gg-minutes

BOARD MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2005
Los Feliz Community Police Center
1965 N. Hillhurst, Los Angeles, CA 90027

1. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL/QUORUM CHECK
The meeting was called to order at 7:10 pm; a quorum was not present. BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Richard Spicer, Ron Weinstein, Merlyn Hernandez, Cheryl Johnson, Philip Gasteier, Nora Mosqueda, Joe Cisneros, Nyla Arslanian, Bruce Carroll, James Balesh, Kerry Hunnewell; Jonathon Kaplan presiding board member. GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE PRESENT: Patty Malone, Council District #4.
2. PUBLIC COMMENT ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
None noted.
3. COMMENTS/REPORTS FROM PUBLIC OFFICIALS AND STAFF
Patty Malone, representing Councilman Tom Labonge’s office (Council District 4), provided a presentation on a retaining wall to be rebuilt on Franklin Avenue. Ms. Malone also mentioned an equestrian bridge to be built leading into Griffith Park. Ms. Malone reported that Chief Frye would speak to the group about planned “red flag” days.
4. SENIOR LEAD OFFICER REPORTS
None noted.
5. RED FLAG WARNING DAYS PARKING REGULATIONS
Chief Mark Stormes, from the Los Angeles Fire Department’s Battalion 5, introduced himself and Tim Werle. Chief Stormes reported on the LAFD/DOT plan designating “choke points” in hillside areas where the danger of brush fire is greatest. The plan will implement a special parking enforcement program, on those days when the fire danger is greatest, that will provide for the removal of parked vehicles from key intersections, narrow roads and critical locations in the City’s Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Signs have been posted in affected areas. Chief Stormes also discussed his background and history with LAFD.

Officer Werle reported on how information about the program will be disseminated, through e-mail, text messaging, flags at fire stations, and by calling 311, the City’s information line. Officer Werle also discussed notification plans for Red Flag days, advising attendees of the intent to display flags on fire stations, notice to be placed on the LAFD web site, and provision for contact by telephone. Patty Malone noted Councilman LaBonge’s planned drive-through review of the area with Chief Frye, scheduled for January 2006.

Donald Brown, a stakeholder, referring to a sign posted on Glendower Avenue, asked about alternative parking and whether the red flag signage was appropriate on Glendower. Chief Stormes noted Mr. Brown’s concern and promised an investigation. Kathleen Corbin noted her concern about conflicting signage on Catalina Street. Chief Stormes discussed the intent behind posting the signs, and promised to investigate Ms. Corbin’s concerns. Joseph Schneider stated that checking for the flags on a daily basis is exhausting and expressed his wish for an alternative. Chief Stormes, noting the greater good, asked for sympathy and understanding. William Corbin asked how many and the process by which red flag days are announced; Dr. Corbin also proposed allowing parking on the sidewalk; Chief Stormes noted that parking was the purview of the DOT. Dr. Corbin asked about evacuation plans. Michele Yacso asked about exemptions for cars towed on red flag days. Chief Stormes suggested the appropriate action would be a dialogue with DOT. Ms. Yacso noted that resistance from citizens could be lessened by a dialogue.

Rory Fitzpatrick stated that Councilman LaBonge’s office would follow up with DOT and Parking Enforcement on the issues discussed at this meeting among other things, and reminded attendees of the January drive-through review the Councilman plans. Bernadette Soter noted that the signs were misleading; stakeholder perceptions were that the signs limited parking at all times rather than on designated red flag days. Dan McCarty asked why the signs were posted now. Officer Stormes referred to the BelAir fire as a watershed event that pointed up the need for an evacuation plan as well as guaranteed accessibility. Cheryl Johnson supported Ms. Soter’s contention that the signs are misleading. Ms. Johnson asked if other, interested stakeholders and/or GGPNC Board members could participate in the planned January 2006 drive-through review in some way. Officer Werle suggested contacting Battalion 5 to arrange for a dialogue between LAFD and stakeholders. In answer to Ms. Johnson’s question, Chief Stormes stated that the signage was placed to assist emergency vehicles. Kerry Hunnewell suggested that flyers be placed on parked cars on red flag days by Parking Enforcement. Chief Stormes stated that Parking Enforcement could not take on that additional responsibility. Joe Cisneros reminded attendees that the LAFD’s intent was to protect citizens. Nyla Arslanian asked whether the priority was evacuation of citizens or emergency vehicle accessibility. Chief Stormes noted that the choke points refer to parked vehicles blocking access, and that citizen evacuation in an emergency situation should actually take place before emergency vehicles arrive. Ms. Arslanian also referred to signs that are confusing or not easily seen. Bruce Carroll asked about the timeline for the notification process.   Chief Stormes gave more detail on how the red flag determination is made, which prompts emergency vehicle staging and notices posted. Richard Spicer discussed shared responsibility and financial incentives to further encourage homeowners to clear brush in affected areas. Chief Stormes summed up by noting stakeholders’ participation in the fire hazard prevention effort is crucial.

6. FRANKLIN AVE. RETAINING WALL
See Item 3: Report by Patty Malone.

7. PLANNING/ZONING HISTORIC PRESERVATION
a) 4500 Los Feliz Bl. Forum Assessment
Ron Weinstein reported on a proposed assessment of the public forum and invited Board members to provide their suggestions and input.
b) Draft MOU between Neighborhood Councils and Department. Of City Planning
Mr. Weinstein reported on the first meeting on this issue, which he attended. Mr. Weinstein noted that board members and Planning Committee members have been invited to attend the upcoming January 7th meeting.
c) Protected Tree Ordinance
Mr. Weinstein discussed his Committee’s discussion and research on this issue, reporting that the Committee could not come to a consensus on appropriate action because they did not have sufficient, detailed information. Mr. Weinstein suggested that a presentation by an informed party before the Board should be done.

8. TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE REPORT
a) Allocation of Street Repair Funds.
James Balesh reported on the funds set aside to support resurfacing of streets in the area. The streets designated by the Transportation Committee are Catalina Street (from Ambrose Avenue to Finley Avenue), Normandie Avenue (from Ambrose Avenue to Cummings Drive), Bates Avenue (from Sunset Drive to Fountain Avenue), Monon Street (from Griffith Park Boulevard to St. George Street), and Alexandria (from Ambrose to Mariposa). The total amount noted in the Transportation Committee report is $103,175.

Nora Mosqueda, noting that the amount of funding mentioned was $100,000, asked how the additional funds would be obtained. Mr. Balesh assured Ms. Mosqueda that the overage would be taken into account. Cheryl Johnson asked what process was used to determine the streets to be designated for resurfacing. Mr. Balesh and Mr. Spicer explained how the streets were determined. No concerns or objections were noted by Board members present. Philip Gasteier noted his concern that the conditions set by the Bureau of Street Services are met. The record will reflect that the sense of the meeting was that actions taken in previous meetings were sufficient and appropriate.

b) Reformation of the Mobility Action Committee (MAC)
Noting that reformation of the Mobility Action Committee has been a priority for the past year, Mr. Balesh noted his intent to ask for an allocation of funds for the Mobility Action Committee, reported on the planning meeting he recently attended for this purpose, and reported on the request to host the first meeting.
9. PARKS, RIVERS & OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE
Because action could not be taken on agenda items at this meeting, Bernadette Soter will present a report on the request submitted for a Griffith Park equestrian bridge at the next meeting. Ms. Soter reported on a plan to clean up and restore the Griffith Park Bird Sanctuary. Ms. Soter discussed the Pacific American Volunteer Association’s (PAVA) program adopting the Bird Sanctuary, noting that PAVA’s program and contract was announced without prior notice to any other area stakeholder association being given. In particular, Ms. Soter stated that PAVA’s plans include bringing in plants, in particular, that are not native to the area. This is not in line with the Bird Sanctuary’s original role, to keep native birds in Griffith Park. Ms. Soter noted her approval of the PAVA organization.

Griffith Park Master Plan review update
Ms. Soter encouraged attendance at an upcoming January 9th Master Plan Working Group meeting, at the Ranger Station, and reported on the review progress. In particular, she referred to User Needs Assessment, and reviewed the process by which this issue will be settled. Picnic space, permitted events and ball fields were specifically mentioned.   Ms. Soter reported on an erroneous Ledger article discussing a ball field in Griffith Park.

Cheryl Johnson stated that the Board had never, to her knowledge, taken a position regarding ball fields in Griffith Park. Kerry Hunnewell noted a severe need for fields that area soccer teams can use. Philip Gasteier asked Ms. Soter if the Master Plan Working Group is, in her opinion, more viable than it was previously and also asked how a individual group could be given control over an area of Griffith Park. Ms. Soter mentioned John Mukri attended a breakfast meeting with real estate developers, their contractors and suppliers in which the Master Plan was presented, noting that Mr. Mukri had never attended a Master Plan Working Group meeting. Ms. Soter expressed concern that the Working Group might not last much longer. James Balesh asked about facilities planned and available in the park. Richard Spicer asked the Master Plan, about budget line items that were approved and inventories taken; Mr. Spicer voiced his concern that affected Neighborhood Councils were left out of the loop. Ms. Soter mentioned sweat equity from Working Group members. Mr. Spicer suggested the Board offer public support of the Working Group’s contribution. Ms. Johnson suggested staging a public forum to discuss what facilities are available and planned in Griffith Park. Ms. Soter referred to the area’s per capita available recreational acreage, which she stated is the lowest in the U.S.

b) Letter of support to be added to the Prop O application that Patty Malone CD4's is filing for an L.A. River/Atwater equestrian bridge into Griffith Park.
Tabled until the next meeting.

10. TREASURER’S REPORT /GGPNC BUDGET PROCESS
Action deferred until the next meeting.

11. OFFICER/BOARD VACANCY: SECRETARY/DISTRICT B POSITION
Action deferred until the next meeting.

12. REVIEW OF MAYOR’S BUDGET SURVEY
Action deferred until the next meeting.

13. DATA ENTRY FOR PUBLIC FORUM SIGN-IN SHEETS
Nora Mosqueda reported on her efforts to arrange for data entry, stating that approximately 3 days of work will be needed.

14. OTHER COMMITTEE REPORTS
None noted.

15. COMMENTS BY BOARD MEMBERS
Kerry Hunnewell called the Board’s attention to an article in the Los Angeles Times discussing the Congress of Neighborhood Councils and suggested putting the issue on next month’s agenda.

Ron Weinstein asked if the By-Laws Committee had reviewed changing the number needed to establish a quorum. Philip Gasteier responded and suggested implementing the change without delay.

16. OTHER COMMITTEE COMMENT ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
None noted.

Adjournment at 9:07 pm.

Click Here for official notices regarding agenda posting, public comment, disabled services and process for reconsideration.

BACK TO
GGPNC HOME PAGE TOP OF THIS PAGE

BOARD MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2005
Los Feliz Community Police Center
1965 N. Hillhurst, Los Angeles, CA 90027

1. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL/QUORUM CHECK
The meeting was called to order at 7:13 pm; a quorum was not present. BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Philip Gasteier, Shana Bonstin, Joe Cisneros, James B, Rosemary DeMonte, Joel Friedman, Charley Mims, Nora Mosqueda, Merlyn Hernandez, Kerry Hunnewell, Cheryl Johnson, Jonathon Kaplan, Jacqueline Kerr, Nyla Arslanian, Ron Weinstein, Rose Marin, Richard Spicer. Bruce Carroll GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVES PRESENT: Rory Fitzpatrick, Chief Field Deputy, Council District #4. Patty Malone LosFeliz/Silverlake Deputy for CD-4.

2. PUBLIC COMMENT ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
No public announcements were noted.

3. COMMENTS/REPORTS FROM PUBLIC OFFICIALS AND STAFF
Rory Fitzpatrick introduced Patty Malone, the new Deputy for Los Feliz/Silverlake; distributed copies of letters from Councilman Tom LaBonge (one regarding the Derby issue; the other stating Mr. LaBonge’s position on the Griffith Park Master Plan) and a City Guide to Neighborhood Services (published by the Los Angeles City Council). Mr. Fitzpatrick noted a deteriorating wall on the north side of Franklin (owned by the City) that is scheduled for repair. Since there may be disruption to area traffic, and because parking and public safety will be affected, Mr. Fitzpatrick promised to keep the NC and stakeholders abreast of the repair’s progress. In response to a question from Jonathan Kaplan with reference to traffic on Los Feliz Boulevard, Mr. Fitzpatrick listed Councilman LaBonge’s accomplishments while in office with respect to mitigating traffic and improving public transportation on Los Feliz.

Item #1 revisited:

A quorum being present, Nora Mosqueda moved to approve the minutes of the October 18, 2005 meeting; seconded by Cheryl Johnson. The minutes were approved by consensus.

4. SENIOR LEAD OFFICER REPORTS
No reports were noted.

5. NORTHEAST LA COALITION OF NCs
Kurt Rademaekers, representing the East/Northeast LA Coalition of Neighborhood Councils, stated his purpose in attending today’s meeting was to increase the opportunities for networking and information sharing between the Neighborhood Councils in the area and invited GGPNC Board and stakeholders to participate. Mr. Rademaekers referred to the LADWP MOU; the East/Northeast LA Coalition is working to set up a similar MOU with the City Planning Department, which has oversight of the CNC report. Mr. Rademaekers opined that the CNC report does not provide sufficient information. In an informal setting, recent attendees (which include Kan Hau,Greg Nelson, and Larry Frank) are invited to speak. General guidelines limit the attendance to NC Board members, committee or subcommittee chairs. Mr. Rademaekers promised to provide e-mail contact information to the Board.

6. LOS FELIZ VILLAGE HOLIDAY EVENT
Rosemary DeMonte speaking for Dora Herrera, provided information on the 1st annual Los Feliz Village Holiday event, which will take place December 10, 2005, from 6pm-10pm. Ms. DeMonte described the planned activities to take place during that event and noted attendees. Ms. DeMonte reported that the festival’s organizers have asked for a contribution from the NC. Discussion about outreach efforts that could be made at the holiday event followed, as well as debate on the NC’s position on participation in non-sectarian holiday events. Charley Mims suggested continuing the discussion of the holiday event in the Outreach Committee meeting, which will be directed to make suggestions to the Executive Committee.

7. GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION OF HOMELESS SERVICES
(Taken out of order) Molly Rysman referred to articles published in the Los Angeles Times, written by columnist Steve Lopez, that addressed the issue of homelessness in the LA area, and called for the NC to review what could be done to provide “real leadership” to the LA community on this issue, which she feels is getting out of control. Ms. Rysman provided a copy of Mr. Lopez’ column for October 23, 2005, and stated her belief that the City could do more regarding homelessness. Charley Mims invited Ms. Rysman to attend an executive committee meeting to discuss the issue further.

8. PREFERENTIAL PARKING
Citing a stakeholder's request for preferential parking near her residence, Philip Gasteier recommended that the NC develop an overall policy and notification procedure on this issue consistent with the NC's representation of a broad spectrum of interests, and review requests for preferential parking under this general policy and procedure (rather than ad hoc). Charley Mims suggested referring the issue to the Transportation Committee, and asked if Mr. Gasteier had a framework in mind; Mr. Gasteier stated that he preferred to assist in a joint effort. After further discussion, it became clear that this issue has been discussed both in committee and in general meetings several times and that, in view of priorities, the issue will be tabled at this point.

9. NATIVE TREE ORDINANCE
Molly Rysman brought the proposed LA City Council Protected Tree Ordinance to the Board’s attention. Discussion followed regarding the appropriate Committee to review this subject; it was referred to the PROS and Planning/Zoning Historic Preservation Committees for further discussion. Ms. Rysman recused herself from voting on the issue, because of possible conflict of interest due to her employment with Councilman Garcetti’s office.

10. AGENDA POSTING LOCATIONS IN GRIFFITH PARK.
Ron Weinstein reported that two of the five locations specified for posting notices are not easily accessible to the public. The issue will be referred to the Executive Committee for review. Charley Mims noted that DONE is considering changing the number.

There being a quorum present, Charley Mims took the opportunity to present Jacqueline Kerr a Certificate of Appreciation from the City of Los Angeles for her service to the community and to the Neighborhood Council in particular. Ms. Kerr will change her residence in the near future.

Issued by City of Los Angeles, a Certificate of Appreciation is hereby presented to Jacqueline Kerr of the Greater Griffith Park Neighborhood Council for your hard work and dedication that contributed to making our neighborhood a safer and better place in which to live, presented by Tom LaBonge, Council Member for the Fourth District. Ms. Kerr expressed her thanks.

11. PLANNING/ZONING HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
4500 Los Feliz Boulevard Project

Ken Owen summarized the results of surveys resulting from the recent Forum on the referenced project, which have been published on the GGPNC web site. The forum was attended by well over 500 people. Mr. Owen provided detail, gave a short analysis of the responses received, summarized expenditures for the event, and made reference to actions recommended to be taken by the Board. Charley Mims thanked Mr. Owen, Bruce Carroll and Ron Weinstein for their efforts.

Ron Weinstein listed the Committee’s recommendations and moved to adopt the following:

The Greater Griffith Park Neighborhood Council
1. Opposes the development as proposed;
2. Supports the preservation of the Derby/Louise’s building;
3. Supports development only if it is in keep with the village character of residential and business buildings on Los Feliz, Hillhurst and Avocado, including the preservation and maintenance of historical trees;
4. Encourages proposals to reduce traffic congestion and the shortage of parking while retaining current street widths;
5. Supports continuing to monitor and advise the City of Los Angeles on proposals and issues pertaining to the site of the proposed development, working with its planning, zoning and historic preservation committee as the primary point of contact for stakeholders;

Mr. Weinstein moved that the board adopt these recommendations and to disband the 4500 Los Feliz Subcommittee. The motion was seconded by Jacqueline Kerr.

Rebecca Goodman, representing the Save the Derby Coalition, extended her thanks to the Board, committee, subcommittee and community as a whole, noted her appreciation of the outcome, extended the Coalition’s support of the recommendations made, and expressed her hope for a satisfactory outcome of the development of the subject property. Dino Tudor spoke about the real issue at hand, which he felt was the zoning change. Katarina Ryan, property owner of the lot (4515 Avocado Street) immediately adjacent to the proposed development, expressed her concerns. Rick Gable, representing Hillhurst/Los Feliz LLC, thanked the NC for their efforts and expressed his hope for cooperative efforts between the developer and the community. Charley Mims noted that the issue should be dealt with sensitively and his agreement with Mr. Gable that the process should be a cooperative one. Mr. Gable stated that the next proposal would be provided to the NC and other community groups prior to submission.

Discussion among Board members began with the position of the LA Conservancy with reference to preservation of an historical site, and covered a range of topics, including the subcommittee’s recommendations, the developer’s by-right limitations, stakeholders’ opinions, not disbanding the subcommittee, and amending the motion to establish a formal means of facilitation with the developer. Rosemary DeMonte suggested establishing a panel of stakeholders to review a new proposal. Jacqueline Kerr noted that Elizabeth Shukar, the Chair of the Silverlake NC Planning/Zoning Committee, stated she would be interested in being part of an oversight committee. Jonathon Kaplan noted his support of the motion and summed up the intent of a broad statement that could ultimately involve the establishment of an ad hoc committee that would work with the developer to work out issues cooperatively. In response to Cheryl Johnson’s question, Mr. Mims asked Mr. Gable if the developer was open to participation in a focus or advisory group. Mr. Gable replied affirmatively.

Kerry Hunnewell asked Mr. Weinstein if the motion’s part #5 could be amended to include: the committee will examine facilitating a vehicle for the community to provide input to the developer with the intent in mind being a successful development.

There was no opposition to the amendment from the original seconder (Jacqueline Kerr).

Charley Mims declared a consensus. The motion passed.

Stakeholders that were evidently not aware of the proper procedure and had not provided speaker cards asked to speak.

Nora Mosqueda moved to reconsider the issue, to allow for public comment, which was seconded by Cheryl Johnson.

There being no objection, those interested in making comments were asked to provide speaker cards. Their comments follow:

Dino Tudor brought a similar development project to the Board’s attention and compared the subject development proposal to that one. Deborah Levine expressed her concern that the motion as presented by Ron Weinstein was too broad in scope. Dennis Potokar reminded Board members that their efforts are precedent-setting. Marcella Manzanedo voiced her opinion of the developer’s outreach efforts to date and made suggestions about how future efforts could be accomplished. Elizabeth Jurado noted that she was unsure of the effectiveness of the Committee’s recommendations. Katarina Ryan opined that “keeping the village atmosphere” is vague and should be amended.

Ron Weinstein reintroduced the motion as amended; seconded by Jacqueline Kerr. Charley Mims declared consensus.

Mr. Mims thanked all those attending for their participation and interest. Rosemary DeMonte welcomed interest in the outreach efforts and asked attendees to sign up on the GGPNC website to receive updates.

12. PROS COMMITTEE REPORT
Bernadette Soter updated the committee on disabled access of the Griffith Park Observatory and reported on a special tour arranged for Donna Dougherty and others at the result of efforts by Councilman LaBonge, and that the May 14, 2006 opening date has been moved back to Fall 2006. This may allow time to create a workable, acceptable access plan. Ms. Soter also provided an update on the management change she reported at the last meeting. Ms. Soter noted that the management change had the intent to create an executive position solely responsible for administering Griffith Park, however, Vicky Israel, the new manager, has responsibility for a wide area and may not be able to provide sufficient oversight of the large-scale Griffith Park Master Plan. Ms. Soter went on to discuss her unsuccessful attempts to gain an idea of the park’s financial status, until a audit was ordered by Laura Chick, perhaps as a result of an article published by the Los Angeles Times concerning Griffith Park’s financial situation. Referring to a need for additional Park Ranger services, and reported dearth of funds to pay for those services, Ms. Soter noted that funds to pay for the 35 additional Park Rangers needed could be gotten from a possible $21.5 million surplus uncovered by the audit. Ms. Soter reported on outreach efforts regarding the Griffith Park Master plan and indicated that reports from the Recreation and Parks Department (RAP) that opposition to the Master Plan has been voiced in a majority of responses to surveys, as well as a public statement by all the Los Angeles area Sierra Club groups. Ron Weinstein asked if the Griffith Park Master Plan is another issue that could require a Town Hall forum. Ms. Soter listed circumstances under which a Town Hall forum could be important. Charley Mims suggested that the proper time to consider or schedule a public forum is after the Master Plan has been formalized. Molly Rysman asked if Mayor Villaraigosa has appointed a Parks Commissioner. Mr. Mims noted that there had been two Parks Commission vacancies. Ms. Soter noted that of the four Parks Commissioners, one position is still vacant. Ms. Rysman mentioned that filling the Parks Commissioner vacancy might be an appropriate one to lobby the Mayor’s office about, since that person could have an effect on the Griffith Park Master Plan. Mr. Mims provided the names of appropriate individuals to contact in the City government.

Richard Spicer suggested providing collaborative funding to the PROS Committee to support an independent assessment, and also finding away to effectively communicate with the Mayor’s office on the Griffith Park Master Plan. Mr. Mims suggested contacting Jimmy Blackman. Ms. Rysman and Ms. Soter will coordinate efforts in this regard. Ms. Soter announced that the next PROS meeting will be held on December 5, 2005, at the Griffith Park Ranger Station.

13. TREASURER’S REPORT
This item is deferred.

14. OFFICER VACANCY
Charley Mims noted that the opportunity exists to recruit an officer to fill the Recording Secretary vacancy. The issue will be discussed at the next Executive Committee meeting. Mr. Mims asked Board members to review possible candidates to fill the vacancy.

