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CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
MINUTES
MONDAY, MARCH 2, 2026
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 Heilman called the meeting to order at 6: 00 p. m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Mila Elizabeth Soskin 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.
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The City Council requested that Items E. 2., F. 1., F. 2., and F. 5. be moved to the Consent Calendar as Items B. 13., B. 14., B. 15., and B. 16., respectively.
Motion by Councilmember Erickson, seconded by Vice Mayor Hang, and approved 5/ 0.
ADJOURNMENT MOTIONS:
Vice Mayor Hang requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Katherine Hartley Short.
Councilmember Erickson requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Elda Mae Erickson.
Councilmember Meister requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Sally Kirkland.
Mayor Heilman requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Neil Sedaka.
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PRESENTATIONS:
The City Council presented a certificate to West Hollywood Elementary student Mila Elizabeth Soskin for leading tonight' s Pledge of Allegiance. all 3A[ 00191LVAILyi14LIk6
The following speakers provided public comment in Council Chambers:
TOM DEMILLE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, urged the City to celebrate Elton John' s upcoming visit to commemorate local history by creating neon signage, a walk -of -fame feature, and commemorative footprints.
ANITA GOSWAMI, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke on concerns with Agenda Item B. 10, specifically the extension of the housing contract to 2027, stressing that the research is needed much sooner because housing decisions are happening now and requesting faster timelines and greater public involvement.
KEVIN BURTON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of Agenda Item F. 2., requesting that CERT trainees be included in planning, thanked the City for the new all - way pedestrian crossing at San Vicente and Santa Monica, and urged prioritizing a similar safety upgrade at La Brea and Santa Monica.
CHAD KROGER and JT PARR, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding concerns about AI -related job loss and urged the government to create subsidies to encourage companies to hire and retain human workers.
LOGAN GRUB, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding his experience exploring different professions, emphasized the need for greater career flexibility and transparency, and proposed a government -sponsored career day to allow people to shadow professionals and explore job paths.
DAVID EICHMAN, LOS ANGELES, spoke in support of Agneda Item F. 6., noting dedicated pickleball courts at Plummer Park make the game easier and more accessible, especially for older adults.
SCOTT SCHMIDT, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF EMERALD VILLAGE, thanked the City for co -sponsoring the Cannabis Culture and Change Conference and supporting the local cannabis industry, highlighted its Statewide impact, and noted a marathon promotion offering runners medals at local dispensaries.
LYN ETCETERA, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding creating a guaranteed income program for longtime senior residents, noting it's an opportunity to strengthen West Hollywood as a true LGBTQ+ sanctuary and better support those who've lived and worked here for decades.
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The following speaker provided public comment via Zoom.
ADAM DARVISH, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of Agenda Items F. 1. and F. 2., expressed gratitude to the Sheriff's Department, and spoke about concerns with the war in Iran.
The following individual submitted a Citizen Position Slip in support of Items F. 1., F.2., and F. 5.
MIKE CARTER, WEST HOLLYWOOD
CITY MANAGER' S REPORT:
City Manager Jackie Rocco reported that the 41st Annual Los Angeles Marathon will take place on Sunday, March 8t", with temporary street closures in West Hollywood from 4 a. m. to 2 p. m., and encouraged residents to plan alternate routes and check weho.org or lamarathon. com for details. She also warned residents and property owners about residential building access codes being found written in visible areas, noting this poses a security risk, and urged removal and updating of codes while reporting any suspicious activity to the West Hollywood Sheriff's Station or the City' s Public Safety Division. Lastly, City Manager Rocco recognized March as National Women' s History Month, and announced several upcoming events in partnership with the Women' s Advisory Board, including a Women' s Health Symposium on March 7t" International Women' s Day on March 8t" at Plummer Park, and the Women in Leadership Awards on March 25t", inviting the community to participate and check the City's website calendar for more information.
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. 2., F. 1., F. 2., and F. 5., was $ 2, 086, 932 in expenditures, 17, 518 in revenue, and ($ 0) in waived fees.
B. 1., 2., 3., 4., 5., 6., 7., 8., 9., 10., 11., 12., 13., 14., 15., and 16. Motion by Councilmember Byers, seconded by Vice Mayor Hang, and approved (510).
B. 1. POSTING OF AGENDA:
SUBJECT. The agenda for the meeting of Monday, March 2, 2026, was posted at City Hall, Plummer Park, and the Aquatics & Recreation Center ARC) on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
SUBJECT: The City Council is requested to approve the minutes of the prior Council meeting.
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ACTION: Approved the minutes of February 17, 2026. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
13. 3. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER NO. 987 [ O. JONES, K.
BARENG, S. STEPHENS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council shall receive the Demand Register for period ending February 20, 2026 pursuant to Sections 37201 to 37210 of the Government Code of the State of California.
