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CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD
MINUTES
MONDAY, JULY 20, 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: Jonah Faria 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 Agenda Items F. 1., F. 2., F. 3., and FA. be moved to the Consent Calendar as Item Numbers B. 11., B. 12., B. 13., and B. 14, respectively.
Motion by Councilmember Meister, seconded by Councilmember Erickson, to approve the Agenda as amended, and approved 5/ 0.
LEVINE ACT DISCLOSURES: None.
ADJOURNMENT MOTIONS:
Mayor Heilman requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Richard Albertelli.
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PRESENTATIONS:
The City Council presented a Proclamation to the Disabilities Community Resource Center ( DCRC) in honor of Disability Pride Month.
The City Council presented a Certificate to Jonah Faria for leading tonight' s Pledge of Allegiance.
The City Council presented a Proclamation to the West Hollywood Aquatic Swim and Water Polo Teams (WH2O) in recognition of their achievements.
The City Council presented a Proclamation to the West Hollywood Soccer Club for competing in the 2026 Gay Games.
The City Council presented a proclamation to the West Hollywood Community Housing Corporation for their years of service in building affordable housing.
CITY MANAGER' S REPORT:
City Manager Jackie Rocco provided an update on the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power ( LADWP) water main break on July 16. She also announced that the City's Seismic Retrofit Grant Program will conclude in September and advised property owners that the State' s CalQuakes Earthquake Multi - Unit Retrofit ( EMR) Program is expected to open on August 19 for eligible multifamily residential buildings with five to ten units. She invited the community to participate in National Night Out on August 4, highlighting the event's role in strengthening neighborhood partnerships and promoting public safety. Finally, she reported that the California Department of Housing and Community Development has determined that West Hollywood must now offer the State' s SB 35 streamlined ministerial approval process for qualifying housing developments because the City has produced less than half of its Regional Housing Needs Assessment ( RHNA) housing target during the current planning cycle. She noted that the streamlined process is optional for eligible applicants and encouraged anyone seeking additional information to contact the Community Development Department.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
DAVID NASH & RICK WATTS, on behalf of the DISABILITIES ADVISORY BOARD, urged the City to implement stronger regulations and technology to address sidewalk obstructions caused by delivery robots, e- scooters, and e- bikes, including geofencing, improved parking controls, and consideration of restricting or banning delivery robots.
TOM DEMILLE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of stronger regulations for delivery robots, including requirements for visible identification, while also expressing concerns about public safety, repeated assaults, and aging infrastructure.
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STEVE MARTIN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in gratitude and support of Agenda Item B. 7. and spoke regarding concerns raised by a Planning Commissioner regarding SB79.
KEVIN BURTON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding Items F. 1. and F. 3., noting he supported improved towing signage near the WeHo Gateway parking garage and recommended including evacuation planning in the City's wildfire preparedness communications.
LIZ BLACKMAN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding concerns on Agenda Item F. 2., citing the organization' s success in rescuing and assisting animals in need.
EUGENE MAYSKY, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of Agenda Item E. 1., and called for stronger enforcement of the Rent Stabilization Ordinance, increased tenant outreach, and improved compliance with housing regulations.
CALVIN LAIRD, WEST HOLLYWOOD, shared his personal experiences with inadequate landlord compliance and advocated for stronger enforcement of tenant protections.
DONNA CAGGIANO, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding concerns with ongoing management deficiencies at her apartment building, including the lack of an available resident manager, and urged stronger enforcement of resident manager requirements.
JAMES CROAK, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to the City's Flock license plate reader contract, expressing concerns about surveillance, privacy, data security, and the expansion of monitoring technologies.
EITAN CASPI, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding repeated code enforcement and resident manager compliance issues at his apartment building and requested more effective City follow-up and enforcement.
RENEE SOTILE & MJ GODGES, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of Agenda Item F. 2., thanked the City for expanding contracted animal shelter and veterinary services, and emphasized the need for more accessible local resources for abandoned and stray animals.
DIMITRI KERMANI, BOZEMAN, MT, thanked the City Council, City staff, and the City Manager for their exceptional response and support following the Sunset Boulevard water main break that severely impacted his commercial property.
JOHN LARSEN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of stronger enforcement of resident manager requirements, citing ongoing service deficiencies at his apartment building.
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DANIELLE MONTAVANO, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of Agenda Item E. 1. and called for stronger enforcement against landlords who fail to provide required on - site management and safe living conditions.
KODY CHRISTIANSEN, WEST HOLLYWOOD, expressed sympathy for those affected by the water main break and urged the Council to continue protecting neighborhoods from high -density development by considering transit -oriented development alternatives.