15. REVIEW OF MAYOR’S BUDGET SURVEY
Charley Mims noted that he had not yet received completed surveys from all Board members, and that collective responses are still to be made. Nora Mosqueda suggested tabulating the responses of Board members to determine how rankings should be made for the collective survey. There being no objection, Mr. Mims stated that Ms. Mosqueda’s suggestion would be followed.

16. OTHER COMMITTEE REPORTS
Outreach Committee Report
Rosemary DeMonte, speaking about the results of the Town Hall Forum, suggested hiring a data entry person to include the responses obtained from the forum. Richard Spicer clarified what should be done. The Outreach Committee will review suggestions made by several Board members.

Neighborhood Improvement Committee Report
Charley Mims thanked Nyla Arslanian and Cheryl Johnson for their fund raising efforts on behalf of the Barnsdall Art Park. Ms. Arslanian updated the Board on the Hollywood Boulevard Streetscape and Vermont Triangle project, and reported there would be no community meetings regarding these projects until after the holiday season.

17. BOARD COMMENTS
Richard Spicer discussed homeless issues, following up on Molly Rysman’s earlier comments. Mr. Spicer suggested adding the homeless issue as a fifth priority to the GGPNC Strategic Plan.

Jacqueline Kerr suggested establishing an ad hoc committee to review the organizational process used to set up the public forum, as an aid to future event planning. Ken Owen and Ron Weinstein will provide their notes to the Executive Committee for further action.

Nora Mosqueda, noting that ABC lent the equipment used at the public forum, suggested that a letter of thanks would be appropriate. Charley Mims asked Ron Weinstein to draft a letter thanking ABC. Bruce Carroll noted 16,000 hits on the GGPNC web site for the month of November 2005.

Bruce Carroll moved to adjourn. There was unanimous agreement to adjourn the meet at 9:50 pm.

Click Here for official notices regarding agenda posting, public comment, disabled services and process for reconsideration.

BACK TO
GGPNC HOME PAGE TOP OF THIS PAGE

BOARD MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2005
Los Feliz Community Police Center
1965 N. Hillhurst, Los Angeles, CA 90027

1. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL/QUORUM CHECK
The meeting was called to order at 7:10 pm; a quorum was not present. BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Joe Cisneros, James Balesh, Philip Gasteier, Shana Bonstin, Bruce Carroll, Cheryl Johnson, Joel Friedman, Rosemary DeMonte, Molly Rysman, Ron Weinstein, Nyla Arslanian, Rose Marin, Richard Spicer, Merlyn Hernandez. GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVES PRESENT: Rory Fitzpatrick, Chief Field Deputy, Council District #4, Matthew Levy, Field Deputy for Los Feliz and Silverlake. Christine Jerian, DONE Project Coordinator.

2. PUBLIC COMMENT
John Larner, Head of Lycee International de Los Angeles and the LILA Los Feliz campus located on Russell Avenue, introduced himself to the Board and spoke on behalf of LILA. Mr. Larner invited any interested parties to contact him at the Los Feliz campus.
Christine Jerian, DONE Project Coordinator, introduced herself to the Board as the new GGPNeighborhood Councils Project Coordinator.

Ryan Bell, Senior Pastor of the Hollywood 7th Day Adventist Church, introduced himself to attendees. Mr. Bell noted his motive in attending the meeting today was to advise the Council of two robberies in the past 8 days that have occurred in the apartment complex in which Mr. Bell and his family live. Mr. Bell’s wife and two small children were eyewitnesses to one of the robberies. Mr. Bell remarked that he and his neighbors in the apartment complex are very concerned about public safety. Charlie Mims thanked Mr. Bell for bringing this information to the Council’s attention, and noted Mr. Bell’s concerns and willingness to assist would be referred to the Public Safety Committee.

Jim McQuiston, EHCA, discussed the selection of a group that will analyze the management of the Neighborhood Councils, the various Boards, DONE and ordinances that govern the Neighborhood Councils. Mr. McQuiston stated that a 45 day deadline was set on September 28, 2005 for input from the various Neighborhood Councils, and noted that his appearance at today’s meeting was to ensure that the GGPNC Board was aware of the deadline.

Raymond Yu mentioned the Metro Orange Line between North Hollywood to Woodland Hills. Mr. Yu gave a great deal of detail about the Metro Orange line. Mr. Yu noted that trial rides would take place between the North Hollywood and the Woodland Hills Station, on October 29th and 30th between 8am and midnight.

Rory Fitzpatrick discussed the third public meeting featuring mitigation plans for the Griffith Park Observatory, which took place on Monday, October 17, 2005. Mr. Fitzpatrick noted that Matthew Levy, Area Deputy, will be replaced shortly by Patricia Malone; Mr. Fitzpatrick mentioned Ms. Malone’s qualifications and contact information; Mr. Fitzpatrick also listed Mr. Levy’s contributions in his capacity as a Field Deputy.

Matthew Levy provided an update on the major projects in the GGPNC area currently on the table at his departure: architectural renderings are almost ready for public review of the proposed Vermont Avenue parking structure and the Postal Service facility to be located at Vermont and Melbourne. Mr. Levy noted that the multi-level parking structure will be kept to a level close to the brick building near the proposed development. Mr. Levy also discussed an upcoming change of policy with reference to approval of preferential parking district. Mr. Levy also discussed bulky item pickup efforts in the area, as well as the installation of a traffic signal at the 5 Freeway off-ramp and Riverside Drive; the Vermont Triangle project, and efforts to reduce vermin infestation in the area; and plans to seek beautification grant funds. Mr. Levy stated that the Headworks project, intended to produce additional potable drinking water for LA, is a project that will not falter despite his absence.

Charley Mims thanked Mr. Levy for his efforts and reminded Mr. Levy that he is welcome to return at any point, especially for pro bono work. Cheryl Johnson asked Mr. Levy about Griffith Park Observatory handicapped access efforts; Mr. Levy stated that the Observatory was judged to have adequate accessibility. Rosemary DeMonte asked for details of plans for determining a preferential parking district; Mr. Levy and Mr. Fitzpatrick both provided insight into the process. Mr. Fitzpatrick noted that input from the Neighborhood Councils was welcomed.

Richard Spicer asked Mr. Levy about an update on the schedule of work being done at the junction of I-5 and Riverside Drive. Mr. Levy provided background information on how the process is coordinated between CALTRANS and DOT.

Charley Mims introduced Commissioner Yolanda Fuentes, Neighborhood Liaison for the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works. Commissioner Fuentes outlined responsibilities performed by various DPW agencies (Sanitation, Street Services, Street Lighting, Contract Administration, Bureau of Engineering). Ms. Fuentes is lead Commissioner for Proposition K. Ms. Fuentes reminded attendees of Operation Pothole and asked for assistance in identifying streets where potholes have occurred. Ms. Fuentes noted that she welcomed input from the Neighborhood Councils, volunteered her assistance in coordinating efforts to contact City of Los Angeles departments, and introduced David Mace, coordinator for outreach with reference to Neighborhood Councils. Charley Mims noted Commissioner Fuentes’ efforts and dedication, and welcomed David Mace.

3. COMMENTS/REPORTS FROM PUBLIC OFFICIALS AND STAFF
4. SENIOR LEAD OFFICER
No reports noted.

5. HOLLYWOOD-WESTERN REDEVELOPMENT
Samir Srvastava, representative of ABS (the developer for the south side of the “Hollywood Passage” project) discussed the project as well as his background and qualifications for the proposed development. The project is still in very preliminary stages, and Mr. Srvastava reminded attendees of a planned sheret of Neighborhood Councils with the project developers. Mr. Srvastava noted that he was at one time a resident of the community, and that his experience in the neighborhood influenced his decision to request a variance to allow for excess parking. Molly Rysman stated the “green” roofs were a point of concern and noted an upcoming report to be released. Mr. Srvastava reiterated that affordable housing was an issue that was a driving force in the planned project. Shana Bonstin asked about St. Andrews being blocked off; Bruce Carroll reiterated Ms. Bonstin’s concern. Mr. Srvastava discussed rationales and emphasized that the project is still in the preliminary stages. Richard Spicer asked about timing of CRA inspections, how long the affordable housing will be affordable, and parking. Mr. Srvastava’s estimate referred to late 2009 to 2010 for the project’s completion. Mr. Srvastava noted that he expected to be able to keep the affordable housing rates for 55 years, and noted provisions for subterranean parking. Mr. Srvastava discussed his plans to have the space occupied by arts groups (theater arts in particular), in answer to Nyla Arslanian’s question. Raymond Yu, a stakeholder, asked about a traffic signal at Hollywood at St. Andrews Place and security provisions for the proposed library. Mr. Srvastava discussed plans for traffic signals and assured the stakeholder that that his suggestions would be taken into account.

6. MAYOR’S BUDGET DAY AND BUDGET PROCESS
This item was postponed until later in the meeting.

7. PROPOSAL TO CREATE A CHARTER FOR A CITYWIDE CONGRESS OF NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCILS
At Kerry Hunnewell’s request, due to his unplanned absence from today’s meeting, this item will be carried over until the next meeting. Bruce Carroll reminded Board members that information on this issue was included in the handouts for today’s meeting.

8. PLANNING/ZONING HISTORIC PRESERVATION
Ron Weinstein noted a change in the proposed budget for the Nov. 10th public forum, because additional stakeholders (20,150 addresses as opposed to 10,000) were identified; an additional amount was approved at a recent Executive Committee Meeting. Ken Owen, chairman of the 4500 Los Feliz subcommittee, detailed planning efforts with respect to the November meeting. Mr. Owen listed those officials who will appear, noted that all invited participants have accepted, and discussed preliminary plans. Plans for outreach efforts in conjunction with the meeting, and efforts at promoting
GGPNC Board minutes 10/18/05 page 3

GGPNC are were discussed. It was agreed that a flier about GGPNC’s core functions (that offers the opportunity to sign in) given to attendees would be a worthwhile outreach effort and could augment the GGPNC stakeholder lists. Molly Rysman asked about translation services. Ken Owen mentioned that there were no funds set aside for that purpose. Ms. Rysman suggested contacting Council District 4 to request assistance in providing translation services. Charley Mims detailed the presentation planned by the developer. Further discussion ranged from plans for follow-up meeting to additional advertising efforts. Ken Owen relayed a request made by the Silverlake Neighborhood Council that provision be made for written comments. Philip Gasteier, while acknowledging that the planned 300 person attendee level may not be reached, asked about overflow provisions. Suggestions were made to provide for that contingency, including a suggestion to refer interested parties to the web site. Rosemary DeMonte, Molly Rysman, Cheryl Johnson, and Rose Marin will staff the Outreach table planned. Provisions were made for crowd control, as well.

9. PARKS, RIVERS & OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE
Bernadette Soter, following up Donna Dougherty’s September GGPNC presentation concerning handicapped accessibility at the Griffith Park Observatory, discussed the rationale behind the objections voiced as well as justification for proposed development. Ms. Soter noted the City of Los Angeles position is that technically the rehab work is in compliance with code, and that the motivating intent was to preserve the “historic fabric” of the building. After further discussion, Charley Mims suggested asking that Sammy Wong, City of Los Angeles Bureau of Engineering, and Donna Doherty, as well as people with expertise on this issue, be invited to attend the next PROS committee meeting. Jim McQuiston provided a different perspective, and indicated his belief that Tom LaBonge would not entertain any further discussion on the issue.

Ms. Soter summarized efforts made and issues discussed at the most recent Griffith Park Master Plan Working Group meeting (October 11th); Ms. Soter mentioned the reassignment of the two Griffith Park manager and the creation of a Griffith Park Superintendent position that will have oversight of four entities that don’t have obvious connections to each other. Ms. Soter reiterated concern expressed about the viability of the Working Group, as a result of the personnel change and redefinition of Griffith Park as a region. Philip Gasteier asked who had decision-making capacity in this instance, and suggested that a meaningful reorganization of management of Griffith Park should include prior notification to Neighborhood Councils. Ms. Soter reiterated her concern about the Working Group’s function and purpose in the light of the recent “sudden” change.

Ms. Soter discussed the length of time it has taken to obtain financial information on Griffith Park, which she has not yet seen despite framing the request following proper procedure. Charley Mims provided his insight on how decisions are made for revenue and expenditure for various Recreation and Parks entities. Ms. Soter asked that Board Members to attend the upcoming PROS committee meeting.

10. TREASURER’S REPORT
Joel Friedman detailed his efforts to obtain expected budgets from committee members and reminded attendees that their input was necessary.

11. OFFICER VACANCY
Charley Mims asked for a Board Member to step up to fill the Secretary vacancy. In response to a question from Rosemary DeMonte, Bruce Carroll detailed the Secretary’s responsibilities. Richard Spicer suggested delegating responsibilities to a contractor; Bruce Carroll added his insight to Mr. Spicer’s suggestion. This item was deferred for further discussion at the next meeting.

12. NEIGHBORING NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCILS IN FORMATION
Charley Mims called for a motion to support the HSNC in the formation of a new Neighborhood Council.

Bruce Carroll moved to support the Hollywood Studio Neighborhood Council, seconded by Philip Gasteier. There being no Board Member objection, a consensus was declared.
13. HOLLYWOOD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE TRANSPORTATION CONFERENCE LUNCHEON
Rosemary DeMonte provided details, including who plans to attend, and when and where the luncheon will take place; James Balesh cannot attend; Merlyn Hernandez asked for details. Discussion resulted; Merlyn will attend.

ITEM #1 REVISITED
A quorum being present, Bruce Carroll moved to approve the Minutes for two meetings, with two minor changes; . Approved by consensus.

ITEM #6 REVISITED

Charley Mims discussed the Mayor’s Budget Day, and called for discussion of the points raised by Mayor Villaraigosa. Mr. Mims mentioned in particular funds set aside for education and suggested an emphasis on educational expenditures. Mr. Mims called for identification of priorities by individual Board Members. Mr. Mims identified a possible solution for street resurfacing—a bond issue. Philip Gasteier suggested enhancing bus service, for instance, rather than street resurfacing. Bruce Carroll suggested incentives to encourage people to work in the community in which they live.

Jim McQuiston reminded Board Members that the intent was to gain Board Members’ personal perspectives; Mr. McQuiston also discussed possible Brown Act violation, and advised that the Board Members think carefully about the suggestions to be made.

Mr. Mims asked that Board Members return the questionnaires to him by next week.

Discussion continued on the issues. It was agreed that Board Members would advise Mr. Mims of issues mentioned in the questionnaires.
14. OTHER COMMITTEE REPORTS
None noted.

15. COMMENTS BY BOARD MEMBERS
Joe Cisneros noted that 10 high school seniors would be available to assist at the November 10, 2005 meeting.

16. OTHER COMMITTEE COMMENT ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
None noted.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:00 p.m.

Click Here for official notices regarding agenda posting, public comment, disabled services and process for reconsideration.

BACK TO
GGPNC HOME PAGE TOP OF THIS PAGE

BOARD MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2005
Los Feliz Community Police Center
1965 N. Hillhurst, Los Angeles, CA 90027

1. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL/QUORUM CHECK/APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The meeting was called to order at 7:15 pm; a quorum was present. BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Charley Mims, Joe Cisneros, Rosemary DeMonte, Nyla Arslanian, Bruce Carroll, Joel Friedman, Jacqueline Kerr, Kerry Hunnewell, Molly Rysman, Ron Weinstein, Philip Gasteier, Richard Spicer, Cheryl Johnson. Shana (Murphy) Bonstin and James Balesh were also present. GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE PRESENT: Rory Fitzpatrick, Chief Field Deputy, Council District #4.

2.    PUBLIC COMMENT ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS

Rory Fitzpatrick announced a pilot program for area multi unit buildings concerning a free pilot bulky item pick-up program, which will be offered Oct-Dec 2005 by the Bureau of Sanitation and the Council Office. Mr. Fitzpatrick noted that 5 or more unit buildings pay for pick up privately; apartment buildings typically are the largest contributors to the City’s pick-up of bulky items. Mr. Fitzpatrick indicated that single family residents typically bear the cost for bulky item pick-up; this program is an attempt to pass the costs on to apartment buildings, as well as generate funds for additional staff and equipment. Rosemary DeMonte asked what dissemination efforts have been made to advise stakeholders of the program; Mr. Fitzpatrick mentioned the Apartment House Owners Association specifically and asked for the assistance of the GGPNC.

Paul Habib, from Senate Majority Leader Dario Frommer’s office, thanked Charley Mims for inviting him to attend, and discussed programs Dario Frommer has championed, which include lower prescription drug costs for seniors and the California Hope Endowment (a plan to supplement money the state currently spends on higher education by establishing a trust to handle and lease property owned by the state). One program is intended to ensure the state agencies that purchase drugs buy in bulk (to extend cost savings to taxpayers); another program will investigate and certify internet drug companies. Mr. Habib also provided information concerning the Urban Parks Act.

Donna Dougherty, Griffith Observatory Access Initiative, spoke about the Griffith Park Observatory, which she contends will not be easily accessible to handicapped citizens. The current design calls for wheelchair access at the back side of the building, necessary because of the claim that the doors cannot easily be automated. Ms. Dougherty referred to a Universal Design Code that could have been used in renovating the Observatory’s front entrance, to include sloping walkways (one foot rise to 20 feet) to provide access to the newly renovated Observatory building. Ms. Dougherty provided examples of renovations to public buildings that ensure disabled people have full access to these buildings.

Ms. Dougherty noted the amount of money spent on renovations to the Observatory building; she referred to the small window of time still available before the stairs are put back into place. Ms. Dougherty distributed copies of a petition to request the Board of Recreation and Parks “reconsider certain design issues involving Griffith Park Observatory to add additional wheelchair ramps in the front of Griffith Park Observatory to ensure that disabled people can have full and easy access to the Observatory....”

Ms. Dougherty contended that the issue driving this situation is one of equal rights; she detailed efforts made over the past 10 months to resolve the issue. Charley Mims referred the issue to the Parks, Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Committee and asked Ms. Dougherty if she could be available to attend an upcoming PROS Committee meeting.

5. HOLLYWOOD STUDIO DISTRICT NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL (taken out of order)

Ziggy Kruse asked for support for the formation of the Hollywood Studio District Neighborhood Council (HSDNC); the hearing date is tentatively set for October 18, 2005. Jacqueline Kerr stated that a letter of support for the new Neighborhood Council would be appropriate. She also asked for financial support (as well as contribution of toys) of the 2nd annual PATH benefit, which will take place on December 11, 2005.

Kerry Hunnewell moved that the GGPNC provide $200 to the HSDNC in formation as an outreach effort for the purpose sponsoring a joint holiday event; seconded by Jacqueline Kerr. Mims declared consensus on the issue.
Rosemary DeMonte moved to support HSGNC seconded by Kerry Hunnewell. Charley Mims declared consensus.

Charley Mims asked for the boundaries of the new Neighborhood Council, which Ms. Kruse indicated would be from Hollywood Blvd on the south to Melrose on north, El Centro from the west to Western Avenue, and including the area bounded by Normandie along the freeway to La Mirada to Western to Hollywood.

Ms. Kruse asked for assistance from Board Members to identify unaffiliated homeowners and/or homeowners associations that might be interested in attending a group that will provide oversight of planning and development in the area.

7. PROS COMMITTEE REPORT

In Bernadette Soter’s absence, Charley Mims presented Ms. Soter’s written report, which details the PROS Committee’s efforts to date. In particular: a meeting with the Department of Recreation and Parks to obtain detailed information on Griffith Park’s annual revenues and expenses; revision of the Vision and Goals Statement of the Griffith Park Master Plan with reference to the establishment of an Urban Wilderness area; the September 22, 2005 Ranger Station dedication ceremony; a Working Group meeting October 3, 2005 at the Ranger Station; and an upcoming KCET half-hour feature taping.

8. TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE PROPOSAL TO DOWNGRADE A PORTION OF FRANKLIN AVENUE

Charley Mims discussed the rationale behind considering support of this proposal, intended to be a more permanent protection for the historic Shakespeare bridge.
Cheryl Johnson moved to support the proposal; seconded by Kerry Hunnewell. Mims declared consensus on this issue.

Richard Spicer noted that his co-chair had a conflict; Mr. Spicer distributed a priority list, prepared by Councilman LaBonge’s office, of streets planned to be resurfaced in 2005-2006 by the Bureau of Street Services. In response to Charley Mims’ question, it was noted that one street in the GGPNC area was specified on the list. Rory Fitzpatrick explained that, once the Committee receives the appropriate training and the relevant funds, this list can be used to assist in deciding how best to use the $100,000 in funding to be provided to GGPNC for resurfacing.

With reference to improving traffic flow on Los Feliz, Mr. Spicer presented a draft of recommendations considered by the Transportation Committee and asked for review and comments. Mr. Fitzpatrick discussed recent developments with regard to the Mobility Action Committee, as well as that committee’s future plans.

In response to a question posed by Kerry Hunnewell, Mr. Fitzpatrick discussed how the decision is made to repave original concrete streets and what material is used for repaving these streets.

Richard Spicer noted that the MTA Board has adjusted the schedule of the 175 bus that serves Marshall High School; there will be no service between 10am and 2pm. Also, speed signs at King are planned to be improved.

4. SIDEWALK REPAIR PROPOSALS

Julie Buttram, General Manager, SEIU Local 347, and Bill Robertson, Director, Bureau of Street Services, jointly discussed programs intended to assist homeowners and stakeholders to identify and repair those sidewalks in need of repair. According to state law, the property owner is responsible for sidewalk upkeep. The City of LA is proposing to resolve the sidewalk repair issue for more than 10,000 miles of sidewalks, of which approximately 4,600 needs repair.

Mr. Robertson detailed the “huge problem” that has been identified with reference to sidewalks in the City of Los Angeles (resulting from unclear designation of responsibility, lack of funding, lack of maintenance—root trimming, inexpert choice of location and type of trees to plant, and jurisdictional issues). Mr. Robertson described how sidewalk repairs have been done in the City of Piedmont, using the point-of-sale program; this program is voluntary from the homeowner’s standpoint; the point-of-sale program places a lien against the subject property that comes due when the property is sold.   Mr. Robertson discussed costs to homeowners, experimental use of rubber sidewalk panels that allow periodic root trimming and other efforts he has led to save City taxpayers’ funds; he stated that the 50/50 program “does not provide the answer.” Because trees are the only part of the City’s infrastructure that increases in value, tree removal is not an optimal solution.

Ms. Buttram and Mr. Robertson both mentioned work done with Dr. Shoop (sp?) at UCLA with respect to urban planning and development; Mr. Robertson remarked that the Neighborhood Councils are his department’s strongest advocates and asked for support in his efforts. Mr. Robertson stated that a target repair amount of 375 sidewalk miles per year for ten years would eliminate the repair problem.

Philip Gasteier moved that the issue be referred to the Transportation Committee; Charley Mims declared consensus that the issue would be referred to James Balesh for further review.

Mr. Robertson was asked about ADA compliant sidewalk access, detailed his department’s efforts and Mr. Mims asked Mr. Robertson for the name of a resource person in his department that could be contacted by the Transportation Committee. Mr. Robertson named Abraham Novarro, at 213-485-5681. Richard Spicer asked if the issue is time-sensitive, with reference to the motion to the City Council, and noted that an example of well-done sidewalk repair is available one block north of Vermont between Franklin and Hollywood Boulevard.

