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CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
MINUTES
MONDAY, APRIL 6, 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. 02 p. m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Rosewood Elementary School student Asta Mandmets 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 F. 1. and F. 2. be moved to the Consent Calendar as B. 14. and B. 15., respectively.
City Clerk Crowder noted that Public Hearing Agenda Item C. 2. would be continued to the next City Council meeting.
Motion by Councilmember Byers, seconded by Councilmember Erickson, and approved ( 5/ 0).
LEVINE ACT DISCLOSURES: None.
ADJOURNMENT MOTIONS:
Councilmember Meister requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Robert Swan Muller III and the Fallen U. S. Service Members involved in the ongoing conflict with Iran.
Vice Mayor Hang requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Alex Duong and Andrea Shorter.
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Councilmember Erickson requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Jorge Discua.
Mayor Heilman requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputy Levi Vargas and Barbara Hewitt.
PRESENTATIONS:
The City Council presented a Certificate to Rosewood Elementary School student Asta Mandmets for leading tonight's Pledge of Allegiance.
The City Council presented Certificates of Recognition of Go -Go Madness and Go -Go Dancer Appreciation Month to this year's Go -Go Madness Competition winners.
The City Council presented a Proclamation in Recognition of National Poetry Month to poet laureate Jen Cheng.
The City Council presented Councilmember Erickson with a Commemorative Street Sign in recognition of his 10 year anniversary with the City.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
The following speakers provided public comment in Council Chambers. - VICTOR OMELCZENKO, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding Agenda Item B. 8. and the need to preserve and restore the historic clock building along Route 66.
TOM DEMILLE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding Agenda Item B. 3, particularly regarding concerns about the City' s sidewalk conditions and business decline, while advocating for improved accessibility and proposing a " walk of fame" concept honoring LGBTQ+ history.
ALYCIA ROSENBERG, spoke in support of Agenda Item B. 7.
STEPHANIE HARKER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of Agenda Item B. 9.
She also expressed concern that current policies are worsening housing, business, and quality -of -life conditions while reducing local control and protections.
JODY LITVAK, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of Agenda Item B. 7., and urged clearer policy direction and defined goals from the City Council to better guide staff, and appointed officials on transportation issues.
CARLA SHIRER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding advocating for unionizing temporary employees, especially those who work in Aquatics.
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LINCOLN BOHN, UNKNOWN, spoke regarding updating the municipal code and supporting unionization for temporary lifeguards to address concerns of inequities, staffing, and fair benefits.
KATHLEEN EDMONDS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding the importance of aquatic staff in providing safe, inclusive services, emphasizing the life- saving value of swim education and the facility.
WAIDE RIDDLE, MAR VISTA, spoke in support of restoring the historic Santa Monica — Fairfax clock, emphasizing its cultural and economic value to the community.
SLADE LIN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke on concerns about illegal food vendors violating health and business regulations, urging the City to enforce laws and address impacts on local businesses.
PEGGY REFINNO, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding a personal experience of an assault at The Abbey, highlighting gaps in public safety and urging the City to address such incidents
STEPHANIE HABER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding the need to increase safety measures at The Abbey, outlining specific actions to prevent drink tampering and sexual assaults.
ROGERIO CARVALHERIO, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of stronger accountability and safety measures in nightlife venues, including drink -testing access and policies to improve identification of perpetrators.
The following individual submitted a Citizen Position Slip in support of Agenda Item B. 7. and B. 9.
KELLY PILARSKI, WEST HOLLYWOOD
CITY MANAGER' S REPORT:
City Manager Jackie Rocco reported that the City will observe Earth Month throughout April with a series of community -focused sustainability and planning events. Major Earth Month activities include virtual climate workshops on April 7 and April 23, an Open Space Community Workshop on April 11 ( 1: 00- 3: 00 p. m. at the Aquatic and Recreation Center), the Food Day in WeHo Festival on April 12, a tree planting event on April 18, and the Urban Design Symposium on April 25. Residents are also encouraged to participate in the MyWeHo Climate Action Platform during April for a chance to win gift cards from local green businesses and to access the newly launched Climate Resilience Toolkit. In addition, the City is continuing its Open Space Element update to the General Plan, a State -required effort that will guide future decisions on parks, recreation, environmental resources, and open space, with an increased focus on equity, climate resilience, and community benefits. The April 11 workshop serves as a key opportunity for public input on these priorities. Lastly, City Manager Rocco Docusign Envelope ID: 719EB781- 9745- 8FAA- 83A8- DA7DD1874440 City Council Minutes
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announced the Public Safety Awards Ceremony on April 28 ( 11: 30 a. m.- 1: 30 p. m. at City Council Chambers), recognizing contributions from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, Fire Department, security ambassadors, and code enforcement.
FISCAL IMPACT ON CONSENT CALENDAR:
City Clerk Melissa Crowder stated that the fiscal impact on tonight' s Consent Calendar, with the addition of Items F. 1. and F. 2., was $ 1, 479, 850 in expenditures, $ 1, 173, 851 in revenue, and ($ 0) in waived fees.
