For Minutes in 2012, Select Meeting Date or Scroll Down

MINUTES FOR JANUARY 12th, 2012

MINUTES FOR JANUARY 26th, 2012

Voting Members in Attendance: Janet Turner, Haldis Toppel, Ted Mackie, Jennifer Malaret, Richard Cohen, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, Paul Glasgall, Steve Boyers, Harry Sondheim, Carol Pfannkuche, Jim Rea, Dick Wulliger, Geoff Shelden, Barbara Marinacci, Joe Almaraz, Stuart Muller, and Chris Spitz.
Voting Alternates: Timothy Huber, Susan Orenstein, Quentin Fleming, Steve Yusi and Alex Mack.
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Andrew Wolfberg, Amy Kalp, John Glasgow, Kurt Toppel, Ernie Meadows and Norma Spak.

Start of Business Meeting

1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission: Richard Cohen read the Mission Statement.

2. Call to Order and Introduction of the Board and Audience. Janet Turner called the meeting to order at 7:03 pm. Introduction of the Board and audience.

3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present at 7:07 pm.

4. Adoption of Minutes. Steve Boyers moved and Paul Glasgall seconded adoption of the Minutes for January 12, 2012. The Minutes were adopted unanimously with one abstention. The next meeting is February 9, 2012.

5. Consideration of Agenda. The Chair considered the agenda.

6. Treasurer’s Report. Ted Mackie reported the financial status as of January 26 , 2012. The total account balances equal $24,205.31, which consist of USB Checking $4,881.76, Smith Barney account $18,134.93 and Post Office account $1,188.62. Ted Mackie reported that we have gotten far fewer donations than before, i.e., 261 this year in comparison to approximately 400 last year.

7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns

7.1. Announcements from the Chair

7.1.1 Janet Turner announced the appointment of Steve Yusi as the new Educational Representative, Alternate on the PPCC’s Board.

7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives

7.2.1 Councilman Rosendahl’s office –Arturo Pina, CD-11 Southern District Director. Presentation: Redistricting the City of LA and Proposed Changes to Council District 11 (“CD-11). Mr. Pina reported that the redistricting commission has been meeting for several months as reported in the Councilman’s “eblast”. Maps that demonstrated the new re-districting boundaries were displayed. The next public hearing will take place February 2, 2012 at the Westchester Recreation Center. The goal for Bill Rosendahl is to keep Westchester intact as part of CD-11, primarily because LAX physically remains in CD-11, but under the new re-districting plan LAX Westchester has a different representative (thereby making Councilmember’s job in representing CD-11 very difficult). There is a petition set up on Councilmember Rosendahl’s website that anyone is free to sign. It is expected that the final draft will be sent to City Council on March 1, 2012. The transmission of the recommendation is up to Councilmember Wesson; April 1, 2012 is the deadline for the new re-districting map. Discussion: Quentin Fleming asked if outdoor advertising interests had anything to do with Councilmember Rosendahl’s stance on the re-districting proposal. Arturo reiterated that the Councilmember’s has a stated position against the expansion of LAX.

7.2.2 Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore – Officer Moore deferred his update to later in the meeting.

7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors

7.3.1 Northern Trust Gold Open at the Riviera Club. Andrew Wolfberg reported that a meeting was held with the CD-11 office regarding the impact of this event on residents, particularly with regard to parking on Allenford. Residents on Allenford will be given free passes to park and Andrew is grateful for the help of Norman Kulla, and Joaquin Macias to reach a satisfactory resolution for residents concerned about event parking and access issues.

7.3.2 Beautiful Palisades Committee – Harry Sondheim reported that he had met with Corpus Christi Church and received a letter from Msgr. Kidney that the church is willing to modify and remove it’s display of advertising banners along Sunset Boulevard. Harry Sondheim expressed his gratitude to Msgr. Kidney who was in attendance at tonight’s meeting.

7.3.3 LAPD Update- Amy Kalp reported that (1) the motorcycle noise was a real problem last night (in part because LAPD was occupied with burglary issues that have limited resources available to monitor this problem in the Palisades). Senior Lead Officer Michael Moore concurred that this was a resource issue but that this is not always the case. (2) There will be a “Watch for Stopped Traffic Sign” installed at Chautauqua and Corona del Mar, and Amy has contacted Caltrans about also adjusting the timer on the traffic light at PCH/Chautauqua to address the long wait time at that intersection and the long line of traffic backed up on Chautauqa in response to complaints from residents. Stuart Muller suggested, and Amy Kalp concurred with, the correction of potholes in the general area of Chautauqua in PCH.

8. Reports From Committees

8.1 LUC, Next Meeting. Chris Spitz reported that (1) the next LUC meeting will be February 1, 2012 at 12:30 at the Library and all Board members and public are welcome to attend and/or contact LUC members prior to the meeting and before Board recommendations. Topics will include a large construction project on Hampden Place, the Westside Alliance of Regional Council’s proposed motion regarding commercial development in Santa Monica (Bergamont Station) and a request from LADBS to provide zoning code enforcement priorities; (2) the PPCC had supported the Clean Hands Ordinance previously and on January 10, 2012 the City Council adopted a motion in support (sponsored by Councilmember Zine); and (3) Bud Ovrum has initiated changes to LADBS involving transparency and internal oversight and the LUC is pleased about those developments.