Mr. Robertson provided details on how the $100,000 fund for repaving streets could be allocated and discussed how his office chooses which streets to repave and how resurfacing is accomplished. He named Bruce Jones, at 213-485-3427, as the contact person in his office for resurfacing. Charley Mims asked about concrete street resurfacing; Mr. Robertson discussed what affected the decision to repave a concrete street. As a result of a question asked by Joel Friedman, Mayor Villaraigosa’s pothole program initiative and pothole repair in general were discussed. Mr. Robertson also detailed what it would take to bring the entire Los Angeles street system into good repair.

In summation, Mr. Robertson recognized efforts by Neighborhood Councils that have increased his department’s effectiveness and detailed future efforts for street repair.

6.     PLANNING/ZONING & HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE (taken out of order):

(a) 3341 Rowena Avenue

Ron Weinstein detailed circumstances behind the Neighborhood Council’s approval of a project to be located at 3341 Rowena and mentioned objections voiced regarding the proposed project and its alley access. Representatives of the developer of a property located at 3341 Rowena Avenue, Rick Abramson and Gregory Fischer, as well as stakeholders living next door to the proposed project, Jerry and Mary de Wilde, were present. Mr. Fischer discussed the interests and concerns that influenced design of the proposed project, in particular vehicular access through an alleyway that was dictated by the Department of Transportation. Mr. Fischer noted that the proposed project was under density; there could have been 8 units rather than the 6 that are intended; street parking is increased rather than decreased. Mr. Fischer compared the proposed project to existing buildings and reiterated that “urbanistically” the project is more neighborhood friendly. Mr. Fischer detailed how the proposed project will be developed and what ramifications may occur, noted that the development is considered “by right,” and referred to a discretionary request (a zoning administrator’s adjustment) to allow for 30 feet high construction for some of the buildings on this sloped property.

Jerry de Wilde, who lives in a private residence at 3347 Rowena, spoke of the effect the property’s height will have on his quality of life. Mr. de Wilde indicated that he was told that there will be a 30 foot height limit for the property, which he felt was inaccurate. The height issue was clarified. Mr. de Wilde expressed concern about traffic into and out of the alley that will abut the property. Mr. Fischer noted that the developer plans to improve the alleyway. Mary de Wilde noted that the proposed project is out of character with the neighborhood, and that the density of the property is quite different. Charley Mims asked if the individual units would be owned by the inhabitants; Mr. Fischer replied in the affirmative, and noted that he plans to purchase one of the units himself.

Kerry Hunnewell discussed the zoning for this area, and pointed out that there was some attempt to design a structure that is an improvement over an apartment building. Mary de Wilde reiterated her belief that the proposed development is out of character with the neighborhood. Jerry de Wilde noted that garages with doors can affect available street parking; he referred to traffic on Rowena that resulted from avoidance of the “Los Feliz mess.” James Balesh expressed sympathy for the de Wildes.

Molly Rysman noted that if a precedent is to be set, supporting this well-designed project is a good one to be set, and that Rowena Street with its mix of apartment buildings and single family homes is an appropriate location. Richard Spicer commented on concerns expressed about height and density; Mr. Fischer indicated that the proposed project will be 7-9 feet higher than the neighboring apartment building.

MOTION by Ron Weinstein to supplement the Committee’s prior approval of this project by providing an amendment to the motion to encourage the developer to improve the existing alleyway; seconded by Cheryl Johnson.
Discussion ranged from how best to effect the alleyway’s improvement and not putting the burden of improving the alleyway solely on the developer, to support of this well-designed proposed project, to a suggestion that the developer contact Mr. Robertson’s office to discuss improving that alleyway. Mr. and Mrs. de Wilde reiterated their concerns. Mr. Mims thanked Mr. and Mrs. de Wilde for attending the meeting and reiterated that a joint effort to improve the alleyway is an appropriate action.
There being no further discussion, and no strong objections raised by the Board members, Mims declared a consensus.

(b)     4500 Los Feliz Boulevard Project

Ron Weinstein asked Ken Owen, who prepared the report, to present to the Committee. Charley Mims stated he had spoken to Allison Cohen, who can run a quarter page advertisement concerning the November meeting in the September and October issues of the Ledger at a cost of $200 an issue. Discussion ensued about timing of advertising, planned outreach efforts, number of attendees, number of planned meetings and location.

MOTION by Molly Rysman to hold a public hearing at the Parish Hall of Our Mother of Good Counsel on November 10, 2005 for the purpose of discussing the 4500 Los Feliz Boulevard project; seconded by Bruce Carroll.

Ron Weinstein noted disagreement within the Planning Committee about whether to have one or two meetings; Mr. Weisman suggested scheduling one meeting. Phil Gasteier advised that legal requirements should be discussed and that the concerned Councilpeople should be “up front” somewhere. Mr. Gasteier also advised against requiring 300 packages of materials for distribution and that models be built. Kerry Hunnewell asked if the developer was aware that the meeting is planning; Mr. Weinstein stated that the developer is aware and is planning their own meeting. Mr. Hunnewell also stated that the proposed budget is 10% of the GGPNC annual budget. Cheryl Johnson stated that the developer’s plans were not that concrete and asked if the expenditure is appropriate to the situation. Charley Mims noted that the GGPNC has the authority to set a public forum for discussion of issues like this one. Joe Cisneros declared that the idea to discuss this issue in a public forum, stated that the neighborhood was owed the opportunity to be made aware of what is proposed, and noted his rationale for holding two separate meetings (one to present the project and the other to discuss the project). Rosemary de Monte advised she had been told that Whole Foods Market had asked to participate, which had not been part of the developer’s plans previously; Ms. De Monte talked about inviting LFIA. Richard Spicer suggested having the developer speak first in the meeting.

MOTION by Joel Friedman that only one meeting be held; seconded by Kerry Hunnewell.

Jacqueline Kerr declared her support of asking the developer to provide a model. Ken Owen stated that he had asked a photographer to create a rendering that would create an image that approximates the project. Nyla Arslanian commented that this is a terrific outreach opportunity. Molly Rysman agreed with Ms. Arslanian and emphasized that the Council should remain objective and impartial. Nyla Arslanian and Bruce Carroll will work together to produce a press release for this public forum. It was agreed that wording should include non-inflammatory, unbiased references to the proposal for the development of the Derby site. Charley Mims discussed how the meeting’s agenda should be structured: A clear statement of the property owner/developer’s legal rights first, then a presentation by the developer on what is proposed. Rosemary de Monte reported that the meeting she attended last week made it clear that the developer had no intent to retain the Derby structure, where a 30,000 footprint plan was discussed. It was agreed that the developer will be asked discuss the proposed project. It was agreed that the meeting will be convened as a GGPNC special board meeting for the purpose of discussion of the issue at hand.   Richard Spicer noted that the developer had promised to return to the Board in September or October 2005.

MOTION by Kerry Hunnewell that the Board allocate up to $5000 for the purpose of a public hearing on this project, primarily to disseminate information on what the developer’s proposals are; seconded by Cheryl Johnson.

Charley Mims reiterated that control of how the meeting is conducted should be kept by the Board. Philip Gasteier noted that proponents of the preservation of the Derby property should be given an opportunity to present their viewpoint equal to that given to the developer. Johnson, noting the lateness of the hour, suggested the Committee set the format of the forum.

After extensive discussion, Charley Mims declared that consensus was reached on the following points: An open forum to be held on November 10th, in the form of a special meeting of the GGPNC Board for the purpose of a holding a public hearing on the proposed development at 4500 Los Feliz, in the Parish Hall at Our Mother of Good Counsel, for an amount not to exceed $5000.

9. EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Rosemary de Monte, as a result of the exigencies resulting from Hurricane Katrina, suggested setting up training for an advance plan. This item was referred to the Public Safety Committee for review and appropriate action.

10. OFFICER AND BOARD VACANCIES

Jacqueline Kerr’s resignation as secretary was noted; outreach efforts are recommended to fill the Board vacancy. Charley Mims asked that Board members consider volunteering or possible nominees.

11. OTHER COMMITTEE REPORTS

Beautification Committee

Nyla Arslanian referred to the Vermont Steps and to the Los Feliz Steps; Jacqueline Kerr noted the $16,000 cost to recast. Ms. Kerr noted Paul’s fundraising efforts. The Committee suggested GGPNC to contribute $3000 to the Vermont Steps.

MOTION by Jacqueline Kerr that $3000 be approved for contribution to the Vermont Steps and $1000 be approved for contribution to the Myra Underpass per recommendation by the Beautification Committee; seconded by Nyla Arslanian.

Discussion ensued about how best to assist fundraising efforts for both these projects and how much is available in the GGPNC budget for such contributions. Joel Friedman asked for a written report of items to be considered for financial contribution in the future.

Charley Mims declared consensus on this issue.

Nyla Arslanian reported that the Vermont Triangle project has been increased; medians and a central water feature are being considered.   Ms. Arslanian reported asking the landscape architect for minimum and maximum estimates of costs involved.   The next meeting is set for November 2005.   Ms. Arslanian also reported on “abandoned” bus stops (meaning potential additional parking), and noted DOT’s attention to this issue. The work on the Triangle will be done in two phases; the first phase will begin mid-Fall 2006. The Hollywood Boulevard Streetscape project meeting that took place last week provided initial details on proposed work to be done: fixing curbs and sidewalks in three specific crosswalks and tree planting were specifically mentioned. Plans provided for designating three areas (Thai town, El Salvador, and Little Armenia), with banners, were sketchy and possibly offensive and obstructive. No approval had been made for breaking into the sidewalks to plant trees.

Richard Spicer asked if the Beautification Committee had gotten more information back from the Post Office on the parking situation. Rosemary deMonte reported meeting with John… , who indicated another meeting was planned. Ms. deMonte reported being told that there was possibly not a parking problem on New Hampshire.

Kerry Hunnewell moved to adjourn at 10:48pm.

Click Here for official notices regarding agenda posting, public comment, disabled services and process for reconsideration.

BACK TO
GGPNC HOME PAGE TOP OF THIS PAGE

unapproved draft
BOARD MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2005
Los Feliz Community Police Center
1965 N. Hillhurst, Los Angeles, CA 90027

1. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL/QUORUM CHECK/APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The meeting was called to order by President Charley Mims, at 7:05 p.m. without a quorum. BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Joe Cisneros, Shana Murphy, Bruce Carroll, Rosemary DeMonte, Jonathan Kaplan, Charley Mims, Philip Gasteier, Ron Weinstein, James Balesh, Richard Spicer, Nyla Arslanian, Jacqueline Kerr, Merlyn Hernandez, and Nora Mosqueda. GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVES PRESENT: Rory Fitzpatrick, Chief Field Deputy, CD #4.

2. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Rory Fitzpatrick, Director of Field Operations for Councilman Tom LaBonge, discussed a document handed to attendees prepared by Councilman Labonge’s office that states the councilman’s position on the proposed Griffith Park Master Plan. The document was backup material for a Resource Board meeting that took place the previous week. Mr. Fitzpatrick stated that Councilman LaBonge supports the concept outlined with reference to an Urban Wilderness at Griffith Park. Mr. Fitzpatrick detailed the various proposed Griffith Park projects that Councilman LaBonge supports and does not support. Charley Mims added some insight into the importance of the Cahuenga Peak wildlife corridor.

Mr. Fitzpatrick also discussed proposed funding for street improvement and street repair to be provided to each Neighborhood Council. Mr. Fitzpatrick mentioned training had been provided to Neighborhood Councils in the southern part of the City that will be given to all Neighborhood Councils. The discussion of repaving included a historical perspective as well as Mr. Fitzpatrick’s promise to share the list of streets to be resurfaced with GGPNC. Mr. Fitzpatrick quoted statistics concerning deferred maintenance—one-quarter of Los Angeles’ 6000 streets are failing; two-thirds of the streets need repair.

3. SENIOR LEAD OFFICER REPORT AND COMMENTS (unable to attend)

(A quorum was established.)

4. APPOINTMENT AND APPROVAL OF NEW BOARD MEMBER, ACTION AS NECESSARY.
Jonathan Kaplan motioned to appoint Joel Friedman as a new board member; seconded by Jacqueline Kerr.
Mr. Friedman briefly discussed his qualifications, willingness to fulfill a board position, and capabilities. Mr. Friedman noted that he had attended the treasurer training and had been approved by Kevin McNeely.
By consensus, Mr. Friedman was accepted to the board.

5.     GLOBAL GREEN

Richard Spicer, as an introduction to Alex Pugh’s presentation, brought the meeting’s attention to an article from the day’s Los Angeles Times that Mr. Spicer provided as a handout. The article mentioned a renewable energy goal.

Mr. Pugh, representative of Global Green USA (www.globalgreen.org), discussed his firm’s proposal to provide renewable resource (solar electric) technology. The intent is an investment by the City of Los Angeles in solar photovoltaic (PV) equipment to be placed on buildings owned by the City. In response to Joe Cisneros’ question, Mr. Pugh noted that his firm, located in Santa Monica, has placed PV equipment in several locations. Philip Gasteier asked about other companies that provide similar services. Ron Weinstein read a motion drafted by Global Green that was discussed at a GGPNC Planning Committee. Charley Mims asked for a motion to be made to the Board.

MOTION by Jonathan Kaplan moved to consider a motion drafted by Global Green, to encourage the DWP to ensure that a minimum of 80 megawatts of electricity generation will be generated by solar photovoltaics by the year 2017, for the purposes of discussion. SECOND: Richard Spicer

Mr. Kaplan asked how the specific parameters mentioned in Global Green’s proposal were obtained and why other renewable energy options; Mr. Pugh explained his firm felt that DWP had ignored the solar PV renewable resource option, and of existing forms of renewable resources, solar PV is of immediate benefit to urban dwellers. Philip Gasteier noted his opinion that, rather than urge the DWP to adopt this standard, the DWP should study this issue further and prepare a presentation to be made to GGPNC. Mr. Pugh stated that his firm felt that DWP held cost issues as the deciding factor when considering the various renewable resource options, and that an investment in solar PV would have a longer payback term than other renewable resources. Payback time can range, according to Mr. Pugh, from 5 years. Jacqueline Kerr asked if Mr. Pugh could provide names of other organizations that have endorsed the 80 megawatt standard mentioned. Mr. Pugh promised to provide a list to the Board. Mr. Gasteier asked what rationale was used to propel the approach Global Green has used—discussing issue with Neighborhood Councils, for example, rather than confronting DWP; Mr. Pugh stated that DWP was closed to his firm. Ron Weinstein questioned the appropriate venue for discussion of this issue, and remarked that the DWP MOU liaison program was that venue. Bruce Carroll asked about improvements in solar PV technology since 1979; Mr. Pugh noted recent improvements in capacity.

Shana Murphy asked if Global Green was a non-profit organization. Joel Friedman asked what cities have conducted research in this area; Mr. Pugh noted recent efforts in San Francisco and Santa Monica as well as the East Coast. Nyla Arslanian asked what percentage 80 megawatts is of the amount of wattage generated in the City of Los Angeles. Mr. Pugh stated that 80 megawatts of solar PV is 5 percent of the 20 percent renewable resource goal.

Charley Mims suggested that the issue be referred to the relevant agency of the Citywide Neighborhood Council and that the motion be tabled until the next meeting at which time a DWP representative will be invited to attend. Mr. Mims invited Mr. Pugh to return for the next meeting.

The board’s attention was directed back to Agenda Item 1. for approval of the Minutes for the July 19th meeting.

AGENDA ITEM #1 REVISITED

Richard Spicer requested that an addendum be made to the July 19th meeting minutes, to ensure that item #7 is followed through to completion (an action by the Los Feliz Improvement Association). Charley Mims suggested that, rather than changing or adding to prior meeting minutes, appropriate notation be made in future meeting minutes.

Jonathan Kaplan asked about language used to indicate Board approval. Charley Mims stated language he felt appropriate for use in meeting minutes.

Bruce Carroll clarified that an historical research study mentioned in Item 6b was brought forward by the developer, not by Mr. Carroll.

No other additions or corrections being brought forward, the minutes are approved as amended.

Approval of the minutes by consensus.

6. LOS FELIZ CHARTER SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS

Marta Alcumbrac and Elizabeth Rainey, Los Feliz Charter School representatives, discussed plans for the elementary school, which is scheduled to open September 2006. Ms. Alcumbrac noted the distinction of a charter school and its attendees. The school’s curriculum will provide education with a focus through the arts. Ms. Alcumbrac mentioned Devora Enwood, who was influential in setting up the Larchmont Charter School. Ms. Alcumbrac discussed funding efforts as well as support from various families and organizations. The proposed site has not yet been determined, an Adventist Church building as well as other sites are being considered.

Charley Mims asked about student body selection, why a charter school is beneficial, why is different with a charter school. Ms. Alcumbrac indicated that selection of pupils will be by lottery. A charter school pays its own bills, is run as a business, and gives control back to teachers. Rosemary DeMonte asked if fees will be paid by students. Ms. Alcumbrac’s answer: There is no financial requirement, however, parental involvement and community involvement are required. Ms. Alcumbrac outlined plans for community involvement.   James Balesh asked about the stage in the process of obtaining the necessary approval from the School District. Ms. Alcumbrac replied that the charter application will be made in October, and described the subsequent steps to be taken. Ms. Rainey clarified that the student lottery would take place in April or May of 2006, once the charter application is approved. Philip Gasteier asked about the impact on funding for California schools, and was told that Proposition 39 and subsequent legislation provided the basis for establishment of charter schools. Ms. Alcumbrac stated that no resources were to be taken away from public schools. Charley Mims asked if this charter school is approved, would the same allotment (per pupil per day) be given to the new school as is given to LAUSD schools. Ms. Alcumbrac stated that a percentage of the LAUSD amount is given to the charter school. Ms. Rainey provided additional information. Bruce Carroll asked if transportation to school for students outside of the Los Feliz area will have an effect on traffic in the area. Ms. Alcumbrac indicated that this issue is one that will have to be addressed with the charter application and with LAUSD.

Joe Cisneros asked about reaction from the Barnsdall Park administration. Ms. Alcumbrac replied that a dialogue with Barnsdall would be appreciated. Merlyn Hernandez asked about 501.3.c application being made. Ms. Alcumbrac outlined the activities taking place, indicated that non-profit status has been granted and 501.3(c) status is being requested.

Ms. Alcumbrac closed by asking for support from attendees. Ms. Rainey added to Ms. Alcumbrac’s request. A means of exchanging information via the Internet was proposed and agreed upon.

Jonathan Kaplan voiced his support of the Charter School and asked that Ms. Alcumbrac return to future meetings to update the Board on the school’s progress. Ms. Alcumbrac urged attendees to contact her.

7.     PARKS, RIVERS & OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE, BERNADETTE SOTER.

    Establishing Urban Wildlife Designation in Griffith Park

Ms. Soter reported that two meetings of the Griffith Park Master Plan Working Group took place in July and August; the next meeting is scheduled for September 12th at Griffith Park Ranger Station. The Working Group has representatives from Franklin Hills, Hollywood United Neighborhood Council, GGPNC, the Los Feliz Improvement Association, the Oaks Homeowners Association, the Atwater Village Council, ETI, xxx38, Sierra Club, Toluca Lake Neighborhood Council, Marshall High, and golf interests, plus ex officio representatives from the City of Los Angeles available on an advisory basis. Ms. Soter summarized details about how the group is governed and what its functions will be, as well as goals and vision for the park. Funding for the next iteration of the master plan has not yet been finalized. Ms. Soter invited all interested parties to attend the upcoming meeting.

Ms. Soter will e-mail a copy of the meeting minutes to Bruce Carroll, who will provide a link from the GGPNC web site.

Ms. Soter noted that Debs Park will be used as a model to establish the proposed Urban Wilderness, and provided background information on the Debs Park Framework plan, as well as proposed plans for Griffith Park.

Ms. Soter stated that the PROS Committee, at its last meeting, reviewed the framework plan and endorsed the Urban Wilderness petition. Ms. Soter asked the board to conceptually endorse the Griffin Park Urban Wilderness petition, which is now in the public comment period; Ms. Soter stated that this action is appropriate at this time. Charley Mims asked if a draft resolution had been prepared for presentation to the committee, however, no draft resolution was offered. Philip Gasteier asked what involvement the Debs plan calls for from the Audubon Society. Ms. Soter referred to a City Council motion that she provided to the Board; the motion refers to the Framework plan, and stated that she does not believe the involvement of the Audubon Society is not necessary. Jacqueline Kerr asked what is the difference between the Debs Park Framework Plan and the Deb Park Land Use Agreement; Ms. Soter explained that the Land Use Agreement is a subset of the Framework plan.

MOTION by Jonathan Kaplan that the GGPNC recommend that the final version of the Griffith Park master plan, currently in draft form, establish an Urban Wilderness in Griffith Park, protecting its remaining unused spaces. The current user access will not be affected by this designation, but the establishment of this protected zone will help ensure the survival of Griffith Park’s natural ecosystem—its indigenous plants and animals—and the continuation of its unique historic identity. SECOND: Philip Gasteier.

James Balesh asked if planned construction, such as parking structures, would be outside the designated wilderness area. Ms. Soter replied that some parking structures would be outside the area, but some would not. Richard Spicer noted his conviction that it is premature to take any action, until the board has a better understanding of what is going on. Mr. Spicer asked about an inventory of indigenous plants and animals. Mr. Spicer mentioned the Working Groups’ goals. Jonathan Kaplan noted his opinion that, as the Griffith Park advisory group, consideration of these issues is important. Mr. Kaplan stated that he felt discussion of this issue at this point is crucial.

Kristin Sabo, Amir’s Garden caretaker, stated that the phrase “current user access” in the petition is objectionable. Bruce Carroll agreed with Ms. Sabo’s comment, noting that ‘current user” should be “current uses.” Mr. Mims stepped down from the chair to discuss the process by which changes could be made to a master plan, noting that the details in this instance are crucial and that he would personally support Mr. Kaplan’s position.

Ms. Soter agreed to the amendment. The petition’s wording is amended to “I join with the Los Feliz Improvement Association, Oaks Homeowners Association, Hollywood United Neighborhood Council, and a coalition of Griffith Park users in recommending that the final version of the Griffith Park Master Plan, currently in draft form, establish an Urban Wilderness in Griffith Park protecting its remaining open spaces. Current uses will not be affected by the designation, but the establishment of this protected zone will help ensure the survival of Griffith Park’s natural eco-system—its indigenous plants and animals—and the continuation of its unique historic identity.”

Mr. Spicer noted that he could not vote on the issue, and stated his objection to the motion.

VOTE: 14 in favor; one against.

8.    PLANNING, ZONING & HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE

(a) Criteria for Hiring of New City Planning Director
Mr. Weinstein noted changes recommended by Molly Rysman, Planning Committee member, to a letter to Mayor Villaraigosa regarding the criteria for hiring a new City Planning Director.
MOTION by Ron Weinstein moved to accept the recommended changes. SECOND: Jacqueline Kerr.
VOTE: The motion passed by consensus.

    (b)    4500 Los Feliz Blvd; Establishment of Ad Hoc Committee
Ron Weinstein reported that the developer is redefining plans for that project.
MOTION by   Ron Weinstein moved to establish an Ad Hoc Committee whose concern will be the property located at 4500 Los Feliz Bolvd.
SECOND: Richard Spicer.

Mr. Weinstein suggested that the committee should be chaired by Ken Owen.