ACTION: Approved Demand Register No. 987 and Adopted Resolution No. 26- 016: " A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF WEST HOLLYWOOD ALLOWING AND APPROVING THE
PAYMENT OF DEMANDS ON DEMAND REGISTER NO. 987".
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
13. 4. COMMISSION MEETING SYNOPSES [ M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive synopses from the Human Services Commission, the Rent Stabilization Commission, the Social Justice Advisory Board, and the Women' s Advisory Board regarding actions taken at their recent meetings.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
13. 5. DANCING IN THE PARK PILOT PROGRAM RECAP AND
EVALUATION [ J. ROCCO, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO, T. RODZINEK, Y. QUARKER, S. MARTINEZ]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive an evaluation of the dancing in the park pilot program, which was a monthly program that took place in Plummer Park from June through December 2025. The City Council will consider options for incorporating this event into existing programming.
ACTIONS: 1) Received and filed the report on the completed dancing in the park pilot program; and 2) Approved continuation of the program in a modified, ongoing format incorporating music at Plummer Park into existing programming to encourage community engagement and social dancing. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
13. 6. 2025 CO -SPONSORED AND COUNCIL - INITIATED EVENTS [ J.
ROCCO, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive a summary of co -sponsored events and Council -initiated events from 2025.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
13. 7. AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH
CURRENT LIGHTING SOLUTIONS, LLC FOR STREET LIGHT
MANAGEMENT NODE EQUIPMENT, SOFTWARE, AND SUPPORT
SERVICES [ H. COLLINS, J. GILMOUR]:
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SUBJECT: The City Council will consider amending the Agreement for Services with Current Lighting Solutions, LLC for street light management node equipment, software, and support services to increase the not -to - exceed amount and extend the agreement.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved Amendment No. 2 to the Agreement for Services with Current Lighting Solutions, LLC, to increase the amount of the Agreement by $ 57, 484 for a total not -to -exceed amount of $ 114, 968, and extend the Agreement to June 30, 2030; and 2) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to the Agreement.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. B. AMENDMENT NO. 3 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH ITERIS, INC., AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR
SERVICES WITH KIMLEY- HORN & ASSOCIATES, INC., AND
AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH
H. W. LOCHNER, INC. FOR ON -CALL ENGINEERING SERVICES [ H.
COLLINS, J. GILMOUR, R. GARLAND]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider amendments to the Agreements for Services with Iteris, Inc., Kimley-Horn & Associates, Inc., and H. W.
Lochner, Inc. for on -call engineering services to increase the not -to - exceed amounts and extend the terms.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved Amendment No. 3 to the Agreement for Services with Iteris, Inc. to increase the amount of the agreement by 525, 000 for a total not -to -exceed amount of $ 1, 000, 000 and extend the term to June 30, 2030; 2) Approved Amendment No. 2 to the Agreement for Services with Kimley-Horn & Associates, Inc. to increase the amount of the agreement by $ 500, 000 for a total not -to -exceed amount of 1, 000, 000 and extend the term to June 30, 2030; 3) Approved Amendment No. 2 to the Agreement for Services with H. W. Lochner, Inc. to increase the amount of the agreement by $ 800, 000 for a total not -to - exceed amount of $ 1, 000, 000 and extend the term to June 30, 2030; and 4) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to the above -mentioned Amendments. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 9. AMENDMENT NO. 5 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH TRANSPORTATION STUDIES, INC. FOR ON -CALL TRAFFIC VOLUME AND SPEED SURVEY SERVICES [ H. COLLINS, J. GILMOUR]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider amending the Agreement for Services with Transportation Studies, Inc. for on -call traffic volume and speed survey services to increase the not -to -exceed amount and extend the agreement.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved Amendment No. 5 to the Agreement for Services with Transportation Studies, Inc. to increase the amount of the Agreement by $ 100, 000, for a total not -to -exceed amount of $ 175, 000, and extend the agreement to June 30, 2030; and 2) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to the agreement.
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Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 10. AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH
JANET SMITH- HEIMER ( DBA THE HOUSING WORKSHOP) FOR
HOUSING ELEMENT INCLUSIONARY AND DENSITY BONUS
FEASIBILITY STUDY AND ORDINANCE UPDATES [ N. MARICICH, J.
ALKIRE, F. CONTRERAS, M. MONTENEGRO]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider amending the Agreement for Services with Janet Smith-Heimer, doing business as ( dba) The Housing Workshop. This amendment aims to modify the Scope of Services, extend the agreement term, and increase the total not -to -exceed amount. These changes are intended to provide additional support for updating the City's Inclusionary Housing and Density Bonus Ordinances, as requested by Council on November 3, 2025.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved Amendment No. 2 to the Agreement for Services with Janet Smith- Heimer, dba The Housing Workshop, to modify the Scope of Services, extend the Agreement to June 30, 2027, and increase the amount of the Agreement by $ 36, 948 for a total not -to - exceed amount of $ 227, 998; and 2) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute the documents incident to this Agreement.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 11. AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH HIGHSTAKE 35 LLC DBA MERCURY PUBLIC AFFAIRS FOR
ADDITIONAL TARGETTED OUTREACH AND ADVOCACY ON THE
METRO K LINE NORTHERN EXTENSION [ H. COLLINS, T. FUHRER, D.
