Meeting Date: 07/26/06 06:30 PM
Meeting Type: Regular
Location: Women’s Club of Hollywood
1749 North La Brea Ave.
Hollywood, CA 90046
Free parking in back of building; Disabled entrance at back door closest to parking area next to disabled parking spot.
Details: HOLLYWOOD HILLS WEST NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL
BOARD MEETING AGENDA
July 26, 2006
6:30 PM
Hollywood Women’s Club
1749 North La Brea Ave.
Hollywood, CA 90046
Free parking in back of building; Disabled entrance at back door closest to parking area next to disabled parking spot.
The public is requested to fill out a “Speaker Card” to address the Board on any item of the agenda prior to the Board taking action on an item. Comments from the public on non-agenda and agenda items will be heard during the Public Comment Period and, within the discretion of the presiding officer of the Board, when the respective item is being considered. Comments from the public on other matters not appearing on the Agenda that is within the Board’s subject matter jurisdiction will be heard during the Public Comment period. Public comment is limited to 2 minutes per speaker unless waived by the presiding officer of the Board. Agenda is posted for public review: on bulletin boards at the top and bottom of Runyon Canyon Park, and electronically on the Hollywood Hills West Neighborhood Council website ww.hhwnc.org and on the Department Of Neighborhood Empowerment (www.lacityneighborhoods.com). As a covered entity under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Los Angeles does not discriminate on the basis of disability and upon request, will provide reasonable accommodation to ensure equal access to its programs, services, and activities. Sign language interpreters, assistive listening devices, or other auxiliary aids and/or services may be provided upon request. To ensure availability of services, please make your request at least 3 business days (72 hours) prior to the meeting you wish to attend by contacting the Neighborhood Council Project Coordinator at (213) 485-1588 or e-mail to [email protected].
AGENDA
1. Call to order by President
2. Roll call by Secretary
3. Minutes – Review and approve prior May 25, 2006 minutes (please see attachment) (Vote) (5 minutes).
4. President’s Report (10 minutes)
a.) Intro of Council Members and City officials
b.) DWP: Henry Martinez, Chief Operating Officer of the Power System & his Staff – Presentation & Q & A
c.) Website/Email Issues – Update- Steven Shmerler – webmaster
d.) SPLASH BASH Update
e.) Jeff Jacobberger – Update on Mayor’s 912 Commission
f.) Hollywood Community Plan – update from Mary Richardson by Anastasia
5. Hollywood Central Park (Frank DeFoe): Presentation by Don Scott (Vote) (10 minutes)
MOTION: That HHWNC support the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce proposal of a 24 acre park built over the Hollywood Freeway as it cuts through the high density commercial and residential district of Hollywood. The park would start north of Hollywood Boulevard and continue south past Sunset Boulevard to grounds of the new high school.
6. Pantages Theater: Presentation by Ira Handelman for the Pantages Theater/Claret proposed project; 7.5 acres at Hollywood & Argyle. 1,000 rental units including 24 live/work units, 10% Affordable Housing units; 175,000 sq ft retail; dedicated parking underground for the Pantages. 5 stories over retail, 75′ height limit. (10 minutes)
7. Committee Reports (10 minutes)
a.) Area Committee Reports
i.) Area 5
aa.) Policy recommendation regarding the assessment of compatibility for new or expanded houses in the Mulholland Scenic Parkway DRB area of responsibility.
Motion
The Area 5 Committee requests that other areas of HHWNC with properties that fall under the jurisdiction of the Mulholland Scenic Parkway Design Review Board (Areas 1,2, 6 and 9) and the Housing Committee meet to develop a joint position with Area 5 regarding compatibility issues for new or expanded houses. The following draft motion is suggested as the basis for discussion: “The HHWNC requests that until such time as the City Council of the City of Los Angeles adopts a “Big House” Ordinance regulating the size of houses in the hills, that the Mulholland Scenic Parkway Design Review Board disapprove any proposed new home or addition to an existing home that is not compatible with the ten closest existing homes (not empty lots) surrounding the proposed development. Compatibility shall be defined as not exceeding XX-YY% of the average square footage of the ten closest homes nor exceeding XX-YY% of the average building-to-lot size ratio of the ten closest homes.”