9. Old Business – none.

10. New Business

10.1 The County of LA’s Recent Success with the Homeless/Homeless in the Palisades. Flora Gil Krisiloff (Westside Senior Field Deputy for County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky). Presentation: Flora has spent 6 years working for the Supervisor in this capacity and has learned that homelessness is a tremendous issue, particularly in Santa Monica and Venice. The concern is the chronic homeless who have been on the streets for 10-35 years because they are often erroneously viewed as “service resistant” or do not desire to come off the streets. In 2007, Zev launched “Project 50” which has been featured in the LA Times and succeeded in moving the most vulnerable 50 chronically homeless people off the streets of Skid Row and into permanent supportive housing. Many of the most disabled chronically homeless have severe mental illness along with other physical and emotional issues. Multidisciplinary supportive services teams offering health and mental healthcare, assistance and benefits were assembled and that was affective when permanent housing was offered first. This model is now being replicated and it is becoming generally accepted as a “best practice”. In sum, unless a homeless person has a permanent home, they cannot become “formerly homeless.” Collaboration with CD-11 is very important because the housing authorities that have housing vouchers are connected to the various cities within the counties. Discussion: Paul Glasgall asked if Project 50 has been expanded. Flora explained that they know that more money is saved by giving those people permanent homes and Zev has supported the idea of “Project 500.” Within the County and his own district an additional 500 persons have been housed. United Way has also launched “Home for Good” focused on the chronically homeless. The County is continuing to sponsor additional motions on this issue. The 2011 count reflected approximately 50,000 chronically homeless persons, where 33% have mental illness issues – and there are others with subcategories of physical disabilities, veterans, youth, families, etc. Norma Spak asked about the West LA VA being used to assist in this effort. Flora said that the senior and disabled veterans are accommodated and the County continues to push the VA to use the land for veterans.

10.2 PATH presentation on the Homeless. Jeremy Sidell, PATH Chief Communications Officer and Courtney Kanagi, Director of PATH West Los Angeles Center. Presentation: Jeremy gave an organizational background on PATH and a list of organizations/cities that PATH works with and supports. Problems associated with the homeless are many but primarily include that there are simply are not enough beds to accommodate the homeless in our city every night and those emancipated children who become homeless and then have homeless children of their own. Housing is the key to this problem and to provide housing to the homeless is the most cost effective solution in the long run. Street outreach is viewed as a process and not an outcome. PATH is successfully working with CD-11, particularly in Venice and the issues associated with the “vehicular” homeless.

10.3 Homeless Registry Bootcamp, March 1 and 2, 2012 in Los Angeles. Leslie Wise, Program Director for Community Solutions. It is a 2 day training, free to anyone in the community about how to engage in a survey process to identify existing homeless and work towards finding solutions.
Presentation: Leslie is working on the national housing campaign for 100,000 homes and would like to engage the Palisades in helping on this need. The website is 100Khomes.org. The goal of the campaign is to seek, find, and educate ourselves on the most vulnerable homeless persons in our communities and to work towards ways to house those individuals in permanent housing (“Home for Good”). In addition, the VA has recently joined Community Solutions’ campaign in Los Angeles to help 12,000 veterans across the nation find housing; ultimately that will help communities where the homeless reside because of the burden on taxpayer dollars when the chronically homeless cycle in and out of our care systems. Leslie outlined the process for how a community can sign up and that information is available on the website also.
Discussion: Marguerite Perkins Mautner asked about the financial commitment needed. Leslie said that it does take money for outreach teams (salaries, costs), costs of social services, state & local rental vouchers and leveraging housing subsidies. Chris Spitz asked about the benchmarks for success. Leslie responded that they get data on a quarterly basis about homeless numbers and housing retention. Stuart asked about where the homeless would be physically housed. The idea would be that PATH would engage with the Palisades community to help guide us through this process and that it might be possible to develop low income housing here or to get rental subsidies to help homeless persons relocate into rental properties in the Palisades or other areas. Flora commented that the County is asking each community to step up within a regional approach so that those communities who offer services (like Skid Row and Santa Monica) do not become over saturated. Relative to available funding, each county supervisor has $1.4 million per year to put towards homelessness in each district. Relative to Project 50 type replications in Venice, Santa Monica, Hollywood and Van Nuys, the grants have been approximately $500,000 over two years to move 40 chronically homeless persons permanently off the streets and into permanent supportive housing. Harry Sondheim asked about the sufficiency of benefits to allow living by the coast in the Palisades; the voucher amount is fixed and likely would not allow homeless persons to continue to live in the Palisades but enable them to live elsewhere in Los Angeles. Janet Turner suggested that it is important for our churches and local organizations who do fundraising to keep some of our money here in the Palisades to help the homeless that reside here.

10.4 Palisades Homeless Population. Senior Lead Officer Michael Moore. Officer Moore reported that three of the Palisades homeless are now in permanent housing. The homeless who choose to remain here (roughly 20 permanent residents) are in the Palisades primarily because they enjoy living near the beach and the beach has facilities (bathroom, showers) available. There is a transient population along the coastline and one or two persons who like being in the village. Personally Officer Moore has not experienced homeless in our community with severe mental health issues but rather meets individuals who choose/prefer to live here.

10.5 Community Input on the Homeless Issues. Townsend Bell lives in the Alphabet Streets and has assisted Officer Moore in interfacing with individuals living in their vehicles and that has resulted in relocation. However, he has had several situations involving public safety issues with homeless persons in Malibu, the Palisades Village and Santa Monica and Townsend asked about what a resident’s rights are in a conflict. Another public speaker asked that the criminal element of the homeless population be addressed. Officer Moore suggested trying to avoid contact if possible and contact the police. Janet Turner asked for anyone in the community interested in submitting their names to participate to please do so with PPCC. It is Janet’s hope to get a small group together for the March 1st and 2nd training and to interface with Officer Moore on a weekly or regular basis.