Rebecca Goodman, Save the Derby Coalition, discussed efforts on behalf of opposition to the project. Ms. Goodman noted outreach efforts, including a website, a network (listserve bulletin board), and voiced support of the formation of an ad hoc committee. Ms. Goodman asked for access to the Historic Resource Report prepared by the developer. Ron Weinstein mentioned that the report had been requested from the developer; the request was deferred by the developer, indicating that the report would be provided at the next presentation with other information.

Debra Levine, stakeholder, LA Conservancy, Modern Committee, corroborated Ms. Goodman’s comments, and reported that her own outreach efforts indicated that the public is not aware that the building is “in motion.” In response to Jacqueline Kerr’s question about what organizations have supported or endorsed the Save the Derby Coalition’s efforts, Ms. Goodman noted that there have not yet been formal endorsements, due to the various processes involved. Ms. Goodman listed the agencies to which her group has made presentations or contacted. In response to a comment from Nora Mosqueda, Ms. Goodman gave a historical perspective on the various locations the Brown Derby has had.

VOTE: Charley Mims declared a consensus on this issue and the formation of an ad hoc committee.

Ron Weinstein suggested that the outreach committee work in conjunction with the newly-formed ad hoc committee.

9.    ELECTION OF TREASURER
MOTION by   Jonathan Kaplan moved to appoint Joel Friedman.
SECOND: Jacqueline Kerr.
By common consent, Mr. Friedman is appointed Treasurer.

10.    TWO PART BUDGET FISCAL YEAR 2005/2006
Nora Mosqueda presented the preliminary budget for the GGPNC for fiscal year 2005/2006. Ms. Mosqueda noted that planned expenditure for outreach totals $42,900 and listed planned activities that would come under the outreach banner. Charley Mims mentioned guidelines discussed at treasurer training he attended, as a rationale for the broad categorization.

MOTION by Jonathan Kaplan moved to approve the budget as submitted. SECOND: Rosemary DeMonte.
Charley Mims declared a consensus on this issue.

11.    STATUS OF MPA BUS LINE (#175)
Richard Spicer reported on information provided by Matt MTA has proposed to reduce the 175 service during the midday starting in September 2005. Mr. Spicer suggested approaching the MTA representative to explore alternatives to reducing service. Mr. Spicer will contact MTA.

12.    BY-LAWS AMENDMENT: SIMPLE QUORUM
MOTION by   Bruce Carroll moved to change by-laws to establish a quorum by a minimum of 10 members
SECOND: Nora Mosqueda.
Charley Mims declared a consensus on this issue.

13.    Other Committee Reports

Police Public Safety
Jacqueline Kerr stated Brett Blumstein has volunteered to co-chair the most eastern region of the GGPNC District. Ms. Kerr introduced Mr. Blumstein. Charley Mims welcomed Mr. Blumstein.

Neighborhood Improvement
Jacqueline Kerr discussed a competition for a mural at King Middle School to be installed in the Myra Underpass next to a mural just completed. Students’ concepts will be sent to Bruce Carroll for publication on the FHRA and GGPNC websites, and public input will guide selection. Ms. Kerr further said that the original funding of $3,000 for the original mural had generated this expansion of the artwork to King Middle School’s involvement.

LA DWP
Charley Mims and Nora Mosqueda reported on the August 13, 2005 meeting. Ms. Mosqueda attended the meeting on behalf of the GGPNC in Mr. Mims’ absence.

14.    COMMENTS BY BOARD MEMBERS

Richard Spicer asked that the PROS committee provide a report on funding sources for Griffith Park. Bernadette Soter agreed to e-mail the requested information report.

Nyla Arslanian called the Board’s attention to a new building on Los Feliz Blvd. that, in her opinion, is well done.

Jacqueline Kerr discussed her upcoming change of residence to West Covina, and noted that the next meeting on September 2nd of the Neighborhood Improvement Committee will be her last as Chairperson; the next meeting of the Executive Committee on September 7th will be her last as Secretary of the Board; and that the meeting of the Board of the GGPNC on September 20th will be her last as a Board Member.

Rosemary DeMonte thanked Jacqueline Kerr for her contributions as a Board member.

MOTION to adjourn by Charley Mims.

Click Here for official notices regarding agenda posting, public comment, disabled services and process for reconsideration.

BACK TO
GGPNC HOME PAGE TOP OF THIS PAGE

BOARD MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, JULY 19, 2005
Los Feliz Community Police Center
1965 N. Hillhurst, Los Angeles, CA 90027

1. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL/QUORUM CHECK/APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Meeting called to order by Jonathan Kaplan, Presiding Board Member, at 7:08 p.m. without a quorum.
BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Nora Mosqueda, Rosemary DeMonte, Bruce Carroll, Molly Rysman, Joe Cisneros, Kerry Hunnewell, Philip Gasteier, Richard Spicer, Ron Weinstein, Cheryl Johnson, James Balesh, Merlyn Hernandez, Jacqueline Kerr, and Jonathan Kaplan, presiding board member. GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVES PRESENT: Rory Fitzpatrick, Chief Field Deputy, Council District #4; Matt Levy, Council District #4.

2. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
    (a) Rory Fitzpatrick, Council District #4, reported on the upcoming rollout of a DOT program intended to place additional traffic control officers during peak hours at intersections designated by the various Council Districts. Two intersections of significance in the GGPNC area are: Los Feliz Boulevard and Griffith Park Boulevard, and either Hillhurst or Vermont and Los Feliz Boulevard.   Details about the rollout of the program were not available at the time of the meeting; however, Mr. Fitzpatrick anticipates the program being rolled out within the next six weeks. Mr. Fitzpatrick noted prospective CalTrans plans to place a traffic signal light at the Southbound 5/Glendale Boulevard off-ramp, as well.
    (b) Jim McQuiston spoke of a prospective Senate of Neighborhood Councils and submitted a Draft Compact proposing a Neighborhood Council Resource Center. Mr. McQuiston mentioned that a call for volunteers was made to man the proposed Senate and House of Representatives. Mr. McQuiston stated that the Senate idea was a “dead duck,” but endorsed the concept of a Resource Center. A copy of the Compact is incorporated into these meeting minutes.

3. SENIOR LEAD OFFICER REPORT AND COMMENTS

4. APPOINTMENT AND APPROVAL OF NEW BOARD MEMBER
    Because there was neither yet a quorum nor a Senior Lead Officer present, Agenda Items #3 and #4 were deferred and the discussion moved directly to Agenda Item #5.

5. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORT
    (a) REAPPOINTMENT OF KURT RADEMAEKERS AS CHAIR INCLUSIONARY ZONING AD HOC COMMITTEE
Jacqueline Kerr noted a “slight error” in the report provided by Mr. Mims, Exec Chair Committee Chair, which lists the appointments for the various Committee Chairs. The report is incorporated as part of these minutes.
    (b) NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL CONGRESS
        Rosemary DeMonte noted that she had attended training and meetings regarding this item, and indicated that other Board members were present, as well.
    (c) DEPARTMENT OF WATER & POWER
It was reported that this issue has been resolved.

6. PLANNING, ZONING & HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE REPORT
    (a) 2588 Nottingham Avenue
        This issue was deferred until a quorum was present.
    (b) 4500 Los Feliz Boulevard
Ron Weinstein reported on development proposed for 4500 Los Feliz, former site of the Derby Restaurant—81 condo units with 352 parking spaces (2.5 parking spaces per unit, 3 levels of parking). Mr. Weinstein gave further details of proposed construction, including copies of preliminary plans provided by the developer (Afriat Consulting Group). The plans are incorporated as part of the minutes of this meeting. Molly Rysman asked if a time frame had been given for the development. Mr. Weinstein indicated that nothing had yet been submitted to the city; the developer was asked if affordable housing was considered—it was not; mention made of the historic nature of the property elicited the response that an historical resource study was done, but it was concluded that the structure was not worth saving. John Lee, representative of the developer (Afriat Consulting Group), noted preliminary community outreach efforts made with respect to the proposed development, as well as detailing efforts to develop the property. Questions from various board members referred to traffic mitigation, affordable housing, and how preliminary the plans presented to the board are. Jacqueline Kerr asked that Mr. Lee have the traffic consultant be made aware of development taking place at Dracena and Ambrose, as well as development taking place in the 4700 Block on Ambrose. John English, LA Conservancy board member, expressed the LA Conservancy’s position on the proposed development. The Conservancy is interested in preserving the community’s heritage and history, above all.

A quorum was established.

AGENDA ITEM #1 REVISITED
Approval of minutes from the March 2005, April 2005, May 2005 and June 2005 meetings.
MOTION by Bruce Carroll to approve these minutes, SECOND: Cheryl Johnson.
By common consent, the minutes were approved.

AGENDA ITEM #4 REVISITED: APPOINTMENT AND APPROVAL OF NEW BOARD MEMBER
A quorum was present, however, the prospective appointee, Joel Friedman, did not attend the meeting. The discussion regarding this issue ranged from how best to accomplish the appointment to the urgency to fill the vacancy to the qualifications necessary for any prospective appointee. Philip Gasteier asked the reason for urgency. Clarification of the circumstances behind Mr. Friedman’s appointment ensued; it was not clear whether Mr. Friedman had attended the DONE-required treasurer training. This process was further complicated by Mr. Kaplan’s absence. Dr. Daniel Wiseman, who is already a DONE-qualified treasurer, volunteered to take the vacant board member seat, listed his qualifications and expressed his willingness to accept the appointment. Nora Mosqueda reiterated her willingness to accept an interim appointment as treasurer; Ms. Mosqueda questioned the propriety of appointing Dr. Wiseman to the vacancy. Mr. Kaplan requested that Dr. Wiseman attend the next Executive Committee meeting to further discuss this issue.

MOTION by Kerry Hunnewell to vote on Mr. Friedman’s appointment to the open at-large seat for Recreation and Parks and to appoint him as Treasurer. SECOND: Cheryl Johnson. VOTE: In favor--2; Opposed--12. The motion failed.

12. TREASURY MATTERS (taken out of order)
    (a) Ratification of Assistant Treasurers
Jonathan Kaplan noted that he, Nora Mosqueda, Charley Mims, Cheryl Johnson, and Bruce Carroll attended treasurer training. Mr. Kaplan asked for a motion to ratify

MOTION: Bruce Carroll moved to ratify those Board Members who took treasurer training to be appointed as Assistant Treasurers. SECOND: Richard Spicer. VOTE: The motion carried by consensus.

Nora Mosqueda reported that Rosemary DeMonte also took the treasurer training.

MOTION: Bruce Carroll moved to appoint Ms. DeMonte as Assistant Treasurer. SECOND: James Balesh. VOTE: The motion carried by consensus.

    (b) GGPNC Citibank checking account
The GGPNC is required to adopt a resolution that will authorize removal of the checking account’s original signatures and add Nora Mosqueda, Charley Mims, and Jonathan Kaplan as new signatures for this account.

MOTION: Molly Rysman moved to adopt this resolution. SECOND: Bruce Carroll. VOTE: The motion carried by consensus.

Jacqueline Kerr was directed to provide a copy of the resolution to the bank, and Ms. Mosqueda, Mr. Mims, and Mr. Kaplan were directed and authorized to provide signatures to the bank, as necessary.

13. NEW BUSINESS
Jonathan Kaplan provided a draft copy of a Certificate of Commendation to be presented to the Mt. Hollywood Congregational Church on its 100th Anniversary, Sunday, July 24, 2005. Councilman LaBonge’s office will have a Certificate of Appreciation issued by the City of Los Angeles, which will be presented on behalf of the City of Los Angeles by Mr. Kaplan. Cheryl Johnson noted that a clarification should be made, that the Mt. Hollywood Congregational Church is “one of the oldest” churches in the area.

MOTION by Bruce Carroll to adopt this commendation of Mt. Hollywood Congregational Church. SECOND: Nora. Mosqueda. VOTE: Consensus

6. PLANNING, ZONING & HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
    (a) 2588 Nottingham Avenue
Ron Weinstein reported on development of a hillside residence located at 2588 Nottingham produced a roofline well in excess of the height limitations on property in the area. The current owner renovated the property, which increased the height of the roofline. The property owner applied for a variance; after input was obtained from neighbors the Planning Committee came to a consensus that the owner had established a pattern of willfully ignoring the established guidelines.

MOTION: Cheryl Johnson moved that the Planning Committee be empowered to oppose the request for a variance for a property located at 2588 Nottingham. SECOND: Bruce Carroll

Jim McQuiston reminded the Board that this kind of action is not countenanced by the City of Los Angeles and should be addressed immediately. Kenneth Owen identified the property’s developer as a non-resident that is speculating on the development of this property. Mr. Owen also noted that a petition signed by concerned neighbors will be made available to the Board.

VOTE: Passed by general consensus

8. TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE

(b) Mission Statement and Strategic Plan

MOTION: Rosemary DeMonte moved to adopt the Mission Statement and Strategic Plan drafted by James Balesh. SECOND: Nora Mosqueda

Bernadette Soter, Chairman of the Parks and Recreation and Open Space committee, commended Mr.
Balesh on the work done.

VOTE: Passed by general consensus

    (a) Resurfacing $100,000 Apportionment
Questions were addressed to Matt Levy and Rory Fitzpatrick, regarding recommendations for expenditures for street resurfacing and how the decision to resurface is made, and which streets are scheduled for resurfacing. Jonathan Kaplan, as presiding board member, referred the issue to the Planning Committee and asked for a report prepared by the Committee to be presented at the next meeting.

9. OUTREACH & COMMUNICATION COMMITTEE
Richard Spicer spoke about the outreach efforts made via a questionnaire and the website. Bruce
Carroll provided the responses received to date to Nora Mosqueda, who will report at the next meeting.

AGENDA ITEM 6(b) REVISITED: PLANNING, ZONING & HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
    (b) 4500 Los Feliz Boulevard
Bruce Carroll mentioned earlier report by a consultant for the developer that indicated that the Derby building’s historic character has been compromised to the point that it is irrelevant, and asked James English’s opinion. Mr. English, being unfamiliar with the report, could not speak to that point. James Balesh asked that Mr. English attend an upcoming meeting. It was agreed that the appropriate purview for this development is the Neighborhood Council Planning Committee. Mr. English indicated his willingness to attend an upcoming meeting; Mr. Kaplan asked Ms. Kerr to ensure that a formal invitation be extended to Mr. English as representative of the LA Conservancy. Mr. Kaplan asked that this item be agendized for the next meeting. Jim McQuiston provided an historical perspective of the former Brown Derby site.

7. PARKS, RIVERS AND OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE
Bernadette Soter reported on the Griffith Park Master Plan update. Ms. Soter provided Board members with an précis of the report, which detailed the proposed changes as well as commenting on the appropriateness of the work recommended. Ms. Soter asked for responses and comments from the board members, and provided questionnaires to be completed by the Board Members and returned to her. Ms. Soter asked for mobilization from the community and suggested a protective overlay be established. Landfill, additional recreation areas, revenue enhancement, parking structures, invasive plant life and restoration of the original chaparral once proposed work is finished are all issues raised by board members. Ms. Soter discussed how the relevant material is presented in the update, and was able to provide a large amount of detail. Jim McQuiston indicated his opinion that the Master Plan would not come to any further fruition and that further funding would be difficult to obtain.

AGENDA ITEM #5 REVISITED

(a) REAPPOINTMENT OF CHAIRPERSONS FOR STANDING COMMITTEES
Jonathan Kaplan referred to a report provided by Charley Mims, dated July 19, 2005, listing the appointment of chairpersons to head the GGPNC standing committees as noted within the report. Mr. Kaplan noted the amendment of James Balesh’s appointment as Chair of the Transportation.

MOTION: Philip Gasteier moved to ratify the report, as noted above. SECOND: Bruce Carroll

An additional amendment includes the appointment of Rose Marin to chair the Education Committee.

MOTION: Philip Gasteier moved to ratify the amendment. SECOND: Richard Spicer

Nora Mosqueda noted that Rosemary DeMonte’s name should be added to the Outreach Committee.

MOTION: Philip Gasteier moved to ratify the additional amendment. SECOND: Richard Spicer

VOTE: Passed by general consensus

AGENDA ITEM #13 REVISITED
(a) Brown Act Reforms re Neighborhood Councils
Richard Spicer noted that further efforts are called for to simplify Brown Act reforms, referred to legislation proposed to that end, and asked for input from all concerned. Jonathan Kaplan requested that a questionnaire similar to Bernadette Soter’s could be valuable.
Jacqueline Kerr asked that the matter of maintenance of the meeting facilities be referred to the Executive Committee; Richard Spicer requested that the issue of storage be revisited as well. Dr. Daniel Wiseman proposed a Community Impact statement.
Rosemary DeMonte asked for approval of a newsletter mailing. Jonathan Kaplan referred Ms. DeMonte to Charley Mims.

14. STRATEGIC PLANNING
Richard Spicer made a recommendation that a “report card” system be established for the various committees, and indicated his willingness to draft the request to the various committee chairs. The draft will be forwarded to Bruce Carroll for dissemination. No further committee reports, comments by board members, or non-agenda items were noted.

Motion by Bruce Carroll to adjourn.
The meeting adjourned, by consensus, at 9:04pm
.

Click Here for official notices regarding agenda posting, public comment, disabled services and process for reconsideration.

BACK TO
GGPNC HOME PAGE TOP OF THIS PAGE

BOARD MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, JUNE 21, 2005
BOARD OF DIRECTOR MEETING MINUTES
Los Feliz Community Police Center
1965 N. Hillhurst, Los Angeles, CA 90027

1. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
Charley Mims, President called the meeting to order at 7:20 pm. without a quorum.

PRESENT: Charley Mims, President; Jacqueline Kerr, Phillip Gasteier, Nyla Arslanian, Rosemary DeMonte, Joe Cisneros, Merlyn Hernandez, Nora Mosqueda, Richard Spicer, Philip Gasteier, Kerry Hunnewell.
Absent: Shana Murphy (had a baby); Bruce Carroll, Cheryl Johnson, Ron Weinstein, James Balesh Molly Rysman, Rose Marin...
Government Officials Rory Fitzpatrick, Chief Field Deputy CD 4.

2. PUBLIC COMMENT Jim McQuiston, stakeholder: On Jan. 1 new State law goes into effect. If a developer wants to put in low cost housing, affordable or senior, he can get up to 4 options and escape the planning codes, increase height limit, reduce side yards, etc. Jane Blumfield has been trying to wiggle out of some of these requirements. She has tried to put that in but if they don’t give these concessions it becomes big legal offence. It will affect the Hollywood Plan. Mims: Please leave Ron Weinstein a note about this.

3 CD 4 REPORT Rory Fitzpatrick: The Griffith Park Master Plan group has been formed, their first meeting is July 13, and Bernadette Soter is representing this NC. Observatory opening day may be changed from 5/14/06, as it coincides with Dodger Stadium and Hollywood Bowl.

4. Alex Pugh, Global Green USA Solar Power: [Distributed booklet] Gave presentation on trying to encourage City to use a certain portion of solar power. There is information on the Global Green website. Also a suggested draft motion in support of solar power and its objective, which is in the handout. Mims will let him know which committee he should give a detailed presentation to.

5. DWP – Integrated Resource Plan
Sam Alavi, Dan Comorre, Bureau of Engineering; Vickie Cross, DWP. [Distributed PowerPoint Presentation and IRP Newsletter] This was a stakeholder driven project and DWP asked various communities what they wanted. He went over program needs for City wastewater upgrade, overview of IRP alternatives, EIR process, schedule and public outreach and IRP Implementation strategy. People interested in knowing more, put name on Sam’s list. Alavi and his group answered questions.

(2) Dan Comorre: Discussed 2 sewer connectors being repaired NEIS II and GBIS. Showed on map the route sewer would take and time table as it coincides with EIR IRP project. Around next year after City Council approval of EIR will take 3 years for the design and then 4th year start construction. They will employ more than one construction method for repair. Sam answered questions about “smart” irrigation which is moisture meters in the soil that detect rain; periodic review of plants every 10 years for planning and adjustment.

6. SENIOR LEAD OFFICER
Officer Gina Chavon informed that vehicle burglaries are down, Day of Service on August 2, the Hyperion rapist is still at large and there is a reward for him. New cruelty to animal unit started to work with animals/dogs that are trained to fight/kill. Lot’s of crime at Dodger Stadium, they are having internal security problems. LAPD has hired 15 new officers. Problems with Armenia Power gang, they are now a mafia-type organization.

7. PROS REPORT
Bernadette Soter reported that when Observatory opens there will be a charge for the Planetarium show, parking and shuttle service. About 17,000 people a day are expected up from 4,000 before the closing. Building holds 10,000. They will look at the Getty as a model for handling traffic and visitors and may change the opening date from May 14 to October due to Dodger Stadium and Hollywood Bowl events. (2) On the Master Plan the advisory panel will meet July 13, and there are 5 parking structures in the plan that will impact residents.

8. TREASURY MATTERS
Nora has been ratified as treasurer, has taken the training and will be added to checking account as signatory. To file expenses the forms are on the website and Nora also gave one to each person. If expense is for $1,000 or more a demand warrant is required. Kerry suggested moving the checking account to Bank of America as that’s where the card is issued from.

9. PLANNING, ZONING & HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
It was suggested to reappoint Kurt Rademaekers as chair of Ad Hoc Committee on Inclusionary Zoning. The matter will be taken up at the Executive Committee meeting. Kurt said there is a more formalized IZ proposal being circulated.

10. TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE
Mims reported for James that everyone should read the Transportation Mission Statement and Strategic Plan and be ready to discuss at the next meeting.

11. OUTREACH & COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE
Nora reported that the street faire went well and thanked Rosemary DeMonte, Bruce Carroll and Richard Spicer for the beautiful newsletter. The newsletter was distributed in various neighborhoods including the Franklin Hills Residents Association. The newsletter has the survey in it. Spicer reported 35 signatures of people who want to be on e-mail list and people filled out survey. No responses yet to survey on the web. Board members were asked to distribute to neighbors and ask for response.

12. NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT
Jacqueline reported that the Neighborhood Improvement Committee formed a Design Project Subcommittee and Nyla Arslanian is chair. Nyla will reach out to different areas of the community for streetscape architects and receive suggestions/ideas on content. Kerr will ask that $$1,500 be allocated at the next Committee meeting for the Los Feliz Steps. Kerr also met with Roger Snoble, CEO of the Metropolitan Transit Authority at the Triangle and discussed bus stops to be added.
Arslanian said the Hollywood Streetscape project is moving along and the street survey has just been completed and a rendering of “before and after” will be done; there will also not be any ethnic representations in the designs; will come before the board for review.
The Vermont parking study is moving along and the architect has been hired to look at the Post Office. Richard added that a man named Oscar Gill with Independent Salvadorians organization said they would pick up expenses and develop the triangle if there could be a tribute to them. Mims added that he was approached by someone who wants to honor an Armenian.

13. BUDGET PLANNING
Mims asked for a budget in July using major category headings for flexibility. Balesh is asking for $2,500 for the transportation committee for the year, a large part for outreach, the rest operational. Nora said she would work on it.

Spicer said his Strategic Plan put emphasis on transportation and the Plan was requested by Dennis Chew of LFIA and Silver Lake Neighborhood Council.

Meeting adjourned at 9:30 p.m.

Jacqueline Kerr
Secretary.

Click Here for official notices regarding agenda posting, public comment, disabled services and process for reconsideration.