B. CONSENT CALENDAR:
ACTION: Approved the Consent Calendar, as amended,
B. 1., 2., 3., 4., 5., 6., 7., 8., 9., 10., 11., 12., 13., 14., and 15. 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, April 6, 2026, was posted at City Hall, Plummer Park, and the Aquatics & Recreation Center ARC) on Wednesday, April 1, 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.
ACTION: Approved the minutes of March 16, 2026. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 3. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER NO. 989 [ O. JONES, K.
BARENG, Y. MARTINEZ]:
SUBJECT: The City Council shall receive the Demand Register for period ending March 27t", 2026 pursuant to Sections 37201 to 37210 of the Government Code of the State of California.
ACTION: Approved Demand Register No. 989 and Adopted Resolution No. 26- 024: " A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF WEST HOLLYWOOD ALLOWING AND APPROVING THE
PAYMENT OF DEMANDS ON DEMAND REGISTER NO. 989".
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 4. ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 26- 07 ( 2ND READING) " AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD AMENDING CHAPTERS 15. 08
AND 15. 12 OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE, FINDING
THAT SUCH ACTION DOES NOT QUALIFY AS A PROJECT SUBJECT
TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (" CEQA")
UNDER STATE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15378 AND IS
OTHERWISE EXEMPT FROM CEQA UNDER STATE CEQA
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GUIDELINES SECTION 15061( B)( 3), AND TAKING OTHER ACTIONS RELATING THERETO" [ J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 26-07, amending Chapters 15. 08 and 15. 12 of the West Hollywood Municipal Code, finding that such action does not qualify as a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA') under State CEQA guidelines Section 15378 and is otherwise exempt from CEQA under State CEQA guidelines Section 15061( b)( 3), and taking other actions relating thereto.
ACTION: Waived further reading and adopted Ordinance No. 26-07: " AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD AMENDING
CHAPTERS 15. 08 AND 15. 12 OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD
MUNICIPAL CODE, FINDING THAT SUCH ACTION DOES NOT
QUALIFY AS A PROJECT SUBJECT TO THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (" CEQA") UNDER STATE CEQA
GUIDELINES SECTION 15378 AND IS OTHERWISE EXEMPT FROM
CEQA UNDER STATE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061( 13)( 3), AND TAKING OTHER ACTIONS RELATING THERETO." Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. S. COMMISSION AND ADVISORY BOARD MEETING SYNOPSES [ M.
CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive Synopses from the Human Services Commission and the Older Adults Advisory Board regarding actions taken at their recent meetings.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 6. UPDATE ON PARKING STUDY FOR WEST HOLLYWOOD PARK AND LIBRARY [ H. COLLINS, V. GUARINO, B. BORTFELD]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive an update on the parking study for West Hollywood Park and Library.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 7. UPDATE ON STUDY TO AMEND DESIGN DISTRICT STREETSCAPE
MASTER PLAN ( DDSMP) TO INCLUDE PROTECTED BIKE LANES ON BEVERLY BOULEVARD [ H. COLLINS, T. FUHRER, C. CORRAO, P.
PORTWOOD]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will receive an update on the Beverly Boulevard Protected Bike Lane Project, to provide a project status update and outline the planned community engagement strategy and timeline.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. B. FY 2025- 2026 WEST HOLLYWOOOD COMMUNITY HOUSING
CORPORATION SEMI- ANNUAL REPORT [ Y. QUARKER, L. ROLLINS]:
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SUBJECT: The City Council will receive the West Hollywood Community Housing Corporation Semi -Annual Report.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 9. CONSIDERATION OF INSTALLING BIKE LOCKERS AT CITY
FACILITIES [ H. COLLINS, T. FUHRER, C. CORRAO, P. PORTWOOD]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider the procurement and installation of secure bike lockers at three ( 3) City facilities, including City Hall, Plummer Park, and West Hollywood Park.
ACTIONS: 1) Directed Staff to install bike lockers at City Hall, Plummer Park, and West Hollywood Park; 2) Directed Staff to publish a formal bid to procure the bike lockers with any additional services and return to the City Council with a proposed agreement and budget; and 3) Developed metrics to evaluate the utilization of the bike lockers for one ( 1) year and return to the City Council with an update. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 10. AMENDMENT NO. 8 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR ROLL -UP &
INDUSTRIAL DOOR MAINTENANCE SERVICES WITH R& S
OVERHEAD DOORS OF SOUTH BAY, INC. [ H. COLLINS, P. TICUN, E.