FENN]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider approving an amendment to the Agreement for Services with Highstake 35 LLC dba Mercury Public Affairs increasing the not -to -exceed amount of the Agreement to provide additional targeted outreach and advocacy support on the Metro K Line Northern Extension project.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved Amendment No. 1 to the Agreement for Services with Highstake 35 LLC dba Mercury Public Affairs to increase the amount of the agreement by $ 67, 500, for a total not -to -exceed amount of 142, 500; and 2) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute the documents incident to the agreement. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 12. CONSIDERATION OF A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD APPROVING FINAL MAP NO.
69443 FOR A 14- UNIT CONDOMINIUM SUBDIVISION LOCATED AT 1216 FLORES STREET IN THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD,
CALIFORNIA [ H. COLLINS, J. GILMOUR]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider adopting a Resolution approving Final Map No. 69443, a 14- unit condominium subdivision, located at 1216 Flores Street. This item is exempt from the California Docusign Envelope ID: 4B470E2D- 4631- 458A- A541- 187D8F72F48D City Council Minutes
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Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, section 15268( b)( 3) - ministerial projects.
ACTION: Adopted Resolution 26- 017: " A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD APPROVING FINAL
MAP NO. 69443 FOR THE 14- UNIT CONDOMINIUM SUBDIVISION, LOCATED AT 1216 FLORES STREET IN THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA." Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 13. ( E.2.) HALLOWEEN CARNAVAL 2025 POST -EVENT REPORT [ Y.
QUARKER, C. SMITH, M. REATH, J. HEREDIA]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive a post -event report regarding the Halloween Carnaval event held on October 31, 2025.
ACTION: Received post -event report regarding the 2025 Halloween Carnaval event and provided input related to the event. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 14. ( F. 1.) ICE -FREE ZONES IN WEST HOLLYWOOD [ C. BYERS, J.
ERICKSON]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing Staff and the City Attorney to evaluate an ordinance establishing ICE -Free Zones on City - controlled properties. This directive follows similar actions in Los Angeles County, Los Angeles City, Oakland, Culver City, and other jurisdictions throughout the country in response to the immigration enforcement actions by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
ACTIONS: 1) Directed Staff and the City Attorney to evaluate an ordinance to establish ICE -Free Zones on City -controlled properties; and 2) Directed Staff and the City Attorney to monitor similar proposals moving forward in Los Angeles County and other jurisdictions throughout California. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 15. ( F.2.) PROMOTE AND ENCOURAGE NEIGHBORHOOD RESILIENCE TEAMS [ L. MEISTER]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will direct Staff to promote and encourage the development of Neighborhood Resilience Teams, utilizing existing partnerships with neighborhood watch groups, residents' associations, and community organizations to educate the West Hollywood community on this emergency preparedness model. This initiative aims to engage the community on this topic to help expand emergency preparedness efforts at the micro level, including developing a plan at the block or neighborhood level.
ACTIONS: 1) Directed Staff to evaluate the concept of Neighborhood Resilience Teams and consider options for encouraging such efforts within the West Hollywood community; 2) Directed Staff to use the City' s communication channels to promote the concept of Neighborhood Resilience Teams and encourage community participation; and 3) Directed Staff to conduct outreach to neighborhood watch groups, tenants' Docusign Envelope ID: 4B470E2D- 4631- 458A- A541- 187D8F72F48D City Council Minutes
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groups and HOAs, community partners, and other neighborhood, community, and faith -based organizations to assist in promotion and participation in Neighborhood Resilience Teams and emergency preparedness efforts. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 16. ( F.S.) DIRECTION TO SOLICIT PROPOSALS FOR A WEST HOLLYWOOD BOOK FAIR [ J. HEILMAN, C. BYERS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing Staff to solicit proposals to establish a one- to two-day book fair in West Hollywood, with an emphasis on broad community participation and coordination with local partners.