BACK TO
GGPNC HOME PAGE TOP OF THIS PAGE

BOARD MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, MAY 17, 2005
BOARD OF DIRECTOR MEETING MINUTES
Los Feliz Community Police Center
1965 N. Hillhurst, Los Angeles, CA 90027

1.    CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
Charley Mims, President, called the meeting to order at 7:09 p.m. with no quorum

PRESENT: Charley Mims, President; Jacqueline Kerr, Phillip Gasteier, Cheryl Johnson, Ron Weinstein, Nyla Arslanian, , James Balesh, Rosemary DeMonte, Joe Cisneros. Merlyn Hernandez, Molly Rysman, Shana Murphy, Bruce Carroll, Nora Mosqueda. CITY REPRESENTATIVES PRESENT: Rory Fitzpatrick, Chief Field Deputy, CD 4; CD 4, Gabriela Quintiana, DONE Project Coordinator.

2.    PUBLIC COMMENT
(a) Sheryl L. Thomas, Senior Govt Affiars Rep for LA World Airports. She came to introduce herself and is making the rounds to all the NCs. Comprehensive website is www.lawa.org , phone is 310-348-2521. Their flight museum is available for community meetings.

(b) Fernando Chavarrie, LAUSD facilities for new school construction. [Distributed flyer] The span school for grades 6 – 12 that was to be built to relieve overcrowding at Marshall and King has been cancelled due to lower enrollment projections for this area. Marshall will return to a traditional school schedule when the new high school in Taylor Yard is built. There is a meeting on June 7 at King Middle School to explain all this. Another school #5 is planned for the old Tropicana building at Fountain and Western.

(c) CD 4 Report: Rory Fitzpatrick: Since the rain Laurel Canyon has been partially open, but this weekend work will be done to fully open it. (2) DOT is working on making some changes to the traffic timing of the east/west thoroughfare at Los Feliz Blvd. They have done this at Griffith Park Blvd.

(d) DONE Report: Gabriela Quintiana: She is replacing Melvin Canas while he is on paternity leave. Prior to this assignment Garbriela was four years with Pacomia, Pico Union and West Lake NCs.

(e) DWP- RIVERSIDE SUPPLY CONTUIT IMPROVEMENTS
Anselmo Collins, Ritchie Yee, P.E. DWP and other staff of DWP Anselmo and Ritchie gave a presentation showing on easel displays the re-piping that would take place. A draft EIR was released May 5 and public comments are due by June 20; it is on the DWP website and at the library. The re-piping will increase water pressure and increase capacity with larger pipes for a growing populating as well as changing disinfectant from chlorine to chloramines per upcoming EPA regulations. Ritchie gave out a handout and pointed out on the maps the various streets that would be affected the timeline and the type of pipes to be used. All work to be completed by June 2007. DWP is working with Rec and Parks at Crystal Springs, which will be worked on at night when park closes. Also working with DOT on all street closures and parking restrictions. Through Griffith Park work hours will be Monday to Friday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. no work on Saturday or Sunday. In residential areas work 8 to 5 and possibly Saturday.

Quorum established.

3.    APPROVAL OF APRIL MINUTES
Corrections: Weinstein had a list of corrections, which he gave to Carroll.
MOTION by Kerr to approve the minutes with corrections at the next meeting.
SECOND Molly.
VOTE: Consensus
Corrected minutes will go on website.

4.    PLANNING ZHP COMMITTEE
2238 Hyperion Blvd: An 11 unit live/work loft project which was discussed last month, and Weinstein was authorized to prepare a support letter for the owners variance to increase density from 0.5:1 to 1:1. It turns out that the owner needs an increase to 1.2:1. This is just a correction and will not change the size of the project as described at the last meting.

MOTION by Weinstein that the board approves correction of the density and resend the letter to the property owner with that correction.
SECOND: Nora
VOTE: Consensus

5.    4500 Los Feliz Blvd
Weinstein invited the owners but the notice was too short so they will come to the next meeting. The developer is in the preliminary stages for a mixed use project with 1-story retail and at the corner 4 story condo: 75 residential units, 2- parking spaces per unit; 1100 sq ft units. No decision has been made regarding affordable units. Estimated at $400 – $450 per sf. The developers were at the committee meeting last Thursday night and also went before LFIA to see if it was a wise idea to go forward with this plan. It was suggested that the height is inappropriate and this should be expressed now even in the early design stage. It was noted that the board should see plans first. An option expressed was to send an informal “lack of enthusiasm and disappointment” letter now to let the developer’s know the board’s feelings. Weinstein responded that several members expressed this at the meeting. The building is considered historical property but LFIA did not raise this issue. The structure was built by Cecil B. deMille as the second Brown Derby and it was suggested that Diane Kanner be contacted. Since they can’t build ‘by right” they will have to come by way of the NC and at that time they can be told of the concerns.

6.    2588 Nottingham
This involves an owner of a residence who exceeded the permitted height limit while renovating a home and is now seeking a variance. Weinstein plans to invite the owner to the next committee meeting. In the interim he is requesting the board send a letter to the ZA asking that they not exercise discretion to waive a public hearing without giving GGPNC notice.

MOTION by Weinstein that the board send a letter to the Zoning Administrator asking that they not exercise discretion to waive a public hearing without giving GGPNC notice to respond.
SECOND: Gasteier???
VOTE: Consensus

7.    Planning Director Selection
Each NC will select a single representative to participate in the selection process, to attend meetings and if selected from that group, interview these candidates for the position. Rysman volunteered but she is getting married shortly.

Mims: If no objection I appoint Rysman with Weinstein as the alternate.
SECOND: Johnson
VOTE: Consensus.

8.    Hollywood Community Plan
There will be a scoping meeting on May 26 at Hollywood Presbyterian Church at 5:30 p.m., and materials are on the website.

9.    Community Congress
One of the subjects of the CC will be land us, this Saturday and there is a CC on June 8 and June 25.

10.    SR LEAD OFFICERS REPORT
Officer Chovan introduced her fellow officer Mark and civilian members of the Community Police Advisory Board. The CPAB members assist throughout the community calling in bulky items for pick up, graffiti and assisting where they can to help the police. She informed of the increased burglary and grand theft from Franklin down to Hollywood area, day and night. On Thursday her team will do a Crime Walk starting at Vermont and Hollywood going door to door to distribute information and safety tips. The DMV has been notified that there are used cars on Los Feliz and Vermont. Two ladies scammed an older man got into his home and robbed them. Officer Chovan will talk to Marshall High Principal about the graffiti, but would like to have this board send a letter to the school to do more back pack checks for graffiti markers. Mosqueda said there are a lot of child molesters in the area and in one building on Normandie there are 12. Officer Mark suggested that she go through the Department of Corrections, pull up her zip code to locate them, then rally the residents together to chase them out.

11.    NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT
Kerr reported that the walls of the stairwell are crumbling on all 3 sides and the City will tear it down and rebuild. This puts a delay on the mural. Fitzpatrick said that he talked to Mary Francis and learned that the mural may be replaced.

12.    TREASURER VACANCY/ASSISTANT TREASURER
Some of the board took training last week but the treasurer position still needs to be filled; will those who took training think about it. The people who trained, Carroll, Johnson, Mims, Mosqueda and Kaplan and when trained Kerr and Demonte will also serve as assistant treasurer or fiduciary agent. They are the second signature.

MOTION by Mims that these people who went through treasurer training be approved as assistants/fiduciary agents for flexibility and continues operation of the NC.
SECOND: Gasteier

At the June 25 Neighborhood Community Congress there will be a seminar on finance, and could be helpful to committee chairs. The budget process could be simplified into two categories, improvements and outreach, rather than each committee having budget line items. Anything not administrative is to be called outreach Also the budget will be annual rather than a quarterly budget handed in. Charley suggested 40/10 mix of outreach/administrative and lean on the City for improvements. Also have $500 a month in petty cash and use the debit card for up to $1,000 and more than that ask DONE to cut a check. The treasurer should do the shopping so that board members should not have to be reimbursed. You can give another person the debit card to use, and they bring back receipts; forms have to be filled out to ask for money.   Kerry is the treasurer for now until he resigns or is replaced. DeMonte said she had street faire table and election invoices still to be paid.

VOTE: Consensus

(a) Recreation Seat
There is also a vacancy to fill Lisa Sergi’s Recreation seat. It was suggested that the candidates who ran last fall and lost be contacted.

13.    COMMITTEE REPORTS

(a) Outreach: Nora M and Rosemary D: No one coming to the monthly meetings so she and DeMonte will go to the other committee meetings and see what outreach they want done. The newsletter is still a work in progress; I-5 will print it but it needs to be paid for to distribute 52,000 copies. Some will be used for the street faire. Mims recommend DeMonte get with one of the newly trained assistant treasurers to help get invoices together to submit after determining how many pieces will be needed, as enough money has been allocated. He will look through Kerry’s information and see if I-5 has been paid anything thus far. Johnson noted that last year she made 250 copies and only half were given out at the faire, Mims suggested DeMonte get a quote for 500 and 1,000. Rosemary passed out a sign up sheet for the faire asking everyone for at least an hour.

(b)    Mosqueda asked about she and DeMonte being sent to the Neighborhood USA 30th Annual Conference on Neighborhood Concerns May 25-28 at $1400 per person.

MOTION by Balesh to approve sending DeMonte and Mosqueda to the Neighborhood USA 30th Annual Conference on Neighborhood Concerns, May 25-28 and bill out reach for $1400 per person, not to exceed $1500.
SECOND: Arslanian
VOTE: Consensus

Mims said that DONE should be contacted regarding hotel and airfare arrangements.

(b) Transportation Committee: James B: His group is starting to organize a transportation summit. He has been trying to contact Matt Levy, CD 4 Field Deputy, wants to make about 100 flyers to advertise at the street faire, and went to the Executive Committee to ask for $2500 out reach budget. Mims asked him to send an e-mail and it will be handled in the next Executive Committee meeting; also to talk to DeMonte and Mosqueda about outreach.

(c) PROS Committee In the absence of Bernadette Soter, Mims reported that the Dept of Rec and Parks will have an advisory group to advise them on the development of the Griffith Park Master Plan and asked for an NC rep. He wants to appoint Soter if there are no objections from the board [there were none]. Soter will be notified.

14.    BOARD COMMENTS
Joe Cisneros said he is going to ask the developer of the Los Feliz project for their renderings and at the June 5 street faire take a poll of people asking if they are for or against the construction to get a sense of the community’s feelings. Some board members felt it was either against the Brown Act or was unfair to the developer since the plans are very preliminary and may be too soon to put before stakeholders. Unless the developer gives Joe the plans with full knowledge that Joe will be doing this poll.

15.    Shana Murphy informed the group that she is expecting to deliver her baby next month and will probably miss the next two meetings.

Meeting adjourned at 9:10 p.m.

Jacqueline Kerr,
Secretary

Click Here for official notices regarding agenda posting, public comment, disabled services and process for reconsideration.

BACK TO
GGPNC HOME PAGE TOP OF THIS PAGE

BOARD MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2005
BOARD OF DIRECTOR MEETING MINUTES
Los Feliz Community Police Center
1965 N. Hillhurst, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Charley Mims, President, called the meeting to order at 7:17 p.m.

PRESENT: Charley Mims, President; Jacqueline Kerr, Phillip Gasteier, Cheryl Johnson,, Ron Weinstein, Nyla Arslanian, Kerry Hunnewell, James Balesh, Richard Spicer, Rosemary DeMonte, Joe Cisneros. Merlyn Hernandez, Rose Marin, Molly Rysman.

ABSENT: Jon Kaplan, Vice President, Nora Mosqueda, Shana Murphy, Bruce Carroll.

CITY REPRESENTATIVES PRESENT: Rory Fitzpatrick, Chief Field Deputy, CD 4; Matthew Levy, Field Deputy, CD 4, Melvin Canas, DONE Project Coordinator.

2. PUBLIC COMMENT

Jim McQuiston: I gave Mims a proposed ordinance from the City Clerk that changes the ordinance for city business districts. Most bidders do not like the language. In this proposal the bids in general have more power than NCs do. The ordinance defines organizations as individuals. So I put in a note to the City Clerk saying if the bid is going to be treated with more power than the NC, then they should follow the rules as well or NCs should be private organizations, too. Rory Fitzpatrick, CD 4: The Griffith Park Master Plan is being put together. (2) We are looking at alternative sites for the baseball field and senior center and are working with the PROS committee on this. (3) Tracey Street is being resurfaced and the next one we will try to get done is Rowena, by the end of the fiscal year. There may be some resurfacing money for NCs in the budget. It is about $100,000 but it can only go so far in surfacing a certain amount of street. (4) We have heard from homeowner groups about the shortage of parking in the Vermont and Hillhurst village area. We are trying to get CRA money for a parking facility on Vermont and are working with groups to do this; there may be a mixed-use plan. Mims: John Marshall High is presenting a musical at the Greek on April 22. I have here one copy of the Master Plan if anyone wants to take a look at it, but you can also find a copy at the Los Feliz and Atwater branch libraries.

3. Alicia Beach, Barnsdall Art Center: We have not had a pay raise from the City in 18 years and they cite Cultural Affairs lack of funds. So a year ago we joined Local 741 and have been bargaining since last July with the City. We are asking for support from the community and this Council, to sign our petition. We also would like someone help us with access to Councilmember LaBonge and Councilmember Garcetti to ask for their support. Johnson: Did you talk to Cultural Affairs management? Louis Ferris, Local 741: Our last meeting was with Lester Thomas and we talked to other GMs in the CAO office, that’s who we negotiate with. They said there are no funds. But in making cutbacks they kept top administrators and cut workers and programs. Johnson: This is the first I heard of this and Arslanian and I are on the board of Barnsdall. So please bring this up tomorrow at our board meeting. Rysman: How many workers are affected? It would be beneficial to have us send a letter of support as a NC, rather than individually signing a petition. Alicia: We have around 40 workers, and anything you send would be fine with us. Hunnewell: Have you gone through a round of negotiations since being represented by 741? Lady with Barnsdall: We started last March and are still in negotiations; they keep denying us and even came back with an offer of a lower salary. Gasteier: How can we be effective in making sure that this is addressed? I don’t know if we can tell the City what to do. MOTION by Gasteier to move that we refer this to a task force of the appropriate jurisdiction so we can get all the facts; and that task force contact the appropriate sectors of city government to express the concerns of this council. Then the task force report back to us. If the concerns are not addressed then we can take action to be better informed. SECOND: Johnson.

Discussion: Johnson I say we set up a task force of me and Arslanian to investigate the details, make recommendations and report to back to the President. Mims: Draft a letter to the proper City Officials for my signature. It is the Mayor and City Council that make decisions regarding pay raises. Gasteier: It would be more effective if we had the full council look at the letter after they have an opportunity to identify the pressure points. Hunnewell: I agree, report back to the full council. Kerr: Is there a timeline? Lester, Local 741: They don’t separate us from the other departments, so we may or may not have more than a month. Spicer: With time as an issue, what about sending it to the Executive Committee, if not give it to the full board. Hunnewell: I think the whole council will be persuaded by Johnson’s and Arslanian’s wisdom who are part of the Barnsdall board. Johnson: I agree, but sometimes these things wind up very quickly. Gasteier: That’s why you and Arslanian should find the right person to contact and get back to us. VOTE: Consensus

4. LOS FELIZ LEDGER

Allison Cohen: I am a L.A. Times freelance reporter, writing real estate and other articles and am developing a newspaper called the Los Feliz Ledger for the Hollywood/Silverlake area. A 25,000 circulation monthly delivered free to your door on Friday of each month. This is an advertising supported paper. Councilmember LaBonge has agreed to write a column and I am inviting the NC to have a column as well that will be a paid advertising at the nonprofit rate. First issue will be in June and that depends on advertising. My boundaries go from Beachwood to Hyperion to the park. Hunnewell: I spoke to Allison and the Ledger can be used as a vehicle for our newsletter since there is a correlation. MOTION by Hunnewell that we enter into a nonbonding resolution that the GGPNC supports the notion of an entrepreneur that wants to start the Los Feliz Ledger vehicle to serve the community.

SECOND: Spicer

Discussion:

Hunnewell: She will be able to say to advertisers that her paper has our support. Mims: Her border has to go south of Franklin to reach our stakeholders. Spicer: Do you have any other funding? Allison: No, I don’t just mine. I had a friend who did feasibility study and there is need in this community for it. VOTE: Consensus

5. THAI TOWN

Arslanian: Kah Trikandha is here to present her plans regarding the gateway project being proposed for the streetscape from Western to Vermont. Kah Trikandha [Distributed pictures, designs and model of Thai Angel for gateway] We are collecting 4 Thai Angels to go at the corners of Hollywood & Normandie and Hollywood &Western. Money thus far has come from the Neighborhood Matching Fund. We commissioned an artist to do the 4 angels and had them shipped to the US for free. Two architects designed the 1 0foot pedestals for the 6 foot angels to stand on. Each angel weighs 200 pounds. We have to find a spot between Western and Serrano because MTA pipes, etc are underground a the corner. We are applying for a permit to put them at Hollywood & Western corner first. There will be an opening ceremony once the first angels are placed. Johnson: I work with the residents at Normandie and Hollywood and that is Little Armenia. Kah: Thai Town is on Hollywood between Western and Normandie. Gasteier: Little Armenia runs south of Thai Town. Arslanian: How are you being funded? Kah: We have contacted the Thai community but are holding off on that until we get all the permits and are ready to move forward. Arslanian: Will they be installed on the sidewalk? Kah: Yes. Johnson: I work with the Armenia businesses along there, have you worked with them? Kah: Yes, we have. When we had the unveiling we invited them. Kerr: Have you talked to businesses and residents throughout that area? I don’t know of any Thai people who live along Hollywood Blvd. Kah: When they first arrived in the US this was their commercial district. Also many are now in San Fernando area. Mims: Are you here to just present or do you want us to take some action? Arslanian: This is the first time I have seen anything about this, so I am happy you are here. However, I am concerned about one of our most historic areas at Hollywood Blvd and how this would work with the overall community. When Little Armenia and Thai Town were formed there was concern of a clash occurring, and I don’t know if any action could happen, except to bring it up. Gasteier: There has been extensive media over the year (looking through news clipping Kay brought) and it sounds like you are nearing the end of the process and before Little Armenia was designated. Kah: Three years ago there was a business study done in Thai Town area from 101 Freeway to Vermont from Sunset to lower Hollywood. It showed that all the merchants recognize the uniqueness of Thai Town and Little Armenia and want to keep the uniqueness of the area. Jim McQuiston (stakeholder and Planning Rep for E Hollywood Assoc.) There used to be 50,000 Armenians in that area. With Central Americans moving in they did not get along so there have been some shifts. When Thais moved in the Armenians were outraged. To put a statue near a sign saying Little Armenia is to contribute to violence. The Mayor should veto all signs. Jeff Gardner (Stakeholder): There is also a proposal for a statue of an Armenian poet that is stalled. Maybe can work it out with D 13 for both to co-exist. Kerr: There are Armenian and Latino gangs. When you push your ethnicity on other people - well a 16 foot Thai angel is really pushing. I have difficulty with this since it will be next to the sign. Cisneros: I agree with Kerr. We have the Observatory and we need to deescalate things. The statue is great but given the gang problems I would not recommend this. The same for the poet. I don’t want to see any signs with boundaries. DeMonte: What is your concern that it is at the corner of Normandie or Western? Kerr: All these ethnicities are melding well without street signs. I would rather go with universality in some form. DeMonte: In that section of Western are mainly Thai businesses, so I don’t see where statues are out of sync. Hollywood is now Thai Town, not Hollywood of the old days. I thought Armenians were along Santa Monica. Johnson: I think everyone approves of the statues it is just a question of location. I am troubled by Normandie as they are uniformly Armenian for several blocks east and west. There are no Thai businesses there. Also the Vermont Triangle presents an opportunity. If there is an Armenian poet maybe you can celebrate all the groups in that triangle. Rysman: Ethnic enclaves are a benefit to the community. You can have identifiers without violence . Maybe ask Cultural Affairs to have a forum with the community to find out what’s best for buy-in from all groups. Mims: I think the Board of Public Works would be the one to talk to about permits. Spicer: Which side of Hollywood and Western would you place the statues? Kay: South and north sides on the eastside of Western. Spicer: There are signs there already, so this would not be the first symbol in that area. Balesh: The second part of the motion is not complete enough. I think it needs to be considered at greater length. Spicer: We need a process to get the second part done. Hunnewell: Has anyone heard from the Armenian sector? Kay says they have their buy-in. Arslanian: I have not heard anything and never read anything. When my husband was President of the Chamber they were not in favor of carving the city into enclaves. Armenians then were in opposition to Thai Town. Johnson: I work with people on the tree project and we are putting trees in that area and they have not heard of this Thai statue. MOTION by Spicer that we support the statues at Hollywood and Western and get more facts about the Armenian and Thai community to work together. SECOND: Rysman. AMENDMENT by Balesh that we move to send the Armenian and Thai community working together issue to committee or cover this issue at another meeting. SECOND: Hunnewell. Mims: Do we have consensus? Arslanian: I am against the motion. Mims: So strongly that you could not live with it? Arslanian: I do feel that way. Mims: We don’t have a consensus. MOTION by Hunnewell: I move to vote on it. Second by Balesh. Motion carries to vote on it. VOTE: on two Thai Angels. Majority rules; 2 opposed, Arslanian & Kerr. Motion carries

6. PLANNING ZONING AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE

Weinstein: Regarding 5042 Los Feliz, the homeowner’s wall, Mr. Clemente had his appeal and it was denied by Planning Commission 3 to 0. He has no further right to appeal within the city.

3341 Rowena Ave: 6 unit townhouse style. Rick Abramson, Architect: We are requesting a RD1.5 zone to build units as individual cottages, since the sloping of the land precludes a single building. Each cottage will have light and air on 4 sides. Each unit has a 2 car garage and garden spaces. Griffith Park is the nearest cross street, across from the army barrack apartments. Weinstein They can build up to 8 units and they are seeking 6. Also each garden area will be 400 square feet. Rick: We are deviating from open space code, with more private open space. We need a deviation from the code for that. We don’t think we are exceeding height limitations. From the street you only see the first 2 units and the tip of one is over height. We don’t have a curb cut over Rowena, access is from the alley because we can’t go underground because of the slope. Parking is 2 per unit plus 1 for a guest for the entire complex. There will be 3 spots on the street and no driveways. MOTION by Weinstein that the GGPNC approve the project and send a letter of support to the property owner. SECOND: Johnson. VOTE: Unanimous.

1869 Hillhurst Ave: Weinstein: The owner desires to build a Bank of America branch with ATMs but no drive thru on this corner. This is less intensive use than the code permits, as the property could occupy up to 40 units. Councilmember LaBonge’s office supports this project. The PZHP Committee vote was 3 in support with 1 abstention, with the conditions including a traffic control study and a study for after hours parking. Rysman: I abstained from the vote because I don’t see a lot of public benefit. There will be major traffic on Franklin because of it, although they are doing enough parking. Juan Kidotos, architect: This site can support a larger project. We have by right from the Transportation Dept and have eliminated the drive thru for traffic control. We are below maximum height and the FAR. Mims: Is the project by right? Juan: Yes. DeMonte: Is it true that you can make provisions for parking after hours? They do on Vermont. Juan: The owner said he would talk to the bank about it. MOTION by Weinstein: that the GGPNC approve with the provision that there be further study made regarding traffic control and after hours parking provisions. AMENDMENT by Mims, that approval is subject to after hours parking being available. MOTION by Spicer that a person on this board and the Los Feliz Improvement Association would meet with the Bank of America representative in charge of this decision in order to convey our concerns and commit to the parking. SECOND by Spicer on the original motion made by Weinstein. Weinstein: I would not want to condition the amendment. SECOND by Hunnewell.