10.6 The Mayor’s Budget Survey / Budget Advocates. Presentation: Jay Handal https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/2012LABudgetSurvey. Jay reported that $90 million had been found by the city because the pension plans had more money and certain actuary adjustments. The projected City budget deficit is $160 million. The Budget Advocates continue to work with the City regarding how they collect the money they are entitled to but currently don’t collect, including those collections that were recommended by the Budget Advocates last year. The Advocates will meet with the Mayor in March 2012. Items of interest are: infrastructure (parking revenues, write-offs, and needed infrastructure investment), pension deposits, etc. The Budget Advocates want the City to give a 5 year balanced budget to the people. The Mayor has asked for every department to bring in a 12% reduction but after today’s “find” the reduction may be just 6%. The thing for residents to be aware of is the shocking and continued reduction of services. Discussion: Geoff Sheldon asked about the waste, fraud and abuse. Jay stated that the Advocates were looking into this including LAPD lawsuits/settlements, worker’s comp fraud, housing department corruption, LADBS corruption, etc. Chris Spitz asked about interface with Wendy Gruehl and whether the Advocates are being listened to effectively. Jay responded that they work closely with Controller Gruehl and use her information/recommendations in their studies. Last year was the first year that the Advocates were on the agenda at City Hall and Councilmember Parks has done a good job of listening. Janet Turner asked about the recent motion for privatization of the city’s assets including parking lots (last year’s “P-3”). Jay felt that Culver City’s hiring of operators for it’s parking lots has worked very well. He added that a one time sale of assets to balance the budget is not a good long term fix. Jim Rea asked about progress on efforts to overhaul the City’s method of collections. Jay stated that there is an RFP out for these services and that this RFP had been negotiated and modified. Harry Sondheim asked about illegal real estate signage. Jay responded that illegal real estate signs are not enforced along scenic highways after the City’s loss to the tarot card reader. There is no exemption but the laws are just not being enforced (lack of political will to enforce per the City Attorney). Timothy Huber asked about IT infrastructure. Jay said there are notable problems such as when the city purchases hardware and doesn’t have the money to buy the software but IT is not at the top of the City’s list of concerns.

11. General Public Comment – none.

12. Adjournment. Janet Turner adjourned the meeting at 8:58 PM.

MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 9th, 2012

Voting Members in Attendance: Janet Turner, Haldis Toppel, Ted Mackie, Jennifer Malaret, Richard Cohen, Paul Glasgall, Jim Rea, Harry Sondheim, Jack Allen, Stuart Muller, Steve Boyers, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, Dick Wulliger, Geoff Shelden, Gil Dembo, Joe Almaraz, and Aurelia Friedman.

Voting Alternates: Quentin Fleming, June Payne and Bob Locker
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Amy Kalp, Cathy Russell, Schuyler Dietz, and Alex Mack.

Start of Business Meeting

1.0 Reading of Community Council’s Mission: Marguerite Perkins Mautner read the Mission Statement.

2.0 Call to Order and Introduction of the Board and Audience. Janet Turner called the meeting to order at 7:01 pm. Introduction of the Board and audience.

3.0 Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present at 7:06 pm.

4.0 Adoption of Minutes. Steve Boyers moved and Dick Wulliger seconded the minutes for January 26, 2012. The minutes were adopted unanimously with one abstention. The next meeting is February 23, 2012 with Santa Monica’s Mayor Bloom and Wendy Gruel Mayoral Candidate and City of Los Angeles Controller scheduled to attend.

5.0 Consideration of Agenda. The Chair considered the agenda.

6.0 Treasurer’s Report. Ted Mackie reported the financial status as of February 9, 2012. The total account balances equal $24,186.80, which consist of USB Checking $4,863.25, Smith Barney account $18,134.93 and Post Office account $1,188.62.

7.0 Reports, Announcements and Concerns

7.1. Announcements from the Chair

7.1.1 Golden Sparkplug Awards, Time to Send in Nominations (see below). Janet Turner announced that this award would be given out Thursday, April 26, 2012, which is the same night that George Wolfberg will be honored as the Citizen of the Year.

7.1.2 Janet Turner announced that George Wolfberg, our At Large Representative and Former Chair was appointed Citizen of the Year. George is celebrating his wedding anniversary and could not be here.

7.1.3 New Palisadian Post Reporter – Janet Turner introduced and welcomed Rebecca Hower of the Palisades Post who will be taking over for Danielle Gillespie as the Post reporter assigned to cover the PPCC.

7.1.4 The Next PPCC Newsletter. Janet asked all the Area Representatives to submit detail on the job and job satisfaction of being an area representative to include in the newsletter.

7.1.5 Boy Scout Troop 223 from St. Matthews – Janet Turner welcomed the boy scouts, their scoutmasters and volunteers.

7.1.6 Koretz Fire Prevention Motion, LAFD Opposing. Janet Turner reported that she attended the meeting at City Hall and that LAFD opposed the motion to improve guidelines for preventing hillside fires because of the lack of resources. Janet expects the motion to die in committee.

7.1.7 Homeless Committee, Update. Janet Turner reported that March 1st and 2nd are the dates for the special training to teach residents how to hold registries to interview all of the homeless in our town. Flora Gil Krisiloff is working with Zev Yaraslovsky to see about implementing county programs here.

7.1.8 Junior Womens’ Club, Thank You for Grant. Janet turner revealed that the PPCC will be awarded a grant on March 6, 2012. We do not know the amount of the grant and are hopeful to receive funds to purchase audio equipment. The PPCC is very grateful to the JWCC for it’s support.

7.1.9 Palisades 90th Anniversary Palisadian Post Issue. Janet Turner reported that the Executive Committee voted to approve the expenditure for a small ad to go into the Palisadian Post.

7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives

Councilman Rosendahl’s office – Joaquin Macias. Joaquin reported that (1) the Councilmember has asked the DOT to review the draft EIR for the Bergamont Station and to submit comments by 2/27/2012. The Councilmember is concerned about the traffic impacts and mixed use nature of the development, (2) there has been confusion about the program tying in the traffic signals from Sunset to Brentwood and they will be making a presentation to our council at a future date. Jennifer Malaret asked when the cut areas of Sunset would be repaired because the slurry coat on Sunset Blvd. is sinking, there are potholes and residents are popping tires. Richard Cohen stated workers informed him that they will be placing additional lines into the trenches and then will do the permanent repairs to the asphalt cuts. Stuart Muller noted that the Public Notice for the “Canyons & Pacific Palisades ATSAC Project” makes no mention of the two large traffic control boxes that are currently being installed in front of both the Historic Business Block and Kay and Dave’s restaurant, which describes the scope of the work as “There will be trenching operations along certain portions of the roadway, work on the sidewalk, and the signalized intersections,” and makes no mention of control boxes on the sidewalks. Joaquin stated the notice was insufficient, and that CD-11 has not had a presentation about the project either and welcomes the presentation to our council, (3) in Potrero Canyon the traffic signal will be up in the next few weeks and our community will be noticing the 180-200 trucks, and (4) he is following up on LAPD grant funding for additional enforcement.

Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore could not be here. On the issue of increased crime in the Palisades, Janet Turner said that there was a home invasion robbery in the Palisades and future notice will be provided to the board. Haldis Toppel stated that solicitors are in the neighborhood pretending to be students and attempting a scam for money. No direct tie can be proven to the robbery but there is a real concern about solicitors ringing doorbells trying to determine who is home and who is not. Paul Glasgall expressed his concern about increased crime in the Palisades and that, after all the years of following police issues, he has never seen such a long list of crimes in our area. Requests have been made for information that we have not gotten and the police coverage that we need is just not out there. Joaquin Macias stated that there was a meeting in the works with the LAPD and those on the council interested in police issues. Amy Kalp said that there are discussions taking place to address this specific problem at C-PAB and traffic C-PAB. Haldis Toppel stated that LAPD is paying attention to our problems and that the patrol officer is one of only many officers dealing with the crime issues in the Palisades; there are unmarked cars and additional officers in our area. Haldis Toppel reminded the community to call 310-444-0702 and report any and every crime that takes place in the Palisades.

7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors (at the end of the evening as time permits)

7.3.1 Palisades Recreation Center – (1) Jennifer Malaret reported that the PP-PAB has received an overwhelming positive response to its’ solicitation for a Youth Representative to the Park Advisory Board. Recreation Center staff is considering programming for a type of “teen council” so that additional teens can have a voice in the current operations of the park and plans for long term improvements, (2) Haldis Toppel reported that the Pacific Palisades Jr. Women’s Club PPJWC has given a grant to the Recreation Center for security; we don’t know the amount awarded but the Recreation Center asked for monies for the police facility phone and DSL lines and $3,000 towards security cameras which has a pledge of matching funds.

7.3.2 Historical Society, History of Lake Shrine Land – Dick Wulliger reported that the event will take place at the Shrine on February 12th . Dick Wulliger commented that this is an architectural, cultural and religious treasure in the Palisades. The event will include a walking tour and the opportunity to see the Shrine up close and all of the public is welcome.

7.3.3 Amy Kalp reported that the Wednesday motorcycles were quieter than usual and that perhaps this was due to additional enforcement. She continues to work on installing the “watch for traffic” sign at Corona del Mar.

7.3.4 A-Frame Signs - Stuart Muller reported that there are only two people in the entire city to remove sidewalk signs and this may be why we are waiting so long to have them removed.

8. Reports From Committees – None.

9.Old Business. None.

10. New Business

10.1 Speed Signs on Palisades Drive. Paul Glasgall expressed his concern about the lack of notice to residents in the Highlands about this project and what is being installed. Paul wonders if the information did not come to us because the funds are being provided by a grant and, in any event, we should have known what this project was going to do and the opportunity for the community to provide input (digging up the street three miles from Sunset, tearing up the sidewalk to put in speed monitors, installing poles, etc.). Joaquin confirmed that the funding for the total project is approximately $6 million. Paul is hopeful that this project will have a deterrent impact on speeding on Palisades drive, particularly because another teen flipped his car on Palisades Drive and taken to UCLA. Comment: audience members felt that the project was positive because of the increased safety for youth. Stuart Muller was concerned about the negative aesthetic impact. Janet Turner was hopeful that there would be time set up for a presentation to be made to our council.

10.2 WRAC Motion – LA REVIEW OF DIER FOR HINES/BERGAMOT PROJECT AND SUPPORT FOR A MASTER EIR FOR THE BERGAMOT AREA PLAN. Motion below. Recommended by the LUC, Jennifer Malaret presenting. Jennifer stated that the 140-acre Bergamot Area project in Santa Monica was another large development in a municipality adjacent to Pacific Palisades that would cause adverse traffic impacts similar to the proposed County development in Marina del Rey that the PPCC considered several meetings ago. Bill Rosendahl has already authored a motion in support of an overall EIR that includes consideration of impacts of this development on the City of Los Angeles. The WRAC Motion is similar to Councilmember Rosendahl’s motion with the only difference being that the WRAC motion considers the HUD Grant as an additional factor warranting the need for a comprehensive EIR inclusive of regional impacts. Discussion: Gil Dembo stated there are two issues that are public transport on the EXPO line and then development in this area. Jack Allen said the theory is that with the EXPO line more housing is warranted, but that theory doesn’t always work because people who live near lines still travel to get to their work, meaning that traffic impacts are not truly reduced by additional housing components. Harry Sondheim suggested that our motion more expressly reference the need for additional housing. Richard Cohen stated that the thrust of the motion was to support a comprehensive EIR. Gil Dembo commented that it is important to the Palisades because we should make sure that there is enough parking for people who live in the Palisades to drive to the station and take the line to downtown. Joaquin said that there was going to be a CD-11 meeting where community councils, neighborhood councils and other stakeholders can attend and provide their input. Action: Jennifer Malaret moved and Haldis Toppel seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

