The regular monthly meeting was held on March 9, 2009, in the community room at 1965 Hillhurst Avenue pursuant to notice. Present from the committee were: Kenneth E. Owen, chair, Sorin Alexanian, Bruce Carroll, Rosemary DeMonte, Jacqueline Kerr, Richard Spicer, Richard Stanley and David Uebersax ,  Donna Kolb, co-chair of the Zoning committee of the Los Feliz Improvement Association, and Douglas Mensman, of Councilmember LaBonge’s office, were also present. The meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m.

1. The minutes of the meeting of the committee held February 11, 2009, were approved as circulated.

2. There was no public comment as to items within the purview of the committee but not on the agenda.

3. 2856 Glendower Avenue. Tony Moschella, of Cal to Cal Investments, Inc., represented the owner, Giamaica s.r.l. Mr. Saverio Principini also appeared to support the application. Mr. Moschella summarized the application to build a second story on the existing four car garage which is non conforming to current zoning requirements as it is built within the required set backs. The second story would rise to about 30 feet and would be used principally as a recording studio with completely sound proof walls to avoid sound coming in or out of the studio. The façade would have windows facing Glendower but there would be a very narrow void between the exterior windows and the interior sound-proofed wall. This site was chosen over an alternative area near the guest house away from the street because of the cost of construction. Mr. Principini stated that he was a music composer and he would be the principal user of the recording studio. He is not a shareholder of the Italian corporation which  owns the house. He is an independent contractor long associated with Mr. Floriano Fini and his corporation, Giamaica, and permanently lives on the premises in the guesthouse, which has full kitchen and bathroom facilities. He has no lease. He maintains a recording studio in the San Fernando Valley but wants one at this location as well. He does not anticipate having a large number of people at the studio as much of his work is synthetic. He does however hire singers and others to record for him. Mr. Fini lives in Italy and visits the house only twice a year.
Several neighbors, John Casey, Patricia Johnson, Jim Rogers, Ronald Paul spoke in opposition raising the following issues: (1) Glendower is a substandard street, being about 18 feet wide, there is very limited parking, some parts of the street have no parking at time signs and/or are painted red, while much of the remainder is posted no parking on red flag days. (2) Another recording studio, since ordered closed by the city, nearby brought many cars and people acting inconsistently with the residential character of the neighborhood. (3) The placing of a 30 foot tall structure at this part of the property facing neighbors and traffic would be visually akin to an over-height retaining wall. (4) The occupant of the premises has failed to act responsibly: leaving out trash cans, loud parties, having guests who park illegally and rudely respond to reasonable requests to comply with the parking restrictions.
By consensus the committee resolved to recommend to the board that it advise the zoning administrator to deny the requested zoning administrator’s adjustment as the development is incompatible with the neighborhood, both the size and placement of the structure and its use, and because  there has been a failure to meet any of the required tests for granting such an adjustment.

Billboards. Alan Bell, Senior City Planner, presented the current status of the Department of Planning’s proposed ordinance in response to the City Council’s and the City Planning Department’s instruction. Dennis Hathaway, of the Coalition to Ban Billboard Blight, commented on the proposal, which returns to the City Planning Department on March 18.

After questions to both gentlemen and a discussion among the committee, the committee, by consensus agreed to recommend that the GGPNC advise the City Planning Commission as follows:

    1. We believe that the recommended regulation of signage as proposed by the Department under your direction is generally an excellent solution to the current problems of proliferation of illegal and offensive signs. We congratulate both you and the Department in your leadership in this regard and urge you to continue the political process of substantial revision of the zoning and other codes regarding this problem.

    2. We believe the distinction between “on site” and “off site” signs should be retained; however, a definition of “on site” sign should be adopted to truly reflect the common-sense distinction, such as providing that a sign which advertises a product or service sold on site must be for a product or service that provides no less than a certain percentage (e.g., 25%) of that business's monthly income during the period the product or service is advertised.
 
    3. We believe the City must commit to providing a substantially larger number of employees to enforce the ordinance, which should be funded by effective collection of fines owed by violators. Thus, the fines should go first to fund enforcement and then to the extent the fines exceed the cost of enforcement they should go to general funds. Alternatively, inspection fees should be set at an amount to adequately fund the cost of enforcement.
 
    4. We believe a private right of action should be available to all not just those living or owning property within a specific boundary. The ordinance should provide for the payment out of the administrative or court proceedings for legal and "bounty" fees for successful prosecution. This will encourage enforcement. The private right would arise only if the City fails to take prompt action first after notice of violation.
 
    5. We believe fines should be imposed against the person or entity determining the message on the sign (i.e., advertiser) as well as the land owner and owner of the sign. Enforcement might include revocation of the offender’s business license if there are any unpaid fines.
 
    6. We believe there should be no new sign districts allowed.  Moreover, we believe there should be no “grandfathering” of sign districts for which applications were filed after July 29, 2008.  As to any sign district benefiting from grandfathering or if new sign districts are allowed such sign districts  should be regulated so that (a) new signs in such a district will be offset by the removal of an equal number of square feet of signs in the area abutting the sign district, (b) provision shall be made that areas outside of the district will be protected from the effects of signs within the district and (c) notice of a proposed sign district be broadly provided to areas adjacent to the proposed district with full opportunity for those outside the district but potentially affected by it to be heard.

    7. We support continued prohibition of super graphics, digital signs and new roof signs.

    8. We believe the Department of Building and Safety should promptly perform its obligation of determining which of the signs in the City are now “illegal”, not having been constructed in accordance with a permit, and enforce the applicable current ordinances.

    9. We believe there should be a special task force of representatives of the Department of Building and Safety, the Planning Department, the City Attorney, the Fire Department, the Department of Water and Power, the Community Redevelopment Agency and representatives of the public such as neighborhood councils to review and report to the City Planning Commission on a regular basis the effectiveness of the current ordinance and any new ordinance, with recommendation for modification. The cost of such a task force should be assessed as part of the business tax on billboard operators.

    10.  We believe proposed Section 14.4.20, relating to continuation of nonconforming signs, should be modified to incorporate an amortization schedule. Following the amortization period the nonconforming sign shall be removed, and signage shall conform to the sign ordinance then in effect.   

    11.    With respect to appeals of an order to comply - we believe that notice should be given to abutting property owners and the neighborhood council for the area of the date, place and time of the hearing.  Abutting owners as well as neighborhood councils have an interest in such matters and should have the opportunity to comment.
        12. We believe the City should apply the principles adopted for signage on private property to their own property to the extent the signs and properties are comparable.


Home Restaurant, 1758-1760 Hillhurst Avenue. This application for an increase in the authorized seating capacity from 60 to 96 and the extension of service times from 11 p.m. to midnight was filed in September 2008. A similar request to increase seating to 112 was opposed by GGPNC and denied by the zoning administrator in 2007, which denial was confirmed on appeal to the Central Area Planning Commission. Elizabeth Peterson, the applicant’s representative has twice appeared before the committee on this latest application. Ms. Peterson was asked to come back to the committee with a definite plan for resolving the issues which resulted in GGPNC’s opposition to the earlier application. Neither Ms. Peterson nor her client appeared. However, one neighbor appeared in response to the agenda and spoke in opposition to the renewed request. She reported no apparent correction of the parking problems.
By consensus the committee agreed to recommend to the board that it reiterate its opposition to the renewed application on the same grounds as stated before.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:55 p.m.

The regular monthly meeting was held on February 11, 2009, in the community room at 1965 Hillhurst Avenue pursuant to notice. Present from the committee were: Kenneth E. Owen, chair, Bruce Carroll, Joe Cisneros, Rosemary DeMonte, Richard Spicer, Richard Stanley, David Uebersax , and Tom Wilson. Donna Kolb, co-chair of the Zoning committee of the Los Feliz Improvement Association, was also present. The meeting was called to order at 6:45 p.m.

1. The minutes of the meetings of the committee held December 10, 2008, and January 14, 2009, were approved as circulated.

2. The committee reviewed matters pending before it and assigned responsibilities. Mr. Uebersax and Mr. Spicer will undertake a statement of procedures to made available on the website to streamline presentations and public comment. Mr. Stanley will review the application for a proposed addition to the existing home at 3628 Cadman and provide the rest of the committee with his comments and recommendations before the next meeting. Mr. Uebersax will make inquiries regarding the status of the pending application for new condo construction at 1801-1817 New Hampshire and report back to the committee prior to the next meeting

3. There was no public comment on matters not on the agenda.

4. 1727 Vermont Avenue, Pattaya Thai Restaurant.  The applicant, Warin Saetae, and her representative Patrick Panzarello, presented her application for a conditional use permit to allow the sale of a full line of alcohol as a result of the applicant’s winning the lottery for new licenses. They represented that the restaurant had been in this location for about 10 years with a right to sell beer and wine pursuant to a procedure antedating the conditional use permit provisions of the zoning code and that there were no conditions imposed on the hours of service or anything other than limits imposed by the state under the alcoholic beverage control act. Ms. DeMonte reported on her investigation of the application and that she had sent a letter inviting stakeholders owning property within 500 feet of the site. No stakeholder unaffiliated with the applicant appeared. After discussion, the committee, by consensus, agreed to recommend to the board that it advise the Office of Zoning Administration that the neighborhood council does not oppose the requested conditional use permit provided the following conditions are included: (1) no alcoholic beverage be sold except as an incident of a meal, (2) there be no bar, (3) there be no “happy  hour”, (4) there be no window signs advertising alcoholic beverages, (5) the parking lot will have an attendant on duty to ensure that only persons patronizing businesses in the mall in which this restaurant is located use the parking lot during the hours of 11 a.m. to 2 a.m., and (6) any outdoor seating will be only allowed if configured to comply with all applicable laws and ordinances.

5. 2856 Glendower Avenue. This matter was continued to the next meeting so that notice may be given to the applicant and affected stakeholders.

6. The resignation of Frank Masi from the committee was noted and Ms. De Monte will write him a letter of appreciation for his fine service, particularly the extensive work he did in preparing an inventory of the trees on Los Feliz Boulevard and the billboards in our area, which will hopefully be the basis for the identification and elimination of any illegal signs in our area.

    The meeting was adjourned a 10:50 p.m.


    The regular monthly meeting was held on January 14, 2009, in the community room at 1965 Hillhurst Avenue pursuant to notice. Present from the committee were: Kenneth E. Owen, chair, Bruce Carroll, Rosemary DeMonte, Frank Masi, Richard Spicer, Richard Stanley, David Uebersax , and Tom Wilson. Donna Kolb, co-chair of the Zoning committee of the Los Feliz Improvement Association, was also present. The meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m.

1. The consideration of the minutes of the meeting of the committee held December 10, 2008, as circulated to the committee was put to the end of the agenda and due to the lateness of the hour put off to the following meeting.

2. There was no public comment on matters not on the agenda.

3. 2332 Catalina Avenue. Rachel Allen, A.I.A, architect retained by the homeowner of this property, presented modified plans from those reviewed at the December meeting. The chair reported that copies of the agenda with this item on it were delivered to residences nearby the project. No member of the public sought to be heard on this matter. The new design eliminates the solar panels, as the owner has independently determined not to have them on this project.  In sum, the project approved by the Office of Zoning Administration in 2007 allowed a flat roofed second story rising 23 feet 6 inches, and the new proposal is for a slanted roof rising from 20 feet 10 inches at the street side and 26 feet 9 inches furthest from the street. The committee, by consensus determined to recommend to the board that it advise the Office of Zoning Administration that it has no objection to this modest modification of the plans reviewed by the committee in 2006 and granted a zoning administrator’s adjustment in 2007.