Discussion:

Gasteier: Juan said they are in discussions and are urging B of A to do this. Weinstein: There are issues such as liability so we should not force a business owner to adopt a certain policy. I think we should ask him to study the issue. Hunnewell: I don’t think it is force. As an advisory board, if someone wants our support we can ask for something in return as an expression of neighborhood good will. It’s a "by right" project anyway. Balesh: we have a mandate from our stakeholders that we need parking. It is important to our community and we should let developers know it is important. DeMonte: Dora asked and they said they were not concerned about it. Rysman: I don’t feel it fits in with the neighborhood and I respect that they are doing lower use. VOTE: on Spicer’s motion. Consensus. Motion carries.

VOTE: on main motion. Consensus. Motion carries. Balesh: Have you done a traffic study? Juan: We have not addressed this. We are having customers access Franklin and exit Hillhurst going south. We talked to DOT and we will put an entrance at the corner and DOT asked that we provide one-way signs for turning.

2239 Hyperion: Weinstein: An 11 unit live/work loft condo project on current vacant land across from Scotland. Owners want to increase density limitations from 0.5:1 to 1:1 and will request a variance from down zoning several years ago by Prop U. Councilmember LaBonge’s office opposes an increase in density. Providing 29 parking spaces, a 5 foot setback. Jay Vanos, architect and Frederick Broberg, developer. Our request is part of reducing density in the city. The Planning Dept said it would remove the D condition and move it back to 1.5:1, so our request is bring this project up to 1.1. We can mitigate density through parking. Our 29 spaces are above the parking requirements. By allowing higher density in the area the cost of the units will come down. If we build at 0.5 we would get 6 units. These are mixed unit sizes from 1,000 to 1400 sq.ft. and since live/work, a by product benefit is a reduction in traffic. Frederick: We are still working on pricing and may be in the high $3s for smaller units and high $4 to low $5s for larger units. MOTION by Weinstein that the GGPNC support the project and send a letter of support to accompany the owner’s application for variance to increase density. DeMonte: Is Councilmember LaBonge’s office against in general increasing density or on this project? Rory Fitzpatrick, Deputy CD 4 We are in favor of down zoning in Silverlake, I am not familiar with this project. Frederick: On a general basis regarding the Hollywood Plan they are against it. Rene supports it as long as the Council supports it. Rysman: I think density on some level is inevitable. If we are going to have density, this is a beautifully done project for it. Mims: Do we have consensus on this motion? VOTE: Consensus – motion carries.

4705 Ambrose Ave Weinstein: This is a "by right" condo project on an empty lot. But neighbors have gotten together and attended a hearing and they are going to have input regarding the landscape design and want a waiver from the City’s requirement for street widening. Cisneros has been working with the neighbors on the appeal. Mims: They want a waiver now or for the future? Cisneros: The City requirement is for automatic widening. The appeal was to the general project itself, which is out of proportion to the housing already in the area. It will be 3 stories instead of 2. Looks like the developer will get his way. Will cause traffic jams on Ambrose going west. The nearest cross street is Vermont, diagonal from the church. Kerr: Cisneros and I talked to Juan the project manager about not widening the street. We talked about the possibility of trees lining Ambrose of taking one of the stairways and concrete out. It would save them money not to have to dig up the street and put in a curb. So far they are working along with us, but I don’t have any idea what will happen since it is "by right." We talked with Jonathan Brand and he is going to bring this to the May Planning meeting. If another plan and landscaping could be ready by then we could look at it. They got Commission approval to find a landscaping person. Mims: The street widening would have to be dealt with through the proper agency. Aviva Gordon, neighbor: We have a lot of cars that come park on Ambrose and I said at the Land Use meeting that the old apartment had an onsite manager that kept an eye out on the comings and goings. But with a condo most people will park on Ambrose. Greg Shields (homeowner): I know it is "by right" and little can be done. I went to the hearing and they did approve it for condos and I spoke in support of them. We found out after the meeting that the street widening was an issue. I talked to Millennium Corp which said they don’t have any waiver issues. I said Councilmember LaBonge would support not doing the widening. I told Cisneros if he appeals I would support him. I say we work with the developers on the landscaping plan as we are looking for tree planting in the front. So if widened we would have 5 feet left for trees. Mims: Developers don’t have to widen the street; in lieu of that they can put up the money for the city to do it in the future. Hunnewell: Developer would have 30 feet width, then 35 feet in front of the project, then back to 30 feet; that’s crazy. MOTION by Hunnewell: that the GGPNC recommend that the City do what is necessary to not widen the street, but rather choose the "in lieu of" payment option. SECOND: Cisneros.

Discussion

Cisneros: The other issue is that when the single-family older homeowner dies out, developers are ready to lay down millions of dollars to bring in oversized condos on that property. This condo is in the middle of single-family residences. Mims: This has been litigated. If they are "by right" developments, the City does not have the legal discretion to say they can’t build on it. Gasteier: It is worth pausing at this late hour to say it is an insult to the neighborhood. This is a nightmare type of project. It is clear they don’t care about this neighborhood in the least. Spicer: My understanding is that this project is a precedent for more projects in a bad way. I don’t think these concerns apply with the cut out. AMENDMENT by Mims for the developer to work with neighbors to help with landscaping.

SECOND: Hunnewell. AMENDMENT by Hunnewell to advise on the landscaping as well as consider design modifications more in keeping with the neighborhood. SECOND: Johnson. VOTE: Consensus

7. HOLLYWOOD COMMUNITY PLAN

Weinstein: The City is updating the Community Plan and wants our input. Spicer has prepared a list of recommendations for the city to consider. Spicer: [distributed questions] These are questions that evolved in the committee meeting and we recommend that they be approved as our advice to the City Planning Dept, and then taken into account by the staff prior to their Scoping Meeting in May. Rysman: These are things we want answered before they go to their Scoping Meeting. MOTION by Spicer to recommend that the GPPNC approve these questions and a transmittal be sent to the City Planning Department. Mims Item #10 "What funds are available for completing the HCP?" I’d ask are sufficient funds available to complete the plan. Johnson: I’d add a #14, "How will the plan identify and address sites of historical and cultural significance." Arslanian: Is this the first phase of questions you want responded to? Spicer: The Planning Department made 2 presentations to the community for input. In the course of our discussions some questions we asked could not be answered and we were not sure they would be addressed. So we wanted them sent to the Planning Dept and then be taken up in the draft. There was no possibility that all fit as recommendations, so we moved to make them questions. On the architecture in particular that there is a major inventory being made of Los Feliz regarding historic structures and Los Feliz Improvement Association is using it as a base for that. They have agreed to come before NCs with their draft plan. Rysman: The committee decided at this point to frame them as questions, and if it’s ok we make recommendations after their May meeting when we understand the plan. VOTE Consensus.

8. DWP-MOU

Mims: Nora nor Bruce are here. I talked with them and they support the MOU. MOTION by Hunnewell that the GGPNC support the DWP MOU. SECOND: Spicer. Mims: [Gave background on the rate hike and the need for NCs to be in on future decisions making process.] The DWP did not want to enter into an agreement that would tie their hands on service delivery. But they did manage to hammer out a workable 2 year agreement. Jim McQuiston: One of the things in the MOU says that a private attorney has looked at it and agrees to it. The City Attorney looked at it because it was DWP and they represent both sides of the issue. NCs should have a private attorney look at it, it is restrictive to NCs it binds you to the work. Spicer: My understanding from reading this is that the people who negotiated this had legal advise separate from the City. Mims: Jim is right, one of them should have sought outside counsel. VOTE: Consensus

9. NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT

Kerr: [distributed letter and photos] Paul Rudnicki has done the research and is looking for funds to repair the Los Feliz steps. MOTION by Kerr to support the restoration of the Los Feliz steps located on Cromwell Ave. SECOND: Johnson. VOTE: Consensus

10. PROS COMMITTEE REPORT

Bernadette Soter, Chair: FoLARS 16^th Annual Great L.A. River Clean Up on May 7 from 9 – 12 noon. We have received in kind and financial donations. MOTION by Hunnewell that the GGPNC moves to approve use of our name for this event and allocate $300 for it. SECOND: DeMonte VOTE: Consensus. Mims: Maybe you could give Bruce a map of parking restrictions and he will put it on the website. Bernadette: On May 14, 2006 the Observatory opens. This board could view all the actions at that time because of the huge traffic congestion that will come up. There was a meeting on April 6 to look at traffic situations and ways to filter access to the Observatory. They are looking at the Getty as a model. There will be public ongoing meetings, and it is opening the same time as the Greek.

Griffith Park Master Plan: Bernadette: The draft plan has a lot of contradictions and cross-purposes. This board decided to approve our request for an Advisory Council. On March 30 Councilmember LaBonge supported this for a representative. So far this letter has not been sent. We want a Rec and Parks Advisory Panel. Councilmember LaBonge said the Advisory Panel would be a function of his office. You can view the Master Plan online at LAParks.org. Mims: I don’t think we should be left out of the panel if Councilmember LaBonge has it. Rory said he has been trying to reach me to see who should be appointed and that would be you Bernadette as the appropriate person.

General Services Dept. Bernadette: [distributed committee report with responses] We discussed their responses to our 6 points and their answers were ambiguous rather than yes and no responses. Mims: I thought they were going to use LAPD’s use of force policies and the LAPD would investigate. Bernadette: [went over all the questions] The financials from GSD did not come, RAP did send in theirs. Where do you think we should go at this point? Mims: I read over the letter to Alvin Blain, GM of GSD that you drafted for my signature and I don’t have a problem with it except the use of force issue was sufficiently addressed by GSD. Bernadette: Do you know if there is a MOU with the use of force? Mims: I heard they are developing a MOU but that won’t be public knowledge until they are done. Gasteier: I think they did a lot better job last time in explaining what they are doing. I am concerned about what we are trying to accomplish with the 6 points. I am not sure where the process stands and how we are trying to influence and what we hope to gain. Johnson: I would reword it to say we don’t feel it provides enough information and could they provide us with the following: The letter is not specific enough, maybe come back with each individual issue and their response. Gasteier: They made points about retention and hiring people when they were here last time. That seemed to have a lot of employee support. Bernadette: A specific board person asked for finances; the GSD said this was a cost savings move. Mims: If you are not clear about something please ask the GSD to come out and explain it to your group.

11. PLANNING DIRECTOR HIRING CRITERIA

Rysman: [distributed City Selection Criteria Survey and criteria from PZHP Committee] I attended the Central Area Planning Commission meeting and asked for an extension to allow NC input, so it was moved to late May around May 20. The criteria our committee drafted has 9 points, here are four more: #10. Awareness of concepts and practices that have and have not worked in other similar urban areas. #11. Developing new ways of raising new monies. #12. Willingness to test concepts in individual neighborhoods. #13. Continuing to work with businesses and environmental planning. MOTION by Arslanian that the GPPNC adopt these criteria. SECOND: Rysman

VOTE: Consensus. Mims: Rysman please draft a consensus of what we need for this.

12. COUNCIL IMPACT STATEMENT

Mims: [distributed statement] Are we in favor of initiating the CIS on items for legislative action? MOTION by Hunnewell that the GGPNC support the CIS. SECOND: Johnson. VOTE: Consensus

13 NEW TREASURER

Mims: Lisa Sergi has resigned as treasurer. Can I get a motion to nominate Hunnewell to be interim treasurer? Hunnewell: I cannot accept. Mims: Will you take it for a month? Hunnewell: I will accept for a month if Johnson will assist. Johnson: Ok. Melvin Canas, DONE Project Coordinator: You have to appoint someone and they have to go to the training meeting. Mims: I will take care of that.

Meeting adjourned at 10:15 p.m.

Respectfully submitted, Joyce Clarke, PDQ Careers Temp

Click Here for official notices regarding agenda posting, public comment, disabled services and process for reconsideration.

BACK TO
GGPNC HOME PAGE TOP OF THIS PAGE

BOARD MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, MARCH 15, 2005
BOARD OF DIRECTOR MEETING MINUTES
Los Feliz Community Police Center
1965 N. Hillhurst, Los Angeles, CA 90027

1. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL

Charley Mims, President, called the meeting to order at 7:20 p.m.

PRESENT: Charley Mims, President; Jon Kaplan, Vice President Administration: Nora Mosqueda, VP Outreach & Communications; Jacqueline Kerr, Secretary; Philip Gasteier, Cheryl Johnson, Bruce Carroll, Ron Weinstein, Nyla Arslanian, Molly Rysman, Kerry Hunnewell, James Balesh, Richard Spicer, Rosemary DeMonte, Shana Murphy, Joe Cisneros, Merlyn Hernandez.

ABSENT: Lisa Segi, Treasurer, Rose Marin.

CITY REPRESENTATIVES PRESENT: Rory Fitzpatrick, Chief Field Deputy, CD 4; Matthew Levy, Field Deputy, CD 4, Michelle Fleenor, Office of Mayor Hahn.

2. APPROVAL OF FEBRUARY MINUTES

Corrections: Page 5 committee reports #13, speaker should be Rosemary DeMonte, not Rose Marin.

MOTION by Hunnewell to accept the minutes with correction.

SECOND: Nora …VOTE: Consensus

3. PUBLIC COMMENT

Rory Fitzpatrick, CD 4: [Distributed Update] The Planning issue meeting for the new Director is in this newsletter, although it is a little outside your boundaries. There is a proposed 40 unit development with access off of Angus in Silver Lake; there is opposition to that access as a bad place to put it. The Ennis Brown house was red tagged as well as one on Lucille. We agreed to let FEMA and SBA use our field Office to meet with residents. They will be in our Toluca Lake Office this Wednesday and Thursday. On Friday and Saturday in the Hollywood office. They will be there for 2 weeks.

4. HOLLYWOOD BOARD REDEVELOPMENT

Nyla Arslanian: I met with John Perfitt of Hollywood CRA regarding the status of the streetscape project and what was needed to move forward. He is here to make a presentation. John Perfitt[distributed map] The CRA did not have money to develop this area before, but now it has so we can now issue bonds. We are mandated to spend 20% on affordable housing projects. This is an earthquake project area that went through quickly after the 1994 earthquake, so the project has a 15-year life instead of a 30-year life, which is normal. Therefore we have to do these projects now. The budget approval for 2006 and 07 is for the streetscape project, defined by the corridor from Vermont to Western, running along Hollywood Blvd. We have the funds to do the design and construction for streetscape improvements: tree planting, curbs, ADA compliance and upgrading the feel of the street, trying to integrate sod improvements. We are working with the City to be sure they are not doing something redundant to the agenda. Also pursuing EDA Development funds for help. The cost is about $5 million or maybe larger, building in normal increases for construction costs. Status now is we have a consultant on board and are in the process of doing an existing condition survey, tomorrow we will meet with the Bureau of Engineering, MTA and others to flesh out issues related to the maintenance, potential pit falls and other streetscape projects. There was an adhoc committee formed to choose the consultant, so we will go back out to the community for comments and feedback about the design idea and come up with scenarios for a one block section. Each block has to be designed separately. We will come back out to the public, including the 4 NCs that are affected by this – 2 certified and 2 not certified, in addition to other stakeholder groups.

Second project is to alleviate parking in the Los Feliz Village area. Maybe put a parking structure on the west side of Vermont. I have talked to USPS real estate folks to try to move something forward. we are serious about earmarking the funds and I have written up a scope of work for a parking study. Councilmember LaBonge knows about this and the residents are saying that parking is the number one issue. This may be a way to do parking and ground floor retailing and houses as well. We do have the money and this is a priority item. We will be back with pictures and keep you updated. Kerr: What is the status of the triangle project? Perfitt: Kip Rudd said the contract has not been fully executed yet, maybe within the next 2 weeks or 45 days. It is also a priority in 2005-06. Any funds with the MTA and CAL TRANS will be leveraged moving forward. Spicer: Is MTA and CRA exploring any imaginative things in connection with the 3 projects discussed tonight? Perfitt: Yes, I think they looked at trying to make it a more pedestrian friendly link. Balesh: Would you like some assistance from our Transportation Committee to identify sites in your search for parking? Perfitt: Yes, we would, please contact me at 213-977-1715. Arslanian: Have you been made aware of the streetscape design and the public safety issue? Perfitt: I talked to Sr. Lead Officers in the Hollywood and Northeast divisions and the prosecution folks and the Hollywood Gang detail and I am trying to gather information about these public safety concerns. We take it seriously at CRA.

5. PLANNING, ZONING & HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE

Ron Weinstein, Chair

Puran’s Restaurant
at 2060-2064 N. Hillhurst is applying for a Conditional Use Permit to serve alcohol in addition to the beer and wine with food service. The consensus of our Committee was to support the application.

MOTION by the PZHP Committee recommending that the GGPNC send a letter of support to the applicant for his CUP. SECOND: Jon…VOTE: Consensus

Hiring of Planning Director:
Mayor Hahn has asked for input from Neighborhood Councils regarding the selection of a new City Planning Director to replace the retiring Con Howe.

MOTION by the PZHP Committee to ask board approval to authorize PZHP Committee member Molly Rysman to write a letter to and/or attend the next meeting of the Central Area Planning Commission to ask for an extension of time for the search and that the search be national in scope.

AMENDMENT by Spicer that the board approve that the letter be written by the president of the GGPNC.
SECOND: Jon

Discussion:

Michelle Fleenor:
It will be tough to extend the deadline but you can put forth the request. There is a Central Area Planning meeting that is open to the public on March 22 at 4:30 at City Hall room 1010. Part of the process we are doing is that there will be one rep from each of the 7 Planning Areas, so all NCs will select a rep and that one person will go on to represent that area. Kaplan: When did Mayor Hahn send the letter? Fleenor: A few weeks ago. Kaplan: He could have sent it out in a timelier manner. Fleenor: NC boards meet at different times and once a month, so it is hard to reach everyone. Mims: We could make a quick decision, but there are more NCs involved. To come up with one person means we all get together with these other councils. Hunnewell: When is the deadline for participation in the review process? Fleenor: We have Planning Commission meetings ongoing. This is the first time that NCs are being engaged in this type of process. I will e-mail dates to Charley. Hunnewell: We are requesting a delay because of what? Rysman: Delay into the formulating of the selection criteria and to ensure that there is a national search. Mims: Who will pick the 7 people, the Mayor or the NCs? Fleenor: I don’t know I will check. Spicer:
Do you have any idea about the probability of a national search? Fleenor: I don’t know that either, but I will check. Hunnewell: I object to the Motion with an open extension date. I don’t know what is an appropriate extension, maybe 30 or 60 days. Gasteier: I think it is astounding that they are talking about a selection in a month or two from a Mayoral election. If they give us time to put a process in place, I think the focus should be on that. Kerr: I think it should not be open ended; perhaps a final date of May 31. Weinstein: Public comment ends March 31.

AMENDMENT TO THE MOTION by Molly that the GGPNC request of the Mayor’s office extending the Neighborhood Councils’ public comment deadline from March 31 to May 31 and that there be a national search.

Hunnewell:
Does the public comment have to come from the 7 reps? Fleenor: You can attend all of the Area Planning meetings. Mims: The public comment ends on March 31, but the 7 NC reps would get together with who is leading the search and come up with the specific search criteria. Fleenor: the public comment is for everyone to talk about what they want to see in a candidate. Hunnewell: I feel that we will be ignored. I think we should ensure that there is sufficient participation by the NCs. This motion is just requesting an extension.

VOTE: Consensus (on Amendment to the Motion with specific deadline dates)

Fleenor: I am passing out a booklet: Greater Griffith Park NC Infrastructure Assessment Summary by William Robertson, Dir. Dept of Public Works Bureau of Street Services.

5402 Los Feliz Over-in-height wall:

Weinstein:
Rick Clemente has appeared before our committee 3 times and before this board once. He will have his appeal hearing on March 22. This council withdrew objection to the application due to questions about the Brown Act, however, DONE has not clarified this issue. Rick is here to present the merits of his case a final time. At the end we can decide if we are opposed to the over-in-height wall or support the wall. Rick Clemente: [displayed photos of neighboring homes] The ZA denied my application and I disagreed with all of his findings, including that my wall interfered with the designated scenic highway; was an 8 foot wall (was 6 feet with 2 ft pillars); neighbors can’t see coming out of their driveway; no other properties have paved front yards; safety issue of gates set back; and the design does not go with the neighborhood. [Clemente gave justification of his opposition to all these counts, with photo evidence.] We are in a spat with Los Feliz Improvement Association and this NC on this variance. I thank you for withdrawing your request. We sent a letter to the neighbors on the street asking them to sign a statement to the Planning Commissioner to support the variance for a wall height adjustment as it is an attractive addition to the neighborhood. As it happened I applied for the variance first, and then went out of town, leaving the contractor to do the work and he accidentally built the wall before the variance was approved. Kaplan:
You have withdrawn any objection that we were in violation of the Brown Act? Clemente: That is another issue. Weinstein: The Committee heard his case and they did not change its original position of opposition to the over-in-height wall and the excessive hardscape. The motion tonight is to seek consensus if the Council is still in opposition to these 2 issues. Mims: We have no position at this time.

MOTION by Weinstein that the PZHP Committee recommend that the GGPNC oppose the approval of the variance for the over-in-height wall and exceeding the hardscape specifications. SECOND: Cheryl

Discussion:

Gasteier:
We are not an appeals board, so I am not sure exactly what role we have to play now since it is on appeal. Does it take a letter from us or what are we taking a position on? Hunnewell: I am opposed to taking an opposition position on it as Mr. Clemente has proven his point. It poses undue hardship for him to tear down the wall. I say take no position. Mims: The nature of the action is independent of what happened with the action. Carroll: The appeal will be taken up on March 22 and public comment listened to and then a vote taken, so it is still alive for comment. Rysman: There is no overturning this ZA’s finding. I disagree with Kerry, we have zoning laws in place and saying I was out of town as a excuse for building a wall is not acceptable. We don’t want everyone building over-in-height walls. Kerr: You were out of town; so did you just let them build it? Clemente: We had started the process to get the variance. Johnson: This is a matter we have heard in the Planning Committee 3 times, and I say we should support their decision. DeMonte:
I built a large wall 25 year ago. After looking at his pictures, I don’t see why he should be singled out when other neighbors have walls. Gasteier: I don’t think we should be persuaded because other properties have the same thing; that is irrelevant. I oppose this application and we should try to enforce the zoning codes. Kerr: So many of the walls you showed in the picture are back walls or side walls which are in compliance. You say you have 40 signatures, how many have these walls on the back or side of their property that may be threatened by this action? I cannot support your request. Arslanian: I travel that route every day and I looked at it from Edgemont/Western and there is another wall that went up and is higher and totally blocks the view of the house and you can see Mr. Clemente’s house. If we take a position, do it for all the walls. I support Kerry’s opinion. Mim: This Council is opposed to all variances for walls. Hunnewell: I think the hard letter of the law should be balanced by compassion. This would be a hardship on one of our neighbors and it is not an egregious act. We should take no action. Kaplan: We should take a broader view of this subject. I believe in enforcing the law. I think the law is wrong, we should ask the City to amend it in our area. There needs to be standards under which these variances are granted. Clemente: There are standards for which it is acceptable for requirements you have to meet in a variance. We felt that errors were made in this denial. I wrote 15 pages of what those errors were. Mims: I feel we don’t have a consensus on this, so if no objection we will divide the house on this. [none]

Restating of the MOTION by Mims that this council oppose the over-in-height wall and the excessive hardscape.