10.3 Climate Change for the Southern California Region – Dr. Glen MacDonald, UC Presidential Chair and Director of the UCLA Institute of the Environment and sustainability. Steve Boyers described the committee that is in the process of making contact with a variety of officials from surrounding areas. The purpose is to eventually create a series of priorities and objectives for the Palisades to take for its own benefit and preservation (long and short term). Steve introduced Dr. Glen MacDonald who provided a Power Point presentation to the council and community. General Comments: Dr. MacDonald stated that we know that certain gasses (CO2 and methane) in the atmosphere over the world have increased due to the burning of fossil fuels. We know that the chemical measurements have exceeded what is possible from natural variability by a significant amount (1/3 and on the way to being doubled). No one debates that additional CO2 and methane have been added to the atmosphere. The debate is (1) is the planet warming up and (2) are these increased gasses causing the warming? Richard Muller (Berkeley) has been studying the first issue; however, political funding behind this research is notable relative to his data and conclusions. Despite being a skeptic, Muller’s research in the congressional record concluded that earth temperatures have demonstratively increased. On the second point, simple physics shows that by adding these gasses, climate temperatures increase. Relative to the Palisades, what is the impact? (1) Temperature. Only a gentle increase in temperature of one to three degrees by the end of the century thanks to the Pacific Palisades being located next to the Pacific Ocean. Temperatures in the Imperial Valley and Central Valley will be in excess of one hundred degrees, very hot, and the Palisades will feel that affect on food production, (2) Sea Level. The sea level is continuing to increase at a faster and faster rate, five centimeters since 1975 and that is a significant increase in terms of the size of the world’s ocean. Worldwide the sea level impact is projected to be approximately three feet. Impacts will be felt on the Pacific Coast Highway, the San Francisco airport, and real estate values in the Bay Area (3) Water. In general, the southwest has had very dry and warm conditions and the state still gets most of its reservoir water from the Colorado River. California is back into drought conditions and that is very consistent with climate change and climate warming, (4) Fire. The state has had steep fires in every southern California County caused by higher temperature, early snow melt and drier fuel. By the end of the century, the speculation is that we could possibly double our burn areas in the state. Our location by the coast protects us from fires more than other areas, but we should be concerned about increased fire risk. Discussion: Richard Cohen asked if we could state to a scientific certainty that human activity is a factor in global warming. Dr. MacDonald said that humans have played a role in warming based on the existence of gasses in the model but that is not a certainty. Bioengineering approaches are being examined as a solution but the amounts of carbon are so large it would be difficult for this to be a singular solution. Marguerite Perkins Mautner asked about the water rise in the oceans and earlier snow pack melt to help the inland dry areas and our water supply. Dr. MacDonald replied that snow packs are being examined; however, the treatment of ocean salt water for drinking and other urban needs is too expensive to be practical. Paul Glasgall asked about on-going drought years. Dr. MacDonald stated that the long drought is consistent with what the model shows such that by 2050 drought conditions could be the permanent state of existence (rather than the usual five year drought cycle). Jack Allen expressed that with such significant air pollution, water pollution and erosion issues whether or not global warming he wonders if global warming is what is really affecting us.

10.4 Motion in Support of the Enforcement of Volunteered Conditions or “Self Imposed” limitations Relative to Conditional Use Permits (“CUPs”). Guest Speaker: Steve Sann, Chair, Westwood Community Council. Steve began by thanking Richard Cohen, George Wolfberg and Jack Allen for assisting the Westwood Community Council in its formation several years ago. The fact specific situation in Westwood caused the Westwood CC to reach out to other groups on the policy issue and process on working out impacts of proposed developments. It is important that the conditions mutually agreed upon and relied upon by the community in negotiating project approvals with an applicant should be assured and enforced. Voluntary conditions should not be able to be “un-volunteered” by an applicant unilaterally and without findings by the City that there have been changed conditions and circumstances. Discussion: Harry Sondheim expressed that this is a citywide issue and not just of concern for West Los Angeles. Quentin Fleming expressed that volunteered conditions should simply be adhered to regardless of future circumstances. Haldis Toppel asked about simply nullifying the permit or contract when a condition is no longer being met. Steve explained that there are competing state and municipal hearings such that finger pointing can go on which leaves the community with no voice. Action: Richard Cohen moved and Jack Allen seconded the motion. The motion passed.

11. General Public Comment

11.1 Patrick Hart expressed that government officials have the onus for public safety and granting another liquor license where there is over concentration can expose those officials to liability.

12. Adjournment. Janet Turner adjourned the meeting at 9:01 PM.

For additional information about the PPCC, see www.pp90272.org or e-mail PacPaliCC@aol.com Your Community Council meets at 7:00 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month. Exception: Only one meeting, on the second Thursday, is held in July, August, November and December.

Sec. 7.1.1 Golden Sparkplugs

AWARD DEFINITION: The Golden Sparkplug Award honors those citizens who ignite ideas and projects into community action that affect all of us. CRITERIA:

1. The person must have launched a new idea or project of substantial benefit to the Palisades community. 2. The project must have been initiated, in progress, or completed during the previous calendar year. 3. The action must have been voluntary and not related to one's business or occupation.

RECIPIENTS: 1. Both adults and youth are eligible for the award 2. Only one member of a given group or committee

3. Have broad community appeal and represent a cross section of the community 4. Selected based on quality of work versus quantity of nominations

Sec. 10.2 Motion: Pacific Palisades Community Council supports the following WRAC motion:

WRAC MOTION – URGE CITY OF LA REVIEW OF DEIR FOR HINES/BERGAMOT PROJECT AND SUPPORT FOR A MASTER EIR FOR THE BERGAMOT AREA PLAN

In regard to the regional impacts that will result from multiple large development projects pending in the 140 acre Bergamot Area in Santa Monica as shown on the attached Exhibit “1,” including the 7-acre development known as the Hines Bergamot Transit Village at 26th and Olympic Boulevard in Santa Monica, WRAC supports review and comment on the project’s Draft Environmental Impact Report by the City of Los Angeles, by and through its City Attorney, City Council, responsible City departments and CalTrans; and

Further, because the 140-acre Bergamot Area is presently being planned by the City of Santa Monica under a HUD Grant, WRAC supports the need for a comprehensive EIR that fully considers the regional impacts on the City of Los Angeles and that takes into account the cumulative impact of all the major development projects pending in this area as mentioned above.

Sec. 10.4 - MOTION IN SUPPORT OF THE ENFORCEMENT OF VOLUNTEERED CONDITIONS OR "SELF-IMPOSED" LIMITATIONS RELATIVE TO CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS ("CUP"s).