4. 4759 Bryn Mawr. This matter was considered by the committee on a number of prior occasions. The original requests were to allow a home built over a garage rising 45 feet in a 36 foot zone, with four retaining walls varying in height up to 23 feet at the highest and invading the required front yard area rising to 4 feet 6 inches plus two other requests which have now been resolved. The requests were substantially denied by the Office of Zoning Administration and the appellant appealed. Modifications were proposed by the applicant and the central area planning commission heard the matter in September and November 2008. At the last meeting the commission asked that the neighborhood council advise it with respect to each of the issues before it, as modified shortly before the November 25, 2008, but after action by this committee and the neighborhood council in November. Brian Lee, John Suh and Randy Van Ausdall presented the new plans which replace the formerly proposed third living floor with a usable roof deck covered in part by an arbor like structure slightly over seven feet in height on which will be placed slanted solar panels (bringing the total height to 45 feet) so that the roof area may be used both to collect sunlight and to allow outdoor living. A number of stakeholders, principally living above the project, expressed their support. A number of stakeholders, living on Bryn Mawr and Glendower below and to either side of Bryn Mawr, expressed their opposition. The committee discussed the project and took into consideration the comments of stakeholders and determined to advise the board of the neighborhood council to advise the central area planning commission as follows: (1) We do not oppose the structures as presented which exceed 36 feet (vote of 5 to 3), (2) We do not oppose the one foot overheight of the retaining wall in the required front yard area (by consensus). The committee split 4 to 4 on the question of the excessive number and excessive height of the retaining walls.

    The meeting was adjourned a 10:40 p.m.


    The regular monthly meeting was held on December 10, 2008, in the community room at 1965 Hillhurst Avenue pursuant to notice. Present from the committee were: Kenneth E. Owen, chair, Sorin Alexanian, Bruce Carroll, Joe Cisneros, Rosemary DeMonte, Frank Masi, Richard Spicer, Richard Stanley, David Uebersax , and Tom Wilson. Donna Kolb, co-chair of the Zoning committee of the Los Feliz Improvement Association, was also present. The meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m.

The minutes of the meeting of the committee held November 12, 2008, were approved as circulated to the committee and read at the meeting.

There was no public comment on matters not on the agenda.

1. 2332 Catalina Avenue. Rachel Allen, A.I.A, architect retained by the homeowner of this property made a preliminary presentation of a proposed second story addition to the garage which is within the front and one of the side yards of this residence. An earlier plan had been approved by the GGPNC and an adjustment was granted by the Zoning Administrator. However, the owner has decided to change plans to among other things accommodate solar panels. The committee asked Ms. Allen to come back with an explanation of why solar panels could not be installed on a flat roof with a modest parapet within the permission already granted and a sample of proposed solar panels usable on a roof as now proposed which will not detract from the architecture of the addition and the neighborhood. It was recommended that the applicant discuss her proposed plans with all the neighbors likely to be directly affected prior to returning to the committee.
2. 4407 Dundee Drive. The owners of this single family home, Mr. and Mrs. Berberian, showed plans for an addition to the house of about 910 square feet, none of which will be visible from the street, and which has been supported by a number (but not all) of the immediate neighbors. Mr. Alexanian disclosed that he has known the owners for about 35 years and refrained from any participation in the matter. After discussion the committee decided to take no action as the abutting and other affected neighbors had not been notified of the meeting.
3. 1758-1760 Hillhurst, Home Restaurant. Elizabeth Peterson, a consultant to the owners of this restaurant, made a preliminary presentation of the new application to increase the seating and extend the hours of operation. The seating request is somewhat less than was denied a little over a year before by the zoning administrator and the area planning commission. The committee reviewed the myriad of problems the stakeholders had with the operation of this restaurant and asked that Ms. Peterson and the owner address those issues when next they come to the committee. Ms. Peterson stated that the application to have sales of alcohol without accompanying sales of food was an error and would be corrected by a letter to the Planning Department.
4. 4301 Sunset Boulevard. Ms. Peterson reported at the request of the committee on this site of an abandoned motel. She had represented the former owner before the committee regarding seeking permission for a boutique hotel and restaurant at this site. However, she reported that the property has been sold to the Silverman Company of Detroit which has also acquired parcels to the rear and west of this site and will propose a mixed use development. Ms. Peterson has not been retained by the new owner but will inform it of the committee’s interest in having this site made presentable to the community.
5. S.B 375. Mr. Alexanian made a preliminary report on this very complicated new state legislation imposing yet more restrictions on local planning departments. More study will be required.
6. The committee discussed the pending matters and how responsibility will be distributed for preparing them for a meeting.

    The meeting was adjourned a 10:50 p.m.

The regular monthly meeting was held on October 8, 2008, in the community room at 1965 Hillhurst Avenue pursuant to notice. Present from the committee were: Kenneth E. Owen, chair, Joe Cisneros, Richard Stanley. David Uebersax and Tom Wilson.. The meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m.

    The review of minutes of prior meetings of the committee was deferred.

    There was no public comment.

    The committee did an extensive review of all pending matters but no action was taken.

    The committee adjourned at 9:30 p.m.

    Respectfully submitted

    Kenneth Owen.

   A meeting of the Planning, Zoning and Historic Preservation Committee of Greater Griffith Park Neighborhood Council was held June 12, 2008, jointly with the Parks, River and Open Space (“PROS”) Committee by direction of the Board at its May meeting.

    The purpose of the meeting was to consider the application of the Griffith J. Griffith Charitable Trust to have Griffith Park designated as an Historic Cultural Monument of the City of Los Angeles.

    The meeting commenced at 7:15 p.m. pursuant to notice of the joint meeting duly noticed and posted. Present were Kenneth Owen, chair, and Richard Spicer.

    The committee, along with the PROS committee, discussed the contents of the application and those present who were also present at the meeting of the Griffith Park Master Plan Working Group earlier in June 2008, reported to the others on the contents of the presentation of Jones & Stokes of the bases and likely consequences of the designation of Griffith Park.

    Mr. Owen reported that he had been informed by the Planning Department staff that it is likely that the initial consideration by the Cultural Heritage Commission of the application will be on July 17, and if the application is accepted for consideration the commission is likely to make a site visit on August 21. If that schedule is maintained the commission is likely to consider the nomination on its merits at its September 18, 2008, meeting at which time testimony of the public will be solicited.

    Also present was Christine Peters, a member of the board of Greater Echo Park Elysian Neighborhood Council, who reported on the successful designation of Echo Park and the apparently universal approval of the consequence so far of the designation. She reported that even though the park is owned by the city there are economic benefits to the city from designation as it appears to qualify the city for grants for improvements of the park using historic methods that would not otherwise be available.

    After a full discussion among the two committees Mr. Spicer moved that the PZHP committee recommend to the GGPNC board that it support the application to designate Griffith Park as an Historic Cultural Monument of the City of Los Angeles. After a second the motion was adopted by consensus. The PROS committee adopted a similar motion (expanding its recommendation to include all of the entities represented on PROS).

    There then followed a discussion as to the further action to be recommended by the committee to the board to support the nomination. Although the idea was supported by the entire committee present, there was no budget suggested so the matter was left to simply advise the board that the committee suggests further action to support the designation beyond the normal letter writing to the appropriate city officials. The committee will defer to PROS in the specific recommendation.

    The only matter on the agenda of the joint committee meeting having been addressed, the committee adjourned at 8:10 p.m.

    Respectfully submitted,
    Kenneth Owen.

Committee members present:  Ken Owen (Chairman), Frank Masi (acting Secretary), Bruce Carroll, Rosemary DeMonte, Richard Stanley, Richard Spicer, Tom Wilson.

Attending Public present:  John Sepikas    jsepikas@hotmail.com

1. The meeting was called to order at 10:15 am by Chairman Ken Owen.  The approval of the minutes of the January 9 meeting was continued to the next meeting.

2. Public comment on non-agenda items and public announcements:
        a. John Sepika, an educator and lecturer at the Griffith Observatory, asked our committee to support the restoration of some of the academic traditions that an emphasis on entertainment has taken away from the programs currently offered to the public by the Griffith Observatory.
             i. Many of the educator/lecturer staff members who have presented the planetarium show for 30 years have been replaced by actors.
             ii. Mr. Sepikas believes that fund raising should not be at the expense of the academic program.
             iii. The planetarium program offered one of the few places future astronomers (students) could find employment in their field.  Previous directors were required to present the shows and answer questions from the audience.
             iv. The committee referred Mr. Sepikas to our Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Committee and Councilman LaBonge.

3. Consideration of possible standard operating procedures to streamline our regular meetings:
        a. Front Door:
             i. The front door to the bank will be open at 6:30 pm to allow guests to sign in, speakers to fill out speaker cards, and the room to be prepared for the meeting to start promptly at 7:00 pm.
             ii. Frank Masi will meet the LFIA key holder at 6:30 to open the door.
        b. Start of the Meeting:
              i. The meeting will start promptly at 7:00 pm.
        c. First Order of Business – Topical Committee Discussion:
             i. A 15 minute discussion of a general topic chosen by the committee at the previous meeting and posted on the website agenda.
             ii. Tom Wilson will lead a discussion of restaurant and bar operating hours in our district at our next regular meeting.
             iii. Possible topics include:
1. Is the extent of “the parking problem” exaggerated?
2. Billboard overview & action strategy.
3. Who is responsible for solving the parking problem?
4. What constitutes affordable housing, how much affordable housing exists in our district, and what percentage of the housing in our district should be affordable?
5. What ratio of renter occupied housing units to owner occupied housing units is appropriate?
6. Over height building variance request policy.
7. Over height fence variance request policy.
8. Pocket Parks.
9. Community Design Overlays.
10. How do we define the “village character” we wish to retain on Hillhurst and on Vermont?
11.  By Right vs. What Is Right.
12. Code of Civility for Neighborhood Councils.
          d. Second Order of Business – Orientation:
                 i. The Chairman will introduce the committee to the public, ask those present to identify themselves and their issue of interest, determine if there are any extenuating circumstances that warrant rearranging the agenda (a large crowd for one issue, or someone who has to leave early, a special guest, e.g.)
        e. Third Order of Business – Public comment on non-agenda items and public announcements.
        f. Fourth Order of Business - Public Speaker Guidelines:
                 i. Every stakeholder has the right to speak to every issue.
                 ii. Guidelines are necessary to strike a balance between encouraging and quantifying the expression of different points of view, and avoiding excessive repetition of those points of view.
                 iii. The Chairman would in all cases use discretion in either limiting or allowing repetition.
                 iv. The speaker guidelines will be posted on the GGPNC website, so that the public has some opportunity to prepare their comments before the meeting.
                 v. The  Chairman will explain the following guidelines to the pubic:
1. Each public speaker will be limited to two minutes.
2. Each public speaker will be encouraged to affirm their support what was previously said, and limit the bulk of their comments to new contributions or a refinement of what was previously said.
3. When an issue that a large number of attending guests are likely to speak to is first mentioned, like “traffic” or “excessive noise”, the Chairman will ask for a show of hands supporting various positions on that issue, so it can be recorded in the minutes.
                 vi. The Chairman will explain to the Applicants the following format for their presentation.
1. The Chairman will explain the role of the Committee.
2. The Chairman or the committee member assigned to lead the application discussion will present a brief summary of their application, state the reasons why the applicant is appearing before our committee, and ask the applicant to confirm or correct the summary.
3. The applicant will have 5 minutes to make their presentation.
4. The committee will have 10 minutes to ask the applicant questions.
5. The public will have an opportunity to speak.
6. The committee will discuss a motion, move, and vote.
        g. Sixth Order of Business – Consideration of and possible action on applications filed with the Los Angeles City Planning Department.
                 i. Agenda items only.
        h. Seventh Order of Business – Reports, discussion and action as appropriate on pending matters.
                 i. Agenda items only.
        i. Eighth Order of Business – Adjournment.