ACTIONS: 1) Directed Staff to initiate a solicitation process, which may include issuance of a Request for Qualifications ( RFQ) or Request for Proposals ( RFP), to identify a qualified event producer to produce a one - to two-day book fair in West Hollywood to occur during Fiscal Year 2026- 27, with an emphasis on broad community participation and coordination with local partners; and 2) Directed Staff to return to the City Council with an update, which may include consideration of an Agreement for Services and a request for funding as part of the upcoming two-year budget process. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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1. REQUEST TO PERMIT A TWO- SIDED FULL MOTION ANIMATED BILLBOARD AND PUBLIC REALM ENHANCEMENTS AT 8222 SUNSET
BOULEVARD [N. MARICICH, J. ALKIRE, P. CAPORASO]: SUBJECT:
The Chrysalis Project (Project) would construct atwo- sided, full - motion animated billboard with1,000 square feet on the east - facing sign ( East Face) and 480 square feet on the west -facing sign (West Face), as well as public realm enhancements at8222 Sunset Boulevard (Project Site).
The Project issubject tothe California Environmental Quality Act CEQA) and a Negative Declaration ( 2019), with subsequent Addendum 2025), were prepared. 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 their disclosures. Director
of Development Services Nick Marichich and Assistant Director of Development Services Jennifer Alkire introduced Senior Planner Paul Caporaso, who provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated March 2, 2026.
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Councilmembers asked detailed questions about the proposed standalone digital billboard, including its size, full -motion displays, and how it exceeds the Sunset Arts and Advertising Program ( SAAP) limits as an alternative project; potential light impacts on nearby residents; distances to apartments; and how many other billboards are nearby. They raised concerns about possible obstruction of existing signs, a lack of 24-hour security, the parking layout, jurisdictional issues between West Hollywood and Los Angeles, and whether the plaza and pollinator/ monarch educational features are truly interactive or meaningful. Additionally, Councilmembers questioned whether the required public plaza component would genuinely benefit the community, expressing broader skepticism about the effectiveness of similar " public realm enhancements" tied to billboard projects.
DALE GOLDSMITH and IAN BURCHILL, on behalf of the Applicant, presented the redesigned standalone digital billboard project. They described the butterfly chrysalis —inspired structure, including laminated dichroic glass, a pollinator garden consisting primarily of native plants, terrazzo paving, educational elements related to the monarch butterfly, subtle nighttime lighting, and solar panels. They noted that the adjacent parking serves a neighboring restaurant, outlined the project' s environmental and public realm benefits, and stated that the project would generate revenue and provide in -kind sign use for the City. They urged approval consistent with the recommendations of staff and the Planning Commission.
The following speakers provided public comment in Council Chambers:
LEONARD LANZI, on behalf of the WEST HOLLYWOOD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, spoke in support of the Item, praising its innovative design, cultural and sustainability features, and projected economic benefits, including significant long- term City revenue and arts funding.
STEPHANIE HARKER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of the Item, highlighting the added green space and pollinator elements as meaningful community benefits.
The following speaker provided public comment via Zoom:
RORY BARISH, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to the Item, expressing concern that it would add to billboard oversaturation, create light and traffic safety issues, negatively impact nearby historic residential properties, and potentially worsen homelessness and security concerns in the area.
The following individual submitted a Citizen Position Slip in support of the Item:
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MIKE CARTER, WEST HOLLYWOOD
Mayor Heilman closed the public hearing.
Councilmembers generally expressed support for the project's unique design and its potential to activate an underutilized portion of the east Sunset Strip. Councilmembers also raised concerns regarding potential neighborhood impacts, security, and long- term maintenance of the glass and plaza areas.
In response to questions, the Applicant confirmed that the billboard lighting is not ultraviolet ( UV); clarified the lot split between the Cities of West Hollywood and Los Angeles; identified the location of the proposed solar panels; and stated that security would be provided through cameras rather than 24- hour guards. The Applicant further indicated that the glass would be cleaned at least monthly, and more frequently as needed, and confirmed that the sign faces are curved and may angle slightly beyond a straight -on orientation to Sunset Boulevard.
Councilmembers expressed support for approval but emphasized the need for greater transparency and accountability regarding maintenance and cleaning, including a clearly defined maintenance plan.
Councilmembers also questioned whether the City's minimum annual revenue guarantee should be renegotiated.
The City Council directed staff to explore pedestrian -safety improvements in the vicinity of the project site, including evaluation of a closer crosswalk and/ or safer pedestrian connections, in coordination with Public Works and potentially the City of Los Angeles, and to assess the addition of trash receptacles along Sunset Boulevard. Staff noted that a trash receptacle could be pursued within the public right-of-way even if outside the project scope.
The City Council further directed staff to ensure that the project's required maintenance plan ( Conditions of Approval Nos. 310 and 311) be reviewed and approved by the Community Development Department and subsequently brought back to the City Council as an informational "receive and file" item.