VOTE: 9 in favor. 6 opposed.

6. PROS COMMITTEE – GSD Consolidation

Bernadette Soter, Chair: I received the 6 points you sent and they are agendized for the April meeting. Mims: Has anyone else read over the 6 areas of concern? [some had, some not] Mims: One concern #6, I would like an explanation of your answer. I understand if the consolidation takes place that the Park Rangers stay with Rec and Parks; would or would they not write citations. Vince Coombs (Rec & Parks): They would write parking tickets and other violations, asking the person to please comply with the law. We don’t want them to have a confrontation where they may have to arrest a suspect. If no compliance, they call GSD for enforcement. Mims: What kind of rapid response is there? Coombs: They have deployment in several different areas; there may be more cars in the field or may be communication by radio. Mims: We are concerned with Griffith Park and its safety issues, what kind of deployment can be expected?

Gary Newton, Department of General Services:

We will deploy 10 to 11 special officers to compliment the park rangers. They will have radio frequencies to request assistance and a common communications center. They have the ability to determine which calls are most appropriate for park rangers or which for the GS officer. Carroll: How many in the park at any given time? Newton: During peak hours and holidays, have additional deployment and may have as many as ten. During regular hours about 4 or 5. For example around 5 p.m. on a Wednesday about 3 or 4, at night none are available. But we have a full contingent of 4 officers and a supervisor to respond to calls citywide; this is fully funded. Julie Butcher, SEIU Local 347: The idea is for the workers to maximize limited resources. So it didn’t make sense to have several different types of security forces. We want people to be specialists in their focus and dramatically improve services for the people who live here, that’s why we support the consolidation. Johnson: Will deployment of personnel decrease or increase with the consolidation? Butcher: Increase and moved into one place. They will be available 24/7 which they don’t have now. Kerr
: The rangers used to give citations for harassing, theft, setting fires, etc. but the way you set it up now the rangers will be dedicated but will not have any authority and be unarmed. Coombs: The rangers will still be in the parks, still doing the same work only moved to another department and some tasks will be done jointly now. They will have 60 plus men in the parks. Now we have 20 vacancies for park rangers and we have not been able to hire and retain rangers. But we can hire and retain special officers. So we are adding resources to the parks. Each large park will get one ranger to augment what we will get from GSD. Fitzpatrick: The City Council’s office wants about 30 rangers and now there are 19. We want to assign a permanent person in each park. You as a NC can help by sending letters. DeMonte: Would you be willing to go to the PROS committee meeting in April to discuss the points? Newton: We will be happy to attend and answer questions. Gasteier: Whether we can get the additional funding for the 30 officers or not, it says that we will not have the coverage needed with this consolidation. Coombs: We would not have rangers for interpretative coverage, but will have more people. We won’t have the resources to have one in every park, but we will have to rotate them to various parks. Jason Ely, Local 347, We now have 25 peace officer park rangers. Now we have 19 non-peace officer rangers not responsible for law enforcement. After consolidation they will do the same job but wear a different uniform and have 40 other police with them to take care of law enforcement. We support Councilmember LaBonge’s request to increase the force to 30. Mims: Board members please read the packet supplied by the City, attend the PROS meeting and we hope that our guests tonight will show up as well.

Griffith Park Master Plan

Bernadette Soter: [Distributed memo to John Mukri] John Mukri, GM, Dept. Rec and Parks and Kevin Mues, came to our PROS meeting. After the first 3 Master Plan meetings the Plan went underground. There were comments made at that meeting that we hoped would yield an open meeting but it didn’t happen. After about a year we started to ask questions, proposals were being put forth and RFPs and replanning going on. You can read the full background on this in the memo. In this memo we are asked Mukri to see about putting together an oversight panel as other Council Districts have. We are willing to wait to get the process back on track. We were told that the Master Plan would be put online at Rec & Parks’ website before March 30. Coombs: I have not been involved in this at all. I think Bernadette spoke to our General Manager Mukri today and he has taken a position. Gasteier: Where is the Master Plan now? Soter: In first draft form. There will be public comment and other drafts but they ran out of money. Gasteier: So moving people into an advisory committee will help facilitate this? Spicer: Are the public comments going to be made public? Is there any idea of what the public process will be? Soter: We want to know the next step process as well. Now you have to send a comment card and this is the way your comments would get into the public record. We want an open process. I was hoping this board would express its desire for an advisory panel like Elysian Park and Silver Lake have.

MOTION by DeMonte that the GGPNC recommend to Rec and Parks a community advisory panel for Griffith Park for purposes of advising on the Griffith Park Master Plan.

SECOND: Johnson…VOTE: Consensus

Soter: to draft a letter to give to Mims and address it to John Murki.

LA River Clean Up

Bernadette Soter: PROS is having a clean up on May 7 and is requesting support for printing. We would need the money by the end of this month.

7. GRIFFITH PARK NC STRATEGIC PLAN

Richard Spicer, Chair: Action was taken at the executive committee to create an ad hoc committee on the strategic plan. Members are: Richard Spicer, chair; Kerry Hunnewell, co-chair; and Phil Gasteier. Mims: This Plan sets out what we will do and sets some milestones. The executive committee has approved this.

MOTION by Kaplan to move that the GGPNC approve the establishment of a Strategic Plan adhoc committee.

SECOND: Nora VOTE: Consensus

8. i FIVE REPORT

Spicer: Hunnewell had to leave but he said he will meet with iFive and bring us back a more detailed report.

9. COMMITTEE REPORTS

Carroll: Our website contract expires in a week and I want to renew it. Mims: Ok. Carroll: There is a street fair on June 5 and we have a form to apply. DeMonte: I can take that.

James:
Bob Camou, DOT rep is supposed to be at our next transportation meeting on April 4 at 7 p.m. Come if you have traffic concerns. Johnson:
We will hike on Saturday from 4 – 6 p.m. meet at the Equinox. Nora:
I am preparing a master timeline of activities. I want input from everyone and I will type it up and distribute. We had an outreach committee meeting and no one attended, maybe we can combine to have it before the executive committee meeting starts. DeMonte:
We have to contact Councilmember LaBonge’s office and get either letters or commendations for the previous board members to thank them for their services. Mims: I will take care of that. DeMonte: It would be nice to have a newsletter with all the activities going on. Spicer: We have a budget for a newsletter. Weinstein:
Ken Bernstein, Dir. of Historic Preservation will be at our next meeting April 13. Mims:
Sergi and Hunnewell have not gotten together yet to straighten out our fiscal problems.

Meeting adjourned at 9:30p.m.
Respectfully submitted, Joyce Clarke, PDQ Careers Temp

Click Here for official notices regarding agenda posting, public comment, disabled services and process for reconsideration.

BACK TO
GGPNC HOME PAGE TOP OF THIS PAGE

BOARD MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2005
BOARD OF DIRECTOR MEETING MINUTES
Los Feliz Community Police Center
1965 N. Hillhurst, Los Angeles, CA 90027

1.    CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
Charley Mims, President, called the meeting to order at 7:15 p.m.

PRESENT: Charley Mims, President;; Mims, Mosqueda, VP Outreach & Communications; Lisa Sergi, Treasurer, Jacqueline Kerr, Secretary; Philip Gasteier, Cheryl Johnson, Bruce Carroll, Ron Weinstein, Rose Marin, Nyla Arslanian, Molly Rysman, Kerry Hunnewell, James Balesh, Richard Spicer, Rosemary DeMonte, Shana Murphy. ABSENT: Jon Kaplan, Vice President Administration, Joe Cisneros, Merlyn Hernandez. CITY REPRESENTATIVES PRESENT: Rory Fitzpatrick, Chief Field Deputy, CD 4; Matthew Levy, Field Deputy, CD 4.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion by Hunnewell to accept Board Minutes of January 18, 2005 as written; seconded by Kerr. Consensus.

2. PUBLIC COMMENT
a. Parks, Rivers & Open Space, Bernadette Soter, Chair.
Mims: One item will be taken out of order, the PROS Committee will report now. Bernadette Soter: We asked about the planning status of the Observatory opening in May 2006. The occupancy is about 1800, so the questions are how do people get there, how long do they stay, what about the area residents and traffic and the businesses that are open, what happens to people who access the park daily like the hikers? There is an access study being done which includes more than a traffic study. I want to thank this board for sending GSD the letter; it went to all the City Councilmembers. In light of the shooting last week, we hope they will look at public oversight.

Johnson: I understand they are voting tomorrow on the Griffith Park concession. Soter: Tomorrow involves the restaurant in the building and rumor has it it will be a small Wolfgang Puck restaurant. There will also be a bookstore. Johnson: Did you have previous notice on this? Lots of people use the Observatory and we don’t want to have a restaurant out of the price range of our visitors. Soter: The high-end restaurant was taken off the list. The concession is allowed to provide takeout an hour before opening for coffee and also provide catering. I can’t attend the meeting, but my understanding is that the vote has been taken and this awarding will be tomorrow. Mims: Maybe it was a consulting contract and not a competitive bid; that is under a different type of ruling. Spicer: When is the Master Plan coming out and what role does Parks and Rec play? Soter: We had a Master Plan meeting 18 months ago. People have been asking for but I don’t know when it will be out, but it will be a first draft. As for Rec & Parks Commission’s connection, I don’t think they have a role, I think it’s the Parks Department. Mims: Rory, is the Master Plan approved by Parks? Rory Fitzpatrick: I don’t think so. Mims: Will both of you independently look into it. Fitzpatrick: We had a date for the Master Plan but we had to change it. It was going to be available March 14. I think we might have one or two other meetings. Mims: Since the Observatory is in our area, it would be good to get a presentation before the PROS Committee. Fitzpatrick: In addition to the Master Plan forum, we will do an Observatory forum before the Griffth Park Resource Group.

b. Stakeholder Kristen Sabo: Last month I handed out some documents about conflict of interest, Did anyone read it and will it be agendized? Charley: We will get back to you.

c. BUREAU OF ENGINEERING; presentation by Lisa Dugas, Environmental Specialist, Bureau of Engineering and Ms Saba Engineer. (Distribution of 4th Council District aerial view of proposed turning land). A right turn lane will be put at Los Feliz Blvd at Riverside Drive to ease traffic flow. One Deodor Cedar will be removed and there will be some environmental work done. Mims: Can you box and move the tree? Lisa Dugas: Our people have said it can’t be moved; it is one of a series of trees that has a historical line. We will work with Cultural Affairs in the hopes of replanting it. We will replace the trees 2 for 1 for every 15 feet and will do a Mitigated Negative Declaration. Fitzpatrick: This will be a dedicated right turn lane for those who want to go southbound. They will no longer be blocking traffic for those proceeding or getting on the 5 freeway north. Carroll: Is the right turn lane long enough?   Ms Engineer: We are working with the Dept of transportation and we have asked the same question.

Hunnewell: To the left of the dedicated lane, Can you make a right hand turn to get onto Riverside Drive? Will there be a merge lane on Riverside to yield as you make the turn? There is no merge lane now; it could increase efficiency for moving traffic along. Kerr: Will you continue to have a bus stop to block the right hand turn? Fitzpatrick: We will move it as far back as we can from the right hand turn onto Riverside. Hunnewell: Why not move the bus shelter west? Fitzpatrick: This is an initial presentation; our budget and timeline is 15 months away. You will see this about two more times. Kerr: Put the bus stop back as far west as possible in the turnout so cars can go around to the corner and keep going. Fitzpatrick: That’s what we want to do.   Ms. Saba: We will bid out construction. We will ask City Street Services to do it and if they are too busy we will bid it out. We don’t need additional revenue to make these changes. It will cost about $500,000 and is fully funded through Capital Improvement money from the gasoline tax.

5    DEPARTMENT OF AGING
Jaime Motta, Dept. of Aging: [distributed Bi-lingual booklets] we want to inform the public about our senior services and how we can assist the community with events and outreach. We have 16 multi-purpose centers with a variety of services and most of them at no charge. In Hollywood it is the Hollywood Multipurpose Center, 1360 N. St. Andrews Place, Barbara Linsky is the director. Carroll: Do you have a website that I can put a link on our page? Motta: It is on the brochure being passed out.

6.    HEAVY RAIL EXPANSION
Mims: This is Councilmember Tom LaBonge’s effort to get the Federal Government to overturn the restrictions when building heavy rail west of Wilshire Blvd. Fitzpatrick: It has to go back on the ballot. County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky put it on to stop it. It will be on the MTA meeting agenda tomorrow. The City is doing cosmetic things to relieve congestion, but basically you have to remove vehicles from the roadway, which is the best way. Hunnewell: I requested it be put on this agenda. By endorsing this it gives us more options. There is no other way to alleviate traffic. Even Beverly Hills is acknowledging this and they said they would accept the lines going through it. Can we do something as a NC to help? Mims: There are two restrictions on building any further. Congressman Henry Waxman got them to write a restriction for any Federal funds for Los Angeles, and Supervisor Yaroslavsky got it adopted.

MOTION by Hunnewell that the GGPNC go on record in support of Councilmember Tom LaBonge’s efforts to provide the option to include heavy rail subterranean mass transit as part ;of the options to relieve congestion through a local referendum, and whatever mechanism is necessary at the Federal level. Second: Kerr. Levy: If possible send your motion to all the members of the MTA board. Hunnewell: Can our secretary get a letter to MTA? Levy: The MTA votes tomorrow, then the full board gets it either next week or in March. Mims: Can you get me the information of the MTA names and what the Council does. VOTE: Adopted by Consensus

7.    LAUSD CENTRAL REGIONAL SCHOOL
Fernando Chavarria, LAUSD Facilities: [distributed map of target search area] Measures K and R are financing reconstruction of schools. We will build a new SPAN hybrid middle school and high school. The search area on the map is the area we want to alleviate overcrowding in at King Middle School and Marshall High School. We are looking for 7 to 10 acres of land. It is a dense area and we may have to purchase residential and business property. There may be some land on the periphery, but we want to stay within the circle. We want to keep kids in their neighborhood and stop bussing. If you see a property that is promising, we will look into it and we want you to give suggestions.   We had a site selection kick off meeting and at the end of March or early April we will have a site selection update and present sites we have evaluated. Then a few months later we will continue to do analysis then share with the community what our recommendations are. The LAUSD Board will approve the study of the selection. From there is the design, acquisition and then construction. We have to select by July. There will be a series of briefings.

Hunnewell: How big is the Marshall site. Chavarria: About the size of King Middle School. DeMonte: When you are trying to relieve congestion, do you know where the students live that go there? Chavarria: The highest concentration is in the middle of the target area and south of the King school. Mims: You mention joint use facilities, do you have any with the City of L.A. or only if someone happens to suggest it. Chavarria: Mt. Washington has a joint agreement for the community to take ownership for after school programs, but I don’t know if it is a formal agreement. We always meet with the City Council and talk about opportunities that might be open. Mims: It sounds like something to do and maybe help to work with the City for joint use opportunities. Chavarria: I don’t know, but I can talk to the people in Real Estate to see if there is an agreement between the City and school. Mims: Can you get back to us on this? Parks and Rec has money that they may have to give back if it is not spent. Are there other schools sites that are already acquired within the map? Chavarria: Ramona Elementary School and to the west a new middle school and a new high school at Taylor Yard. The Yard is slated for 2010 completion. It will take away pressure from Marshall and on the eastern side of Marshall. Mims: Any joint use for Taylor Yard? Chavarria: Yes a state park will be built next to it and they are looking to coordinate recreational facilities.

8.    HOLLYWOOD-WESTERN REDEVELOPMENT UPDATE
Hunnewell: We met last week and gave the selection panel the go-ahead for the northern part to negotiate a MOU with CRA and to take the Gershwin out of it and fund the renovation of that by sale of adjacent property owned by Gershwin. There is concern regarding extra parking, community space (both open and a community room) community input in the design of the project by Charaettes and to maintain mixed income use. There will be another meeting in about 3 weeks to review the south side. Rysman: Is the north side just housing? Hunnewell: Housing on top, retail on the bottom, parking subterranean. Rysman: I heard that Whole Foods market wanted the space. Hunnewell: Recently the developer announced they were pulling out. People didn’t want their delivery trucks coming in and out of the residential area. Spicer: In your judgment is the parking sufficient? Hunnewell: They are proposing 100 above the required by code. A lot of it will be underground. It has a lot to do with the subsidy available and the way CRA finances the project. Rysman: Maybe we can get a rapid bus line along the route to alleviate traffic. Hunnewell: The metro goes along Hollywood, I don’t know about a bus line. Spicer: The DASH is under review, if the two projects are time lined, DASH service can be anticipated and raised with CRA now, as part of an ongoing effort. Hunnewell: We will push for a very extensive traffic impact study. Concerns are that the intersection can get busy regarding entrances and exits as well as relocating the bus staging area outside the Rite Aid where buses are lined up. This issue has been raised and we asked the CRA to include that in the MOU.

9.    5042 LOS FELIZ VARIANCE
Weinstein: This is regarding a variance for an over-in-height wall as well as permission to exceed the 50% limit on hard-scape in front of the house. We all discussed it and attended the ZA hearing, who denied the application and Mr. Clemente is appealing that decision. He sent a letter to the City Council that we were not in compliance with the Brown Act that his property was not placed on the agenda and we did not give him notice of the hearing.   He was invited to and attended the January and February Planning meeting to state his case. At our last meeting we decided not to withdraw the objection to his application. The decision remains what if anything this Neighborhood Council needs to do about the alleged Brown Act violation. Mims: The best way is for you to make a motion to bring this item back before the board.

MOTION by Weinstein that the GGPNC reconsider its position in opposing John Clemente’s variances for an over-in-height wall and for exceeding the hard-scape. SECOND: Carroll.

a) Clemente: There are two separate issues here. We already have a denial from the ZA and he said he accepted this board’s opinion as one of the reasons for the denial. He had a list of erroneous assumptions and that is the basis of my appeal. One is that he based it on having received input from this Land Use Committee. That opinion should not have been offered under the Brown Act. The Zoning Committee in 11/12/03 set precedent with a similar issue regarding a home on Lyric Ave for an over-in-height wall. [he read it] On December 6 we had a hearing on my application. We presented to the L.A. Zoning Committee and they said that it is not their policy to endorse over-in-height walls. Your Land use Committee didn’t notify us they were going to look at the wall, so they were in violation of the open meeting law [read minutes of the recommendation and said you can’t have people make decisions on their own.]   The misinformation is regarding the hard-scape. Los Feliz is a scenic highway up Western to Glendale, but this designation only influences the public right of way, and not private property. Therefore this limits the City’s right to make judgments on private property.

b) Clemente: The Brown Act says you have to put stuff on the agenda and not have secret meetings, all of which was done in this case. [He read Chapter B of the Brown Act.] If this board removes its objection to the variance, it will not imply that you endorse it. I am asking that you submit a letter at least 10 days prior to my ZA appeal stating clearly that the NC and Land Use withdraw their objection to my application. My attorney says you shouldn’t do that, assuming that I lost my appeal. I will go to the City Attorney and District Attorney if you don’t, to force that action.

c) Clemente: The wall is beautiful; it does not block the view and passenger cars can see my front door knob over the fence. This is not out of character with the community. I have photos of every house from Franklin to Vermont and 80% have over-in-height fences in front of them. You can’t see the ground beyond the wall from the street. We don’t park in front, if we have a guest we have a side driveway and 2 spaces.

d) Mims: We have already moved to reconsider the issue. We can’t go back and change what occurred and how that impacted the ZA’s decision. We have an open slate regarding this issue now. You said you’d make a full presentation, would you go to the Planning and Zoning Historic Preservation Committee? Clemente: They have seen it twice. I didn’t bring any photos tonight. We sent the appeal on December 10 and I don’t know when it will come up. Either Central Ave or Hollywood Area Planning Commission will hear the appeal. Mims: Have Mr. Clemente come in March and make a full presentation to the entire board, I would like that to occur before the appeal. Hunnewell: You said it was not properly noticed. Does the Brown Act allow a person to use his discretion? I don’t know if the Brown Act speaks to a person using his discretion I don’t think it addresses it directly. There may have been improper notification. Mims: I don’t want to get into the Brown Act but I want Mr. Clemente to give a full presentation. Hunnewell: It may be appropriate to rescind the last action to inoculate us from the Brown Act.   Mims: You are talking about potential litigation and we should talk about that in Executive Committee. We have already decided to reconsider it.

e) Gasteier: Mr. Clemente your request is that the NC formally rescinds its prior action? Clemente: Yes. My agreement to do a presentation is a separate application. I am happy to have the board reconsider, but the violation of the Brown Act is separate. My understanding is that they authorized two people to get together and make a decision. Johnson: Is the Los Feliz Improvement Association making an objection as well? Clemente: It may be a legal extension of the Brown Act, but the ZA and the City Council office rely on your recommendation. We asked LFIA for the same thing we asked you for. Weinstein: I asked DONE to ask the City Attorney to give us some advice. DONE suggests we wait for Clemente to air his grievance. Shouldn’t we ask DONE to give us direction whether there has been a Brown Act violation? Clemente: Maybe you could send a postcard to the person when you are discussing their variance. The only reason I knew this committee was doing anything is because a man asked me directions to Commonwealth and we got into a conversation. That’s how I knew there was a topic on the agenda. Mims: I appreciate your suggestion to send a postcard to someone who is asking for a variance. We can contact the central area staff and find out when it will come up. Then ask them to hold it over if it is before your presentation.

f) Clemente: I need an answer to my letter, a written response. My written demand stands and in 30 days from January 26 date of the letter, I will move forward. I have to file with the DA’s office. Mims: Before we can respond we will contact the City Attorney. Gasteier: In light of the litigation, I’d like to take this up at the end of this meeting in an executive session and discuss it. Spicer: My understanding is from your timeline we have 90 days. Clemente: You have to respond within 30 days. Melvin Canas, DONE: If you are asking to have a closed meeting, then NCs are not allowed to have a closed meeting unless there is litigation. Mims: The City has executive sessions all the time based on pending litigation. [Group consensus to have executive session after general board meeting.]

9-a)     VARIANCE FOR WAVERLY DRIVE
Weinstein: This is a 3 unit building that only has a habitability permit for 2 units. I have photos that show that for decades it used to be a 3 unit building. The applicant attended several of our Land Use meetings. It is a nice residence in a nice neighborhood. This is not a controversial item. I am bringing it up tonight to get the Council’s authorization to send a letter of support to the applicant.

MOTION by Weinstein to move that the GGPNC support George Kilian’s request for a variance at 3306-3308 Waverly Drive for a permit to make the third unit habitable living space in the 3 unit building. SECOND: Bruce; VOTE: Adopted by Consensus. Mims: Ron, will you please draft the letter.

10.    STRATEGIC PLAN
Spicer: [Distributed Version 1.2 of 11/4/03 GGPNC Strategic Plan] The goal is to get acquainted with the Plan and see where you would like to get involved. The Plan is for the board and includes direction for the committees to carry out their plans. [Richard went through the plan giving brief highlights on each section. The newsletter is under way, some of the committees have accomplished some of the goals either formally or through ad-hoc committees.] Mims: Now we need committee chairs to take this document back to their committee and re-adopt it; or if they have not come up with a mission statement to use this. Bring this back to the board because we are measured by the accomplishments in here. We will keep the Strategic Plan on the agenda for the next several meetings, so if you see anything that needs changing or editing, you will be able to address it.