4. Other topics discussed at the meeting:
        a. Developing a vision of Vermont and engaging the appropriate resource to illustrate that vision with text and drawings.
        b. Being selective about which issues we get involved in.
        c. Comments regarding the aesthetics of a building owned by a business.
        d. Should the size of our committee be increased or not increased.
        e. Should the committee create a survey sheet and poll the entire NC district to determine how our stakeholders actually feel about issues that come before us.

5. The Chairman suggested a committee member take the lead on specific issues.
        a.  Bruce Carroll offered to drive by 2413 Hyperion and 5259 Hollywood Blvd. and report to the committee.
        b. Tom Wilson offered to lead the discussion of restaurant and bar operating hours in our district at our next regular meeting.
        c. Rosemary DeMonte offered to attend the Area Planning Commission Meeting dealing with the Desert rose appeal

6. The question was asked:  How does a stakeholder become a member of the GGPNC-PZHP Committee?
        a. Per the by-laws, any interested stakeholder upon request to the committee or the board can be a member of the GGPNC-PZHP Committee.
        b. The membership becomes effective two meetings after the request is made.
7. The Chairman adjourned the meeting at approximately 1:15 pm.

Committee members present:  Ken Owen (Chairman), Frank Masi (acting Secretary), Bruce Carroll, Rosemary DeMonte, Richard Spicer, Richard Stanley, Tom Wilson.

GGPNC board members present other than those on the PZHP committee:  none.

Among the attending public present were:  Donna Kolb representing the Los Feliz Improvement Association (LFIA); Evelyn Davis representing the Autry National Center; Ermanno Neiviller representing the Los Feliz Village Business Improvement District (BID).

1. The meeting was called to order at 7:15 by Chairman Ken Owen.  The approval of the minutes of the previous meeting was continued to the next meeting.

2. Public comment on non-agenda items and public announcements:
        a.  Evelyn Davis, on behalf of the Autry National Center, announced that a free, open house will be held at the Autry National Center Griffith Park on Sunday February 10, 2008, between the hours of 10:00 am and 5:00 pm.  Activities will take place between noon and 4:00 pm.
             i. Site plans and a model of the building will be available for viewing.
             ii. An exterior walk-around will take place.
             iii. The architect, Brenda Levin, will answer questions.
             iv. Further information may be found at the following link:      http://www.autrynationalcenter.org/anewplan/
        b.  The Los Feliz Branch of the Los Angeles Public Library 1874 Hillhurst Ave. (323) 913 – 4710 will host a “Planning & Preserving LA” discussion with Ken Bernstein (L.A. Historic Resources Office) and Gail Goldberg (L.A. City Planning Director on Thursday, January 17, 2008.  Doors will open at 6:30 pm.  The lecture begins at 6:45 pm.
        c.  Ermanno Neiviller of the Los Feliz Village BID announced they are working to develop an area wide solution to the neighborhood’s parking problem by coordinating the use of existing unused after-business-hours parking into a business district-wide plan.

3. Consideration of and possible action on the following applications filed with the Los Angeles City Planning Department:
     3a.   Little Dom’s, 2128 Hillhurst.
Parking:  Mr. Warner Ebbink, owner of Little Dom’s, reported:
            1.  He has acquired 12 parking spaces at Tangier during the day and 16 stripped spaces at Remax after 5:00 pm.  Valet attendants stacking automobiles in the 16 spaces will create 32 off-street parking spaces.  This is in addition to the 13 spaces he has at The Derby day and night.
            2. He is committed to providing valet parking.
            3. He provided a list of his employees living within 2 miles of Little Dom’s and their addresses.  They have signed commitments to walk or bicycle to work.
            4. He is taking advantage of DOT’s Employment in the Neighborhood Right Commute Benefit by providing $96 yearly bus passes to his employees, instead of his employees buying them for $744 each.  This encourages bus use.
Hours of Operation:  Mr. Ebbink seeks to operate seven days a week between the hours of 7:00 am and midnight – closing the doors at midnight to new customers.
Discussion followed.
            1.  Donna Matson, a resident of Avocado Street, agreed Mr. Ebbink’s approach to the number of parking space issue was adequate.
            2.  Lawrence Barnes, a resident of Melbourne Avenue, voiced concern over potential increases to late-night noise.
Bruce Carroll moved that the board recommend to the Zoning Administrator that Little Dom’s be required to provide off-street valet parking free of charge to patrons.
            1.  Discussion followed.
            2.  The motion carried by the following vote:  4 in favor and 3     opposed.
Richard Spicer moved that our committee recommend to the board that the GGPNC support and participate in the BID’s efforts to develop an area wide solution to the neighborhood’s parking problem.
            1.  The motion carried unanimously.
Bruce Carroll moved that the board recommend to the Zoning Administrator that Little Dom’s be required to close at 11:00 pm both inside and outside Sunday through Thursday; close at 11:00 pm outside Friday and Saturday; and close at 12:00 am inside on Friday and Saturday.
            1.  Discussion followed.
            2.  The motion carried by the following vote:  5 in favor and 2 opposed.

3b.   2665 Aberdeen Ave.
Manny Diaz and Eddie Navarrette of FE Design & consulting presented owner Cindy Gunadi’s generalized plans to build a second story on top of the footprint of her existing single story residence.
            1. A side, front, and rear setback variances are required, because the setbacks of the buildings built in the 1930’s are less than the minimum allowed by current zoning.
            2. The overall height of the proposed addition was describes as 26 feet 2 inches, although no heights are indicated on the plans.
            3. The residents of 2661 Aberdeen Ave., an abutting property, stated that they thought they could work out any issues with Ms. Gunadi, but indicated they are concerned the plans being submitted to the Zoning Administrator lack sufficient detail for them to feel comfortable the plans define what will actually be built.
            4. The committee unanimously agreed to recommend to the Zoning Administrator that the plans for this project do not contain enough specific detail to allow the neighbors or our committee to comment.
            5. The residents of 2661 Aberdeen Ave. indicated they intend to attend the ZA hearing and voice their concern.
3c.   Akbar, 4356 Sunset Blvd.
No one from Akbar attended the meeting.
The committee unanimously agreed not to oppose the renewal of the existing Conditional Use Permit, as long as the conditions remain the same and the owner complies with the conditions.

4. Reports, discussion and action as appropriate on pending matters:
4701 -11 Ambrose:  Placement of street light – no action.

Griffith Observatory:  arrange to receive copies of event schedules and event logs.
Autry National Center:  Evelyn Davis agreed to confirm that Minigar & Associates, Inc. have all of the existing, relevant data collected and interpreted by the Autry National Center’s traffic consultant.
5. Discussion:
        a.  The committee agreed to recommend that Charlie Fisher be engaged to file paperwork to secure Historical Heritage Landmark status for the garden apartments at 1801 – 17 New Hampshire and the O Cleaners on Franklin Ave.
        b. The committee discussed how to define and retain village character, including Community Design Overlays (CDO).
        c.   A number of committee members committed to attend four, full day planning workshops.
        d.  The committee decided to announce and hold a special meeting at   10:00 am, Monday, January 21, 2008, at the Bank of America community room.

6.    The Chairman adjourned the meeting at 10:45 pm.

Meeting of the Planning, Zoning & Historical Preservation (PZHP) Committee

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

Committee members present:  Ken Owen (Chairman), Frank Masi (acting Secretary), Bruce Carroll, Joe Cisneros, Rosemary DeMonte, Jacqueline Kerr, Richard Spicer, Richard Stanley, Tom Wilson.

GGPNC board members present other than those on the PZHP committee:  Bernadette Soter representing the GGPNC Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROSE) Committee.

Among the attending public were:  Donna Kolb and Dennis Chew representing the Los Feliz Improvement Association (LFIA);  Nicole Possert  representing the Friends of the Southwest Museum Coalition (the Coalition); Warner Ebbink the owner of Little Dom’s, Art Rodriguez the owner’s consultant, and George Abrahamian the lessor of the property;  Mr. and Mrs. Alfredo Rodriguez the owner of 3681 Shannon Road and Manny Diaz of FE Design & Consulting consultant to the owner;  Mr. Song – the architect of record for the proposed project at 4718 Franklin Ave.

1. The meeting was called to order at 7:15 by Chairman Ken Owen.  The approval of the minutes of the previous meeting was continued to the next meeting.

2. Public comment on non-agenda items and public announcements:
        a. There were no non-agenda comments from the public.
        b. There were no announcements.

3. Consideration of and possible action on the following applications filed with the Los Angeles City Planning Department:
        a. Little Dom’s, 2128 Hillhurst. Proposal to serve a full line of alcohol at a new restaurant (replacing Belle Époque) including authorizing seating to 77 with operating hours seven days a week from 7:00 am to midnight.
             i. Donna Matson, a resident of Avocado Street, spoke to the following concerns:  parking, late-night noise, crime, and what she considers an undue concentration of liquor licenses in this neighborhood.
              ii. Discussion of each concern followed.
             iii. Mr. Ebbink, owner of Little Dom’s, agreed to pursue expanding the number of off-street parking spaces available to patrons of Little Dom’s and consider additional options to improve the parking situation, including valet parking.
             iv. The committee unanimously agreed to table specific comments until the next meeting, when Mr. Ebbink’s efforts would be reviewed.
        b. 4718 Franklin Ave. Proposal to demolish two single-family homes and build a 9-unit building four stories tall.
             i. Mr. Song represented the owners of the property, explained the project, and presented a concept rendering.
             ii. The owners seek no variances, just a Tract map.  Mr. Song asserted that his design complied with the Vermont/Western SNAP, including height, based on his measurement of the height of the home to the west of the site.
             iii. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis, residents of N. Edgemont Street, were “shocked” a the 39 foot 9 inch height of the building, suggested that the building is out of scale with the other buildings between Hillhurst and Normandie, asked the committee to keep the size of the building within the law, and expressed concern about increased parking strain.
             iv. Many committee members objected to the style of Mr. Song’s design, considering the context of the street.
        c. 3681 Shannon.  Proposal to add an additional story to a garage of a single-family house with a reduced front yard of less than 2 feet.
             i. Mr. Diaz distributed plans of the proposed addition and statements from adjacent neighbors that indicate they have no objection to the proposal.
             ii. No action was sought or taken.

4. Reports, discussion and action as appropriate on pending matters:
        a. The committee unanimously approved a motion by Jacqueline Kerr to recommend that the board approve funding of $5,000 for an unbiased peer review of the traffic study performed for the Autry National Center for their proposed expansion in Griffith Park.
             i. The peer review will take almost 6 weeks, once it is completely funded.
             ii. The peer review will include an analysis of the baseline data used in Autry National Center study.
        b. Richard Spicer distributed a Billboard Update.