ALEXANDER SMITH, BEVERLY HILLS, shared his experiences with dissatisfaction with the Sheriff's services, advocating for West Hollywood to establish its own municipal police department.
The following individual submitted a Citizen Position Slip in support of Agenda Item B. 11. ( F. 1.):
KODY CHRISTIANSEN, WEST HOLLYWOOD
The following individuals submitted Citizen Position Slips in support of Agenda Item B. 12. ( F.2.):
RENEE SOTILE & MJ GODGES, WEST HOLLYWOOD ( WEHO Community Cats)
KODY CHRISTIANSEN, WEST HOLLYWOOD
JUDT SWARTS, WEST HOLLYWOOD
FISCAL IMPACT ON CONSENT CALENDAR:
City Clerk Melissa Crowder stated that the fiscal impact on tonight' s Consent Calendar with the additions of Item numbers EA., E. 2., E. 3., and EA. was $ 249, 996 in expenditures, $ 654, 505 in revenue, and ($ 72, 468) 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., and 14. Motion by Councilmember Erickson, seconded by Councilmember Meister, and approved ( 5/ 0).
B. 1. POSTING OF AGENDA:
SUBJECT. The agenda for the meeting of Monday, July 20, 2026, was posted at City Hall, Plummer Park, and the Aquatics & Recreation Center ARC) on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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B. 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
SUBJECT. The City Council is requested to approve the minutes of the prior Council meeting.
ACTION: Approved the minutes of June 29, 2026. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 3. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER NO. 995 [ O. JONES, K.
BARENG, S. STEPHENS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council shall receive the Demand Register for period ending July 10, 2026 pursuant to Sections 37201 to 37210 of the Government Code of the State of California.
ACTION: Approved Demand Register No. 995 and adopted Resolution No. 26- 055: " A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
WEST HOLLYWOOD ALLOWING AND APPROVING THE PAYMENT OF
DEMANDS ON DEMAND REGISTER NO. 995". Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 4. TREASURER' S REPORT FOR MAY 2026 [ O. JONES, K. BARENG, S.
PELOSO, C. JAUREGUI]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will receive the Treasurer' s Reports for the month ended May 2026 pursuant to Section 53646 of the Government Code of the State of California.
ACTION: Received and filed the May 2026 Treasurer's Report. 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 Public Facilities, Recreation, & Infrastructure Commission, the Public Safety Commission, and the Disabilities Advisory Board.
Board regarding actions taken at their recent meetings.
ACTION: Received and filed. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 6. AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH PUBLIC ADVERTISING AGENCY, INC. FOR SEASONAL CITY RECREATION BROCHURE - DESIGN,
PRINTING, AND MAILING SERVICES [ Y. QUARKER, S. MARTINEZ, A.
YANEZ, D. ALHADAD]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider an Agreement for Services with Public Advertising Agency, Inc. for the design, printing, and mailing of the seasonal recreation brochure and postcard.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved Agreement for Services with Public Advertising Agency, Inc. for a three ( 3) year period with an option for two (2) one-year extensions for the design, printing, and mailing of the seasonal recreation brochure for the total not -to -exceed amount of $ 229, 995. 80; and 2) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to the Agreement. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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B. 7. THREE- YEAR CO- SPONSORSHIP OF AIDS WALK LOS ANGELES FOR 2026 THROUGH 2O28 [ Y. QUARKER, C. SMITH, M. REATH]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider approving a three- year cosponsorship of AIDS Walk Los Angeles, including use of West Hollywood Park and surrounding streets, fee waivers, street closures, reduced parking rates, and authorization for the City Manager to execute related agreements and negotiate minor annual requests for the 2026, 2027, and 2028 events.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved a three- year co- sponsorship of AIDS Walk Los Angeles, an annual fundraiser, to be held in West Hollywood Park and on surrounding streets on the following dates: Sunday, October 18 ( 2026), Sunday, October 17 ( 2027), and Sunday, October 15 ( 2028), 2) Approved the waiver of City fees associated with the event for 2026 through 2028, including: Street Closure fees, Special Event Permit fees, Major Event Park Space Use fees, Building and Safety Permit fees, Encroachment Permit fees, Film and Drone Permit fees, Facility Use and Rental Permit fees, Parking Meter fees and Post Event Inspection fees. These fee waivers are estimated at $ 24,000 annually and are detailed in the Fiscal Impact section of this report; 3) Approved the exclusive use of West Hollywood Park on the following dates: October 16- 18, 2026; October 15- 17, 2027; and October 13- 15, 2028; 4) Approved the closure of North San Vicente Boulevard between Santa Monica Boulevard and Melrose Avenue, including alleyways from 5: 00 a. m. to 5: 00 p. m. on Sunday, October 18, 2026, Sunday, October 17, 2027, and Sunday, October 15, 2028; 5) Approved the closure of North San