HAMANT]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving Amendment No. 8 to the Agreement for Maintenance Services with R& S Overhead Doors of South Bay, Inc. to provide roll -up and industrial door maintenance services.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved Amendment No. 8 to the Agreement for Maintenance Services with R& S Overhead Doors of South Bay, Inc. to provide roll - up and industrial door maintenance services for an increased amount of $ 100, 350 and a new total not -to -exceed amount of $ 345, 350; and 2) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to the amendment to the Agreements. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 11. APPROVAL OF A FUNDING AGREEMENT WITH THE LOS ANGELES
COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSIT AUTHORITY ( METRO) RELATED
TO THE 2023 ZERO EMISSION VEHICLE ( ZEV) CALL FOR PROJECTS GRANT [ H. COLLINS, T. FUHRER, C. VASQUEZ]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approving a Funding Agreement with the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transit Authority Metro) for the 2023 Zero Emission Vehicle ( ZEV) Call for Projects Grant to procure zero -emission transit vehicles.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved the Funding Agreement with Metro to secure and facilitate the use and expenditure of grant funds in the amount of 800,000; 2) Authorized the City Manager, or designee, to execute all documents incident to the grant award; 3) Authorized the City Manager, or designee, to negotiate changes to the agreement; and 4) Authorized Docusign Envelope ID: 719EB781- 9745- 8FAA- 83A8- DA7DD1874440 City Council Minutes
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the Director or Finance & Technology Services to allocate $ 575, 000 from unallocated reserves in the Measure M Fund for the required matching funds. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 12. AGREEMENT FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD
TOURISM IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT WITH THE WEST HOLLYWOOD
MARKETING CORPORATION ( D. B.A. VISIT WEST HOLLYWOOD) [ L.
BIERY, P. KESPRADIT, L. D' AMBROSIA]:
SUBJECT: The City Council of the City of West Hollywood ( City) will consider approval of an Agreement with the West Hollywood Marketing Corporation, d.b. a. Visit West Hollywood ( VWH), to administer a program of work for the West Hollywood Tourism Improvement District ( WeHoTID).
ACTIONS: 1) Approved an Agreement for services with the West Hollywood Marketing Corporation, d. b. a. Visit West Hollywood ( VWH), through June 30, 2035, for ongoing management and administration of the West Hollywood Tourism Improvement District ( WeHoTID); and 2) Authorized the City Manager or designee to negotiate and execute documents incident to the Agreement. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 13. CONSIDERATION OF A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD APPROVING FINAL MAP NO.
84359 FOR THE 5- UNIT CONDOMINIUM SUBDIVISION, LOCATED AT 1051 SPAULDING AVENUE IN THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD,
CALIFORNIA [ H. COLLINS, J. GILMOUR]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider adopting a Resolution approving Final Map No. 84359, a 5- unit condominium subdivision, located at 1051 Spaulding Avenue. This item is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, Section 15268( b)( 3) - ministerial projects.
ACTION: Adopted Resolution No. 26- 025: " A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD APPROVING
FINAL MAP NO. 84359 FOR THE 5- UNIT CONDOMINIUM
SUBDIVISION, LOCATED AT 1051 SPAULDING AVENUE IN THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA." Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 14. ( F.1.) DIRECTION TO AMEND THE LIST OF CITY HOLIDAYS TO RENAME " CESAR E. CHAVEZ DAY" TO " FARMWORKERS DAY" [ J.
ROCCO, A. LOVANO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing staff to amend the Municipal Code to replace " C6sar E. Chavez Day" with " Farmworkers Day" as a City holiday, and to update related City materials, including the parking holiday resolution and parking meter signage, to reflect the new holiday name.
ACTIONS: 1) Directed staff to return with an ordinance to remove " C6sar E. Chavez Day" from the list of City holidays in Section 2. 080.030 of the Docusign Envelope ID: 719EB781- 9745- 8FAA- 83A8- DA7DD1874440 City Council Minutes
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West Hollywood Municipal Code and replace it with " Farmworkers Day"; 2) Directed staff to return with a revised parking holiday resolution replacing " Cesar E. Chavez Day" with " Farmworkers Day", and to replace the stickers on the parking meters to reflect the correct holiday name; and 3) Directed staff to make additional minor edits to Section 2. 080. 030 to update the official holiday names as outlined in the staff report.
Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 15. ( F.2.) APPOINTMENT TO THE ARTS & CULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMISSION [ J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: Vice Mayor Hang will make a direct appointment to the Arts & Cultural Affairs Commission.
ACTION: Vice Mayor Hang appointed Trisha Hautea to the Arts & Cultural Affairs Commission for a term ending February 28, 2027. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
C. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
C. 1. APPEAL OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION' S ADOPTION OF
RESOLUTION NO. PC 26- 1635 CONDITIONALLY APPROVING A
REQUEST TO REDEVELOP A 40, 186- SQUARE- FOOT PROJECT SITE
ON THREE ABUTTING PARCELS WITH A SEVEN - STORY, MIXED - USE RESIDENTIAL AND HOTEL DEVELOPMENT AT 7811 SANTA
MONICA BOULEVARD AND 1114 NORTH ORANGE GROVE AVENUE
AND A DETACHED FOUR- STORY NINE - UNIT RESIDENTIAL
BUILDING AT 1125 NORTH OGDEN DRIVE [ N. MARICICH, J. ALKIRE, S. QURESITY, A. CASTILLO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider an appeal filed by Michael T.