5. The Chairman adjourned the meeting at 11:57 pm.

Committee members present: Ken Owen (Chairman), Frank Masi (acting
Secretary), Bruce Carroll, Joe Cisneros, Rosemary DeMonte, Stan Getz,
Jacqueline Kerr, Richard Spicer, Richard Stanley, Tom Wilson.
GGPNC board members present other than those on the PZHP committee: n/p.
Attending Public present: Donna Kolb representing the Los Feliz Improvement
Association (LFIA). Jeff Gardner representing Atwater Village Neighborhood
Council, John Mozzer, and Greg Shields. Others are listed below.

1. The meeting was called to order at 7:10 by Chairman Ken Owen. The
minutes of the previous meeting were unanimously approved with the
addition of Jacqueline Kerr to the attendees.

2. Public comment on non-agenda items and public announcements:
    a. There were no non-agenda comments from the public.
    b. There were no public announcements.

3. Consideration of and possible action on the following applications filed
with the Los Angeles City Planning Department:
    a. 1660-66 Vermont Ave.: Proposal to construct new commercial
structures in front of car wash.
        i. Jian Kerendian of JK Architects, the architect of the proposed
project, and Nisan Pirian and Ben Pirian, two owners of the car
wash attended the meeting to present their new proposal to the
committee for the committee’s information.
        ii. The owners confirmed that they have withdrawn the application
for the proposal presented at our August 8, 2007, meeting.
        iii. Mr. Kerendian presented the plans for two retail spaces situated
along the west side of an existing fence facing Vermont Ave.
        iv. Discussion followed. Questions were asked and answered.
        v. Summary of the architect and owner’s statements: No
conditional use permits or variance requests will be required for
the new project. No changes to the alley or demolition of
apartments are part of the new project. All parking (18 spaces
not reduced) will be on the car wash side of the fence. The
owners have not targeted a specific type of potential tenant.
        vi. The committee unanimously voted to create an ad hoc
committee consisting of Rosemary DeMonte – chairperson,
Stan Getz, and Joe Cisneros to facilitate style and design
coordination between the 1660-66 Vermont Ave. project and the
proposed improvements to the Vermont Triangle by the City.

    b. 4515-25 Franklin Ave.: Revised proposal to demolish court rental
units to allow for construction of condos.
          i. Terry Conway and Jill Hayata - Franklin Lofts, LLC., the owners
of 4515-25 Franklin Ave., updated the status of their application,
which is under advisement pending the completion of the inprogress
parking study and resolution of the interpretation of the
Station Area Neighborhood Plan (SNAP) as it relates to this
project. In the meantime, the project is on hold.
        ii. Mr. Conway presented Development Plan #1 (DP1) and
Development Plan #2 (DP2) and asked the committee to
support the plan that the committee believed best serves the
community. Both plans resulted in a total building height of 40
feet 6 inches, not the 50 feet presented at our July 11, 2007,
meeting. DP1 was calculated with an SB -1818 density bonus
of 35% and resulted in 18 units (16 Market plus 2 Affordable).
DP2 was calculated with a SNAP Adjustment plus an SB -1818
density bonus of 27.5% and resulted in 16 units (15 Market plus
1 Affordable). Both DP1 and DP2 include 21 parking spaces –
a number greater than the requirements. The owners prefer
DP2, the less dense plan.
        iii. Discussion followed. Questions were asked and answered.
        iv. The committee postponed action on the question of support until
the in-progress parking study is complete and the SNAP
interpretation is resolved.
        v. The following residents of 4515-25 Franklin Ave. attended the
meeting and spoke eloquently about the unfortunate effect the
proposed demolition of their homes and the prospect of leaving
the neighborhood they love is having on their lives: Alex
Mesquita, Haydu Calimar (sp?), Jeannette Alvarez, Bertha
Alvarez, Daysi Valencia, and Alberto Montes. None of them
want to move from a neighborhood they find stable and
nurturing. The Chairman of the Committee explained that, on
issues of support, our committee must consider the legal rights
of both parties and suggested the residents bring their situation
to the attention of Council District 4.
        vi. The owners confirmed that they have not filed Ellis act eviction
paper work yet. Ctrl + click the following link for a summary of
the Ellis Act: http://www.sftu.org/ellis.html
        vii. An alternative to converting the court rental units to condos
resulted in the following suggestions:
            1. The owners consider restoring the existing court rental
units and offer them for sale to the current tenants.
            2. The Committee approach the Planning Department for
support to reduce regulatory obstacles to restoring
existing property.
            3. The Committee, the current tenants, and Veronica Parr
(La Voice) work together to try to identify a debt
management plan that will benefit both the current
tenants and the owners.
            4. It was suggested that Tenancy In Common (TIC) is a
form of ownership that makes is possible for a group of
people to share ownership in property that they could not
otherwise afford. Ctrl + Click the following link for a
discussion of TIC:
http://www.andysirkin.com/HTMLArticle.cfm?Article=1
            5. Committee member Richard Stanley will act as a
resource in the debt management plan process and
Committee member Joe Cisneros will act as GGPNC
point person with the tenants.

    c. 1801-17 New Hampshire Ave.: Proposal to demolish 22-unit garden
apartments to allow construction of 34 condos.
        i. Darryl Fisher of Fischer Associates, Inc. (Land Use Consultant),
Davina Dardashti, and Bruce Arefi (owner) attended the meeting
to present Mr. Arefi’s proposal to the committee for the
committee’s information.
        ii. Mr. Fisher and Ms. Dardashti made the presentation.
            1. 30 units with 3 bedrooms & 4 units with 2 bedrooms will
replace 22 existing units.
            2. Parking is calculated at 2.25.
            3. The garden views from the street will be demolished and
replaced with landscaping in a courtyard surrounded by
the building.
            4. No accurate architectural renderings exist at this time.
        iii. Discussion followed. Questions were asked and answered.
        iv. The Committee reminded the presenting group that the owner of
the property was invited, through its representative, to attend
our December 13, 2006, meeting, but did not. Given the lack of
information provided to the Committee, the Committee agreed
to request authority from the Board to oppose this project. That
motion was made and carried at the December 19, 2006
GGPNC Board Meeting.
        v. In closing, the Committee repeated their opinion that the
demolition of the garden views represents a loss to the
community and reaffirmed the Committee’s commitment to aid
developers willing to restore or refurbish existing court/garden
properties.

d. 4759 Bryn Mawr: Application to construct a single family home
exceeding height limits on house and other variations from code.
        i. Randy Van Ausdall of Classic Projects, Mark Smeaton of Crux
Studio (architect), and John Suh (owner) attended the meeting
to present Mr. Suh’s proposal to the committee and adjacent
neighbors.
            1. Mr. Suh stated that he purchased the property and
although he is currently single, intends to reside in this
property, raise a family there, and retire there.
            2. He then turned the remainder of the presentation over to
Mr. Van Ausdall.
    ii. Mr. Van Ausdall listed the project variances to code as follows:
        1. Two additional retaining walls, one rising to 23 feet.
        2. Hardscape 100% of the approach to the garages and
parking area between the street and the garages.
        3. Overheight retaining wall height of 72 inches, instead of
42 inches.
        4. Total building height of 45 feet instead of 36 feet.
        5. Maintain curbed street at the existing 19 foot width,
instead of demolishing and widening the street to 20 feet.
    iii. Discussion followed. Questions were asked and answered.
    iv. The following adjacent neighbors attended the meeting: Greg
Ross (2567 Bryn Mawr), Jess and Dolores Bojorquez (4774
Bryn Mawr), and Ken MeKenna (2558 Glendower Ave.). To
summarize:
        1. The neighbors present universally objected to the 45 foot
total building height.
        2. The neighbors present universally cited great concern
over how the construction process could be managed
while allowing access to homes on Bryn Mawr - a dead
end, substandard street that can only be accessed from
Glendower Avenue. Mr. Ross’ driveway at 2567 Bryn
Mawr can only be entered at a point immediately
adjacent to the proposed construction site.
        3. Mr. Ross submitted a letter to the Committee that is
attached with these minutes. The letter states Mr. Ross’
position.
        4. Mr. Bojorquez spoke at length about how improper
construction process management will seriously
jeopardize the safety of those living upstream of the
construction site.
        5. The Committee moved, seconded, and unanimously
approved a resolution to support the project with the
exception of Item ii.4: Total building height of 45 feet
instead of 36 feet, and with the following conditions:
            a. A temporary traffic light system shall be installed
providing alternating, one-way traffic the beginning
to the end of the project.
            b. No construction staging shall take place on Bryn
Mawr Road.
            c. No Street Use Permit for Bryn Mawr shall be
applied for by this project.
            d. Construction staging shall tale place on
Glendower Avenue, either above or below the
construction site.
            e. A self-erecting tower crane shall be positioned on
the construction site or on the property
immediately uphill from the construction site (2701
Glendower Avenue) in such a way that materials
and equipment may be moved from the staging
areas on Glendower Avenue to the construction
site by using that tower crane.
            f. No workmen shall park on Bryn Mawr or between
2720 and 2665 Glendower Avenue.
            g. The Department of Building and Safety shall
identify the appropriate agency to enforce
infractions to these conditions.
            h. The owner shall identify a “go-to person” not
employed by the contractor, who will listen to and
rectify any grievances brought forth by the
neighbors.
            i. The owner shall secure a bond to pay for any
damages to other properties on Glendower
Avenue or Bryn Mawr caused by owner’s
construction.
            j. The owner shall write these conditions into
owner’s contract with owner’s general contractor,
and offer a copy of that contract to the Committee
for review by the Committee.

4. Discussion of:
    a. 4705-11 Ambrose. Placement of street light.
            i. Ken Owen will continue to negotiate the correction of this
incorrectly located street lamp with The Los Angeles Bureau of
Street Lighting.
PZHP meeting minutes 20071114 unapproved draft.1 11/26/2007 6
    b. Griffith Observatory. Proposed service of alcoholic beverages at
private parties.
        i. The Committee decided to request notification from the ABC of
any applications for any catering permit for alcohol service at
the Griffith Observatory, and that the Committee be given an
opportunity to be heard on the appropriateness of the event.

    c. Autry National Center. Proposed expansion in Griffith Park
        i. No action until receipt of the final Environmental Impact Study.

5. Reports, discussion and action as appropriate on pending matters:
    a. Including multi-family dwellings in categories of reduce parking at the
Zoning Administrator’s discretion was discussed with John Mozzer.
        i. John suggested that older buildings could benefit by this
discretion.
        ii. No resulting action.
    b. The Committee discussed the Neighborhood Councils’ Planning
Department Oversight Committee training program.
        i. Four (1) day sessions will take place the second Saturday in
February, March, April, and a TBD month other than May.
        ii. The cost is $50 per person.
        iii. The sessions will be held at DPW downtown or City Hall.
        iv. All committee members were encouraged to attend.
6. The Chairman adjourned the meeting at midnight.