ACTIONS: 1) Introduced on first reading Ordinance No. 26- 04: " AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD APPROVING A DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT IN
CONJUNCTION WITH THE NEW OFF -SITE ADVERTISING BILLBOARD AND PUBLIC REALM ENHANCEMENTS AT 8222 SUNSET
BOULEVARD, WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA"; 2) Introduced on first reading Ordinance No. 26- 05: " AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY Docusign Envelope ID: 4B470E2D- 4631- 458A- A541- 187D8F72F48D City Council Minutes
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COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD APPROVING A
ZONING MAP AMENDMENT IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE NEW OFF -
SITE ADVERTISING BILLBOARD AND PUBLIC REALM
ENHANCEMENTS AT 8222 SUNSET BOULEVARD, WEST
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA"; 3) Adopted Resolution No. 26- 018: " A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD APPROVING A SIGN PERMIT AND NEGATIVE
DECLARATION AND ADDENDUM IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE NEW
OFF -SITE ADVERTISING BILLBOARD AND PUBLIC REALM
ENHANCEMENTS AT 8222 SUNSET BOULEVARD, WEST
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA"; and 4) The City Council provided further direction staff to explore pedestrian -safety improvements in the vicinity of the project site, including evaluation of a closer crosswalk and/ or safer pedestrian connections, in coordination with Public Works and potentially the City of Los Angeles, assess the addition of trash receptacles along Sunset Boulevard; ensure that the project's required maintenance plan Conditions of Approval Nos. 310 and 311) be reviewed and approved by the Community Development Department, and brought back to the City Council as an informational " receive and file" item. Motion by Councilmember Erickson, seconded by Councilmember Byers, and approved 411, noting the " no" vote by Councilmember Meister.
D. LEGISLATIVE:
D. 1. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD, ADOPTING CHAPTER 9. 46 OF ARTICLE 3 OF TITLE 9
OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE PROHIBITING DISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF FAMILY OR RELATIONSHIP STRUCTURE [ L. LANGER]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving an ordinance adopting proposed Chapter 9. 46 of the Municipal Code to prohibit discrimination on the basis of family or relationship structure, including multi -partner families, and consensually non -monogamous and polyamorous relationships. The City Council will also give direction on potential expansion of protections for polyamorous and multi -partner partnerships, mirrored after the City's domestic partnership protections.
City Attorney Lauren Langer provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated March 2, 2026.
The following speakers provided public comment in Council Chambers:
BRIAN WENKE, LOS ANGELES, spoke in support of the Item and requested that staff return with a concrete plan within 90 days, no later than 6 months.
CHRISTINA FIALHO, LOS ANGELES, spoke in support of the Item and amending the language to require the proposed working group return Docusign Envelope ID: 4B470E2D- 4631- 458A- A541- 187D8F72F48D City Council Minutes
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within 90 days ( no later than six months) with concrete policies, emphasizing that bold, timely action is needed to expand legal protections for diverse family structures and uphold West Hollywood' s legacy of LGBTQ+ leadership.
AARON HAMMERSLEY, UNKNOWN, spoke in support of the item, emphasizing that families take many forms and that polyamorous and multi -partner families deserve the same dignity, clarity, and legal protections as anyone else.
MEGAN KATZ, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of the Item and requiring that the proposed working group to return within 90 days ( no later than six months) with concrete policies, stressing that polyamorous and non-traditional families need timely legal protections and equal rights.
The City Council unanimously supported the proposed non- discrimination ordinance prohibiting discrimination based on family or relationship structure. The City Council also deliberated regarding the establishment of a staff working group to explore the creation of a local registration program and related policies for multi- partner/polyamorous partnerships.
Staff advised that a 90-day timeframe would not be feasible; however, a six- month timeframe would be realistic. The City Council agreed with a six- month timeframe for the working group to return with recommendations.
Council discussion distinguished between the creation of a local registration program and the more complex issue of extending City employee benefits, which may require a meet -and -confer process, analysis of employee healthcare contracts, and consideration of potential State law constraints.
The City Council directed staff to study both the development of a registration program and the potential impacts related to employee benefits; to return within six months with a concrete policy framework; to provide a brief progress update in one month; and to advise at a later date whether establishment of a City Council subcommittee would be beneficial.
The City Council separated staff's recommendations into two motions, as follows.
ACTIONS: Motion No. 1 - Introduced and conducted first reading, by title only, of Ordinance No. 26-06: " AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD ADOPTING CHAPTER 9. 46 OF ARTICLE 3 OF TITLE 9 OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL
CODE PROHIBITING DISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF FAMILY OR Docusign Envelope ID: 4B470E2D- 4631- 458A- A541- 187D8F72F48D City Council Minutes
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RELATIONSHIP STRUCTURE". Motion by Councilmember Byers, seconded by Councilmember Meister, and approved 5/ 0.
Motion No. 2 - Created a staff working group to develop policies and legislation for registering and providing benefits to multi -partner and polyamorous partnerships and to return with recommendations to the City Council within six months. Motion by Councilmember Byers, Seconded by Vice Mayor Hang 5/ 0.
The City Council took a brief recess at 8: 07 p.m. and reconvened at 8: 15 p. M.
E. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
E. 1. UPDATE ON MAJOR DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS [ N. MARICICH, J.
ALKIRE, S. QURESITY, B. GALAN]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive a quarterly update on the status of major commercial and mixed -use development projects, as requested.
Director of Development Services Nick Maricich and Assistant Director of Development Services Jennifer Alkire, Planning Manager Saima Qureshy, and Building and Safety Manager Ben Galan provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated March 2, 2026.
The City Councilmembers asked clarifying questions regarding the status and approval pathways of several major development projects. Discussion included whether the Melrose Triangle project would require a Development Agreement or proceed pursuant to State Density Bonus law; whether 8816 Beverly continues to qualify as a Builder's Remedy project and how such projects may be affected following the Housing Element certification; the current status of the Arts Club and 8555 Santa Monica projects, including potential entitlement extensions; and whether the projects at 9034 Sunset and 1000 La Brea involve Development Agreements or rely on State housing laws.
Staff confirmed that most of the referenced projects are proceeding pursuant to State Density Bonus or Builder's Remedy provisions without Development Agreements, with the exception of 1000 La Brea, which includes a Development Agreement currently under negotiation. Staff further clarified that Builder's Remedy projects may be modified within applicable legal parameters and noted that certain project entitlements may be eligible for extension as they approach expiration.
The following speaker provided public comment in Council Chambers:
ANITA GOSWAMI, WEST HOLLYWOOD, expressed concern that long - delayed development projects are draining City resources, displacing Docusign Envelope ID: 4B470E2D- 4631- 458A- A541- 187D8F72F48D City Council Minutes
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residents and businesses, and being reshaped under new State laws like AB 130 without sufficient community review, urging greater analysis of developers' track records and project timelines.
ACTION: Received an update on the status of major development projects in the city. Approved by consensus.
E. 2. HALLOWEEN CARNAVAL 2025 POST -EVENT REPORT [ Y.
QUARKER, C. SMITH, M. REATH, J. HEREDIA]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive a post -event report regarding the Halloween Carnaval event held on October 31, 2025.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
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F. 1. ICE -FREE ZONES IN WEST HOLLYWOOD [ C. BYERS, J. ERICKSON]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing Staff and the City Attorney to evaluate an ordinance establishing ICE -Free Zones on City - controlled properties. This directive follows similar actions in Los Angeles County, Los Angeles City, Oakland, Culver City, and other jurisdictions throughout the country in response to the immigration enforcement actions by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F. 2. PROMOTE AND ENCOURAGE NEIGHBORHOOD RESILIENCE
TEAMS [ L. MEISTER]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will direct Staff to promote and encourage the development of Neighborhood Resilience Teams, utilizing existing partnerships with neighborhood watch groups, residents' associations, and community organizations to educate the West Hollywood community on this emergency preparedness model. This initiative aims to engage the community on this topic to help expand emergency preparedness efforts at the micro level, including developing a plan at the block or neighborhood level.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F. 3. A RESOLUTION CALLING ON CASEY WASSERMAN TO STEP DOWN AS CHAIR OF THE 2028 LOS ANGELES ORGANIZING COMMITTEE
J. ERICKSON, C. BYERS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider adopting a Resolution calling for Casey Wasserman to step down from his position as chair of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics organizing committee, after recent emails were released linking Wasserman to Ghislaine Maxwell and Jeffrey Epstein.
Councilmembers Erickson and Byers provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated March 2, 2026.
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The following speakers provided public comment in Council Chambers.
CAROLINE HELDMAN, on behalf of STAND WITH SURVIVORS and the CALIFORNIA SURVIVORS' COALITION, spoke in support of this Item, noting that Casey Wasserman' s past association with Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell reflects a serious lapse in judgment that should disqualify him from representing the Los Angeles as part of LA28.
STEPHANIE HARKER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, expressed concern that taking action against Casey Wasserman could infringe on his right to due process, urging the Council to proceed cautiously and consider past cases in which individuals were pressured to step down before the facts were fully established.
DANIELLE DE LOS REYES, on behalf of SURVIVORS. ORG, shared a personal experience and urged the City Council to call for Casey Wasserman' s removal as LA28 chair, noting that his past association with Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell undermines the integrity of the Olympics and harms survivors.
LEANNE LAGOYDA, BURBANK, spoke in support of the Item and urged that Casey Wasserman resign as LA28 chair, arguing that his past association with Epstein and Maxwell undermines the integrity of LA28.
The following individual submitted a Citizen Position Slip in support of the Item:
CATHY BLAIVAS, WEST HOLLYWOOD
The City Council deliberated on a proposed resolution calling for Casey Wasserman to step down as Chair of LA28. Councilmembers broadly expressed solidarity with survivors while acknowledging that Mr.
Wasserman has not been charged with a crime.