Carter regarding the Planning Commission' s adoption of Resolution No.
PC 26- 1635, approving the demolition of all structures and parking lots on a 40, 186-square-foot project site consisting of three contiguous parcels to be tied as a single project site, and construction of a seven -story mixed - use residential and hotel building at 7811 Santa Monica Boulevard and 1114 North Orange Grove Avenue in the CC2 ( Commercial, Community 2) zoning district; and a detached four-story residential building at 1125 North Ogden Drive in the R3B ( Residential, Multi -Family Medium Density) zoning district, including a finding that the project is statutorily exempt from CEQA pursuant to Public Resource Code 21080.66 for In -Fill Housing Development Projects.
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.
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Director of Development Services Nick Maricich and Assistant Director of Development Services Jennifer Alkire, along with Planning Manager Saima Qureshy, introduced Senior Planner Antonio Castillo, who provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated April 6, 2026.
Appellant Mike Carter was joined by Anita Goswami and Victor Omelczenko and presented the appeal, arguing that the project is ineligible under the City's Municipal Code due to an insufficient lot size and poses significant public safety risks; therefore, their appeal should be upheld.
Applicant Jake Stevens, on behalf of Faring, provided background information on the project, the Bond Hotel and Residences, as a transit - oriented, sustainable mixed - use development that replaces underutilized properties with housing, a hotel, and public improvements while aligning with City goals and community input. Additionally, Mr. Stevens and Brian Wright Bushman, with Rand Pastor Nelson LLP, argued that the project is legally compliant, qualifies for the density bonus and CEQA exemption under State law, and that the appeal lacks merit because it relies on inapplicable standards and unsubstantiated safety claims.
The following speakers provided public comment in Council Chambers:
CHERYL DEAT, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to Staff' s recommendation and in support of the appeal, citing concerns with nearby Fountain Day School safety.
ROBERT BLACKMON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to Staff' s recommendation and in support of the appeal.
TORI HATCH, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to Staff' s recommendation, in support of the appeal, and in support of Fountain Day School safety.
DENA KLEINROCK, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to Staff' s recommendation and in support of the appeal.
CAROLYN CAMPBELL, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to Staff' s recommendation and in support of the appeal.
ROSS H., LOS ANGELES, spoke in opposition to Staff' s recommendation and in support of the appeal, citing concerns with Fountain Day School safety.
HUNTLEY WOODS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding safety
concerns, in opposition to Staff' s recommendation and in support of the appeal.
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ALEXIS GARDNER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to Staff' s recommendation and in support of the appeal.
BRENT JONES, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to Staff' s recommendation and in support of the appeal.
LAURA BOCCALETTI, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to Staff' s recommendation and in support of the appeal.
ANDREW PURCELL, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to Staff' s recommendation and in support of the appeal.
CATHY BLAIVAS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to Staff' s recommendation and in support of the appeal.
STEVE MARTIN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to Staff' s recommendation and in support of the appeal.
STEPHANIE HARKER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to Staff' s recommendation and in support of the appeal.
ANGELA DE SILVA, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to Staff' s recommendation, concerns with children' s safety, and in support of the appeal.
KYLE BRAZEAL, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding concerns
around the lack of planning for SB 79.
JOE CABALLERO, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to Staff' s recommendation, concerns with children' s safety, and in support of the appeal.
The following individuals submitted a Citizen Position Slip in opposition to the Staffs recommendation and in support of the Appeal:
CHRISTINA JONES, WEST HOLLYWOOD
STEPHANIE VISSEL, WEST HOLLYWOOD
LOREN KALIN, PALOS VERDES
TOM WILSON, WEST HOLLYWOOD
EVELYN JOHNSON JR., LOS ANGELES
TOM DEMILLE, WEST HOLLYWOOD
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MIKIE FRIEDMAN, WEST HOLLYWOOD
Appellant Mike Carter was joined by Anita Goswami and Victor Omelczenko and provided their rebuttal arguments.
Applicant Jake Stevens provided their rebuttal arguments.
The City Council took a recess at 8: 11 p.m. and reconvened at 8: 21 p.m.
Councilmembers questioned the project' s eligibility, density bonus waivers, lot tie requirements, and potential safety and school impacts.
Staff clarified that State law broadly allows waivers of development standards, lot ties are governed ministerially under the Subdivision Map Act, and the project' s configuration and approvals align with applicable legal frameworks while certain community arrangements ( like parking) were informal and temporary.
Mayor Heilman closed the public hearing.
During deliberations, Councilmembers weighed legal constraints against community concerns, with some arguing the project failed local eligibility standards and posed safety risks, particularly regarding traffic and impacts to a nearby school, while others emphasized that State housing laws, including density bonus provisions, broadly limit local discretion and require approval if criteria are met. Overall, while acknowledging design concerns and neighborhood impacts, the majority concluded the appeal lacked sufficient legal grounds and supported denying it, alongside encouraging continued engagement on safety and community mitigation measures.