Motion passed by Area 5 Committee 7/18/06: 8 Yes, 2 No
bb.) Request for contributions of $2,500 from HHWNC to fund outreach events in each Area of HHWNC and to allocate $2,500 to Outpost Estates HOA for its summer outreach event August 26th
Motion 1
The Area 5 Committee and Outreach Committees request that the HHWNC Board make some of its funds available (up to $2,500) to the Homeowner Associations within its boundaries and jointly promote activities for all of the residents of the area association; to help create and promote an active, strong and vital association or community. For its contribution, HHWNC would be allowed to set up a table at the event to inform and register stakeholders of the organization. Funds could also be made available to help areas not currently served by a homeowners association to become aligned with an existing one or to start their own association.
Motion passed by Area 5 and Outreach Committees 7/18/06: 9 Yes, 0 No, 1 Abstention
Motion 2
The Area 5 Committee and Outreach Committees request that the HHWNC Board allocate $2,500 of its FY 07 budget to the Outpost Estates Homeowners Association (OHA) to fund its “Outpost Annual Block Party” for community outreach purposes; Event Date = August 26, 2006. For this contribution, HHWNC would be allowed to set up and staff a table at the event to inform, educate and register stakeholders for the HHWNC. The funds will be provided to OHA following the event and upon submission of receipts documenting that at least $2,500 was spent on the party.
Motion passed by Area 5 and Outreach Committees 7/18/06: 10 Yes, 0 No
cc.) Request to City of Los Angeles and Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy to purchase properties for open space.
Motion
The HHWNC requests that Council District 4 seek to obtain funding to purchase undeveloped lots along Mulholland Drive to preserve open space. Potential funding sources to be explored include Santa Monica Mountains Open Space Preservation Assessment District funds which Area 5 residents pay through a property tax assessment. Funding for the purchase of two lots (7280 and 7288 Mulholland Drive) for sale near Runyon Canyon Park should be pursued immediately. Additional lots near the Hollywood Bowl overlook should also be pursued.
Motion passed by Area 5 Committee 7/18/06: 9 yes, 0 no, 1 abstention
ii.) Area 2
aa.) MOTION TO RELOCATE CAHUENGA PASS INTO THE HOLLYWOOD COMMUNITY PLAN
The Area 2 Committee of the Hollywood Hills West Neighborhood Council requests and moves that the Cahuenga Pass area be removed from the Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Toluca Lake and Cahuenga Pass Community Plans and be made a part of the Hollywood Community Plan as these Community Plans were established over 40 years ago through Census Tracts and although Cahuenga Pass is north of Mulholland, times have changed and because we are located within the Hollywood Hills West Neighborhood Council (yet one of two Areas out of nine within HHWNC that is not part of the Hollywood Community Plan). Our area code is 323, our zip code is 90068 and our post office is located on Wilcox. All of these designations are located in Hollywood. We therefore feel we belong within the Hollywood Community Plan where our neighborhood will best be represented.
bb.) MOTION TO APPROVE BRAILLE INSTITUTE, 67 LIVE/WORK CONDOMINIUM PROJECT, INCLUDING THE DESIGN AND LOCATION OF TWO LANDSCAPED MEDIANS, LOCATED AT 3450-3458 CAHUENGA BLVD. WEST, DIR 2005-8156-DRB-SPP:
The Area 2 Committee of the Hollywood Hills West Neighborhood Council requests and moves approval of a 67live/work town home condominium development including the design and location of two landscaped medians, increased front yard setbacks averaging 15 feet, further recessing of the upper two floors facing Cahuenga Blvd. West, increased landscaping especially in the front of the building facing Cahuenga Blvd. West and the east side of the building facing Universal Center Drive Bridge, removal of the steel frame facing Cahuenga Blvd. West and replacing it with wood and other stone materials, increased parking totaling 183 parking spaces, smaller skylights, incorporation of a curved recessed curb at the intersection of Cahuenga Blvd. West and Universal Center Bridge Blvd. and one approximate 25 square foot monument sign incorporating the name ‘Cahuenga Pass’ and the address of 3450-3458 Cahuenga Blvd. West currently known as the Braille Institute, DIR 2005-8156 DRB-SPP.
cc.) MOTION REGARDING CASE NO. CPC 2005-4972-GPA-ZC TO REQUEST THE CURRENT ZONE OF R3 TO REMAIN WITH AN AMENDMENT RESTRICTING THE HEIGHT TO A MAXIMUM OF 30 FEET OR TO CHANGE THE R3 ZONE TO RD1.5 WITH A ‘Q’ CONDITION RESTRICTING THE HEIGHT TO A MAXIMUM OF 30 FEET.