PZHP Committee members present: Ken Owen (Chairman), Frank  Masi (acting Secretary), Bruce Carroll, Richard Stanley, Tom Wilson, Rosemary DeMonte, Joe Cisneros. GGPNC Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Committee members present: Bernadette Soter, Chuck Soter, Kris Sabo, Jeff Gardner, Kathryn Louyse. GGPNC board members present other than those on the PZHP or PROS Committees: Kurt Rademekus. Attending Public present: Donna Kolb, Marian Dodge, Marilyn Bush, Margie Bird, Dennis Chew, George Abrahamian representing the Los Feliz Improvement Association (LFIA); Dora Herrera representing the Los Feliz Village Business Improvement Association (also a PROS committee member); Faith Raiguel (Vice President and Chief Operating Officer), Pam Hannah, and Bill Dalvac (ANC Legal Council) representing the Autry National Center; Nicole Possert and Daniel Wright representing the Friends of the Southwest Museum Coalition (the Coalition); and Jeff Gardner representing the Atwater Village Neighborhood Council (AVNC); Rex Link.

1. The meeting was called to order at 7:15 pm by Chairman Ken Owen. The approval of the minutes of the previous meeting was continued to the next meeting.

 2. Public comment on non-agenda items and public announcements: a. No public comment on non-agenda items. i. Ken Owen announced that the following appeal will be heard by The Central Area Planning Commission on November 13, 2007, the day before the next PZHP Committee meeting. 1. The LFIA and Vermont Canyon Neighbor Association appealed the Zoning Administrator’s granting of a liquor license to be used by Wolfgang Puck at the Griffith Observatory. 2. The appeal by 1700 Hillhurst Avenue (Desert Rose) of conditions imposed by the Planning Department to in its Determination allowing a specific plan under the SNAP the may be heard by The Central Area Planning Commission on the same day. PZHP meeting minutes 20071013 unapproved draft 10/13/2007 1

3. Consideration and discussion of possible comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) relating to the proposed expansion of the Griffith Park Campus (GPC) by theAutry National Center (ANC) that the PZHP Committee could make to the GGPNC Board. The Department of Recreation and Parks will accept comments to the DEIR no later than October 18, 2007.
    a. Parking: The question was asked, “Why does the GPC need to consider building a parking structure (in Phase 2) when the terms of their lease agreement with RAP allow them to utilize the Zoo Parking Lot when necessary and available?
         i. Faith Raiquel (ANC) thought it was a good question, provided no answer to the question, and suggested that GGPNC pose the question to RAP. Bernadette Soter stated the PROS Committee does not support GPC parking at the Zoo Parking Lot. The majority of those present supported the use of the Zoo Parking Lot based on financial and spatial economies.
        ii. Bernadette Soter recommended that the ANC, at the GPC, follow the surface parking lot environmental guidelines developed by the Zoo for their surface parking lots in Griffith Park. Those guidelines include permeable parking surfaces that allow water to percolate into the soil below and bioswale elements that collect runoff water.
        iii. Bernadette Soter mentioned that runners and equestrians are concerned that the running trail and the equestrian trail will not be maintained as part of the proposed GPC improvements. Faith Raiquel stated that the ANC intends to maintain viable trails in their same location, and suggested that this should not be a concern.
         iv. The question was asked, “Does the ANC welcome casual, non-museum guests on the south lawn, or is there a policy of excluding non-museum guests from using the south lawn for picnicking, games, etc. Faith Raiquel stated that the ANC welcomes casual park users to the south lawn.
         v. A discussion of the lack of an overall Griffith Park parking strategy based on a desirable maximum daily capacity and reliable estimates of existing parking took place.
PZHP meeting minutes 20071013 unapproved draft 10/13/2007 2
        vi. It was moved that the PZHP Committee recommend to the Board that the GGPNC oppose all parking structures in Griffith Park. Of the seven committee members present, six (6) members voted in support of the motion and one (1) member opposed the motion. b. Aesthetics: The question was asked “Is the style of the proposed Phase 1 building expansion on the GPC by the ANC appropriate for Griffith Park?”
            i. A discussion followed.    
            ii. A printout of a photograph of a white foam core massing model from the ANC website was circulated for comment.
            iii. Faith Raiquel (ANC) pointed out that the final materials and colors for the building improvement expansion had not been made, and the massing model in no way represented the reflective surfaces and natural colors that would ultimately be chosen.
             iv. It was moved that the PZHP Committee recommend to the Board that the GGPNC make no comment on styleat this time, since it is unfair to judge a cardboard mockup and there will be later opportunity to comment when the variance request comes in. The seven committee members voted unanimously in support of the motion.
         c. Funding: Ken Owen suggested that the community is concerned that the proposed expansion of the Griffith Park Campus (GPC) by the Autry National Center (ANC) might begin and then stop prior to completion because of inadequate funding.
             i. Bill Dalvac (ANC Legal Council) stated that the ANC will get a construction bond, if they need one. ii. Faith Raiquel added that 100% of the ANC Trustees, 45 giving units – 65 to 70 people, are committed, and the ANC expects to have 50% of Phase 1 funding by next summer.         d. Need For The Project: The question was asked, “Is there a real and tangible need for the proposed GPC expansion?”
             i. Ken Owen pointed out in 2003, at the time of the merger, there were more modest expansion plans for the GPC and greater use of the Southwest Museum. Bill Dalvac attributed this as the result of master planning and the evolution of thinking that takes place as more time is spent planning.
            ii. Ken Owen requested a copy of the master plan. Bill Dalvac described the master plan as a private, internal ANC Document looking out to 2016 that includes every element pf the ANC, not just GPC and southwest Museum planning information. He said it could not be made available to the public, and that it meets their obligation under the merger agreement with the Southwest Museum to have a master plan.
             iii. Bernadette Soter reported that the PROS Committee is opposed to all Phase 2 construction, because the proposed Institute for the Study of the American West (the Institute) building and the parking structure below it constitute a non-park use that does not belong on park land.
             iv. When asked if the Institute will be open to the public, Faith Raiquel (ANC) replied, “Yes”: by appointment (to do research), and there will be “some” public areas.
            v. When asked why the Institute program cannot be situated in the Southwest Museum, thereby alleviating what some committee members believe is a burden on the park, Faith Raiquel replied, that there is not enough room to house all of the research activities at the Southwest Museum and there is a desire to keep the southwest Museum “more public”.
            vi. When asked if there are plans for any for-profit activities in the ANC plans for the southwest Museum, Faith Raiquel replied, that there was only the possibility of a café within the existing building.
            vii. Nicole Possert, representing the Friends of the Southwest Museum Coalition (the Coalition), presented the following Coalition statements:
                1. The rehabilitation of the Southwest Museum should be the primary aim of the ANC.
                2. The emphasis of the ANC has shifted since the merger. The GPC is now the primary museum location and the Southwest Museum is the satellite location.
                 3. The Coalition wants nothing less than a commitment from the ANC to make the Southwest Museum “whole”.
                4. The coalition wants to see in the ANC plans, a base 20,000 square feet of exhibition (not storage) space, at the Southwest Museum.
            viii. Daniel Wright, also representing the Friends of the Southwest Museum Coalition (the Coalition), spoke to the Museum Rehabilitation Study crated for the ANC by Brenda Levin and Associates.
                1. That study suggests that the Southwest Museum can achieve museum standards and with some additional investment provide greatly enhanced service to the community, attract more visitors, and earn more income.
                2. Daniel Wright suggested that some consultants believe the Southwest Museum could be as financially viable as the Autry Museum has been, if not more so.
             ix. It was moved that PZHP Committee recommend to the Board that the GGPNC recommend that the final EIR give substantially more study to alternatives, most specifically the restoration of the Southwest Museum as presently existing, the addition of one or more structures at that site to complement the exhibition of most of the Southwest Museum’s historical collections. The seven committee members voted unanimously in support of the motion.
            x. It was moved that the PZHP Committee recommend to the Board that the GGPNC recommend that the final EIR consider the use of “green” technologies, so that the built aspect of the GPC facility will integrate into the rest of the park. Additionally, the final EIR should consider the effect of the expansion on the flora and fauna of the park. The seven committee members voted unanimously in support of the motion.

4. Discussion of: a. Dora Herrera presented a letter from the Los Feliz Village Business Improvement Association addressed to the PZHP Committee. The letter reported the results of Los Feliz Village Business Improvement Association meeting that took place September 12, 2007.
         i. The Los Feliz Village Business Improvement Association seeks GGPNC support for a 7-foot clear building to curb space to allow outdoor dinning. Committee members present were unanimously in support of this concept.
         ii. Alcohol and Hours of operation should be dealt with on a by-case basis using existing business license and variance procedures as a format.
        iii. The Los Feliz Village Business Improvement Association recognizes that their members have a responsibility to be good neighbors to the surrounding residents and will continue to work with the GGPNC and other community groups to that end.

5. Reports, discussion and action as appropriate on pending matters:
6. The Chairman adjourned the meeting at 10:45 pm.

The Meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m. by Chairman Kenneth Owen; Joe Cisneros acted as secretary of the meeting.

The following members of the Committee were present: Tom Wilson, Frank Masi, Richard Stanley, Ron Weinstein, Bruce Carroll, Richard Spicer, Joe Cisneros and Kenneth Owen.
The Attending Public: Douglas Mensman (of Council District 4), Donna Kolb (liaison of Los Feliz Improvement Association), Howard Robinson, Victor Adjemian, Jean Knowles and James Pasque..

Call to Order

1st. Order of Business: The minutes of the meeting of the Committee held on November 8, 2006, as theretofore circulated to the committee were approved.

2nd. Order of Business: 1759 N. New Hampshire Ave. presentation by owner Victor Adjemian and his representative Howard Robinson a land use consultant.
The owner proposes to build eight units for sale as condominiums taking advantage of the reduced parking allowed by the Vermont-Western Station Neighborhood Area Plan. However, the owner seeks relief from the restriction of the same plan which would allow a height of no more than 29 feet. Owner requests support for his request to build the structure to a height of 41 feet, consisting of two stories plus a mezzanine and the portion of the parking garage which would be above grade. A stakeholder owning property to the south spoke in opposition to the project raising issues as to the height and minimum off-street parking proposed. The committee expressed a variety of concerns, and the Owner requested a chance to return after he has considered the Committee’s concerns. The Committee agreed not to take action provided the Owner obtain a continuance of the hearing on his current requests but if no continuance is obtained the Committee would recommend the Board oppose the requested permissions.

3rd. Order of Business: 1801-1817 N. New Hampshire Ave. Proposed construction of 34 condominiums.
 The owner of the property was invited, through its representative, to attend but did not.
 Given the lack of information provided to the Committee it agreed to request authority to oppose any permission at this site subject to a presentation by owner.

4th. Order of Business: 2332 Catalina Ave. Revised plan for second story addition to garage.
The newly submitted image was found satisfactory assuming any air-conditioning unit would not be visible from the street.

5th. Order of Business: 1901 Edgemont 1900 Kenmore. Construction of an over height fence.
The owner requested an opportunity to make a presentation to the committee but did not attend.
The Committee decided to advise the owner that the zoning code prohibited a front-yard fence over 42 inches and that it would oppose any variance from that provision at these locations. 

6th. Order of Business: The installation by AT&T of above ground facilities.
    AT&T was unable to attend the meeting or respond in writing to initial questions from the Committee chair and asked that the matter be continued to the January meeting. However, the City may approve installations in the next few days unless there is either consent by AT&T to delay approval or an objection to the issuance. Therefore, the matter is continued to January but the Neighborhood Council will be asked to object unless the City delays the issuance of approvals until after the January meeting.

7th. Order of Business: Unpermitted and Excessive Billboards in the Area.
    The committee agreed that the reported settlement with various billboard companies did not appear to be in the best interest of our community and that a community impact statement opposing the settlement should be sent to the City Council by our neighborhood council. Moreover, action should be taken to identify which of the billboards in our area are illegal and to cause them to be removed. The committee is of the view no further billboards should be allowed.