Vicente Boulevard between Santa Monica Boulevard and Melrose Avenue, including alleyways from 5: 00 a. m. to 5: 00 p. m. on Sunday, October 18, 2026, Sunday, October 17, 2027, and Sunday, October 15, 2028; 6) Approved the closure of Santa Monica Boulevard between Doheny Drive and La Cienega Boulevard from 7: 00 a. m. to 3: 00 p. m. on Sunday, October 18, 2026, Sunday, October 17, 2027, and Sunday, October 15, 2028; 7) Approved a reduced parking rate of $ 6 per vehicle per day in the Five -Story Parking Structure for production staff, crew, and dignitary parking for the years 2026 through 2028; and 8) Authorized the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to the annual co- sponsorship, including an annual Permit to Use City Property Agreement that defines facility uses, street closures and the terms of the relationship between the City of West Hollywood and APLA Health & Wellness for years 2026 through 2028. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. B. RESOLUTION AMENDING THE SCHEDULES FOR THE
INCLUSIONARY HOUSING PROGRAM FOR 2026- 2027 [ Y. QUARKER, L. ROLLINS, G. AVILES. S. CAMPBELL, A. BARTLE]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider adopting a Resolution amending the schedules for the Inclusionary Housing Program setting 2026- 27 rent limits and income requirements.
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ACTION: Adopted Resolution No. 26- 056: " A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD AMENDING
THE INCLUSIONARY HOUSING SCHEDULES." Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 9. ADOPT A RESOLUTION AND APPROVE THE EXECUTION OF A
COOPERATION AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF WEST
HOLLYWOOD AND THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY
DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY FOR THE COUNTY' S CONSOLIDATED
PLAN FOR FISCAL YEARS 2027- 29 ( JULY 1, 2027 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2030) [ O. JONES, M. LINDLEY]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider adopting a resolution authorizing and approving the execution of a cooperation agreement with the County of Los Angeles Development Authority ( LACDA) for participation in the Urban County Community Development Block Grant ( CDBG) Program for the period of July 1, 2027, through June 30, 2030.
ACTIONS: 1) Adopted Resolution No. 26- 057: " A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA,
APPROVING PARTICIPATION IN THE LOS ANGELES URBAN
COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM";
and 2) Authorized the City Manager or their designee to sign a Cooperation Agreement with the Los Angeles County Development Authority. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 10. CO- SPONSORSHIP OF REWRITE THE BILINE' S " WRITE US IN" SUMMIT DURING BI+ VISIBILITY WEEK [ J. ROCCO, A. LOVANO, J.
DEL TORO, M. MARQUEZ]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider a Co -Sponsorship Agreement with Rewrite the BiLine' s panel " Write Us In Summit: Reclaiming Bi+ and Polyamorous Storylines, " to be held in the West Hollywood City Council Chambers on Saturday, September 19, 2026 in recognition of Bi+ Visibility Week.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved a Co -Sponsorship Agreement with Rewrite the BiLine for the " Write Us In" summit to be held in the West Hollywood City Council Chambers on Saturday, September 19, 2026; 2) Authorized the City Manager to execute documents incident to the Agreement; 3) Authorized the use of the City name and logo on invitations, programs, and other collateral materials; 4) Waived the Facility Use Fee for the use of the West Hollywood City Council Chambers ($ 468); 5) Waived parking at the 5- story parking structure for an estimated 100 attendees ($ 1, 028); and 6) Directed the Communications Department to utilize all appropriate communication tools to promote the event. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
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B. 11. ( F. 1.) REVIEW OF HIGH - FREQUENCY TOWING LOCATIONS [ J.
HEILMAN]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider directing staff to review high - frequency towing locations to reduce the burden and costs that towing can incur, especially on residents, and to make recommendations for improved signage, lighting, and/or other solutions that would make it clearer to drivers that towing in those locations is a possibility.
ACTIONS: 1) Directed staff to review high -frequency towing locations to reduce the burden and costs that towing can incur, especially on residents; 2) Directed staff to make recommendations for improved signage, lighting, and/ or other solutions that would make it clearer to drivers that towing in high -frequency towing locations is a possibility; and 3) Directed staff to also review other areas, such as existing valet zones that are no longer being operated, to remove them or to make improvements. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 12. ( F.2.) EXPANSION OF CONTRACTED SHELTER AND VETERINARY SERVICES FOR UNSHELTERED ANIMALS [ L. MEISTER]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider directing staff to identify one or more new contractors to offer more localized shelter services for unsheltered animals, and to designate funding to cover these services, as needed.