Regarding CASE NO. CPC 2005-4972-GPC-ZC, the Area 2 Committee of Hollywood Hills West Neighborhood Council moves approval of a Zone Change for 22 lots in Cahuenga Pass involving Bennett Drive, Barbara Court, Dos Palos Drive, Cadet Court and Oakcrest Drive to EITHER remain at R3 with an amendment restricting the height to a maximum of 30 feet VERSUS the RD1.5 height of 45 feet pursuant to LAMC Section 11.5.6 and Section 1232, OR requests that the current R3 Zone be changed to RD1.5 with an amendment to add a ‘Q’ condition restricting the height to a maximum of 30 feet which is what currently exists on these lots today. The Area 2 Committee requests the President or her designee to represent the Hollywood Hills West Neighborhood Council at the City Planning Commission hearing where the case is currently scheduled for July 27, 2006.
b.) Issue Committee Reports
i.) EMS
aa.) At the HHWNC EMS Police & Fire meeting held on July 19th, 2006, the EMS committee amended and voted to support Area # 3 , in the following amended motion which had been originally made , voted on and unanimously passed at a previous area HHWNC area # 3 meeting. The amended motion presented at the July 19th EMS meeting is as follows:
“In an effort to reduce frequent post-2am calls to police from local residents
reporting disturbing-the-peace complaints requiring frequent police response and to mitigate noise disruption to residents who need to sleep at night-and who’s sleep, peace and quiet is disrupted by the noise, the EMS committee moved that HHWNC support Area # 3 in NOT supporting any petitioners wishing to establish any restaurant or nightclub operation that requires a parking variance , between La Brea Ave. and Cahuenga Ave.- and Sunset Blvd and Franklin Ave. and was amended to include any petitioner or applicant that intends to operate a restaurant or nightclub, past the hours of 2am. Motion was SECONDED and PASSED. 3 voted to support motion, 2 abstentions and zero opposed”
bb.) Update on the Fire Department’s RED FLAG/NO PARKING hillside enforcement.
cc.) Chair announcement regarding registration of upcoming disaster preparedness CERT ( Community Emergency Response Team ) free training classes beginning on August 23, 2006-information for all interested parties.
8. Bylaw Committee (Orrin & Jarone): Explanation of procedure to change Bylaws and discuss Bylaw changes. (Please see att
ached document.) Motion & vote (20 minutes)
9. Election Committee (Michael Meyer): Report for discussion only (10 minutes)
10. Business Cards (Cheryl Holland): Update (5 minutes)
11. Other Business/Committee Chair coments
12. Public Comment
13. Adjournment
PROCESS FOR RECONSIDERATION: The Board may reconsider and amend its action on items listed on the agenda if that reconsideration takes place immediately following the original action or at the next regular meeting. The Board, on either of these two days, shall: (1) Make a Motion for Reconsideration and, if approved, (2) hear the matter and Take an Action. If the motion to reconsider an action is to be scheduled at the next meeting following the original action, then two items shall be placed on the agenda for that meeting: (1) A Motion for Reconsideration on the described matter and (2) a Proposed Action should the motion to reconsider be approved. A motion for reconsideration can only be made by a Board member who has previously voted on the prevailing side of the original action taken. If a motion for reconsideration is not made on the date the action was taken, then a Board member on the prevailing side of the action must submit a memorandum to the Secretary identifying the matter to be reconsidered and a brief description of the reason(s) for requesting reconsideration at the next regular meeting. The aforesaid shall all be in compliance with the Ralph M. Brown Act.
HOLLYWOOD HILLS WEST NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL
BOARD MEETING MINUTES
July 26, 2006
6:30 PM
Hollywood Women’s Club
1749 North La Brea Ave.
Hollywood, CA 90046
1. Call to order by President: 6:35 p.m. by Anastasia Mann.
2. Roll call by Secretary Jennifer Fitzgerald: 18 Board Members (Quorum established). Present: Anastasia Mann, Orrin Feldman, Ellen Sondheim, Gary Nestra, Jennifer Fitzgerald, Joan Luchs, Michael Meyer, Cheryl Holland, Ken Jones, Thor Lee, Anne Marie Lardeau, Frank DeFoe, Claire Guy, Dennis Lytton, Steve Howard, Jim Meinel, Rena Dheming, Paul Ramsey, Conrad Schoeffter, and Theresa Larkin.