Mayor Heilman reopened the Public Hearing to inquire whether the Applicant would consider extending the agreement with the City for the use of the Orange Grove Lot that provided parking to Fountain Day School parents during school pickup and dropoff. Mr. Stevens agreed to meet with interested parties.
Mayor Heilman closed the Public Hearing.
ACTION: The City Council held a public hearing, considered all pertinent testimony, denied the appeal, and affirmed the Planning Commission' s decision by adopting the following resolution: Resolution No. 26- 026: " A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD DENYING AN APPEAL FILED BY MICHAEL T. CARTER
AND AFFIRMING THE PLANNING COMMISSION' S ADOPTION OF
RESOLUTION NO. PC 26- 1635 CONDITIONALLY APPROVING A
DEMOLITION PERMIT AND DEVELOPMENT PERMIT TO ALLOW THE
DEMOLITION OF ALL COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL
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STRUCTURES AND ALL ACCESSORY STRUCTURES, MERGE THE
THREE CONTIGUOUS PARCELS, AND CONSTRUCT A MIXED - USE
RESIDENTIAL AND HOTEL DEVELOPMENT WITH 126 RESIDENTIAL
UNITS WITH 20 AFFORDABLE UNITS, LOCATED AT 7811 SANTA
MONICA BOULEVARD, 1114 NORTH ORANGE GROVE AVENUE, AND
1125 NORTH OGDEN DRIVE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA.
THE APPROVAL ALSO INCLUDES A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
FOR THE HOTEL USE AND AN ADMINISTRATIVE PERMIT FOR THE
OUTDOOR DINING AREA, INCLUDING A FINDING THAT THE
PROJECT IS STATUTORILY EXEMPT FROM CEQA PURSUANT TO
PUBLIC RESOURCE CODE SECTION 21080. 66 FOR IN -FILL
HOUSING DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS." Motion by Councilmember
Erickson, seconded by Councilmember Byers, and approved, ( 411), noting Councilmember Meister's " no" vote.
C. 2. CONTINUE PUBLIC HEARING - REQUEST TO PERMIT A TWO- SIDED
FULL MOTION ANIMATED BILLBOARD, A STATIC DIGITAL
BILLBOARD, AND PUBLIC REALM ENHANCEMENTS AT 9039
SUNSET BOULEVARD [ N. MARICICH, J. ALKIRE, P. CAPORASO]:
SUBJECT: Continued Public Hearing on a Request to Permit a Two - Sided Full -Motion Animated Billboard, a Static Digital Billboard, and Public Realm Enhancements at 9039 Sunset Boulevard.
ACTION: The City Council continued this Public Hearing to April 20, 2026. Approved during Approval of the Agenda.
D. LEGISLATIVE: None.
E. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
E. 1. RESOLUTION TO START THE PROCESS OF ESTABLISHING AN
ENHANCED INFRASTRUCTURE FINANCING DISTRICT ( EIFD) TO
PARTIALLY FUND THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN
TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY ( METRO) K LINE NORTHERN
EXTENSION PROJECT [ H. COLLINS, T. FUHRER, D. FENN]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider adopting a resolution initiating the formal administrative process of establishing an Enhanced Infrastructure Finance District ( EIFD) in order to dedicate a portion of future revenue growth to the construction of the Metro K Line Northern Extension.
Transportation and Mobility Manager Tamar Fuhrer introduced Senior Planner David Fenn, who provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated April 6, 2026.
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The following speakers provided public comment in Council Chambers.
LINDSEY HORVATH, LOS ANGELES COUNTY SUPERVISOR, praised the City Council' s leadership in advancing the Metro K Line extension, highlighting its economic and job benefits, and urged continued support for financing strategies to accelerate the project so it can be realized sooner.
ANITA GOSWAMI, WEST HOLLYWOOD, urged delaying SIB 79 and called for greater transparency on how Metro projects will be financed, including who will pay and the long-term impacts on residents and businesses.
JONATHAN FINESTONE, on behalf of the West Hollywood West Residents Association, spoke on concerns for lack of transparency on EIFD financing and warned that SIB 79 could cause significant neighborhood displacement, urging its delay.
KELLY PILARSKI, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of advancing the EIFD and K- Line project to improve sustainability and infrastructure, while also calling for clearer public outreach and transparency.
KYLE BRAZEAL, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of the K Line extension; however, he expressed concerns regarding long-term financing costs, urging the City to provide clear analysis and transparency on how the project will be funded and its trade- offs.
VICTOR OMELCZENKO, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of
transit but expressed concerns about EIFD funding diverting local revenues, the lack of regional cost -sharing, and potential impacts such as increased billboards and displacement, urging greater transparency and collaboration.
STEVE MARTIN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of the transit project and EIFD, citing past success with redevelopment efforts, while encouraging the City to improve public outreach and communication.
The City Council held an extensive conversation and expressed general support for advancing the project while acknowledging significant public concerns around transparency, funding, and potential impacts.
