to be in place by Pride/ June, with two CSOs ( 10- 12 hours/ day, 7 days/ week) focused on low- level, nonviolent calls, collision reports, and basic evidence collection ( fingerprints/ DNA swabs), while Sheriff' s Deputies remain responsible for citations and investigations. Council also confirmed the drone program is expected by late April, pending policy approvals, and asked for the fixed camera / Flock item to return on March 16 with options. After deliberation, Mayor Heilman summarized a majority direction to proceed with installing the fixed cameras already approved, while reserving broader vendor/license-plate-reader concerns for the upcoming March 16 discussion.
ACTIONS: 1) Received an update; and 2) Provided feedback and direction as outlined.
The City Council took a brief recess at 8: 35 p.m. and reconvened at 8: 43 p.m. ** E. 2. UPDATE OF THE FISCAL YEAR 2024- 25 YEAR- END BUDGET, FISCAL YEAR 2025- 26 MID -YEAR BUDGET, PROGRESS ON WORK PLAN PRIORITIES, AND ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGES [ J. ROCCO, O. JONES, K. BARENG, M. LINDLEY, S. PELOSO, J. JIMENEZ, R.
NAPPER]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will receive an update on the Fiscal Year 2024 25 year-end financial status and Fiscal Year 2025- 26 mid -year budget status, including proposed mid -year budget adjustments, and a report of progress on departmental work plan priorities. The City Council will also consider approval of position changes, including adding one position and converting one vacant position.
The City Council comments focused on clarifying the City' s mid -year financials and improving budget transparency. Councilmembers confirmed the FY2025 surplus ($ 3. 79M) versus the unassigned balance ($ 6. 48M) available for projects, and staff noted reserves sit within the committed fund balance ($ 85. 43M), including —$ 65M in rainy -day funds.
Councilmembers questioned a $ 1 M drop in billboard revenue, attributed to a late -recognized decline in revenue -share payments, and capital projects increase (—$ 2. 2M to—$ 17. 5M), which staff said reflects carry -forward funds, not new spending. Direction was given to improve report clarity, explain declining licenses/ permits ( tied to economic trends), and follow up on missing work plan details, including the RFP bid timeline.
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ACTIONS: 1) Received an update on the Fiscal Year 2024- 25 year- end financial status; 2) Received an update on the Fiscal Year 2025- 26 midyear budget status and approve budget adjustments identified in the attached " Proposed Mid -Year Adjustments to the Fiscal Year 2025- 26 Budget" ( Attachment A); 3) Received and file the Progress on FY 2025- 26 Departmental Work Plan Priorities ( Attachment B); 4) Approved the following position changes: a. Added 1. 0 FTE Assistant Director of Public Works, and b. Converted a 1. 0 FTE vacant Senior Maintenance Technician to a 1. 0 FTE Lead Maintenance Technician; 5) Approved the classification of Assistant Director Public Works at Grade 1400e; and 6) Approved the updated Fiscal Year 2025-276 Salary Schedule (Attachment C) reflecting all City positions and associated salaries in order to meet the California Public Employees' Retirement System requirements of Government Code § 20636( b)( 1). Motion by Councilmember Meister, seconded by Vice Mayor Hang, and approved ( 5/ 0).
E. 3. FINDING OF DEFAULT OF ESTATE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION, INC. REGARDING CIP NO. 2506, FY2025 CONCRETE
REHABILITATION PROJECT AND AUTHORIZATION TO PROCEED
WITH TERMINATION FOR DEFAULT [ H. COLLINS, J. GILMOUR, J.