Absent: Jarone Johnson, John Pogue, and Paul Woolsey.
3. Minutes – DeFoe/Jones moved to approve HHWNC May 25, 2006 Board Meeting minutes. Motion carried.
4. President’s Report: Anastasia Mann reported that Splash Bash, the HHWNC co-sponsored event with Hollywood/Highland was a huge success. Nearly 2,000 people showed up for the event on Saturday, June 22, 2006; 800 was the goal. Approximately 1,000 new stakeholder registrations are attributed to the event including pre-registrations and 260 new stakeholders who registered at the event. It was the largest outreach event ever by any NC in the city and of course, by our HHWNC. President Mann showed a multimedia presentation of Splash Bash.
a) Intro of Council Members and City Officials: Tom LaBonge, L.A. City Councilmember District 4 congratulated the Board on their efforts with Splash Bash. The Councilman introduced Senior Lead Ranger Patrick Joyce who was just assigned to Runyon Canyon Park and will be the new “face” of the Parks Department. Ranger Joyce works Wed – Sat. and can be reached at: 213 485-1342. The other Ranger is Hymie Morales who works Sun – Wed. He can be reached at: 323 913-4688, (ext: 1548). Councilman LaBonge introduced Principle Parks Supervisor McCall who just started in this position overseeing Griffith Park and Runyon Park. His contact # is: 213 485-5520 or email: [email protected].
b) DWP Outages: DWP’s Henry Martinez, COO of Power for DWP, spoke about infrastructure problems and how they are working to address them. He documented the sources of power DWP uses to provide for the City’s needs including power plants in Utah, 2 in Arizona – Navajo Nation and southern Arizona power plants, Long Beach, the Harbor area and in Sun Valley. They also have diversified power sources with hydro energy, natural gas fields in Wyoming that are piped back to L.A.- and are building a renewable energy wind farm in Tehachapi.
Regarding the recent outages in L.A.- Mr. Martinez said it was partly due to an unprecedented surge with record peaks; the demand was larger than ever seen before. In areas of the S.F. Valley, transformers failed from the heat and crews were brought in from other states to provide assistance in getting the system back to normal. He said there is still a lot of work to be done to stabilize the power systems. He also acknowledged that the underground cables, conduits and circuits in several areas – specifically HHWNC area 5 – were up to 60-70 years old and frayed and in need of replacement. Anastasia asked him to thank his hard – working crews who have had to crawl through manholes in the worst possible conditions.
Other DWP dignitaries present included: Marvin Moon, P.E.- Manager of distribution engineering and customer service; Darrell “Greg” Mathis, Electrical Services Manager, Power System Operations and Maintenance; Mark Hollister, Electrical Services Manager; and Kevin Shost, Customer Service Supervisor. Mr. Moon attributed the outages to overloaded cables, damaged in last winter’s flooding as well as over 150 transformers that failed during record highs.
Questions from the HHWNC to DWP Officials:
1. President Mann asked why customers were not told the truth about the outages; why customers had to ask the work crews who were on the job sites to get the true reasons for the outages.
2. Ken Jones asked, if they were aware of the problems with the transformers, why did they wait to address these problems until there was a crisis. Mr. Moon said that the average age of transformers in L.A. is 27 yrs – and they typically last 40 years. He said that they do replace some every year but the heat and overloading breaks down the insulation. Overall, less than 22% of the City’s transformers had an issue and only 4% tripped out.
3. Ken then asked how he and other Board Members should address stakeholders’ concerns.
Mr. Martinez said that significant investments and upgrades are necessary and these have to be scheduled and planned, which involves manpower, traffic issues, and coordinating with the City. He said there is a shortage of linemen and splicers available to do the work that is necessary, although they have recruiting and training programs for new candidates. Catching up will require a major effort to move forward. To do so, the Mayor has asked DWP for an overall Master Plan on how they will provide reliability. Their plan involves starting to replace equipment this year, then continued replacements and upgrades in the next couple of years.
4. Dennis Lytton pointed out that most of L.A.’s aging electrical systems were not built to accommodate today’s electrically – powered technology.