8th. Order of Business: Older Apartments converted into Condominiums.
    The proposed action regarding condo conversion needs further work..

9th. Order of Business: Mansionization (presenter Frank Masi).
    The current proposed “mansionization” ordinance relating only to the area not included in the Hillside Ordinance was discussed and will be followed closely.

10th. Order of Business: Code Enforcement
    Action on this issue has been slated for January 2007.

11th. Order of Business: Status of Inventory of Trees (presenter Frank Masi).
    A photographic inventory of the trees on Los Feliz Blvd west of Vermont has been taken and the balance will be done before the next meeting. It was noted that above ground power lines on the north side of Los Feliz from west of Huxley to Hillhurst has resulted in severe damage by topping to the deodars..

12th. Order of Business: Hollywood Community Plan presenting Richard Spicer
    The schedule of meetings and action was reviewed.

13th. Order of Business: Budgets.
    The projects for the coming year and their anticipated costs were reviewed and a budget of $25,000 was proposed for submission to the Board.   

The meeting was adjourned at 11:00 p.m.

The meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m. by Chairman Kenneth Owen.  Frank Masi acted as secretary of the meeting.

The following members of the Committee were present:  Kenneth Owen, Frank Masi, Bruce Carroll, and Peter Burness.

Also present were:  Tom Wilson – a GGPNC board member elect, and Jeff Gardner – a GGPNC stakeholder and co-chair of the Atwater Village Neighborhood Council.

The attending public:  Donna Kolb, Tina Farris, Tatiana von Fürstenberg, Emmanual Higgins, Andrew May, Ani Urfalian, Petros Urfalian.

1. The minutes of the meeting of October 11, 2006, were approved as revised.

2. Tina Farris presented her plan to develop Mame’s Wine Bar at 3835 Fountain Avenue for the committee’s information.
     The wine bar will serve beer, wine, tapas, and have a piano room.
     Operation will take place Tuesday through Sunday from 6:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.
     A capacity of 40 is anticipated.
     Valet parking for 15 automobiles in a lot at Fernwood and Hyperion will be provided during all operating hours.
     Potential parking and noise issues were discussed.
     No committee action is required at this time.

3. The committee considered Tatiana von Fürstenberg’s application to construct a   second story addition atop an existing garage in the front yard of 2332 North Catalina Avenue.
     Although copies of the agenda were delivered to homes near the proposed construction, no one appeared in opposition to the variance.
     On the condition that the final design of the addition is consistent with the style of the house and the roof of the addition is essentially a flat roof with a reasonable slope for runoff, the committee agreed by consensus not to oppose the variance request.

4. Public Comment on non-agenda items was accepted at this time:  Andrew May, Ani Urfalian, and Petros Urfalian, residents of the 1900 block of N. New Hampshire Avenue, asked the committee how they could find out if a recently completed addition to 1923 N. New Hampshire Avenue was constructed with proper permits in place.
     The committee directed them to www.lacity.org.
     The committee agreed to investigate the site.

5.   Emmanuel Higgins presented T-Mobile’s proposal to place 12 mobile telephone antennas and related equipment atop 3901 Los Feliz Boulevard.
     Plans show antenna screening designed to appear as part of the building.
     Jeff Gardner, a long time resident in the area, suggested that the proposed antenna screening plan presented no visual problems.
     Based on the lack of visual problems and the lack of objections from the neighbors, the committee agreed by consensus to take no action.

6.   The consideration of restoration of Los Feliz Boulevard cedar trees as a joint undertaking with the Los Feliz Improvement Association including the removal of trees of other species and replanting with cedrus deodara was tabled pending the creation of a catalog of all the trees on the boulevard that are not cedars, the analysis of the health and maturity of those trees, and the creation of a long term plan to replace other species with cedrus deodara when appropriate and to ensure ailing cedrus deodara are replaced only with cedrus deodara.  Frank Masi volunteered to do an inventory of non-cedars on the boulevard.

7. The committee discussed the status of various continuing projects.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:20 p.m.

The meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m. by Chairman Kenneth Owen. Joe Cisneros acted as secretary of the meeting.

The following members of the Committee were present: Ron Weinstein, Bruce Carroll, Rosemary De Monte, Richard Spicer, Joe Cisneros, Richard Stanley and Peter Burness. Also present was Philip Gasteier a member of the Neighborhood Council.

The Attending Public: Tina Farris. Tom Wilson, Rosalie Bennett, Harry Kantzabedian

1. The minutes of the meetings of August 9 and September 14, 2006, were approved as circulated to the Committee.

2. Tina Farris made an announcement that she was planning a wine bar for 3835 Fountain (at the junction with Hyperion and Landa), and that she will make a presentation to the Committee at its November meeting.

3. The Committee reviewed the projects adopted for the current year.
    (a). The subcommittee on possible historic preservation overlay zones, headed by Richard Stanley, will try to coordinate with the Los Feliz Improvement Association, which did the initial survey of homes in its’ association’s area on which the City is doing its survey, Councilman LaBonge’s office, and the Planning Department. However, consideration must be given to areas not in that survey, the Franklin Hills, the Los Feliz Estates, and the area south of Franklin for possible consideration for inclusion in an HPOZ. A meeting is anticipated before the next Committee meeting.

    (b). The subcommittee on revision of the Hollywood Community Plan, headed by Richard Spicer, anticipates meeting with other members of the coalition of groups headed by the Los Angeles Conservancy to consider the consequences of the proposed revisions on the historical buildings and areas.

    (c) The subcommittee on enforcement matters, headed by Ron Weinstein, is trying to meet with the City Attorney’s office regarding enforcement generally; Renee Weitzer is attempting to schedule such a meeting.

4. Harry Kantzabedian, the owner of property at 2000 to 2012 Rodney Drive presented his plans for rebuilding the free standing building at 2012, which shares a lot with a duplex. He reported that he had spent time with the two most affected neighbors, Rosalie Bennett and Peter Burness, reviewing the plans. Both neighbors reported that they were satisfied with the plans No action was requested of the Committee, and none was taken.

5. The meeting was adjourned at 9 p.m.

The Meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m. by Chairman Ron Weinstein; Joe Cisneros acted as secretary of the meeting.
 
The following members of the Committee were present: Ron Weinstein, Joe Cisneros, Kenneth Owen, Jacqueline Kerr, Peter Burness.

The Attending Public: Frank Masi, Donna Kolb, Paul Ashely, Xorin Balbes, Greg Abrahamian, Chris Almans, John Yakubyan, Richard Clemente.
 
Call to Order
 
1st. Order of Business: The minutes of the meeting of the Committee held on July 13 were approved as heretofore circulated and corrected.
 
2nd. Order of Business: 1915 N. Normandie Ave (Carport and over height fence)
    a. Owner of the property is Mr. Xorin Balbes.
    b. Mr. Balbes originally wanted a two car carport on the front southeast side of the property.
    c. However a neighbor has objected to the proposal.
    d. The Zoning Administrator has directed Mr. Balbes to meet with the GGPNC.
    e. The new proposal will have the carport changed to the front northeast side of the property.
    f. The neighbor in question has purportedly withdrawn his objection.
    g. Mr. Balbes now seeks a variance for a two car carport with a post and beam structure on the front northeast side of the property.
h. The property is on a slope and commences approximately fifteen feet west of the curb and there is no side walk.
    i. Committee Position: Approve new placement of carport on condition that the fence is reduced to the height of 3 1/2 feet.
 
3rd. Order of Business: 4454 Avocado Street (presentation by John Yakubyan, the developer)
    a. The project will be a two story 5 unit condo with a total of 15 subterranean parking spaces.
    b. The property is R2 zoned next to a C2 zone site.
    c. A modern style condo will replace the existing Spanish style duplex.
    d. The property is on one lot in from the southeast corner of Hillhurst and Avocado, next to the Optics center.
    e. This project is at the very beginning stages of development.
    f. This is a by-right project, and Mr. Yakubyan states there is no need to get a variance.
    g. Each unit will have two-bedrooms.
    h. The condo will have the same set-back as now.
 
4th. Order of Business: 5042 Los Feliz Blvd. (Over height wall, Mr. Clemente presenting)
    a. Owners of house are Mr. and Mrs. Richard Clemente.
    b. Mr. Clemente does not dispute the fact that the wall is over height or that he built against current zoning codes which restrict wall heights to no more than 3 1/2 feet or that the wall he built was done without a permit or variance.
    c. What Mr. Clemente states is that the Spanish speaking construction crew he hired to construct the wall took it upon themselves to put the wall up without his permission.
    d. This matter has been heard before the GGPNC Board, a Zoning Administrator and the Central Area Planning Commission and no such body has supported the maintenance of the over-height wall.
    e. Mr. Clemente says he will not reduce the height of his wall, which he asserts has increased the value of his property by $150,000, because the City can not force him to do so, as enforcement action against him would violate the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution as being selective enforcement of the Zoning Code.
    f. Mr. Clemente says he is selling the property and reducing the selling price by seven thousand dollars, which he estimates is the cost of reducing the height of the wall to legal height.
 
5th. Order of Business: 2507-2541 Nottingham Ave (Excavation on a vacant lot)
    a. Owner of the vacant lot is James Kelleher.
    b. Mr. Kelleher, although invited,  did not attend this committee meeting.
    c. Mr. Mensman from Councilman Tom LaBonge's office is reported to have stated that CD4 has not heard anything from Mr. Kelleher.
    d. The next step is to get the City to act, by contacting a Mr. Wooten Chief of Grading.
    e. Committee Consensus: Keep the issue open.
 
6th. Order of Business: 1900 Kenmore and 1901 Edgemont
    a. These two 8 unit apartment house are to be converted into a 16 unit condominium which share a parking area.
    b. The parking area will be changed to a two storey parking structure, one of which is to be below ground.

7th. Order of Business: 2009-13 N. Vermont Ave.
    a. A building was constructed in the back of this property without a permit.
    b. The owner is seeking a variance to allow the continued existence of the structure although it invades the required back and side yards.
    c. The owner has been invited to the next Planning Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee meeting in September.

8th. Order of Business: Update on 1956 Myra Ave (6-foot high wall)
    a. The owners of this property are Ricardo and Cindy Villarreal.
    b. The issue went to a hearing before a Zoning Administrator who allowed the homeowners to maintain the height of the wall.
    c. However the wall is to be moved back 5 to 6 feet from the street.
 
9th. Order of Business: Hollywood Community Plan Update.
    a. There should be a cover letter to our elected official noting our recommendations.
    b. There is a discussion of the proposed revision and the Plan by Councilman Tom LaBonge's office on September 13.
 
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.

The meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m. by Chair Ron Weinstein

The following members of the Committee were present: Ron Weinstein, Joe Cisneros, Ken Owen, Rosemary De Monte, Bruce Carroll. The Attending Public: Frank Masi, Donna Kolb, Leslie Small, Masood and Anne Haque, Dale Reid, Dan Salcido, Tony Bates, Barry Sloane, Jack Zatikian John Mutlow.

Call to Order
1st. Order of Business: The minutes of the meeting of the Committee held on June 14 were approved as heretofore circulated and corrected.