RICO]:
SUBJECT.- The City Council will consider finding Estate Design and Construction, Inc. in default on C/ P No. 2506, FY2025 Concrete Rehabilitation Project, and authorizing City staff to terminate the contractor and award a contract to complete the project to Gentry General Engineering, Inc.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F. NEW BUSINESS:
F. 1. CONSTRUCTION AGREEMENT WITH CROSSTOWN ELECTRICAL & DATA, INC. TO CONSTRUCT CIP 2004, SUNSET/ SANTA MONICA
FIBER LOOP PROJECT [ H. COLLINS, J. GILMOUR]:
SUBJECT.- The City Council will consider approval of a Construction Agreement with Crosstown Electrical & Data, Inc. to construct CIP 2004, Sunset/Santa Monica Fiber Loop Project.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F. 2. REQUEST FOR FINANCING COMMITMENT LETTER AND
AUTHORIZATION TO ISSUE LOAN FROM THE AFFORDABLE
HOUSING TRUST FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $ 4, 245, 000 FOR
ACQUISITION FINANCING AT 1006 AND 1010 N. EDINBURGH
AVENUE [ S. CAMPBELL, A. BARTLE]:
SUBJECT.- The City Council will consider issuing a commitment letter and loan from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund to West Hollywood Community Housing Corporation, a non-profit housing developer and Docusign Envelope ID: 26B7BB87- 9BED- 4A5A- 95AA- 6A82E715D005 City Council Minutes
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operator, in the amount of $4, 245, 000 for acquisition financing at 1006 and 1010 N. Edinburgh Avenue.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F. 3. CO- SPONSORSHIP OF PLANT BASED TREATY' S 2026 FOOD DAY IN WEHO EVENT [ C. BYERS]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider approving a Co -Sponsorship Agreement for the " Food Day in WeHo" event, organized by Plant Based Treaty Los Angeles on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at Plummer Park.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
FA. RUSSIAN LANGUAGE PUBLIC LIBRARY ENHANCEMENTS [ J.
HEILMAN, C. BYERS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider evaluating possible enhancements to the Russian Language Public Library, located at: 7362 Santa Monica Boulevard. This evaluation may include increasing funding, consideration of transitioning the funding structure to a grant -based approach, and space optimization strategies to support expanded programming to better serve the community.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F. 5. KINGS ROAD PARK FACILITY AVAILABILITY [ J. ERICKSON]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will direct staff to evaluate the current Kings Road Park facility usage and consider increasing the number of days the facility is available for community reservations from once a month to every Saturday.
The following speakers provided public comment in Council Chambers:
HELEN KRIEGER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of this item, urging increased public use to maximize the park' s community benefit.
ANDREW SOLOMON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of this item, urging the City to open the Kings Road Park building more frequently, emphasizing the limited Citywide park space and the need to maximize community use despite potential neighborhood impacts.
ALASTAIR SHEARMAN, PRESIDENT OF 1010 N. KINGS ROAD HOA, spoke in support of this item, noting that it is a net community benefit with minimal neighborhood noise concerns.
The following individual submitted a Citizen Position Slip in support of the Item:
STEPHANIE HARKER, WEST HOLLYWOOD
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The City Council expressed overall support for expanding public access to the Kings Road Park building and directed staff to evaluate increased use of the facility. Councilmembers requested that formal neighborhood outreach be included, particularly to nearby residents within the immediate radius, to gather input and address potential concerns. Councilmembers also directed staff to analyze staffing needs and operational impacts associated with expanded hours. The City Council reached consensus on maximizing community use of park facilities while ensuring outreach and resource considerations are incorporated into the evaluation.
ACTIONS: 1) Directed staff to evaluate the current Kings Road Park facility usage and consider increasing the number of days the facility is available for community reservations from once a month to every Saturday; 2) Report back to Council within 90 days with an update on this directive; 3) Conduct outreach to neighbors; and 4) Conduct an analysis of staffing needed to add the additional days. Motion by Councilmember Erickson, seconded by Councilmember Meister, and approved (5/ 0).
F. 6. AMEND THE CITY COUNCILMEMBER LIST OF PRE -APPROVED
ORGANIZATIONS / EVENTS TO INCLUDE THE SOCIABLE CITY
SUMMIT HOSTED BY THE RESPONSIBLE HOSPITALITY INSTITUTE
D. HANG]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider amending the City Councilmember list of pre -approved organizations and events to include the annual Sociable City Summit hosted by the Responsible Hospitality Institute.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F. 7. BILLBOARD SATURATION STUDY [ L. MEISTER]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider directing Staff to conduct a Billboard Saturation Study, which would evaluate the value and revenue impacts associated with allowing the installation of new billboards in West Hollywood, beyond the billboards currently under construction, approved, or in review under the Sunset Arts & Advertising Program ( SAAP).
The following individuals submitted a Citizen Position Slips in support of the Item:
STEPHANIE HARKER, WEST HOLLYWOOD
VICTOR OMELCZENKO, WEST HOLLYWOOD
The City Council' s discussion centered on the timing and necessity of a proposed billboard saturation study. While the item' s sponsor raised concerns about the rapid expansion of billboard inventory since the 2021 study, warning of potential market oversupply, revenue dilution, and impacts to the Sunset Strip' s premium advertising brand, most Docusign Envelope ID: 26B7BB87- 9BED- 4A5A- 95AA- 6A82E715D005 City Council Minutes
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Councilmembers felt the analysis was premature. Councilmembers emphasized the City' s reliance on billboard revenue and the importance of prioritizing activation of already approved and pending projects, many of which remain in the pipeline due to prior delays. Concerns were also raised about staff workload and the City's fixed- rate revenue agreements, which may mitigate short-term market risk. The City Council direction to staff, though informal, focused on expediting current billboard implementation, monitoring financial and market performance as projects come online, and revisiting a saturation or performance study after the current development cycle is complete. With limited support to proceed, the City Council tabled the item for future consideration.