5. Michael Meyer asked that the DWP act quickly on any work on streets that are calendared for resurfacing – such as Outpost Road which is on the July 2007 schedule. The DWP responded that 98% of their upgrades and installments do not affect sidewalk/street surfaces, however in the case of Outpost Road (area 5) it will.
Stakeholders Questions to DWP (Public Comment):
1. Requests for a timetable on improvements: Councilman Tom LaBonge said his office will coordinate with DWP to keep the worse HHWNC streets on target. He pointed out the difficulties of not having enough sidewalks to run power under as a cause for delays.
2. Why some streets in the Outpost area were not listed on the map distributed.
3. Why DWP’s office did not provide ongoing communications to stakeholders on outages and repairs.
4. DWP’s Kevin Shost, Customer Service Supervisor said that information changes rapidly and it’s difficult to keep field crews up to date on the changes. He suggested anyone with questions call their automated info #: (800) Dial DWP and ask the phone reps to research outages. President Mann announced a more direct dial phone # 213-367-4211 “0” for operator to reach a live attendant.
5. Whether power systems fail more because they are underground. The Councilman said it’s harder to work on underground systems than above – ground systems. DWP’s Greg Mathis added that while above – ground systems are easier to access, they are also prone to more problems due to exposure.
6. Whether it’s safe to live near a transformer? The Councilman suggested that his proposed ordinance dealing with controlling mansionization of homes would control overuses of power. Mr. Moon added that transformers are, indeed, safe to live near.
7. Whether stakeholders should invest in their own power generators. Mr. Moon said they didn’t feel this would be necessary.
8. Why DWP hasn’t given higher priority to repairing high-rise housing where people living on the upper floors are most inconvenienced, particularly seniors. DWP said they do focus on giving priorities to senior facilities.
9. Why DWP didn’t upgrade the transformers to current needs for power: Mr. Moon said they modify their transformers when they need to.
10. Board Member Joan Luchs asked why streets in the Cahuenga Pass area were not on the map of repair work. She reported that all her koi fish perished in the heat and when she called DWP’s info # for assistance, she was told she could not speak with a supervisor. She suggested that DWP train its phone personnel to put supervisors on the line if customers request them. DWP management expressed dismay at her experience and promised to follow up.
Discussion concluded with thank you’s to the DWP officials who attended the meeting with a request that they extend our thanks to the diligent work crews.
Continued Presentation of City Officials:
– Councilman LaBonge introduced his Deputy, Stacy Marble, and explained her responsibilities.
– DONE Rep. Christine Jerian was introduced. Christine is leaving this position after five years’ working with HHWNC. She introduced her replacement, DONE Project Coordinator Rosa Arcadia, who can be reached at: (213) 485-1360. HHWNC full board gave Christine a round of applause for all her efforts on the community’s behalf.
– Krista Kline, Policy Analyst for the Mayor’s Office of Housing and Econ Development was introduced. Krista’s contact # is: (213) 978-0771.
Public Comments:
Mary Margaret Robinson of Woodrow Wilson Drive spoke about stakeholders’ concerns for privacy and safety regarding a change of use for the Schindler House at 8078 Woodrow Wilson Dr.
Richard Klug reported a new construction of 7,000 sq ft. by Mulholland on Torreyson Drive, which he believes is intended as a retreat for a religious organization. He was referred to his Area Chair.
President’s Report (continued):
a.) Website/Email Issues – Webmaster Steven Shmerler was introduced and reported on improvements to the HHWNC website including streamlined registration, a merging of stakeholder lists and mail lists, updates to the Committee and Board pages, a page on the Splash Bash, added spam filters, an export function for invitations, the additional request to stakeholders for their full names when registering, and the moving of the “unsubscribe” link to the bottom of the page. The board expressed appreciation for these improvements.
b.) Jeff Jacobberger, our newly appointed rep to the Mayor’s 912 Commissioner for the Central Area, was introduced to the board and expressed his willingness to take our issues and concerns before the committee. (323) 646-3308.
c.) Hollywood Community Plan – President Mann read a report from Mary Richardson who stated that over 60 letters of support and emails have been received from HHWNC constituents. A draft Environmental Impact Report is being prepared. The process for presenting a revised Update will involve an Open House or Workshop to which all the NCs, stakeholders and others will be invited to express their thoughts – hopefully in the late Fall.