Councilmembers emphasized that the current action is only the first step, with many opportunities ahead to refine details, conduct outreach, negotiate terms, and ultimately decide whether to proceed based on future findings and community input, before moving forward to approve the resolution to initiate the process.
ACTION: Adopted Resolution No. 26- 027: " A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD DIRECTING
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Monday, April 6, 2026
STAFF TO START THE PROCESS OF ESTABLISHING AN ENHANCED
INFRASTRUCTURE FINANCING DISTRICT ( EIFD) TO PARTIALLY
FUND THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN
TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY ( METRO) K LINE NORTHERN
EXTENSION PROJECT AND RELATED IMPROVEMENTS." Motion by
Councilmember Byers, seconded by Councilmember Erickson, and approved ( 5/ 0).
ACTION: Directed Staff to return with an item for discussion on the impacts of SB 79 as it relates to the City' s Zoning Improvement Program.
Motion by Mayor Heilman, seconded by Councilmember Meister, and failed ( 2/ 3), noting the " no" votes of Councilmember Byers, Councilmember Erickson, and Vice Mayor Hang.
E. 2. RECONCEPTUALIZATION AND RESTORATION OF A MUSIC EVENT ON THE SUNSET STRIP [ Y. QUARKER, C. SMITH, M. REATH]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive a proposal from JJ-LA related to the reconceptualization and restoration of a music event on the Sunset Strip to take place on Saturday, October 17, 2026.
Director of Community Services Yvonne Quarker, along with Event Services Manager Cleo Smith, introduced Event Services Supervisor Megan Reath, who provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated April 6, 2026. Jeff Consoletti with JJ- LA was present and responded to Council inquiries.
The following speakers provided public comment in Council Chambers.
KODY CHRISTIANSEN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of the Item, emphasizing the cultural and economic benefits while encouraging meaningful inclusion of residents.
LEONARD LANZI, on behalf of SUNSET STRIP BUSINESS
IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT ( BID), spoke in support of the Item to boost tourism, support local businesses, and revitalize the corridor' s cultural and economic vitality.
WENDY GOLDMAN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding concerns with the event's cost and lack of pedestrian safety improvements, and asked detailed questions about vendor selection, business outreach, security planning, and decision -making for event programming.
The following individual submitted a Citizen Position Slip in support of the Item:
VICTOR OMELCZENKO, WEST HOLLYWOOD
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The City Council held an extensive conversation and expressed general support for investing in a Sunset Strip event to boost economic activity, but raised significant concerns about the rushed timeline, limited business engagement, and whether the budget, particularly for talent, was sufficient to ensure success. The discussion centered on balancing urgency with thoughtful planning, with direction ultimately focusing on moving forward while enhancing community engagement, supporting local business participation, incorporating evaluation measures, and leaving open the possibility of future budget adjustments. Direction was provided to Staff to explore booth opportunities, engage billboard companies, strengthen community outreach, and develop an evaluation process for the event.
ACTIONS: 1) Receive a proposal from JJ- LA related to the reconceptualization and restoration of a music event on the Sunset Strip and provide staff with direction regarding the proposal; 2) Approve an Event Production Services Agreement with JJ- LA, in an amount not to exceed $ 2, 800, 000, to produce a music event on the Sunset Strip to take place on Saturday, October 17, 2026; 3) Authorize the City Manager or her designee to negotiate and execute documents incident to the Agreement; and 4) Authorize the Director of Finance and Technology Services to allocate an amount not -to -exceed $ 3, 690, 000 from General Fund' s Unallocated Reserves to 100- 3- 50- 52- 531019 to cover the $ 2. 8M for the JJLA agreement plus $ 890,000 for public safety and traffic control expenses. Motion by Mayor Heilman, seconded by Councilmember Meister, and failed ( 213), noting the " no" votes of Councilmember Byers, Councilmember Erickson, and Vice Mayor Hang.
ACTIONS: 1) Receive a proposal from JJ- LA related to the reconceptualization and restoration of a music event on the Sunset Strip and provide staff with direction regarding the proposal; 2) Approve an Event Production Services Agreement with JJ- LA, in an amount not to exceed $ 2, 800, 000, to produce a music event on the Sunset Strip to take place on Saturday, October 17, 2026, with an increase of an additional 1, 000, 000 allocated to talent; 3) Authorize the City Manager or her designee to negotiate and execute documents incident to the Agreement; 4) Authorize the Director of Finance and Technology Services to allocate an amount not -to -exceed $ 3, 690, 000 from General Fund' s Unallocated Reserves to 100- 3- 50- 52- 531019 to cover the $ 2. 8M for the JJLA agreement plus $ 890, 000 for public safety and traffic control expenses; and 5) Increase the budget by $ 1 M for talent acquisition. Motion by Vice Mayor Hang, seconded by Councilmember Erickson, and failed ( 213), noting the " no" votes of Councilmember Byers, Councilmember Erickson, and Vice Mayor Hang.