"PPCC supports the enforcement of "self-imposed" limitations by an applicant relative to any CUP applied for and obtained from the City of Los Angeles. Granting any applicant, developer, restaurant, or bar relief from a self-imposed condition that was agreed to by an applicant and the community on projects or developments without the consent of the community, will severely impair the ability of homeowner associations, Community Councils, Neighborhood Councils and others to negotiate in good faith with developers and other applicants with any confidence that the agreed-upon condition would be subsequently sustained and enforced. A self-imposed condition of approval of a CUP should not be revoked except when the circumstances that required the imposition of the condition no longer exist or other mitigation measures are imposed which eliminate the need for the self-imposed condition as reflected by written findings. "

MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 23rd, 2012

Voting Members in Attendance: Janet Turner, Haldis Toppel, Richard Cohen, Ted Mackie, Barbara Kohn, Paul Glasgall, Jack Allen, Stuart Muller, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, George Wolfberg, Barbara Marinacci, Geoff Shelden, Gil Dembo, Joe Almaraz, Harry Sondheim, Aurelia Friedman, Joyce Brunelle
Voting Alternates: John Glasgow, , Steve Boyers
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Flo Elfant, Norma Spak, Schuyler Dietz, Kurt Toppel, Carol Bruch, Quentin Flemming, Ernie Meadows, Bob Locker

Start of Business Meeting 7:00 p.m.

1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission – Ted Mackie

2. Introduction of the Board and Audience

3. Certification of Quorum – the President certified a Quorum

4. Adoption of Minutes – February 9, 2012. Stuart Muller, second Steve Boyers, unanimous

Next Meeting: March 9, 2012 – The President announced that Haldis Toppel will preside over the next meeting on March 8, 2012

5. Consideration of Agenda

6. Treasurer’s Report: USB Checking: $4,584.25, SmithBarney: $18,134.93, Post Office: $1,188.62, Total: 23,907.80

7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns

7.1. Announcements from the President

7.1.1a Sparkplug Award Committee: Richard Cohen – Chair, Ted Mackie, Norma Spack, Aurelia Friedman.

7.1.1b Sparkplug Award Dinner Event Committee: Christy Dennis - Chair, Jim Rea, Haldis Toppel, Andy Frew, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, Kurt Toppel, Cathy Russell

7.1.2 A special LADWP town hall meeting will be held on February 29 at Marquez Charter Elementary School at 6 p.m. PPCC and MKPOA are sponsoring the event. DWP will discuss the need for a new power distribution station in the Palisades, present potential sites, and solicit public input.

7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives 7.2.1 Councilman Rosendahl’s office – Joaquin Macias reported that the signal light at Potrero Canyon will go online within the next day. It is temporary and permitted for one year to allow approximately 200 trucks hauling dirt to enter and leave daily. The permit allows for two 3 month extension for a maximum of 18 months. The light will then be removed.

Paul Glasgall asked how the light was configured. A: Trucks will not be allowed to make right turns. Pending the City-wide Automated Traffic Surveillance and Control System (ATSAC) on March 8, the installation of two above ground control boxes in front of the historic building on Sunset will be held off.

Gil Dembo asked about the control of motorcycles on Sunset. A: There are weekly meetings with Officer Moore and the Council Office.

7.2.2 Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore - no report

7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors – no reports.

8. Reports From Committees no reports

9. Old Business no reports

10. New Business

10.1 Richard Bloom, Mayor of Santa Monica -

Santa Monica Mayor Richard Bloom addressed the PPCC Council and highlighted the progress Santa Monica is making economically and as a leader on environmental issues, not just in the region, but also around the world (noting that Santa Monica is healthy economically). Unemployment rates around the country are about nine percent, while California is around 11 to 12 percent. Tourism has come back in “robust fashion,” noting that $1.2 billion in economic activity, generated by 6.5 million visitors to the city, benefited Santa Monica and the entire Westside last year. Seventy percent of tourists staying in Santa Monica hotels, do not use cars,Additionally, the retail industry in the city has seen growth, while “restaurants are holding their own”. The real news in Santa Monica is the growth in the tech sector, Bloom said. “We have seen an explosion of tech businesses coming into Santa Monica.” By encouraging the entertainment and arts industry growth in the city has attracted the tech segment. The Santa Monica Bike Center is the largest bicycle parking facility in the United States, offering 360 bicycle parking spaces, a space to rent bikes, lockers, bathrooms and showers for cyclists to rinse off after a ride. The city plans to create new bike lanes, and traffic lights are already set up so that when a cyclist stops in a designated area, marked by a logo of a bicyclist, the streetlights are triggered. The bike infrastructure is to encourage more people to use bicycles and goes along with the city's environmental leadership. Bloom also discussed the need for improvements along the beach area between Santa Monica and the Palisades. “First of all we've got to get a pedestrian path built,”' said Bloom, who has been encouraging his staff to look for resources to build the path. Being fiscally healthy as a city is as important to the mayor as being environmentally healthy. In an effort to support environmentally friendly solutions, the city has set a goal to be 100-percent water self-sufficient by 2020 in order to cut down on greenhouse gasses. ”It takes an enormous amount of energy to move water from northern California and then up through the Tehachapi Mountains,” Bloom explained. Other plans to make Santa Monica a greener city include building more electric-vehicle recharging stations and the completion of the Expo light-rail line, between downtown L.A. and Santa Monica, which is expected to be finished in early 2016, Bloom said. The light rail is expected to help ease the growing problem with traffic congestion in Los Angeles, but other measures are needed to reduce the demand on the traffic infrastructure. The City of Santa Monica has plans to ensure that various mixed-use developments being built within the city are not adding to traffic problems, Bloom said. “We do that by encouraging heavy use of the light rail. We do that by focusing all of our development around transit stops and by requiring that mixed-use development be the rule in Santa Monica and not the exception.” Bloom assured the PPCC that Santa Monica will work with the Palisades on issues that directly affect the area, including parking for the light rail, and traffic disruptions or detours created by the California Incline bridge-replacement project. “The Palisades is going to be part of the conversation,” said Bloom, who is running for State Assembly in the new 50th District. “It is Santa Monica's intention to work very closely with you. The Palisades is an extremely important community and things we do in Santa Monica have the potential for having dramatic impacts on you. We continue to be aware of that.” (this portion of the Minutes includes excerpts from the article published in the Palisadian-Post 2/29/2012)

Marguerite Perkins Mautner asked for information on the construction of the California Incline and for plans to address increased traffic in the Santa Monica Canyon and on 7th Street. A: The incline is not earthquake safe and must be rebuilt. The EIR process will be completed in the Fall. Construction starts at the earliest in 2013. Traffic in the Santa Monica Canyon and 7th Street in the Palisades is part of the planning conversation. The Palisades and Santa Monica are partners and we are connected.