ACTIONS: 1) Directed staff to engage in outreach to local veterinary clinics, animal shelters, nonprofit organizations, and/ or local businesses interested in partnering with the City and capable of offering temporary shelter for unsheltered animals closer to West Hollywood than the current providers; and 2) Authorized the Director of Finance & Technology Services to allocate up to $ 15, 000 from budgeted funds in the Special Council Programs account number 100- 1- 01- 00- 531001 for costs associated with these new contracts. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 13. ( F.3.) FIRE DISASTER PREPAREDNESS FOR RESIDENTS AND
BUSINESSES IN VERY HIGH FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES
FHSZ) [ L. MEISTER]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider directing staff to develop fire disaster preparedness training, as well as supporting communications and resources, specifically for residents and businesses within the Fire Hazard Severity Zone ( FHSZ) designated " Very High FHSZ. " Additionally, the City Council will consider directing staff to review zoning and parking requirements that may add to fire vulnerability and hinder fire -related evacuations in that FHSZ.
ACTIONS: 1) Directed staff to develop fire disaster preparedness training specifically for residents and businesses in the FHSZ designated " Very High"; 2) Directed staff to incorporate this discussion into the work plan for the Disabilities Advisory Board and Older Adult Advisory Board to provide input and engagement on the topic of emergency preparedness, Docusign Envelope ID: 88DC25D6- 1DOD- 86B1- 82F3- 14A5D01FFOOC City Council Minutes
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particularly for the disabilities and access and functional needs community; 3) Directed staff to develop communications and other resources to adequately reach targeted communities; and 4) Directed staff to evaluate zoning, including residential density and parking requirements, that may impact public health and safety and, if warranted, explore potential exemptions for Very High FHSZ from SB 79 and Density Bonus Laws. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
B. 14. ( F.4.) EVALUATION OF A POTENTIAL BLUE ENVELOPE PROGRAM IN WEST HOLLYWOOD [ J. ERICKSON]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider directing Staff to evaluate and potentially implement a local Blue Envelope Program, a communication resource designed to help community members feel safer and more supported during interactions with law enforcement or first responders.
ACTION: 1) Directed Staff to research and evaluate the potential implementation of a voluntary local Blue Envelope Program and return to the City Council for further direction; and 2) Directed the Community Development Department to pay special attention to the Very High Fire Hazard Severity designated zone and study whether special considerations, zoning, protections and/or exemptions should be in place when drafting zoning regulations applicable to the VHFSZ. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
C. PUBLIC HEARINGS: None.
D. LEGISLATIVE:
D. 1. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD AMENDING CHAPTER 3. 36 ( BUSINESS LICENSE TAX) OF THE WEST
HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE TO EXTEND FOR ONE
YEAR A TEMPORARY TAX REBATE FOR ALL ELIGIBLE CANNABIS
BUSINESSES THROUGH JUNE 30, 2027 [ O. JONES, A. RUIZ, L.
BIERY, P. KESPRADIT, L. D' AMBROSIA]:
SUBJECT.- The City Council will consider an Ordinance to extend the temporary cannabis business tax rebate at a rate of 1 % or 2% to June 30, 2027.
Director of Economic Development Laura Biery and Business Development Analyst Laura D' Ambrosia provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated July 20, 2026.
Councilmembers discussed the proposed cannabis business tax rebate and supported providing some level of rebate, while expressing concerns about ensuring that cannabis businesses fulfill the commitments made in their original license applications. Councilmembers questioned whether the City has ever monitored or audited the social equity and community benefit components of the licensing process and agreed that additional Docusign Envelope ID: 88DC25D6- 1DOD- 86B1- 82F3- 14A5D01FFOOC City Council Minutes
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information is needed before approving any rebate. The City Council expressed interest in developing a process to verify compliance with licensing commitments and requested staff return with an assessment of enforcement and auditing practices. By consensus, the Council deferred the item to a future meeting pending additional information from staff.
ACTION: This Item was tabled to a date uncertain.
E. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
E. 1. POLICY DIRECTION FOR RENT STABILIZATION ORDINANCE UPDATE [ Y. QUARKER, L. ROLLINS]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive an update regarding the Ad Hoc Committee on Rent Stabilization' s review of potential updates to the Rent Stabilization Ordinance and related administrative procedures, including enforcement and compliance modernization, tenant protection and habitability enhancements, housing supply impacts, and regulatory gaps.