ACTIONS: 1) Received a proposal from JJ- LA related to the reconceptualization and restoration of a music event on the Sunset Strip and provide staff with direction regarding the proposal; 2) Approved an Docusign Envelope ID: 719EB781- 9745- 8FAA- 83A8- DA7DD1874440 City Council Minutes
Monday, April 6, 2026
Event Production Services Agreement with JJ- LA, in an amount not to exceed $ 2, 800, 000, to produce a music event on the Sunset Strip to take place on Saturday, October 17, 2026; 3) Authorized the City Manager or her designee to negotiate and execute documents incident to the Agreement; 4) Authorize the Director of Finance and Technology Services to allocate an amount not -to -exceed $ 3, 690, 000 from General Fund' s Unallocated Reserves to 100- 3- 50- 52- 531019 to cover the $ 2. 8M for the JJLA agreement plus $ 890, 000 for public safety and traffic control expenses; and 5) Include a $ 1 M contingency as outlined in the discussion Motion by Vice Mayor Hang, seconded by Mayor Heilman, and approved ( 3/ 2), noting the " no" votes of Councilmember Byers and Councilmember Erickson.
I: I ATITS 1111111b91 ki 14* 13
F. 1. DIRECTION TO AMEND THE LIST OF CITY HOLIDAYS TO RENAME CESAR E. CHAVEZ DAY" TO " FARMWORKERS DAY" [ J. ROCCO, A.
LOVANO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing staff to amend the Municipal Code to replace " Cesar E. Chavez Day" with " Farmworkers Day" as a City holiday, and to update related City materials, including the parking holiday resolution and parking meter signage, to reflect the new holiday name.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F. 2. APPOINTMENT TO THE ARTS & CULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMISSION J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]:
SUBJECT: Vice Mayor Hang will make a direct appointment to the Arts & Cultural Affairs Commission.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F. 3. DIRECTION TO REQUIRE APPLICANT BACKGROUND INFORMATION FOR DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENTS AND SPECIFIC PLANS [ L.
MEISTER]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider requiring applicants for Development Agreements and Specific Plans to submit standardized information about their qualifications, experience, and track record. The goal is to improve transparency and support more informed and consistent decision -making in the review process for these types of development applications.
Councilmember Meister provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated April 6, 2026.
The following speakers provided public comment in Council Chambers:
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ANITA GOSWAMI, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of vetting developer applicants to ensure project viability, advocating for annual updates and quicker implementation to prevent failed developments and improve accountability.
CAROLYN CAMPBELL, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of
implementing a rigorous developer vetting process, citing past failed projects and blight caused by unqualified developers, and urged the City to hold applicants to higher accountability standards.
JONATHAN FINESTONE, on behalf of the West Hollywood West Resident Association, spoke in support of the proposed questionnaire as a simple transparency tool to provide valuable information on developer qualifications without adding new regulations.
CATHY BLAIVAS, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of requiring developer vetting, emphasizing it as essential due diligence to ensure accountability, informed decision -making, and public trust in projects that shape the community.
KYLE BRAZEAL, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of the proposal as a common-sense step toward transparency, while urging the City to go further in holding developers accountable for the delivery of projects and not leaving sites undeveloped.
STEPHANIE HARKER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of
requiring developer background information, citing past failed projects and emphasizing the need to ensure developers can successfully deliver projects that benefit the community.
JONATHAN WILSON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of the proposal, emphasizing that understanding a developer' s experience and track record is essential for successful projects and informed decision - making.
VICTOR OMELCZENKO, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of
stricter developer vetting, citing past failed projects and urging the City to prioritize proven track records and capacity before approving additional developments.
The following individuals submitted Citizen Position Slips in support of the Item:
MIKIE FRIEDMAN, WEST HOLLYWOOD
MIKE CARTER, WEST HOLLYWOOD
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RICHARD GIESBRET, WEST HOLLYWOOD
The following individual submitted a Citizen Position Slip in opposition to the Item:
JAKE STEVENS, LOS ANGELES
A lengthy discussion by the City Council ensued. They generally supported increasing transparency by requiring standardized developer background information for development agreements, emphasizing the value of understanding financial capacity, ownership, and track record before entering into discretionary contracts. At the same time, concerns were raised about potential unintended consequences, including prejudgment, added burdens on applicants, and impacts on the City's reputation and development climate. The discussion ultimately centered on balancing transparency with fairness and efficiency, with consensus to move forward while directing staff to refine the approach and return with a more detailed, workable framework.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved a requirement for applicants that will enter into Development Agreements and Specific Plans to submit supplemental information as part of their application, including company background and organizational structure; relevant experience with similar projects; and history of prior work or projects within the City of West Hollywood and other local jurisdictions, if applicable; 2) Directed staff to develop and implement a standardized process and guidance materials to communicate the new requirements, and to apply these requirements to all applicable applications submitted on or after January 1, 2027, as well as to applications brought forward to the City Council for consideration on or after that date, to allow sufficient time for outreach and transition; and 3) Directed staff to include the information provided by the applicant and any additional relevant applicant information in the City Council staff report when the application is considered. Motion by Councilmember Meister, seconded by Mayor Heilman, and approved (5/ 0).
EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR: None.
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RICHARD EASTMAN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding various topics.
KYLE BRAZEAL, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of the transit concept but raised concerns about EIFD financing, warning that long-term debt and diverted property taxes could impact City services, and urged greater transparency and public engagement.
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COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS AND MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORTS:
Councilmember Byers reported her attendance at the Metro Planning Committee and Metro Board meetings, where the Locally Preferred Alternative ( LPA) for the K- Line Northern Extension was approved, along with the Westside Urban Mayors Forum and the Westside Cities Council of Governments sub -regional bus plan community meeting.
She also participated in the Housing California Conference as a panelist discussing lessons from rent stabilization jurisdictions, attended the Los Angeles County Affordable Housing Solutions Agency Human Capital Committee ( noting progress in hiring a CEO), and attended the Clean Power Alliance meeting. In her remarks, she expressed appreciation to Staff and the community for strong advocacy supporting the K- Line extension, emphasizing that the LPA approval allows the City to move forward with financing efforts such as the EIFD. Councilmember Byers highlighted several upcoming community events, including the Rainbow Key Awards, Food Day at Plummer Park, a Human Rights Speaker Series event on April 15 featuring Elias Jashan, and RecFest at the Aquatic and Recreation Center. She concluded her comments by acknowledging the start of Earth Month, commending the City's leadership on climate action initiatives, and encouraging community participation in related events.
Councilmember Meister reported her attendance at the Employee Appreciation Lunch, the Annual Congress of Boards and Commissions, Pacific Design Center' s 50th anniversary, Women in Leadership Awards, No Kings Rallye, and Picasso Pets event.
She shared a lighthearted remark, volunteering her pet to become " pet mayor." She concluded her comments by announcing an upcoming Strategic Streetscapes Symposium on April 25, 2026, focused on urban design, mobility, and future development opportunities.
Councilmember Erickson reported his attendance at a variety of meetings and events, including Contract Cities Board meetings, the Women in Leadership Awards, and the No Kings Day Rally, commending the strong turnout and sense of regional solidarity demonstrated by community members and local leadership. In his remarks, he raised serious concerns regarding ongoing public safety issues at The Abbey, noting that multiple individuals have come forward with similar allegations over time. He emphasized that these incidents should not be treated as isolated and called for proactive City intervention. Specifically, he urged the Public Safety and Code Compliance Staff to engage directly with the venue' s ownership to assess conditions, strengthen safety protocols, and ensure accountability. He also suggested practical measures, such as maintaining accessible drink -testing resources and reinforcing preventive strategies. Councilmember Erickson concluded his comments by underscoring the City's responsibility to support survivors while holding businesses accountable to ensure a safe environment for residents and visitors.
Vice Mayor Hang reported his attendance at the ribbon cutting for Athens Services' new material recovery facility, Metro Board and LA County Diplomatic Corps meetings, the Human Rights Campaign event, the Employee Recognition Luncheon, Annual Congress Commission and Advisory Board dinner, No Kings Rally, and Women' s Docusign Envelope ID: 719EB781- 9745- 8FAA- 83A8- DA7DD1874440 City Council Minutes
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Leadership Awards, while expressing strong appreciation for City Staff and volunteers.
Vice Mayor Hang highlighted Child Abuse Prevention Month, emphasizing the City's role in raising awareness, supporting vulnerable children and families, and partnering with community organizations to promote safe and supportive environments.
Mayor Heilman reported his attendance at the Employee Recognition Luncheon, the Annual Congress of the Commission and Advisory Board, the Westside City's Mayors meeting, the grand opening of Wolfgang, the Women' s Leadership Awards, the PDC 50t" Anniversary, and the Metro Board meeting. He clarified that employee unionization requests are handled by Staff and Human Resources, not the City Council. He announced a sexual assault awareness event on April 12 focused on prevention tools and education, and supported initiating discussions with The Abbey to strengthen safety measures and prevent future incidents.
ADJOURNMENT: The City Council adjourned at 12. 02 a. m. in memory of Robert Muller, fallen U. S. Service Members involved in the ongoing conflict with Iran, Alex Duong, Andrea Shorter, Jorge Discua, Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputy Levi Vargas, and Barbara Hewitt to a Special Study Session which will be on Monday, April 20, 2026 at 5. 00 P. M., followed by the Adjourned Regular meeting at 6: 30 P. M., both meetings will take place at West Hollywood Park Public Meeting Room - Council Chambers.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of West Hollywood at an adjourned regular meeting held this 20t" day of April 2026, by the following vote:
AYES
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN
ATTEST:
Councilmember: Byers, Erickson, Meister, Vice Mayor Hang, and Mayor Heilman.
Councilmember: None.
Councilmember: None.
Councilmember: None.
Signed by:
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JOHN HEILMAN, MAYOR
Signed by:
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MELISSA CROWDER, CITY CLERK