Richard Cohen stated that the traffic will have a severe impact on the Palisades. PPCC forwarded a request for 24/7 construction work to shorten the project duration. He suggested an early completion bonus.

Joe Almaraz asked about the impact on traffic with the proposed Bergamont station project. A: An RFP is being drafted to determine the future of Bergamont.

Harry Sondheim referred to the expanding entertainment, arts, and tech employment sector, he asked if Santa Monica can provide sufficient housing for the workers to reduce commuter traffic. A: Santa Monica builds more housing than any other city in Southern California. 26% of traffic is from through-traffic. We built 12,000 low income units in the 12 years that I have been on the Council.

Kurt Toppel asked what the future holds for Santa Monica Airport, will it be closed or remain open. A: The big issues are the jets. The Federal Aviation Agency (FAA) has an enormous influence on the operation of an airport. We are at the tail end of a 30 year contract and are in negotiations. Santa Monica airport has the strongest noise abatement policy in the country. We can improve the airport environment but we cannot eliminate all jet traffic, only some of the noisier ones.

Jack Allen stated that to reduce the load on the infrastructure and traffic, Torrance, Beverly Hills and other cities have “downsized” their zoning. In contrast, Santa Monica has increased their zoning density. A: 96% of the City’s Floor Area Ratio (FAR) will remain unchanged. Santa Monica measures the traffic pattern every two years and makes adjustments when needed. We encourage Los Angeles to look at some of the problem. Santa Monica is an island within LA. When there is a problem elsewhere, the streets and the freeway in Santa Monica back up. Traffic is a collective problem.

Nancy Dolan stated that Santa Monica is a model in many ways but not very pedestrian friendly. A: Efforts are made to slow down traffic and the flashing pedestrian cross walks are very effective.

Patric Hart asked what efforts Santa Monica is making to address the homeless problem, considering the Mayor’s run for 50th District. A: Los Angeles and Santa Monica have a very good working relationship. We are working on programs and the affects have reduced homelessness by 25%. Santa Monica cares about community services. However, we can’t solve the homeless problem by itself, we need assistance from other places.

Paul Glasgall asked how many jobs have been created in Santa Monica and to what extent has traffic increased. What affect will Bergamont have on traffic? A: The objective is to better manage traffic.

Joe Halper asked for an opinion on the Malibu Lagoon Project. A: This was a project of the Coastal Commission, the lagoon has to be restored. The project should start in June.

June Payne asked if Santa Monica plants trees and why it is shutting down a major parking structure. A: The current parking structure is seismically unsafe and must be replaced.

10.2 Wendy Greuel - Los Angeles City Controller

Los Angeles City Controller and mayoral candidate Wendy Greuel gave an overview of budget issues and recent audits she has conducted. She serves as the city's chief auditor and accountant, is responsible for ensuring that taxpayer money is spent wisely. In an effort to exercise fiscal responsibility she is implementing performance-based budgeting, which is changing the way the city prepares its budget. She proposed that the city phase-in performance-based budgeting last October, and would like to use this budgeting strategy in all of the city's departments, but due to staff limitations only two departments, the Planning Department and the Bureau of Street Services, were chosen. Using performance-based budgeting, city departments look at the services they need to provide, and then calculate the cost, as opposed to the traditional line-item approach, in which additions or deletions are made to the prior year's budget. Performance-based budgeting is about how the city uses its scarce resources effectively and holding departments accountable for their performance. Greuel has been the city controller since July 2009, has completed over 50 audits. Her most recent audit of the Los Angeles Department of Animal Services revealed safety and welfare concerns for animals being sheltered by the Department, as well as missed opportunities to collect much-needed revenue due to mismanagement. In four of the six shelters audited, the Department failed to maintain a physical inventory of the animals.
Other findings revealed that over the last two years Los Angeles Animal Services (LAAS) neglected to collect over $1.3 million in potential dog-license revenue. Greuel also highlighted the January audit of the City's Street Furniture contract with CBS Decaux, which uses bus benches and other street furniture for advertising purposes. The city could have received at least $53 million in revenue in the first 10 years, according to the contract, yet the city only realized $29.9 million.

In order to audit the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles, Greuel had to get permission because it is state-chartered and receives substantial funding from the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development. She discovered that hundreds of thousands of dollars in unnecessary travel were being spent, sometimes with no receipts. Upcoming audits on fuel costs and job training money within the city will be forthcoming. On being the city controller, Greuel joked to her audience, “You don't always make friends.” She told the council about running into a woman in an elevator on a Friday night who complimented her on a job well done. Greuel was happy with the praise until the woman asked, “But does anybody like you?” The industry standard is six auditors for every million dollars of your budget. The City of Los Angeles has a $7- billion budget, which means Greuel should have 42 auditors. She makes do with 14 auditors. With so few auditors, Greuel looks for areas in which she can be a catalyst for change. “If we can create jobs in Los Angeles, create revenue, we need to encourage that,” said Greuel, who is an announced candidate in the 2013 mayoral race. “We need to make sure that our departments are providing the kinds of services that are necessary.”(this portion of the Minutes includes excerpts from the article published in the Palisadian-Post 2/29/2012)

Chris Spitz and Jennifer Malaret voiced concerns about putting signs into City Parks in order to increase funds from advertising fees. A: there should be no permanent signs in the City Parks.