During the discussion, some Councilmembers raised concerns regarding due process and avoiding any implication of criminal conduct, suggesting possible language to clarify that the matter was not related to legal guilt, but rather to concerns about distraction and the moral and reputational implications associated with his documented association with Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell.
Following the discussion regarding whether to amend the Resolution to reference due process considerations, the City Council voted unanimously to adopt the resolution as written, formally calling for his resignation.
ACTIONS: 1) Adopted Resolution No. 26- 019: " A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD CALLING ON
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CASEY WASSERMAN TO STEP DOWN FROM HIS POSITION AS
CHAIR OF THE 2028 LOS ANGELES OLYMPICS ORGANIZING
COMMITTEE", and 2) Directed Staff to send copies of the resolution to the International Olympic Committee, LA28 Executive Committee, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, State Senator Ben Allen, State Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur, Representative Laura Friedman, Senator Alex Padilla, and Senator Adam Schiff. Motion by Councilmember Erickson, seconded by Councilmember Byers, and approved 5/ 0.
FA. PRESCHOOL FACILITY EXPANSION FEASIBILITY STUDY [ C.
BYERS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will direct Staff to evaluate options to expand the current preschool facility housed at Plummer Park. Options for consideration in the feasibility study could include renovating and expanding the existing facility, and/or evaluating the use of other City facilities.
Councilmember Byers provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated March 2, 2026.
The following speakers provided public comment in Council Chambers:
SHANNON HUSTON, WEST HOLLYWOOD PRESCHOOL, spoke in
support of the Item and thanked the City Council for advancing a childcare feasibility study, expressed commitment to expanding affordable early childhood education in partnership with the City, and emphasized exploring options within or beyond Plummer Park while balancing park access, historic considerations, safety, and community needs.
CATHY BLAIVAS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of improving preschool facilities but opposed converting the historic Great Hall/ Long Hall into a single -use childcare space or expanding into park open space, instead suggesting alternatives such as adding space at the Community Center or exploring other City locations.
STEPHANIE HARKER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding concerns that expanding the preschool at Plummer Park would require substantial indoor and fenced outdoor space under state regulations, potentially displacing public park uses and limiting open space, and urged exploring alternative locations while distinguishing between general public facilities and single -use preschool space.
The City Council discussed the preschool feasibility study and expressed general agreement regarding the urgent need to improve and, if feasible, expand early childhood education services, particularly in light of the Docusign Envelope ID: 4B470E2D- 4631- 458A- A541- 187D8F72F48D City Council Minutes
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growing number of families in West Hollywood and long- standing deficiencies at the existing Plummer Park facility.
Some Councilmembers emphasized that the study should not be limited to Plummer Park in order to avoid potential conflicts with the ongoing Plummer Park Master Plan and encouraged evaluation of Citywide options. Other Councilmembers expressed strong support for prioritizing Plummer Park as the logical starting point, citing its history, existing preschool presence, and visible use by families.
Councilmembers acknowledged concerns related to preserving open space and historic facilities, but broadly agreed that expanding childcare capacity is important to retaining families in the City. The City Council ultimately supported proceeding with the feasibility study beginning at Plummer Park, with flexibility to consider alternative options if necessary.
ACTIONS: 1) Directed Staff to evaluate options to expand the current preschool facility at Plummer Park; 2) Included input from the Human Services Commission and Public Facilities, Recreation, and Infrastructure Commission as appropriate; and 3) Report back to the City Council with findings and recommendations. Motion by Councilmember Byers seconded by Councilmember Erickson, and approved 5/ 0.
F. S. DIRECTION TO SOLICIT PROPOSALS FOR A WEST HOLLYWOOD BOOK FAIR [ J. HEILMAN, C. BYERS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing Staff to solicit proposals to establish a one- to two-day book fair in West Hollywood, with an emphasis on broad community participation and coordination with local partners.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F. 6. DEDICATED PICKLEBALL COURTS AT PLUMMER PARK [ J.
ERICKSON]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will direct Staff to increase the dedicated pickleball access at Plummer Park. As part of this directive, Staff will evaluate making this change in two phases. first, by adjusting the reservation system for Courts 6 and 7 to make them only reservable for pickleball use effective by or before July 1, 2026, and second, based on community outreach and feedback, by restriping those courts for dedicated pickleball use.
Councilmember Erickson provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated March 2, 2026.
The following speakers provided public comment in Council Chambers:
BENGY MITCHELL, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to the Item, noting that tennis participation is also growing nationally, many Docusign Envelope ID: 4B470E2D- 4631- 458A- A541- 187D8F72F48D City Council Minutes
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courts are already being repurposed, and the City should avoid irreversible changes and instead consider alternatives or wait for the broader park planning process.
JEFF BARTHA, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of the Item, noting that pickleball players currently have limited access compared to tennis players at Plummer Park and urging the Council to designate dedicated pickleball courts to ensure fair and reliable court access.