6. Hollywood Central Park Motion: Frank DeFoe introduced Don Scott, who is proposing the creation of a City park on the top of the Hollywood Freeway (101) between the Hollywood Blvd. and Sunset Blvd. exits/on ramps.
DeFoe/ Luchs moved: “That HHWNC support the “concept” of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce proposal of a 24 acre park built over the Hollywood Freeway as it cuts through the high density commercial and residential district of Hollywood. The park would start north of Hollywood Boulevard and continue south past Sunset Boulevard to grounds of the new high school.” (This includes President Mann’s suggestion to use the word “concept” which was agreed upon by the motion presenter and seconder). The motion carried: 13 -1- 3.
Hollywood Central Park would be a $150 million project that would involve building a stretch of park, a pedestrian promenade, a 200′ European plaza with a bandstand and a hill with an amphitheatre over the freeway and on land adjacent to it between Hollywood and Sunset on the 101. Since the proposal is not within the HHWNC boundaries, this motion was to show support for the project’s concept.
7. Pantages Theater Proposed Project: CLARET representative Ira Handelman updated the Board on the proposed, mixed – use development adjacent to the Pantages Theater on 7.5 acres at Hollywood & Argyle. The proposal includes: 1,000 rental units (including 24 live/work units and 10% Affordable Housing units)- 175,000 sq ft of retail; and dedicated underground parking for the Pantages. The retail portion would be 5 stories up to a 75′ height limit. It will be privately – funded and has received support from area neighbor councils and the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and the Citizens-Police Advisory Board (C-PAB).
8. Area Committee Reports
Area 5:
a.) Policy recommendation regarding the assessment of compatibility for new or expanded houses in the Mulholland Scenic Parkway DRB area of responsibility.
Motion: Meyer/Luchs moved:
“The Area 5 Committee supports the concept of Councilman Tom Labonge’s proposed (anti) Mansionization ordinance and requests that other areas of HHWNC with properties that fall under the jurisdiction of the Mulholland Scenic Parkway Design Review Board (Areas 1, 2, 6 and 8 and 9) and the Housing Committee meet to develop a joint position with Area 5 regarding compatibility issues for new or expanded houses.
That the HHWNC, and until such time as the City Council of the City of Los Angeles adopts a “Big House” Ordinance regulating the size of houses in the hills, that the Mulholland Scenic Parkway Design Review Board disapprove any proposed new home or addition to an existing home that is not compatible with the ten closest existing homes (not empty lots) surrounding the proposed development. Compatibility shall be defined as not exceeding XX-YY% of the average square footage of the ten closest homes nor exceeding XX-YY% of the average building-to-lot size ratio of the ten closest homes.” (Motion passed by Area 5 Committee 7/18/06: 8 Yes, 2 No). Discussion ensued. The motion carried: 13 – 4 – 0.
b.) Request for contributions of $2,500 from HHWNC to fund outreach events in each Area of HHWNC and to allocate $2,500 to Outpost Estates HOA for its summer outreach event August 26th:
1st Motion: Meyer/ Lardeau moved: “That the Area 5 Committee and Outreach Committees request that the HHWNC Board make some of its funds available (up to $2,500 each) to the Homeowner Associations within its boundaries and jointly promote activities for all of the residents of the area association; to help create and promote an active, strong and vital association or community. For its contribution, HHWNC would be allowed to set up a table at the event to inform and register stakeholders of the organization. Funds could also be made available to help areas not currently served by a homeowners association to become aligned with an existing one or to start their own association. “(Motion passed by Area 5 and Outreach Committees 7/18/06: 9 Yes, 0 No, 1 Abstention). After being informed by DONE that Neighborhood Councils can not make donations with their monies, Michael withdrew this motion.
2nd Motion: Michael moved, no second, motion withdrawn: “That the Area 5 Committee and Outreach Committees request that the HHWNC Board allocate $2,500 of its FY 07 budget to FUND the annual Outpost Estates Homeowners Association (OHA) to fund its “Outpost Annual Block Party” for community outreach purposes; Event Date = August 26, 2006. For this contribution, HHWNC would be allowed to set up and staff a table at the event to inform, educate and register stakeholders for the HHWNC. The funds will be provided to OHA following the event and upon submission of receipts documenting that at least $2,500 was spent on the party. “(Motion passed by Area 5 and Outreach Committees 7/18/06: 10 Yes, 0 No).
c.) Request to City of Los Angeles and Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy to purchase properties for open space.