2nd. Order of Business: 2528 N. Vermont Ave. (A building was constructed in the back of this property without a construction permit.)
    a. Owner of the house is Jack Zatikian
    b. Mr. Zatikian's representative is Tony Bates, a retired City Inspector.
    c. This case has been heard before Zoning Administration and Mr. Bates does not dispute the fact that the buildings were built without the proper permits.
    d. Mr. Bates calls the building a cabana and storage room and says he will rectify all structural wrongs with the building.
    e. At issue is the concern about allowing un-permitted buildings to be constructed in Los Feliz and setting a bad precedent in the area.
    f. A further issue is that Mr. Zatikian is looking for a variance to allow him to have a zero lot line.
    g. However a recent survey shows Mr. Zatikian's property, buildings and north facing wall encroach onto the adjacent property.
    h. Mr. Bates states Mr. Zatikian and the owner of the adjacent property, Mr. John Mutlow are in discussion about the encroachment.
    i. Mr. Mutlow states that he has no problem with allowing a zero lot line as he himself may ask for just such an exemption.
    j. Committee Consensus: To keep the issue open until said owners can resolve the encroachment dispute.

3rd. Order of Business: Announcement of the Elections on October 12, 2006
    a. An announcement was made at the Planning Committee for candidates. 
    b. GGPNC has placed the announcement of the election in its newsletter.
    c. Outreach information will also be displayed in the Post Office, Los Feliz Library and other appropriate venues. 

4th. Order of Business: 2507-2541 Nottingham Ave (unauthorized grading and excavation)
    a. Owner of the vacant lot is James Kelleher, who is also owner of Los Feliz Properties.
    b. A City Inspector issued a order to comply.
    c. No permits were issued for grading or hauling the excavated dirt.
    d. Mr. Kelleher was invited by E-mail to this Committee meeting.
    e. A question on the property itself is how much of it is developable?
    f. Mr. Kelleher has owned the property for over twenty years and has had a "for sale" sign on the property for three years.
    g. Neighbors are concerned about de-stabilizing the hillside during the rainy season, as happened in 2004-2005.
    h. There is a chain-link fence surrounding the property and there is concern that this may hinder fire-fighters in the event of a hillside fire.
    i. Mr. Mensman from Councilman Tom LaBonge's office is reported to have stated that if Mr. Kelleher wants to build he will have to get a grading permit, environmental impact survey, soil samples and will be required to shore up the hillside.
    j. Mr. Kelleher has asked for an extension for of 230 days to comply.
    k. If conditions worsen, the City may ask Mr. Kelleher to restore the hillside.

5th. Order of Business: Draft Hollywood Community Plan Update.
    a. There have been some changes to the Proposed Draft Recommendations.
    b. The changes are to correct one or two inconsistencies.
    c. The changes are also to focus the Draft Hollywood Community Plan on points considered pertinent to the GGPNC. 

6th.  Order of Business: Guest Speaker on Mansionization in the City did not Arrive.
    a. However the Committee's position is to be kept aware of the ongoing actions on this issue.

7th. Order of Business: Older Apartments converted into Condominiums.
    a. The City of Los Angeles is losing apartment stock to condo-conversions.
    b. Older apartments are being bought for the purpose of turning them into condominiums.
    c. The loss of available apartments is increasing the rent of existing apartments.
    d. Clearly the squeeze is on senior citizens and the poor with limited incomes and means and in many cases living under rent control and the three percent increase each year.
    e. Councilman Ed Reyes may seek to pass a law protecting current rental stock.

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

The Meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m. by Chairman Ron Weinstein

The following members of the Committee were present: Richard Spicer, Ron Weinstein, Joe Cisneros, Ken Owen, Jacqueline Kerr, Kurt Rademaekers, Peter Burness. The Attending Public: Rex Link, Frank Masi, Donna Kolb, Leslie Small, Masood and Anne Hafue.

Call to Order
1st. Order of Business: The minutes of the meeting of the Committee held on March 8 and 29 were approved as heretofore circulated and corrected.

2nd. Order of Business: 2507-2541 Nottingham Ave (Excavation on a vacant lot)
    a. Owner of the vacant lot is James Kelleher.
    b. Mr. Kelleher is also owner of Los Feliz Properties.
    c. So far, 1/3 of the property has been excavated.
    d. No permits were issued for hauling the excavated dirt.
    e. Councilman Tom LaBonge's office sent a City Inspector who issued a temporary shut-down of the site with a Cease and Desist order.
    f. There is concern that the present excavation may cause instability on the hillside.
    g. Neighbors are concerned of de-stabilizing the hillside and lowering property values.
    h. Committee Consensus: This issue will be placed on the July agenda.

3rd. Order of Business: 2528 N. Vermont Ave.
    a. A building was constructed in the back of this property without a construction permit.
    b. This issue has come to the attention of City Planners and is on the docket to be reviewed.
    c. There is question whether this building is being used as a rental.
    d. The owner was invited to this Planning Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee meeting but he did not show up.
    e. There is concern about allowing un-permitted buildings to be constructed in Los Feliz and setting a bad precedent in the area.
    f. Committee Consensus: Hold matter open and once again invite the property owner to the next meeting.

4th. Order of Business: Presentation on Historic Preservation Overlay Zone (HPOZ) by Richard Stanley
    a. There was the issue that the Los Feliz Improvement Association did not allocate enough money to survey the Los Feliz area.
    b. The City is going ahead with surveying the whole Los Feliz area.
    c. The HPOZ was originally developed over 80 years ago to preserve the old Antebellum homes of the Charlseton area.
    d. As for the HPOZ it is the only way a community can have an in-put in preserving the unique character of their neighborhood.
    e. The primary role of the HPOZ is to create a template that will define the characteristics, qualities, attributes, style, size, shape and the general look of an area and try to preserve and perpetuate those distinctions.
    f. Specifically with regard to the facades, home styles, size, landscape and streetscapes.
    g. The HPOZ does not stop any homeowner from up-grading, renovating or improving their home.
    h. The HPOZ does ask homeowners pulling building Permits to ensure the general look of the improvement is in keeping with the neighborhood.
    i. There are many positives from tax-breaks, incentives and grants for neighborhoods that adopt HPOZ in their areas.
    j. Another positive is that it stops people from buying older homes than tearing them down to build mansion size homes on small lots.
    k. HPOZ's need not cover one huge area; smaller definable neighborhoods may be the best way of starting the process.
    l. The Hollywood Plan has as one of its components the promotion of HPOZ's perhaps the Councilman can help advance this.
    m. What this Committee can do is find an area which might be conducive to becoming an HPOZ. 

5th. Order of Business: Councilman Tom LaBonge is raising the issue of limiting mansionization in the City.
    a. Councilman Tom LaBonge is concerned with oversized homes on small lots.
    b. This is a widely reported concern on TV, newspapers and the internet.
     c. However there is a concern that this only covers single family homes; if someone builds on what was once a multi-family home, the limitation may not apply. 
    d. A single family home may not be knocked down for a mansion but for multi-family homes.
    e. Committee Position: To be kept aware of the actions on this issue and see how far Councilman Tom LaBonge can take this point. 

6th.  Order of Business: Outreach.
    a. There is a certain amount of money the GGPNC has to spend.
    b. The question then becomes how best to spend it.
    c. Money can certainly be spent taking out ads in the Los Feliz Ledger.
    d. Newsletters are another good use of notifying the public.
    e. Another outreach approach is a display board that can be placed in the Post Office or Bank notifying public who we are and what we do as well as general City information.

7th. Order of Business: Senior Citizen Center in Griffith Park area.
    a. A Senior Citizen Center is an item placed in Griffith Park Master Plan.
    b. One site cited as a possible location is Friendship Auditorium; other places need to be assessed.
    c. However, to this point there is no solid documentation, or needs assessment, or requirements, or jurisdiction or determination who should be in charge of this.
    d. Another issue is transportation, schedules, costs and who will be in charge in this area.
    e. How much money will be allocated to this endeavor?
    f. Committee consensus: We support a motion further clarifying the issues and having Rex Link be our representative on this issue.

8th. Order of Business: Condominium-conversions and New Developments.
    a. The question posed to the Committee is should we support condo-conversions as a way of conserving many of the older aesthetically pleasing buildings in the Los Feliz community or support new developments.
    b. For the record 1900 Kenmore a 16 unit apartment complex is going to be converted into condominiums.
    c. 1759 Hillhurst Ave as stated in the CNC Report and will turn a five unit apartment into an 8 unit condominium.
    d. In the case of new developments, generally a greater number of parking spaces are constructed to accommodate more cars.
    e. The consequences of having more cars in the area are a greater number of people and added congestion on already taxed streets.
    f. New developments displace older and poorer renters in the area, people who are generally more prone to walking and taking public transportation.
    g. The general rule is that condos are allowing renters to become first time home buyers.
    h. There is a question whether the condo prices in this area allow first time buyers to buy into home ownership in Los Feliz.
    i. With regard to new developments they are generally less aesthetically pleasing than the older buildings in the neighborhood.

9th. Order of Business: Draft Hollywood Community Plan: GGPNC'S Proposed Draft Recommendations and Approach.
    a. The Proposed Draft Recommendations and Approach is in three parts, A, B, and C.
    b. Section A. Clause 1: Recommendations Re Proposed Zoning Changes by Street principally Hillhurst Av. Franklin Av. and Los Feliz Blvd.
    c. The Committee chose to retain current zoning in order to retain the village character of Los Feliz area of the streets cited.
    c. Section A. Clause 2: Sunset Blvd, Hollywood Blvd and Vermont Ave.
    d. The Committee chose to retain zoning prior to the City's Plan called Station Neighborhood Area Plan also known as (SNAP).  
    e. Section A. Clause 3: Hyperion, Fountain and Rowena
    f. The Committee chose to support the City proposed zoning change to prohibit and phase out auto and auto related land uses. 
    g. Section B. Clause 1: Historic Preservation Overlay Zone Study and Implementation Procedures
    h. The Committee chose to support the process to implement HPOZ studies, funding and the implementation of recommendations.
    i. Section C. Clause 1: Transform the GGPNC's questions on HCP and turn them into Policy Recommendations.
    j. Committee consensus: We support the Draft Recommendations and recommend they be adopted by the GGPNC Board.

The Meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m. by Chairman Ron Weinstein

The following members of the Committee were present: Richard Spicer, Bruce Carroll, Ron Weinstein, Joe Cisneros, Denise Hanisee, Ken Owen, Peter Burness, Ricardo Gomez, Dora Herrera, Aaron Brown, Ricardo Villareal, Cindy Villareal. Elizabeth Peterson, Dana Hollister, Omar Amador, Andrew Claycomb, Ermanno Neiviller

Call to Order
1st. Order of Business: The minutes of the meeting of the Committee held on March 8 and 29 were approved as heretofore circulated and corrected.

3rd. Order of Business: 3641 North Holboro Drive (Presentation by Owner who wants a Lot Coverage of 42% instead of the permitted 40%)
    a. Owner Aaron Brown wants to build a single-family house on the hillside.
    b. The house will be built in traditional Spanish style.
    c. He is asking for a variance.
    d. The extra space is to build a 122 sq. ft. patio.
    e. He says he has support of neighbors.
    f. Committee consensus: We support issuing Mr. Brown the variance.