The City Council will also be asked to provide policy direction regarding the continued development of a balanced implementation framework that emphasizes education, transparency, voluntary compliance, consistent procedures, and progressive enforcement when violations remain unresolved.
Acting Director of Human Services and Rent Stabilization, Yvonne Quarker, and Rent Stabilization Manager, Leona Rollins, provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated July 20, 2026.
The following speaker provided public comment in the Council Chambers:
JOSEPH RAMOS, on behalf of the APARTMENT ASSOCIATION OF GREATER LOS ANGELES ( AAGLA), urged the City to remove the proposal linking annual rent adjustments to unresolved code violations, requested separate review of each proposed Rent Stabilization policy change, and asked that housing providers be included in future stakeholder discussions before ordinance language is developed.
Councilmembers expressed broad support for the Rent Stabilization Subcommittee' s recommendations to strengthen enforcement of tenant protections, improve compliance with the City' s Rent Stabilization Ordinance, and reduce the burden placed on tenants seeking relief. The discussion focused on creating a more proactive enforcement system, particularly for recurring issues such as the lack of on -site resident managers, by expanding administrative enforcement, shortening compliance timelines where appropriate, and exploring a tiered approach that prioritizes the most serious violations. Councilmembers also discussed distinguishing between small independent property owners and large corporate landlords to ensure policies are equitable, improving Docusign Envelope ID: 88DC25D6- 1DOD- 86B1- 82F3- 14A5D01FFOOC City Council Minutes
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enforcement of resident manager requirements and other housing services, and updating rent reduction guidelines so they better incentivize landlords to restore services rather than treat penalties as a cost of doing business. Overall, the City Council agreed that staff and the subcommittee were moving in the right direction and directed them to continue refining the recommendations and return with additional policy options.
ACTIONS: 1) Received and filed an update regarding the Ad Hoc Committee on Rent Stabilization' s review of potential updates to the Rent Stabilization Ordinance and related administrative procedures; 2) Provided direction regarding the continued development of a balanced enforcement and compliance framework that emphasizes education, voluntary compliance, improved transparency, and progressive enforcement when violations remain unresolved; and 3) Directed staff to return to the City Council following continued Ad Hoc Committee review, stakeholder engagement, legal analysis, and Rent Stabilization Commission public meetings with any recommended ordinance amendments, regulatory updates, or administrative implementation measures. Approved by unanimous consent.
E. 2. APPROVAL OF A COUNCIL DISCRETIONARY FUND REQUEST FOR
CO- SPONSORSHIP OF AMERICAN BORN CHINESE FOUNDATION' S
2026 LOS ANGELES CHILDREN' S BOOK FESTIVAL [ J. ROCCO, A.
LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider approval of the discretionary fund request submitted by various Council Offices to monetarily support the American Born Chinese Foundation' s ( ABCF) Los Angeles Children' s Book Festival in West Hollywood Park on Sunday, August 23, 2026.
Assistant to the City Manager Andi Lovano provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated July 20, 2026.
Councilmembers discussed the process for approving discretionary fund requests, with questions raised about why individual Council discretionary expenditures require full Council approval. The Mayor explained that although each Councilmember has an allocated discretionary budget, the funds remain public money and all appropriations must be approved by the City Council. Councilmembers expressed support for the proposed cosponsorship, clarified that the current request was for a reduced contribution of $ 10, 000 from two Councilmembers' discretionary funds, noted that the event organizer had originally requested $ 35, 000 compared to $ 15,000 provided the previous year), and acknowledged that additional Councilmembers could choose to contribute from their own discretionary funds.
ACTIONS: 1) Approved the discretionary fund request from the Council Offices of Mayor Heilman and Vice Mayor Hang, to monetarily support the Docusign Envelope ID: 88DC25D6- 1DOD- 86B1- 82F3- 14A5D01FFOOC City Council Minutes
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American Born Chinese Foundation' s ( ABCF) Los Angeles Children' s Book Festival, as detailed in the staff report; 2) Authorized the City Manager, or designee, to negotiate and execute the Co -Sponsorship Agreement for the event; and 3) Authorized the Director of Finance & Technology Services to allocate $ 10, 000 from the Council Discretionary Funds, account 100- 1- 01- 00- 531001 in FY27 to support costs associated with the event. Motion by Councilmember Byers, seconded by Vice Mayor Hang, and approved ( 5/ 0).