Motion Meyer/Fitzgerald moved:
“That the HHWNC requests that Council District 4 seek to obtain funding to purchase undeveloped lots along Mulholland Drive to preserve open space. Potential funding sources to be explored include Santa Monica Mountains Open Space Preservation Assessment District funds, which Area 5 residents pay through a property tax assessment. Funding for the purchase of two lots (7280 and 7288 Mulholland Drive) for sale near Runyon Canyon Park should be pursued immediately. Additional lots near the Hollywood Bowl overlook should also be pursued.” (Motion passed by Area 5 Committee 7/18/06: 9 yes, 0 no, 1 abstention). Discussion by the board. Motion carried: 8 – 0 – 5 (Feldman & Luchs excused themselves and did not vote.)
Area 2:
a.) Motion to Relocate Cahuenga Pass into the Hollywood Community Plan:
Luchs/Larkin moved that any and all areas within the Hollywood Hills West Neighborhood Council that are located in the Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Toluca Lake and Cahuenga Pass Community Plan be relocated and made a part of the Hollywood Community Plan where these communities firmly believe they belong and identify with.
Discussion by the board: All areas currently located within the Hollywood Hills West Neighborhood Council (including but not limited to Cahuenga Pass (Area 2)- Hollywood Manor (Area 1) and north of Mulholland in the Outpost Community (Area 5)) that are designated within the Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Toluca Lake and Cahuenga Pass Community Plan request and move that all of these area be relocated and made a part of the Hollywood Community Plan as Community Plans were established over 40 years ago where Census Tracks were used to establish where each community was located and although all of the areas mentioned above including Areas 1,2 and 5 are technically located north of Mulholland…. using a Census Tract as the main criteria to include these communities in the Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Toluca Lake and Cahuenga Pass Community Plan is no longer a valid determinant to keep these communities where they don’t belong.
Times have changed and all of these communities are located within the Hollywood Hills West Neighborhood Council, which have a 323 area code, a 90068 zip code and our post office is located on Wilcox in Hollywood. Both topographically and architecturally our areas identify with Hollywood and not the valley. Also statistics are now available that can separate and determine how much each of our communities contributes and how much we receive from the City in services. Those numbers were made available during the Valley Succession movement. They should also be available now.
The motion carried: 14 – 0 – 2.
b.) Motion to approve the Braille Institute, 67 Live/Work Condominium Project, including the design and location of two landscaped medians located at 3450-3458 Cahuenga Blvd. W.- DIR 2005-8156-DRB-SPP:
Luchs/Larkin moved, “That the Area 2 Committee of the Hollywood Hills West Neighborhood Council requests and moves approval of a 67 live/work town home condominium development including the design and location of two landscaped medians, increased front yard setbacks averaging 15 feet, further recessing of the upper two floors facing Cahuenga Blvd. West, increased landscaping especially in the front of the building facing Cahuenga Blvd. West and the east side of the building facing Universal Center Drive Bridge, removal of the steel frame facing Cahuenga Blvd. West and replacing it with wood and other stone materials, increased parking totaling 183 parking spaces, smaller skylights, incorporation of a curved recessed curb at the intersection of Cahuenga Blvd. West and Universal Center Bridge Blvd. and one approximate 25 square foot monument sign incorporating the name ‘Cahuenga Pass’ and the address of 3450-3458 Cahuenga Blvd. West currently known as the Braille Institute, DIR 2005-8156 DRB-SPP.” Discussion by the board. The motion carried: 13 – 0 – 3.
c.) Motion regarding case No. CPC 2005-4972-GPA-ZC to request the current zone of R3 to remain with an amendment restricting the height to a maximum of 30 feet and to change the zoning from R3 to RD1.5 or keep the R3 zone but restrict it to a maximum height of 30 feet.