4th. Order of Business: 4301 Sunset Blvd (The Silver Lake Hotel addressing the conditional use permit and liquor license issue)
    a. Owner Dana Hollister
    b. Land Use Consultant: Elizabeth Peterson
    c. Concept: High-end Hotel-Restaurant-Lounge with bar, no dancing or entertainment.
    d. The owner is applying for a full liquor license.
    e. The owner says liquor license along with restaurant is important because it represents 27-30% of the profits.
    f. The restaurant will seat 122 people and serve breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    g. Ms. Hollister says she owns Detour, Cliffs Edge and is half owner of the Brite Spot.
    h. The parking plan is to have 12 parked cars in the garage and off site parking on Manzanita Street.
     i. Issues: The Hotel has had a history of problems, and has been a magnet for prostitution, drug-users, assaults and burglaries. 
    g. Neighbors, LAPD and Councilman Eric Garcitti have cited the need to issue building/renovation permit on there being a cessation of problems.
     h. Ms. Peterson sites Applicant Volunteered Conditions, Clause 22 that allows Zoning Administrator to hold Public Hearings on any violations that may arise.
    i. It is noted that the Hotel rooms are rather small, but Owner cites the need for a Hotel in the area.
    j. Committee consensus: We support issuing the applicant's application for a conditional use permit and variance, subject to the following: (i) Committee approving the landscaping plan and samples of finish materials, all to be presented at a future meeting, (ii) a traffic light being installed at the intersection of Bates adn Sunset, (iii) the Committee receiving a detailed, written plan specifying and location and capacity of valet parking, and (iv) existing signs being retained on-site (interior location acceptable).

5th. Order of Business: 1956 Myra Ave (6-foot high wall)
    a. The new owner of this property is Ricardo and Cindy Villarreal.
    b. He has begun construction on 6-foot high wall made of concrete blocks which he then plans to plaster and paint to blend into the color scheme of the house.
    c. Mr. Villarreal cites adjacent homes on this street with walls and foliage of equal or greater height.
    d. He also says his home is too close to the street, with high traffic flow, noise and trash pick-up as need for privacy.
    e. There have been a number of break-in burglaries in the homes around Marshall H.S. one such occurrence was by a High School student.
    f. LAPD officers have stated there is a safety issue in homes where high walls impair the officers' need to see into a home.
    g. Query by Committee Member: Did you get a City Permit before constructing your wall? Answer by Mr Villarreal: No.
    h. Query by Committee Member: Did you know you needed to get a variance before construction? Answer by Mr Villarreal: No.
    i. Committee consensus: We oppose granting the variance on the basis that the wall is too high, it is on a narrow street, and it will detract from the appearance of the neighborhood.

6th. Order of Business: 4518 Hollywood Blvd. Il Capriccio (a small take-out pizzeria with need for a single parking sace)
    a. Name of Owner: Ermanno Meiviller
    b. Name of Restaurant: Il Capriccio
    c. The owner wants a variance waiving the requirement for a single parking space.
    d. He cites lack of parking or stopping is due to the curb being marked red for MTA buses that no longer use the street as a waiting area.
    e. The restaurant will have three tables and be primarily a take-out restaurant.
    f. Operating hours from 11:00 a.m. to midnight.
    g. Employees will park on surrounding streets.
    h. Committee consensus: We support issuing Mr. Meiviller a variance, waiving the requirement for a single parking space.

7th. Order of Business: The Derby (a Community Impact Letter by the Janitors Union 1877)
    a. Presentation by Research Analyst Omar Amador, SEIU Local 1877, and Andrew Claycomb: Maintenance Cooperation Trust Fund.
    b. The owners of the Derby have been sent a Community Impact Letter.
    c. In it is a number of grievances sent to Adler Realty on the working conditions of the janitors.
    d. Their low wages, health care insurance and sub-standard working conditions issues of which the Community is being made aware.
    e. Adler Realty contracts Non-Union Sub-Contractors who have lowered the wages of janitors from $9 an hour to $7.50 an hour.
    f. Committee Position: To be kept aware of all notices and actions involving the Derby and its present owner.

8th. Order of Business: Hollywood Community Plan (Presentation by Richard Spicer)
    a. Rezoning plans in Hollywood of particular interest are Franklin Ave. and Hillhurst Ave. in the GGPNC area.
    b. Changes in Zoning would raise the height of buildings to three stories; the change is known as 1XL.
    c. The City is going to present another forum on the Hollywood Community Plan on May 31, 2006.
    d. We must move quickly so that we will be in a position to make recommendations.

9th. Order of Business: Non-Agenda Items.
    a. 1900 Kenmore is going to be converted into a 16 unit condominium.
    b. A member suggested the Committee support condominium-conversions as a way of conserving many of the older aesthetically pleasing buildings in the Los Feliz community. 
    c. 1759 Hillhurst Ave. is on the CNC Report and will be turned into an 8 unit condominium.
    d. 1801 Hillhurst Ave has been sold.
    e. 1915 Normandie Ave has an unattractive over height fence.

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

Minutes of GGPNC Planning, Zoning and
 Historic Preservation Committee
May 5, 2005

Attendance:
John Battle, Chaska Berger, Peter Burness, Joe Cisneros, Rick Gable, Chris Hopkins, Sevak Kharhadourian, Kenneth Owen, Molly Rysman, Ron Weinstein

I. Call to order/ Chair’s welcome/ Approval of the minutes
    A. March minutes approved
    B. Secretary to send January, February, and March minutes to Bruce for website

II. Public Comment - 2239 Hyperion
    A. Property owner: hearing approved 1 to 1Floor to Area Ratio (FAR)
    B. FAR .5 to 1 currently, property owner would like to build 1.2 to 1
    C. Requesting amendment to letter of support to increase the FAR mentioned in the letter to 1.2 to 1
    D. Chair will propose amending the letter at the next meeting of the full council

III. Update on CRA Hollywood & Western project by Kerry Hunnewell and action as appropriate
    A. Mr. Hunnewell, member of the GGPNC, serves on the ad-hoc advisory council and serves on developer selection committee. Mr. Hunnewell reported the following progress:
        1. The committee is negotiating additional aspects of project
        2. Project went out as RFP on last march, proposals came in June 2004
        3. Southwest (Mayer building) and northwest corners of Hollywood and Western
        4. The area is an intersection of four different neighborhood council areas and two neighborhood groups
        5. CIM group leading project team (retail, market, and affordable) – northwest corner project
        6. CORE ABS group (affordable and market housing) – southwest corner project
        7. The ad-hoc advisory council and developer selection committee represents an unprecedented level of community input in CRA project (role in design process, programming, open space, street scaping, expansion of project, traffic studies)
        8. Northwest corner, CIM group, preliminary concept: 77 ownership units, 76 affordable units, 140 hotel units, 293 residential units in total, 2900sf retail, 22000sf open space (boundaries from Western to Garfield on Hollywood frontage)
            a. Northwest corner project is further along than the southwest corner project
            b. City council gave CRA authority to enter into exclusive agreement with CIM group
        9. Southwest corner, CORE ABS, preliminary concept: 220 ownership units, 45,000sf commercial use, 594 parking, 13,700sf public open space, 13,700sf private open space, 2600sf community room (just Mayer building to St.Francis) 83 parking spaces for Gershwin hotel which has no parking, so increasing parking
            a. Falcon Dance Studio will remain
            b. There has been a recent falling out between partners on southwest corner project
    B. $7.4 million was requested in subsidies for Northwest corner project
    C. 3 or 4 months in the future may want to ask the developers to present to the neighborhood council when the designs are more solidified

IV. Discussion of 3464 Rowena Avenue and action as appropriate
    A. Property owner reported that he will be present in two months

V. Discussion of 4500 Los Feliz Boulevard and action as appropriate
    A. Mr. Battle, Mr. Gable, Ms. Berger, and Mr. Arnold were present to present the project
    B. Will be working with Killefer Flammang Architects on the project
    C. Will be a mixed use project
    D. Acquired property in June of last year – bought because beautiful site
    E. Louise’s and Derby on property currently and will remain as long as they want
    F. Property owner has presented to LFIA and BID
    G. Very preliminary project – the owner has not applied for anything yet
    H. Property owner wants NC involvement
    I. Ms. Burger – 5 different plots with 4 different zones currently
    J. Will probably apply for RAS zone (mixed use) change
    K. 55,000 sf
    L. Will be designed appropriately as possible for the area
    M. Mr. Arnold’s firm, Killefer Flammang Architects, have done Edendale Library and working on Hollywood and Vine project
        1. Firm does apartment and condominium projects and adaptive re-use
    N. Project will be 1 story retail with 4 stories of residential and becomes lower as it goes down Hillhurst, town houses on Avocado side
        1. Entrance on Hillhurst, exit only on Los Feliz
        2. 75 residential units (mostly 2-bedroom units 1200/1100sf) for sale housing
        3. (2 floors of parking) 2.5 parking space per residential unit, retail parking to code – 288 total parking spaces
    O. Mr. Burness concerned about increased traffic
    P. Mr. Owens said that community will not accept five story building
    Q. Chair invited developer to make presentation before full GGPNC Board

VI. Discussion of 4705 Ambrose Avenue and action as appropriate
    A. Mr. Cisneros filed appeal in his individual capacity and presented to planning commission
    B. Condominiums are more expensive than apartments
    C. Displacement of poor and elderly
    D. Planning commission sided with property owner
    E. Goal is to galvanize community and create HPOZ
    F. Chair sent a letter to the city opposing mandatory street widening

VII. Discussion of CNC Reports and action as appropriate: (i) 2612 N. Glendower Avenue; and (ii) 2588 N. Nottingham Avenue
    A. CNC reports are posted on GGPNC website now
    B. Bruce will post entire report from now on
    C. 2612 N. Glendower issue is moot because hearing has already been held. LFIA negotiated with property owner to lower height of fence and move the fence back
    D. 2588 Nottingham legalizing the height of an existing residential dwelling
        a. Developers is remodeling a pre-1960s house and added height on the roofline from 36 to 49.5 feet, has ignored notices from Building and Safety which issued notice to comply
        b. Committee needs to invite the property owner to our next meeting
        c. Ken will draft letter to zoning administrator asking that he not give any variances for this property without notifying the neighborhood council

VIII. Update on selection of City of Los Angeles Planning Director and action as appropriate
      A. Ron nominates Molly to be rep on this issue
    B. Will cover at next GGPNC meeting

IX. Update on Hollywood Community Plan and action as appropriate
    A. Scoping meeting on May 26, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Hollywood Presbyterian Church
    B. Materials on plan are on GGPNC website (Molly and Joe will attend)

X.     Discussion of Silver Lake Neighborhood Council position regarding Angus Street Apartments and Statement of
            Beliefs Regarding Local Discretion in Matters of Planning & Land Use and action as appropriate
    A. Councilmember LaBonge has arranged for a hearing
    B. Apartments behind Hard Times and Trader Joes
    C. Silver Lake NC has suggested limiting by-right projects when critical mass of opposition
    D. Joe will contact Silver Lake NC to learn more about their position

X. Discussion of zoning density and traffic issues by Jacqueline Kerr and action as appropriate
    A. Will be discussed at next meeting when Ms. Kerr is present

XI. Outreach at Los Feliz Street Fair – discussion and action as appropriate
     A. Street fair is June 5th
     B. The GGPNC asked for volunteers from the committee
            1. Ron and Joe will volunteer
            2. PZHP will display pictures of developments in neighborhoods
XII. Public comments on non-Agenda items within the Committee’s jurisdiction
    A. No comments

XIII. Adjournment
    A. Meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m.