E. 3. WESTSIDE BUS CONNECTION AND PROPOSED LA CIENEGA
BOULEVARD BUS / BIKE LANES [ H. COLLINS, T. FUHRER, D. FENN]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will receive a presentation on the Westside Cities Council of Governments ( WSCCOG) Westside Bus Connection Project and proposed bus/bike lanes on La Cienega Boulevard and consider directing staff to communicate the City Council' s preferred option to the WSCCOG to proceed with design of bus speed and reliability improvements within West Hollywood, contingent on the participation of the City of Los Angeles, capital cost neutrality for the City, and inclusion of adjacent neighborhood traffic calming improvements in the project scope.
Director of Public Works Helen Collins, Transportation and Mobility Manager Tamar Fuhrer, and Senior Planner David Fenn provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated July 20, 2026.
The following speakers provided public comment in the Council Chambers:
KEVIN BURTON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of the
recommendation for 24- hour dedicated bus and bike lanes on La Cienega Boulevard, suggesting they also serve as emergency vehicle lanes to improve transit reliability, emergency response, bicycle connectivity, and access to the D Line in advance of the 2028 Olympics.
HELEN KREIGER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in support of the
proposed 24/ 7 bus and bike lanes on La Cienega Boulevard, emphasizing that the project would improve first- mile/ last- mile connections to the D Line, enhance regional transit and bicycle access, reduce traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions, and help prepare the region for increased transportation demands during the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Councilmembers discussed the proposed 24- hour dedicated bus and bike lanes on La Cienega Boulevard, with the majority expressing support for the project as a regional mobility improvement that would enhance transit reliability, strengthen first-mile/ last-mile connections to the D Line, improve bicycle access, support emergency vehicle response, and help prepare the region for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Supporters Docusign Envelope ID: 88DC25D6- 1DOD- 86B1- 82F3- 14A5D01FFOOC City Council Minutes
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emphasized the value of regional collaboration through the Westside COG, the project's cost -neutral " quick build" approach, and the need to provide alternatives to automobile travel while encouraging Metro to increase bus frequency. Councilmembers also discussed maintaining contingency plans in case neighboring jurisdictions do not participate, including exploring a bike -only alternative. Concerns were raised regarding the project' s potential impacts on vehicle traffic, parking, valet operations, and whether the public outreach and survey process adequately represented all roadway users.
ACTIONS: 1) Received and filed a presentation on the Westside Cities Council of Governments ( WSCCOG) Westside Bus Connection Project and bus/bike lanes proposed on La Cienega Boulevard; 2) Directed staff to communicate the City Council' s preferred option ( the 24- hour ( all -day) dedicated bus and bike lanes on La Cienega Boulevard) to the WSCCOG for proposed bus speed and reliability improvements within West Hollywood, including whether to proceed with design as recommended by the WSCCOG consultant, subject to the participation of the City of Los Angeles, capital cost neutrality for the City, and inclusion of adjacent neighborhood traffic calming improvements in the WSCCOG- funded project scope; 3) Directed staff to support other bus improvements along the La Cienega Boulevard corridor such as transit signal priority and improvements to bus stops and service regardless of bus lane implementation; and 4) Directed staff to send a letter to Metro requesting they reduce headways on the Metro 105 bus from 10- minute to 7. 5- minute peak hour headways and seek WSCCOG support for the same. Motion by Councilmember Erickson, seconded by Councilmember Byers, and approved 3/ 2, noting the " no" votes of Councilmember Meister and Mayor Heilman.
The City Council took a brief recess at 8:38 and reconvened at 8: 47 p.m.
EA. FOLLOW- UP ON CITY COUNCIL DIRECTION REGARDING THE
AUTOMATED LICENSE PLATE READER CAMERA PROGRAM AND
THE CITY' S PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH FLOCK
SAFETY [ L. LANGER, D. RIVAS, A. SHANDI]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will receive a follow-up report regarding implementation of prior City Council direction related to the City's Automated License Plate Reader (" ALPR') camera program and consider approving negotiated amendments to the Professional Services Agreement with Flock Safety, adopting a formal City ALPR Camera Policy, and continuing enhanced transparency and oversight measures.
Director of Community Safety Danny Rivas provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated July 20, 2026. He was joined by City Attorney Lauren Langer, West Hollywood Sheriff Station Docusign Envelope ID: 88DC25D6- 1DOD- 86B1- 82F3- 14A5D01FFOOC City Council Minutes
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Captain Fannie Lapkin, and Senior Director of Public Affairs with Flock to address inquires.