The following individual submitted a Citizen Position Slip in support of the Item:
MIKE CARTER, WEST HOLLYWOOD
The City Council discussed court striping, programming, and reservation data at Plummer Park, including considerations of equity between tennis and pickleball users; impacts to Tenacity's contract and revenue; resident versus non- resident usage; and the need to maintain flexibility for special events while addressing increasing demand for pickleball. A majority of Councilmembers expressed that it was appropriate to move forward with creating dedicated pickleball space rather than continuing to study the issue.
The City Council directed staff to designate Courts 6 and 7 at Plummer Park as dedicated pickleball courts, with an implementation rollout targeting an April start date; to coordinate transition logistics and community outreach with Tenacity; and to return after three months with data regarding reservations, residency breakdown, usage patterns, and programming impacts. Staff was also directed to provide recommendations at that time concerning any permanent facility modifications or restriping, as well as potential adjustments to programming on Courts 3, 4, and 5 to maximize public access.
ACTIONS: 1) Directed Staff to increase the dedicated pickleball access at Plummer Park in a phased approach by first, limiting the reservations on Courts 6 & 7 to only pickleball use effective by or before July 1, 2026, and second, restriping those courts for dedicated pickleball use; 2) Perform community engagement as needed to inform current tennis and pickleball users of the upcoming changes, scheduling, and temporary court closures; and 3) Direct staff to return in three months with a comprehensive report including reservation data, residency breakdown, usage patterns, and programming impacts, along with recommendations on any permanent facility modifications or restriping and potential adjustments to programming on Courts 3, 4, and 5 to maximize public access. Motion by Councilmember Erickson, seconded by
Councilmember Byers, and approved 5/ 0.
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EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR: None.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
CATHY BLAIVAS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding Great Hall/ Long Hall' s past lack of use was due to " demolition by neglect", not lack of community interest, and urged the City Council not to convert a historic public facility into a single -use preschool space, encouraging reconsideration and even suggesting alternative options like acquiring nearby property for park expansion
STEPHANIE HARKER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, emphasized the need to distinguish between general public park use and a single -use preschool facility, expressing concern that expanding the preschool with required fencing and space restrictions would permanently remove significant park space from broader community use and limit access for other families, urging careful consideration in the feasibility study.
COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS AND MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORTS:
Councilmember Meister reported that she administered the oath of office to Kimberly Winnick for the Public Safety Commission and noted her anticipation of Women' s History Month.
Councilmember Erickson reported his attendance at various City events over the weekend, congratulated Emerald Village and Vice Mayor Hang on the cannabis event, thanked colleagues for advancing key items, expressed appreciation to Councilmember Meister for bringing forth Agenda Item F. 2., and extended wishes for Women' s History Month.
Councilmember Byers wished everyone a Happy Women' s History Month and celebrated City Manager Jackie Rocco. She reported her attendance at the National League of Cities Transportation and Infrastructure Services Policy meeting, the Clean Power Alliance Energy Committee meeting, and the Westside Cities Council of Government, where she was sworn in as the new chair; celebrated the launch of the all - way crosswalk; and encouraged expanding pedestrian safety measures.
Councilmember Byers concluded her comments by thanking staff for implementation efforts and expressing appreciation for Council support of the ice -free zones initiative.
Vice Mayor Hang reported his attendance at various City events, including the openings of Erewhon and Clarity Eyewear and the 16th Annual National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day celebration; highlighted the success of the Cannabis Culture Change Conference, thanking staff, Emerald Village, fellow Councilmembers, and guest speakers for their support. He concluded his comments by reminding Advisory Board Members and Commissioners to adhere to the code of conduct and maintain professionalism in their roles.
Mayor Heilman reported attending the grand openings of Erewhon and Clarity Eyewear, praised the success of the Cannabis Culture Change Conference and Winter Sounds finale. The Mayor shared that West Hollywood' s adoption of the non- discrimination Docusign Envelope ID: 4B470E2D- 4631- 458A- A541- 187D8F72F48D City Council Minutes
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Ordinance received international attention through his role on the board of Outright International, noting that visiting board members who met in West Hollywood celebrated the City's LGBTQ+ landmarks, hospitality, and local businesses, generating positive visibility and economic activity for the community.
ADJOURNMENT: The City Council adjourned at 9: 38 p. m. in memory of Elda Mae Erickson, Katherine Hartley Short, Neil Sedaka, and Sally Kirkland to its next regular meeting, which will be on Monday, March 16, 2026, at 6: 00 P. M. at West Hollywood Park Public Meeting Room - Council Chambers.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of West Hollywood at a regular meeting held this 16t" 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:
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JOHN HEILMAN, MAYOR
ATTEST:
Signed by:
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MELISSA CROWDER, CITY CLERK