Hunnewell: We have fallen short on articulating and measuring the follow up. In terms of overseeing that, it may rest largely with the Executive Committee. Mims: Yes, you are correct, we need to start doing that. We will take it up in Executive Committee. Weinstein: In terms of agendizing in the future, will that be general or in certain spots we will discuss it. Mims: I want the committee chairs to look through this and flesh it out. The board will do it through Executive Committee and report to the board. Hunnewell: The Executive Committee may want to form an ad-hoc committee and report back to the Executive Committee made up of just board members.

11.    BY-LAWS AD HOC COMMITTEE
Philip Gasteier: The group includes Kerry, Bruce, Jonathan, Charley and me. From a motion made in November it was suggested to have the bylaws revised and report back to the board. There have been some delays but we are trying to get that meeting going. I am inviting anyone who has a concern about the by-laws to communicate that to me or anyone else on the ad hoc committee. I will catalogue them and bring them to the committee. Mims: Phil and I wrote the bylaws and we have identified a few conflicts. So all of you please read them on the website and get back to us.

12.    DEPT OF WATER & POWER; MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
Carroll: I went to a few meetings requiring the DWP to share information with the NCs as early as possible and work with them. The first meeting was with the City Attorney and who was a no-show. The next meeting was with Ron Deaton, General Manager and there was some fear that he would say no. At that meeting we sat with Deaton and DWP people and halfway through the meeting Deaton decided there would be a 2 year MOU trial period to see what worked or didn’t work. He said he didn’t know what they could deliver and didn’t want to promise something they couldn’t live up to. There have been a few meetings since then. The current version is close to what we want, but the NCs feel that under the City Charter, the DWP owes them cooperation. But DWP says the City Council hasn’t passed anything saying the DWP has to do this, but they are going along with it anyway. There is a proposed meeting with the DWP attorney and the City attorney, representing the NCs, to finalize the language with possible approval sometime this month. He said March 15 there is a meeting of the DWP Commissioners.

MOTION by Carroll to move: that the GGPNC send a letter to the DWP and copy the neighborhood councils that we appreciate the hard work put in by both sides and look forward to the final MOU in hopes that it will improve relations. SECOND: Spicer.
Hunnewell: When the NC took on the DWP it was the seminal event in the history of the NCs so far, to take on the powerful DPW and bring them to the table with a MOU. We thank Bruce for what he has done. Carroll: The reason the NCs felt this MOU was very important was because it could set the pattern for other departments for early notification and teamwork. VOTE: Adopted by Consensus

Mims: I couldn’t make all those meetings and I asked Bruce and Nora to attend them and they did a great job, thanks. I’d like to get the board to delegate authority to the President to negotiate for the board and bring back the final document when it is approved.

MOTION by Carroll to move that GGPNC approve that President, Charley Mims be empowered to negotiate and bring back to the board a final agreement on the MOU.
SECOND by Spicer.   FRIENDLY AMENDMENT by Spicer: …and that he (Mims) do this with the understanding that the drafts will be circulated so that the Board has an opportunity to review and comment.
VOTE: Friendly Amendment adopted by Consensus.

Carroll: I have not put this on the website. Hunnewell: What is the wisdom of Bruce remaining in the process since he has been doing it all along? Kerr: I think it ought to be an ad-hoc committee of three: Charley, Bruce and someone else. Mims: If the President is given authority, he can delegate the authority. If the ad hoc does it, the committee has to meet to get things done. VOTE: Adopted by Consensus.

13.COMMITTEE REPORTS

a) Business Committee.   Rosemary DeMonte: I am going to be arranging a meeting with Dora Herrera. Matt Levy and Rory Fitzpatrick and some of the CRA people, and I don’t know if it is appropriate if the Zoning and Transportation Committee be included. We will be talking about a parking structure on Vermont at the Post Office. Balesh: As chair of Transportation, I’d like to attend. Weinstein: You probably should leave it with Transportation. Marin: We are looking to outreach to the community. If there is any kind of forum to get city officials and the community there, it would be great to have us included. The Los Feliz Village Street Fair is coming up June 5. Johnson: We have these plans for outreach to do things and no one shows up and helps. Last year the work fell on a few people. Unless people are willing to do it this year, I don’t think we will do the festival.

b) Outreach: Mosqueda: I want to put announcements of our meetings on Channel 35. Maybe we can get more people to come to the meetings like this. I was planning to contact television stations for PSAs. If you have any more ideas to get people here, let us know. Spicer: Did you discuss speakers and topics? Mosqueda: We went through the Strategic Plan and made notes. Spicer: One of the items is to have 2 meetings a year to attract an audience, for example a health meeting, or Barnsdall or the Film Institute to talk about what they do. Rysman: Maybe if we devoted 5 or 10minutes to the community to tell them how to make a public comment. Or committees can make a request for volunteers or announcements early in the meeting or perhaps put a sign downstairs that says “ring the bell for NC” because this is such a difficult place to find.

c) Neighborhood Improvement Committee   Kerr: We have two new project, managers: first, The Los Feliz steps: Paul Rudnicki is the project manager. He has done considerable research, and already has a refurbishing design made for consideration. The second project manager is Nyla Arslanian and she has agreed to take on the Hollywood Blvd Redevelopment project that includes the CRA. Everyone will recall the problems we have encountered with this project, and she has the history and personal contacts to solve the situation Nyla: One thing I did learn is that this project has a new CRA manager, John Purfitt,, and he will be bringing me up to speed from their point of view.   Vermont Triangle: Kerr: [distributed draft letter] On Jan 27 we met at the Vermont triangle with Matt Levy, Lynn Cohen, Ray Mellon, Fabio Arias and Rory Fitzpatrick.    Mellon is the traffic consultant for the Council office and Arias is from DOT. We went through all the problems on the island. Earlier, Levy said it was a very bad bus stop for the six buses to stop at the Hollywood and New Hampshire intersection. If the lanes are not specifically defined things get unsafe. We discussed taking some lanes off, north of Prospect; the taxi lane and another one. There are three lines of traffic that need a lane: east, west and left turn. Matt has this report of what we have found and sent it to MTA and is asking for a history of the bus stops. I am requesting the board send a letter to Councilmember LaBonge that we support the studies to redevelop the Triangle into a transportation center.   Fitzpatrick asked for this letter to show neighborhood support. Johnson: I don’t know if we are ready to say we want to maintain two-way traffic on Prospect Ave. If the idea is to offer support of the study then we can say that, with changes to this letter. I think we should wait to see what the traffic studies recommend. Gasteier: Can this item be put on the agenda?

MOTION by Hunnewell to move that the GPPNC send the draft letter submitted by Kerr with the suggested modifications. SECOND: Balesh. Arslanian: I think that when we use “cultural significance” it leaves a broad interpretation. Take that out and maybe say it improves the area. Johnson: Take out garden. Carroll: The Franklin Hills residents did a poll and 75% said they did not want to close off that part of Prospect to two-way traffic. I think it is important. So I do not support the motion if it takes out two-way traffic. Spicer: If Vermont Triangle means just open space and the traffic flow on either side of it, then that is too limiting. We have a traffic center going on there, half way down to Kaiser. If we will have an effective study to improve flow, rider-ship and view, we need to take that into consideration or I will not support it. Johnson: I suggest we alter it for the Executive Committee review. Hunnewell: I withdraw this motion and recommend it be taken up by the Executive Committee.

14.    EXECUTIVE SESSION
MOTION by Mims that the meeting be moved into Executive Committee for discussion on pending litigation by Mr. John Clemente. The matter came to our attention too late to be posted on the agenda. SECOND by Hunnewell.

(The public meeting of the GGPNC went into private Executive Session.)
(The private Executive Session was ended and the GGPNC returned to an open public meeting.)

MOTION by Gasteier to move that the Executive Committee of the GGPNC be authorized to take appropriate action to either rescind the board’s prior motion on the zoning variance or such other action that is appropriate after seeking advice from the City Attorney on the over-in-height wall at 5042 Los Feliz. SECOND: Carroll.
Hunnewell: I think action should be taken by the Board, not the Executive Committee. I think we should rescind the recommendation, regardless of the City Attorney. Balesh: I don’t think the code section makes a big deal out of what we are doing here.

MOTION by Carroll: To divide the house. SECOND Johnson. VOTE: in favor of voting on this issue. 12 in favor. 0 opposed. VOTE: Those in favor of motion presented by Gasteier. 10 in favor. 4 opposed. Motion carries.

Mims: The Executive Committee will take up the matter and they will hear the grievance and report back to the board. Hunnewell: I ask that Clemente be notified specifically of the time and date of the meeting. Mims: We will do that.

Meeting adjourned at 10:10 p.m.
Jacqueline Kerr, Secretary

Click Here for official notices regarding agenda posting, public comment, disabled services and process for reconsideration.

BACK TO
GGPNC HOME PAGE TOP OF THIS PAGE

BOARD MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, JANUARY 18, 2005
BOARD OF DIRECTOR MEETING MINUTES
Los Feliz Community Police Center
1965 N. Hillhurst, Los Angeles, CA 90027

1.    CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
Charley Mims, President, called the meeting to order at 7:10 p.m. PRESENT: Charley Mims, President; Jon Kaplan, Vice President Administration; Nora Mosqueda, VP Outreach & Communications; Jacqueline Kerr, Secretary; Philip Gasteier, Cheryl Johnson, Bruce Carroll, Ron Weinstein, Rose Marin, Joe Cisneros, Nyla Arslanian, Merlyn Hernandez, Molly Rysman, Kerry Hunnewell, James Balesh, Richard Spicer, Rosemary DeMonte, Shana Murphy. ABSENT: Lisa Sergi, Treasurer.

CITY REPRESENTATIVES PRESENT: Rory Fitzpatrick, Chief Field Deputy, Council District 4; Matthew Levy, Field Deputy, Council District 4.

APPROVAL OF DECEMBER MINUTES: MOTION by Carroll to accept minutes as written; SECOND by Mosqueda; VOTE: Consensus.

2.    PUBLIC COMMENTS
Kristin Sabo (Stakeholder): I am passing out the City’s Conflict of Interest policy. Charley Mims is on the board of Local 347 and is president of one of the chapters. Local 347 is directly involved in what happens in the consolidation of Park Ranger services. According to DONE you are required to excuse yourself if there is a conflict of interest. I hope in the future the board follows the Conflict of Interest document.

Rory Fitzpatrick, Field Deputy: [Distributed CD 4 Update 1-sheet]. Of the approximately 40 red tagged home from the storm, half were in our council district, most in the Mt. Olympus area. Councilmember LaBonge and deputies toured the damaged areas. Councilmember LaBonge introduced a motion in City Council asking the LADWP to report to a Council committee the nature and frequency of power outages throughout LA during the rain storms. Another motion was made asking B&S to report on any slope failures and to revisit the laws on this.

3.    BUREAU OF SANITATION PRESENTATION
Mims: This item was inadvertently left off of the board agenda, so it will go here under public comment.
Sam Alivia, Bureau of Sanitation and Lisa Mowery, PE Sr. Sanitary Engineer: [Distributed PowerPoint of presentation and City Services booklet] Alivia went over the handout highlighting what the Sanitation Bureau does, the sewer improvements to be made and their challenges and how they intend to resolve them. The Bureau is asking for a sewer increase of about $1.75 each year, reaching about $30 a month by the end of a five-year period. The individual cost will fluctuate per household based on size, owner vs. renter consumption and the fact that DWP sends out bills every other month. New rates begin March 2005. Earlier this year the City of L.A. reached a lawsuit settlement agreement with the Santa Monica Baykeepers who sued following the El Nino rainy season of 1998. The settlement terms were a combination of financial penalties and sewer improvements. A list was distributed of public meetings being held during January throughout the city on the recent settlement and rate increase. Written public comment can be submitted to the City Clerk by February 1 and the City Council will hold a public hearing on February 2 at 10 a.m. Alivia and Mowery responded to questions from the board and stakeholders as follows: Our rates pay for operating costs, capital projects and debt service on bonds. Life of bonds is generally 30 years, although some have been refinanced. We are doing tertiary treatment at 3 other plants, so some money will go there. This rate increase is a 10 year program, but we have locked in only first 5 years. This is the maximum amount we can increase rates.

4.    PLANNING, ZONING COMMITTEE REPORT
CUP for Nadpob Thai care, 4321 West Sunset.
Weinstein, Chair: They are requesting a permit to serve beer and wine for onsite consumption and only with food service. Also requests the right to have karaoke as live entertainment. They will agree to no public dancing or video games. The location is in a shopping center that faces Sunset and there are no nearby residences. I have not received a zoning notice yet; this was on the CNC Report. Johnson: Do you have any reason that we should oppose this? Mims: I drove by one evening and I also read through the packet before I gave it to Ron. All the businesses face towards the parking lot and it looks like sufficient parking within the lot and on the street. It is a functioning restaurant now. There is a duplex behind the building; it looks like it will not impact the residents.   Carroll: Considering past crime problems in that area and knowing what happened there before does it help or hurt? Mims: It may help; it is a nice restaurant, I don’t think it will draw downscale clientele and may even elevate the neighborhood scene. MOTION by Hunnewell to support the CUP for Nadpob Thai Café: SECOND by Mosqueda.   Discussion: Weinstein: We can support it or do nothing and let the application proceed. Mims: We could be business friendly and support it. Hunnewell: I think we should take a stand on it one way or the other. Balesh: There is a sushi restaurant at that location and they serve beer and wine. VOTE: Consensus. Mims: Weinstein, please draft a letter to the ZA.

5.    TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE REPORT
Franklin Hills Residents Association
Balesh, Chair: [Distributed transportation report] Los Feliz and Franklin Hill Residents Associations were at our last meeting. Franklin had safety issues near Talmadge and St. George that cars are speeding in that area. They are at the preliminary stage of what they think should be done. A letter our committee approved supporting them is in with the report.   MOTION by Balesh that theGGPNC approve this letter and that it be sent to Franklin Hills Residents Association. SECOND by Hunnewell, VOTE: Consensus

Los Feliz Mobility Action Committee
Councilmember LaBonge talked to me about the Mobility Action Committee (MAC) regarding traffic congestion. Jeannie Chang was getting it going but she was moved from our area so we want to get it going again. This draft letter is to Councilmember LaBonge to reconvene the Los Feliz MAC on a monthly basis to address some of these issues. MOTION by Balesh that the GGPNC approve this letter to Councilmember LaBonge regarding the Los Feliz MAC: SECOND by Hunnewell.   Discussion: Hunnewell: How do these issues of MAC differ from the transportation committee’s agenda? Balesh: with the Councilmember involved he can get the attention of the various city departments to attend meetings. In our committee we don’t have that pull to get these officials to our meetings. I heard that Bob Camou of the Department of Transportation will not attend night meetings. Kerr: Other NCs are included and that broadens our scope. Hunnewell: What are the mandates of MAC? If it is just Los Feliz then we should take it on; if it is more regional than we should have something that resides more with the Councilmember’s office. Spicer: The idea was to make it broader and it brings together during the day staff management to get things done. Rysman: The reason why it can’t be done by our NC alone is because it is a regional issue, because traffic is coming right through our district. It needs to encompass the oversight of the 5 freeway and other things.   VOTE: Consensus. Rory Fitzpatrick: Bob Camou does attend night meetings and I have been at meetings with him. We support the idea of MAC particularly when it gets other councils involved and jurisdictions involved. Bob Camou has hundreds of traffic requests from all the CDs but he is understaffed. So our job is to tell him what things are important to get done and Matt Levy is here to help. Mims: Does this have to run through City Council to get things moving? Fitzpatrick: No.

Vista Theatre
Balesh: Fitzpatrick, please update us on the Vista. Fitzpatrick: DOT is recommending against it. They feel it would have a negative impact on the business. We listened and we can override it but we want to meet with the owners of the business. Parking is an issue and we are looking for money everywhere we can. We may have some money in CRA that we could use to put a parking lot on Vermont Ave. Hunnewell: A parking structure was the number one issue when we were noting priorities in Mayor Hahn’s annual Budget Priorities Survey; and in the Los Feliz Village area. Fitzpatrick: The first step is for CRA to do a traffic study. Kerr: In this Survey we suggested double decking on the east side behind businesses on Vermont, and also suggested that the Post Office parking lot to the south even possibly be tripled decked.

6.    CRA HOLLYWOOD REDEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
Hollywood Blvd.: Neighborhood Iconology
Kerr: Chancee Martorell wants to speak in opposition to our letter. In the next 2 weeks I will have another committee meeting and invite her and Officer Colenzo who is the graffiti expert for the Northeast Division of the LAPD. We will recommend that Officer Kolenzo and Barrio Planning meet together and work out problems without Chancee or our committee members being involved.

Hollywood/Western Development
Hunnewell: The Hollywood and Western project on the north and south sides of the street is now two separate developments with 2 different developers. The original programs and plans are changing as well. I recently received an email that these plans will be reviewed tomorrow night at a public meeting at the Metro Apartments at 6:30 p.m.

7.    PARKS, RIVERS AND OPEN SPACES COMMITTEE
a) Bernadette Soter, Chair: A few members at the last board meetings asked could the PROs committee develop a white paper. We showed a draft “PROS Committee Recommendation” at the Executive Committee and they asked us to bring it before the Board tonight. [Soter recapped the history on the Park Rangers’ consolidation, and then read the white paper, explaining each proposal and giving anecdotes of what is transpiring with this move towards consolidation and the people involved.] Mims: In response to Kristin Sabo’s public comment, I don’t believe I have a conflict of interest, but I will check it out with DONE. I asked that the PROS committee address these concerns and that they invite management to their meetings to give them more time to respond than what we were able to allow in our last Board meeting. I think it needs to be discussed in committee and then brought back to us. Can the PROS committee do that and bring us back a recommendation? Soter: We went to all the CD meetings and asked all these questions and we still don’t have answers. We have not had them at our PROS meetings. We couldn’t get their attention until the Councilmember’s office asked them to do it. Our next meeting is February 7. Mims: Fitzpatrick and I together can help you get GSD management and any city management there. Soter: Time is running out, this consolidation goes into effect in March.

b) Kaplan: At the Executive meeting your request was to adopt this white paper. Soter: I asked how should it be presented and in what form. Kaplan: I felt uncomfortable adopting this or taking action in Executive Committee and felt better if the board saw it, since it was an active action item. We did want more committee work done on the issue to hear the other side.   Mims: We did take one action related to this. But the other action was of having the City put it off so we could look into it further. Hunnewell: We need to decide what our position is on this, our plan of action and do we work with Councilmember LaBonge’s office to develop a Council motion.

c) [Open discussion thanking Soter on the great work she and the committee have done; the preparation of a cover letter, the fact that the City Council has not yet taken the issue up nor adopted it; whether or not the NC should continue to keep it on the agenda for discussion; editing the cover letter and the PROS Recommendation white paper; should this NC sponsor a special meeting with other NCs and GSD management for a discussion or should this board call a special meeting alone; Joseph Young of the Sierra Club read his organization’s recommendation; the consensus that everyone wants to hear more answers from GSD; the suggestion to make a decision tonight, since March 5 is so close; asking the City to come up with some answers since PROS and other NCs have done all they can; and the board should ask for a delay until answers are received.]

d) Mims: All of these issues in the PROS recommendations white paper are well thought out, but I would like to get more detailed answers to civilian oversight, for use of deadly force in Item 2. I don’t know what item 3 really means and I’d like to see the MOUs with the departments. Item 4 is independent of the consolidation since we took a position to support Councilmember LaBonge’s motion. We would have to lobby the Council to get the money for it. Item 5 we could weigh in on that with an opinion but we would not be involved in that; union would negotiate any pay issue. Item 6, I would like more information on that regarding citations because I don’t know how far that goes. I don’t support taking a position until we get answers.

MOTION by Hunnewell that the GGPNC draft two letters: (a) That the first letter (cover letter) be essentially equivalent to the one presented by the PROS committee at the January 18 GGPNC Board meeting, asking for a delay in the consolidation of separate security forces into a new Office of Public Safety. (b) That the PROS Committee List of Recommendations dated January 5, 2005 be edited to present the "recommendations" as "issues", and adding "whether" in front of each bold-faced, numbered statement; and that the edited list of issues be appended to the cover letter. (c) That the cover letter be sent to every member of the City Council, with copies to the Mayor's office and relevant officials at the General Services Department. (d) That a second letter contain a direct and unambiguous request that the GSD respond specifically and in writing to explain its position on the issues listed on the aforementioned PROS Committee List of Recommendations; and that a copy of that edited "issues" attachment be appended to the second letter as well. (e) That the second letter be sent to the head of the General Services Department, and copied to other relevant officials in the General Services Department, every member of the City Council, and the Mayor's office. (f) That a draft of each letter be presented to the Executive Committee for review and approval, and (g) thereafter, that each letter be sent by the president of the GGPNC, acting on behalf of the GGPNC, to the aforementioned recipients. SECOND by Gasteier. VOTE: Consensus

8.    EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORT
Mims, President: I was out ill for the last Executive Committee so I asked Jon to extend the terms of the chairs for various committees until we could let people know; then they could inform us if they wanted to be a chair. There wasn’t time to put information out, but I want something on the website to invite people to be on the committee then wait a few weeks for their response. There is a conflict with our executive meeting date in February because we will be at the general membership meeting of Franklin Hills; so do we want to cancel it or reschedule for another date?

9.    BOARD COMMENTS
Kerr: I was asked to check on the pieces of office equipment we have. Hunnewell: We have two multi-pass 3-in-one machines and 2 laptops. I would suggest for the secretary a laptop, MS Office and Acrobat Reader to make PDF files and you can use one of the multi-pass machines we have. MOTION by Hunnewell that we purchase the above items at a price not to exceed $1500. SECOND by Spicer. Hunnewell: We don’t need authorization for a $1500 purchase.    MOTION by Johnson that Hunnewell is authorized to function as treasurer until Sergi receives training in February and takes over. SECOND by Carroll. VOTE: Consensus.

Kerr: The Hoover Street Stairwell Mural artist is working with a “skin” preparation in his studio for the mural. The embankment wall at the Hoover steps has collapsed. Levy: We are aware and will take care of the wall.

Johnson: We had the New Years Eve hike, about 50 people showed up and we were interviewed for television. Thanks to everyone who helped organize it and for the board’s financial support. It was raining but it cleared up.

Mosqueda: The Ad Hoc committee for the newsletter will meet here at 5:30 before our next board meeting. Mims: If no objection from the board, I’d like to appoint DeMonte as adhoc chair [consensus].

10.    NON-AGENDA ITEM COMMENTS
Mims: Spicer has distributed a strategic plan and it will be on our next agenda. Please read it before the meeting. See if your committee’s plans will dovetail into the Strategic Plan. It is also on the website [Oct. 18 Strategic Planning Session, Version 1.2, November 4, 2003.]

Carroll: We received a letter from the interim director of the Bureau of Street Lighting that they repaired 339 streetlights in our district. Levy: Lights are still going out in the Los Feliz area so I have put this on my list to address. Also red flag day ordinance in the hillside areas is coming. When the Fire Dept and Public Transportation are prepared they will notify the Board. I will prepare a report from DOT and Dept of Engineers for upgrades to this Los Feliz River section and Five Freeway.   Spicer: What is the status of money for the priority paving list the Councilmember requested of our Transportation Committee last June?   We were given 2.0 miles to identify. Mims: Talk to Balesh.

Meeting adjourned at 9:15 p.m.,

Jacqueline Kerr
Secretary

Click Here for official notices regarding agenda posting, public comment, disabled services and process for reconsideration.

BACK TO
GGPNC HOME PAGE TOP OF THIS PAGE