The following speakers provided public comment in the Council Chambers:
NIK ROYBAL, WEST HOLLYWOOD, urged the Council to reject the revised Flock contract, noting it contains insufficient safeguards against law enforcement misuse, federal access to data, and privacy risks affecting immigrants, domestic violence survivors, transgender residents, and other vulnerable communities.
AUDREY HENSON, WEST HOLLYWOOD, requested that the City
Council postpone approval of the Flock contract until stronger privacy protections, data ownership provisions, and limits on federal access, machine learning use, and contractual remedies are incorporated.
KRISTOF ALDENDERFER, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition of renewing the Flock contract, citing privacy, cybersecurity, and human rights concerns, and encouraged the City to terminate the program and pursue alternative public safety solutions
JAMES CROAK, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke in opposition to the City' s partnership with Flock, expressing concerns about the company' s investors, federal connections, nationwide data -sharing network, and threats to civil liberties, and urged the City to develop its own locally controlled camera system instead.
Councilmembers discussed balancing the public safety benefits of the City's automated license plate reader ( ALPR) program with ongoing community concerns regarding privacy, data sharing, and oversight.
Several questions focused on recent concerns involving Flock Safety, the status of similar contracts in other jurisdictions, how public feedback is incorporated into contract revisions, and whether additional privacy protections should be added to the City' s agreements and related public safety technologies. Concerns were also raised about implementing surveillance technology before fully developing accompanying policies and ensuring adequate safeguards under changing federal enforcement priorities. Some Councilmembers emphasized the demonstrated public safety value of the ALPR system, citing its role in recovering stolen vehicles, assisting criminal investigations, and apprehending suspects, while expressing confidence that the strengthened contractual protections and " TITAN" privacy language adequately addressed privacy concerns.
The City Council approved the revised Flock Safety Automated License Plate Reader ( ALPR) agreement with the strengthened " TITAN" privacy protections and directed staff to incorporate the same privacy language into the City' s Real -Time Watch Camera policy and agreement.
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ACTIONS: The City Council considered the following options: 1) Approved the proposed negotiated amendments to the Professional Services Agreement with Flock Safety regarding the purchase of subscriptions for ALPR cameras and authorize the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to this Agreement; 2) Approved the proposed City ALPR Camera Policy; 3) Directed Staff to negotiate and amend the Professional Services Agreement with Flock Safety related to its use of live -video cameras to be consistent with the proposed agreement changes regarding ALPR cameras and authorize the City Manager or designee to execute documents incident to this Agreement; and 4) Directed Staff to continue implementation of enhanced public transparency measures regarding public safety cameras. Motion by Mayor Heilman, seconded by Councilmember Meister, and approved, 3/ 2, noting the " no" votes of Councilmembers Byers and Erickson.
F. NEW BUSINESS:
F. 1. REVIEW OF HIGH - FREQUENCY TOWING LOCATIONS [ J. HEILMAN]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider directing staff to review high - frequency towing locations to reduce the burden and costs that towing can incur, especially on residents, and to make recommendations for improved signage, lighting, and/or other solutions that would make it clearer to drivers that towing in those locations is a possibility.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F. 2. EXPANSION OF CONTRACTED SHELTER AND VETERINARY
SERVICES FOR UNSHELTERED ANIMALS [ L. MEISTER]:
SUBJECT: The City Council will consider directing staff to identify one or more new contractors to offer more localized shelter services for unsheltered animals, and to designate funding to cover these services, as needed.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
F. 3. FIRE DISASTER PREPAREDNESS FOR RESIDENTS AND
BUSINESSES IN VERY HIGH FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES
FHSZ) [ L. MEISTER]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider directing staff to develop fire disaster preparedness training, as well as supporting communications and resources, specifically for residents and businesses within the Fire Hazard Severity Zone ( FHSZ) designated " Very High FHSZ. " Additionally, the City Council will consider directing staff to review zoning and parking requirements that may add to fire vulnerability and hinder fire -related evacuations in that FHSZ.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
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FA. EVALUATION OF A POTENTIAL BLUE ENVELOPE PROGRAM IN
WEST HOLLYWOOD [ J. ERICKSON]:
SUBJECT. The City Council will consider directing Staff to evaluate and potentially implement a local Blue Envelope Program, a communication resource designed to help community members feel safer and more supported during interactions with law enforcement or first responders.
ACTION: This Item was moved to the Consent Calendar.
EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR: None.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
KYLE BRAZEAL, WEST HOLLYWOOD, spoke regarding concerns with the City's outreach and decision -making regarding the proposed Fountain Avenue bike lanes, announced an upcoming community event to organize resident opposition, and urged the City to rely on performance data and resident feedback when evaluating transportation projects rather than proceeding with policies he believes have produced negative impacts elsewhere.
COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS AND MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORTS:
Councilmember Erickson reported his attendance at the Beverly Hills City Council installation, multiple Contract Cities Association Board meetings, and the Los Angeles Area conference and related events. He thanked his colleagues for supporting Item FA. regarding the " blue slip" program and recognized a resident' s suggestion to improve law enforcement interactions with individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. He also expressed support for advancing additional tenant protections through the Rent Stabilization Ordinance. Councilmember Erickson commended the Mayor, Vice Mayor, City Manager, City staff, public safety personnel, and community members for their response to the LADWP water main break, offering support to impacted residents and businesses. He concluded by wishing Mayor Heilman a happy belated birthday, recognizing Larissa Fooks upcoming birthday, and briefly responding to comments made during public comment regarding the Fountain Avenue bike lane discussion.
Councilmember Byers reported her attendance at the National League of Cities Summer Board Meeting in Louisville, Kentucky, in her role as Vice Chair of the Transportation and Infrastructure Services Policy Committee, where she participated in discussions on infrastructure, transportation, and federal housing policy. She also attended the Beverly Hills City Council installation and SCAG Community, Economic and Human Development ( CEHD) Policy Committee and Regional Council meetings.
Councilmember Byers thanked City staff and emergency responders for their work during the water main break and expressed appreciation for residents who supported one another throughout the emergency. She highlighted the success of CicLAvia and encouraged continued advocacy for additional open streets events in the region. She also raised concerns about the new parking payment system at the West Hollywood Gateway shopping center, noting the elimination of cash payment options and Docusign Envelope ID: 88DC25D6- 1DOD- 86B1- 82F3- 14A5D01FFOOC City Council Minutes
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requesting that staff review the issue. She concluded by thanking the City' s Information Technology staff for their support during the meeting.
Councilmember Meister reiterated a revision to Item F. 3. to direct the Community Development Department to evaluate zoning protections and potential exemptions for areas newly designated as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. She reported her attendance at the City' s document shredding event, the Bubbles and Beaches Chamber event, and CicLAvia. Councilmember Meister thanked the City Manager, executive staff, Mayor, and Vice Mayor for their extensive work responding to the LADWP water main break, praising the City' s proactive communications with residents and businesses throughout the incident. She also requested an update on activity at the long -vacant French Market property, noting visible signs of redevelopment.
Vice Mayor Hang reported his attendance at various City events and the AAPI LEAD Conference. He devoted his remarks to recognizing the City' s emergency response to the LADWP water main break, describing the immediate mobilization of the City Manager, executive leadership team, and City staff following early morning notification of the incident. He recounted visiting the affected neighborhood with Mayor Heilman, meeting displaced residents, and witnessing firsthand the extensive property damage.
Vice Mayor Hang praised residents for supporting one another during the emergency, commended the City Manager for securing approximately 80 hotel vouchers from LADWP for displaced residents, and recognized the City' s hotel partners for providing discounted accommodations before vouchers became available. He emphasized the City's commitment to assisting affected residents throughout the recovery process and encouraged anyone needing assistance to continue reaching out to the City.
Mayor Heilman reported his attendance at the Budget Subcommittee meeting, the Small Business Task Force meeting, the opening of Christian' s Wine Bar, CicLAvia, and several meetings with foreign government delegations to support international engagement in preparation for the 2028 Olympic Games. He alerted the public to a missing person, Warren Raymond McKay, and encouraged residents to contact law enforcement if they observed anyone matching his description. Mayor Heilman thanked the Vice Mayor, the City Council, executive staff, and City employees for their coordinated response to the water main break. He also provided an update on LADWP' s repair efforts, reporting that the transmission line had been successfully repressurized and outlining the remaining steps in chlorination, testing, backfill, and roadway restoration before Sunset Boulevard could reopen.
Before adjournment, the City Manager acknowledged Economic Development Director Laura Biery for coordinating hotel assistance during the emergency, and Vice Mayor Hang recognized the City Clerk and the City Clerk' s Office for quickly developing and distributing claims guidance to assist residents seeking reimbursement from the Los Angeles Department Water and Power ( LADWP).
ADJOURNMENT: The City Council adjourned at 9: 35 p. m. in memory of Richard Albertelli, to its next regular meeting, which will be on Monday, August 17, 2026, at 6: 00 P. M. at West Hollywood Park Public Meeting Room - Council Chambers.
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PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of West Hollywood at a regular meeting held this 17t" day of August 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