ACTION: This Item was Tabled to a Date Uncertain.
EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR: None.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
RICHARD EASTMAN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding various issues in the City.
KELLY PILARSKI, WEST HOLLYWOOD, requested clarity on the $ 15 million capital improvement spending lag, asking where project delays are occurring, and expressed appreciation for progress at Plummer Park while hoping it finishes on time and on budget.
COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS AND MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORTS:
Councilmember Byers reported her attendance at the Civic Well Policy Bridge Summit in Sacramento focused on climate, energy, and infrastructure and the City' s Commissioner and Boardmember Lobby Day/ Legislative Advocacy Day in Sacramento.
She also reported her attendance at the Westside Cities Council of Governments meeting, where she was selected to serve as the new regional Council Chair for SCAG.
She concluded her comments by recognizing Lunar New Year and Black History Month.
Councilmember Meister reported her attendance at the Metro press conference on the K- Line extension and the I Love Flagging event at West Hollywood Park. She announced the upcoming Senior ( Older Adult) Dance, " Midnight in Manhattan," on February 22, and thanked her appointee to the Social Justice Advisory Board Kenneth Jones, noting that they are moving, so she will be seeking a replacement.
Councilmember Erickson reported his attendance at City events, including multiple Winter Sounds concerts, and thanked staff for producing well -attended, high -quality programming. He also expressed appreciation to colleagues and community members who supported the Kings Road Park item. Additionally, he noted the upcoming observance of Ash Wednesday and shared local service information. Councilmember Erickson referenced attending and supporting a public rally held earlier at West Docusign Envelope ID: 26B7BB87- 9BED- 4A5A- 95AA- 6A82E715D005 City Council Minutes
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Hollywood Park and announced plans to bring forward a future Council agenda item related to the concerns raised at that event.
Vice Mayor Hang commenced his comments by recognizing the Lunar New Year, sharing reflections on the Year of the Fire Horse, and offering well wishes for strength, courage, and prosperity in the year ahead. He reported his attendance at multiple ribbon cuttings, including Project Angel Food' s unveiling of the Chuck Lorre Kitchen and the opening of Beverly Hills Rejuvenation, participated in the Great Kindness Week Challenge at West Hollywood Elementary, the UCLA Williams Institute event, attended the WeHo Advocacy Day in Sacramento, the Metro press conference on the K- Line extension and community events, including the grand opening of Stripper Circus at Beaches Tropicana, noting its return ahead of GoGo Appreciation Day. He concluded his comments by thanking his colleagues for advancing community items FA and F. 5, emphasizing the importance of parks and community spaces in bringing residents together.
Mayor Heilman reported his attendance at the Metro Rail Rally, Project Angel Food kitchen opening, Beverly Hills Rejuvenation grand opening, door judging at West Hollywood Elementary, the Winter Sounds concert, the Pride House event, the Williams Institute Jazz Brunch, the City Council Finance & Budget Subcommittee meeting, the Sanitation District meeting, and the Democratic Mayors' Reception in Los Angeles. He thanked staff, regional partners, and the community for advancing the effort with the Metro K line extension and acknowledged a public safety concern raised by a resident regarding security gate codes being written on buildings, recognizing it as a community safety risk.
ADJOURNMENT: The City Council adjourned at 9: 30 p. m. in memory of Reverand Jesse Jackson, Sum Chiu Mew Lo, LA County Sheriff Deputy Brian Sneed, and Anthony Dane Sambrano to its next regular meeting, which will be on Monday, March 2, 2026, 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 2nd day of March, 2026 by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmember: Byers, Erickson, Meister, Vice Mayor Hang, and Mayor Heilman.
NOES: Councilmember: None.
ABSENT: Councilmember: None.
ABSTAIN: Councilmember: None.
Signed by
l/ 1.
EF
JOHN HEILMAN, MAYOR
ATTEST:
Signed by:
I' Vl( llSSa ( r6w) j-r
MELISSA CROWDER, CITY CLERK