Luchs/Larkin moved, “Regarding CASE NO. CPC 20054972-GPA-ZC, the Area 2 Committee of Hollywood Hills West Neighborhood Council moves approval of a Zone Change for 22 lots in Cahuenga Pass involving Bennett Drive, Barbara Court, Dos Palos Drive, Cadet Court, and Oakcrest Drive to EITHER remain at R3 with an amendment to restrict the height to a maximum of 30 feet VERSUS the RDI.5 (with a height of 45 feet) per the City’s proposal pursuant to Section 11.5.6 and Section 1232 of the LAMC, OR request that the current R3 zone remain that with an amendment to add a’Q’ condition restricting the height to a maximum of 30 feet which is what currently exists on these lots today. The Area 2 Committee requests the President or her designee to represent the Hollywood Hills West Neighborhood Council at the City Planning Commission hearing where this case is currently scheduled for July 27, 2006.” Discussion by the board. The motion carried: 14 – 1 – 1.
8.) Issue Committee Reports:
a.) EMS: At the HHWNC EMS Police & Fire meeting held on July 19th, 2006, the EMS Committee voted to support Area # 3 in the following amended motion, which had been originally made, voted on, and unanimously passed at a previous Area HHWNC Area # 3 meeting. The amended motion presented at the July 19th EMS meeting is as follows:
Dheming/Larkin moved, “In an effort to reduce frequent post-2am calls to police from local residents reporting disturbing-the-peace complaints requiring frequent police response and to mitigate noise disruption to residents who need to sleep at night-and who’s sleep, peace and quiet is disrupted by the noise, the EMS committee moved that HHWNC support Area # 3 in NOT supporting any petitioners wishing to establish any restaurant or nightclub operation that requires a parking variance, between La Brea Ave. and Cahuenga Ave.- and Sunset Blvd and Franklin Ave. and was amended to include any petitioner or applicant that intends to operate a restaurant or nightclub, past the hours of 2am. Motion was SECONDED and PASSED. 3 voted to support motion, 2 abstentions and zero opposed.” Discussion by board. Meyers called the question: The motion did not carry: 1 – 7 – 7.
b. Red Flag/No Parking Update: Rena Dheming gave an updated report on the Fire Department’s RED FLAG/NO PARKING hillside enforcement and distributed the flyer that alerts residents living in Red Flag Zone areas of this ordinance.
c. CERT Classes: Rena announced that registrations are being accepted for upcoming disaster preparedness CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) free training classes, beginning on August 23, 2006. Information for all interested parties: (www.cert-la.com). There will be 7 classes held on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Hancock Park Elementary School Auditorium, 408 S. Fairfax Ave.- L.A. Under Public comment, Bruce Remick, who prepared the flyer added comments regarding the importance of CERT training in our community.
9.) Bylaws Committee: Vice president, Orrin Feldman, explained the procedure to update the HHWNC’s Bylaws and discussed proposed changes. (See attachment). Orrin acknowledged Jarone Johnson and others who helped on this committee. Feldman/Meyers moved that the bylaws be approved as proposed with a mailing to stakeholders noticing the Special Meeting agenda set for August 29, 2006 at which time stakeholders will vote on the bylaws changes.
Motion carries: 13 – 0 – 1.
DONE Project Coordinator Christine Jerian directed the Board on the process necessary to expedite the changes asking them to prepare a draft resolution in advance for the board to approve at the Regular Board Meeting scheduled to immediately follow the Special Meeting on August 29th. This will enable DONE to have time to approve the new by laws and new election procedures contained in the new bylaws so that HHWNC can proceed with the year-end elections.
10. Election Committee: Michael Meyer reported that he has submitted the election procedures to DONE and has received a response with their comments. DONE did not approve their proposal for voting by email. Since they could not schedule an Independent Election Administrator for October, the election has been rescheduled for December. DONE ok’ed holding the election over two days but pointed out that it will require a lot of volunteers. While DONE supports efforts to hold the election in an ADA – compliant location, they prefer that a volunteer be available to carry ballots to the cars of those who are handicapped. Michael stated that by amending the bylaws, they could easily follow these recommendations.
11. Business Cards: Cheryl Holland reported that she is waiting for a determination on the design of the new business cards and use of the City Seal before ordering them. The board thanked Cheryl for all her efforts in organizing this project.
12. New Business: Theresa Larkin discussed the idea of creating a stakeholders membership card for community benefits.
13. Public Comments: No additional public comment.
14. Meeting Adjourned: DeFoe/Lardeau moved to adjourn at 9:50 p.m.
Next meeting: Tuesday, August 29th at 6:30 p.m.
Minutes prepared by Pat Kramer, Apple One. 7/27/06