George Wolfberg suggested incentives should be given to empower departments such as Recreation & Parksand give them incentives to develop programs to increase their income. Allow them to keep the income that they generate and not take it all away. Reward departments to think out of the box. A: Distribution of money can be a difficult decision. When City property is sold, for example, 50% of the sale goes to the Council Office and the other 50% goes to the City’s General Fund. Perhaps in some cases it should all go to the General Fund since it was purchased with General Fund’s money. When a large piece of property in my District was sold when I was City Council Member, it would have been a substantial windfall for my District, but I decided that it should all go to the General Fund.

Jack Allen stated that DWP salaries are higher than comparable job in other City Departments and should be adjusted. A: DWP competes with private industry for many of its jobs and must find ways to retain its qualified staff. DWP salaries are still below private industry standards. We need to make structural changes.

Richard Cohen mentioned that the City is failing to collect its taxes and fees but continues to increase the license fees to make up for budget shortages. A: The City is getting tougher on its collection process. Criminal and civil charges are currently filed against parking lot operators who have failed to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars in contractual fees.

Janet Turner stated that the City has poor negotiation skills and fails to enforce its contracts. A: Improvements are needed in that area.

Quentin Fleming stated that over 300 hours were spent on studying the AEG contract and asked if the Controller’s Office will be tough on AEG with the enforcement of that contract. A: That contract will be looked at and fully enforced.

10.3a Motion that the Code of Conduct approved on August 11, 2011 be added to Standing Rules as SR # 9. Motion by George Wolfberg, second by Ted Mackie, unanimous

10.3b Motion that the PPCC’s approved Guiding Principles be incorporated into a new appendix to the By Laws that would be titled Appendix D. Motion by George Wolfberg, second by Ted Mackie, unanimous

11. General Public Comment

12. Adjournment

MINUTES FOR MARCH 8th, 2012

Voting Members in Attendance: Haldis Toppel (acting Chair), Ted Mackie, Jennifer Malaret, Richard Cohen, Barbara Kohn, Paul Glasgall, George Wolfberg, Dick Wulliger, Joe Almaraz, Chris Spitz and Donna Vaccarino.

Voting Alternates: Christy Dennis, Robert Baker, Timothy Huber, June Payne,
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Kurt Toppel, Amy Kalp, Norma Spak, Carol Bruch, Steve Cron, John Glasgow, and Quentin Fleming.

Start of Business Meeting:

1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission: Stuart Muller read the Mission Statement.

2. Call to Order and Introduction of the Board and Audience. Haldis Toppel called the meeting to order at 7:08 pm. Introduction of the Board and audience. Haldis announced that Donna Vaccarino was the newly appointed Representative of the Pacific Palisades Civic League, replacing Carl Mellinger.

3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present at 7:12 pm.

4. Adoption of Minutes. George Wolfberg moved and Stuart Muller seconded the motion to defer adoption of the February 23, 2012 minutes until the next meeting. The motion to defer adoption of the minutes was approved unanimously. The next meeting is March 22, 2011.

5. Consideration of Agenda. The Chair considered the agenda.

6. Treasurer’s Report. Ted Mackie reported the financial status as of March 8, 2012. The total account balances equal $23,312,89, which consist of USB Checking $4,139.22, Smith Barney account $17,985.05 and Post Office account $1,188.62.

7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns

7.1. Announcements from the Chair

7.1.1 Sparkplug Winners for This Year – Haldis Toppel announced that these awards would be given the same night as the Citizen of the Year award at the American Legion. Sam Lagana will receive the award for his two years of work in getting the storm drains opened by the City that were malfunctioning in hillside areas. Kelly Comras will receive an award for beautifying the landscaping at Fire Station 23 and the Castle Rock Beach. Finally, Colleen McAndrews Wood will be recognized for saving a portion of Lot 30 adjacent to the historic Marquez family cemetery and fronting San Lorenzo Street assuring the preservation of the view of this historic landmark

7.1.2 Officer Nomination Committee,– Haldis Toppel announced the appointments by Janet Turner as follows: Richard Cohen (Chair), George Wolfberg, and Stuart Muller. Richard Cohen explained that the nominating committee would present its list of candidates at the first meeting in May 2012. Any Board Member is free to nominate a candidate up until nominations are closed just before the election. The election will be held during the first meeting in June 2012 and terms for the new officers will begin on July 1, 2012.

7.1.3 Palisades Jr. Women’s Club (PJWC) Grant Awards – Haldis Toppel announced that the PJWC gave awards to over 20 Palisades organizations including the PPCC ($975 in proceeds to be used for wireless microphones). The PJWC also awarded $3,644 of monies for the new LAPD Facility at the Palisades Recreation Center for telephone/DSL expenses and the installations of security cameras and security lighting in the park. As part of the Grant request, ACS had committed to provide a matching donation amount of up to $3,000 to be used towards the installation of security cameras at Palisades Park. Haldis expressed the PPCC’s gratitude for the generosity of PJWC and also to our community which gives generously to the PJWC.

7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives

7.2.1 Councilman Rosendahl’s office – Joaquin Macias. (1) There was a meeting this past week with Stuart Muller, Paul Glasgall, CD-11 and ATSAC (Automated Traffic System and Control) representatives. Two old light standards on Sunset were removed at Stuart’s request. The control box that had been previously planned in front of the Historic Building was agreed to be relocated. CD-11 acknowledged these efforts to accommodate requests in the last several months. (2) Verizon Cell Tower on Palisades Drive – Verizon agreed to move the pole of the appealing neighbor further away from their residence and CD-11 is pleased that a consensual agreement was reached. (3) Castellemmare developments – there are four or five projects proposed and residents are concerned with haul routes, development, etc. LADBS does not have a procedure to tie these projects in together, so CD-11 will monitor the totality of the situation. Barbara Kohn asked CD-11 to look at whether or not CEQA would apply. (4) Rustic Canyon Prop K Projects – the ball fields have been completed and the fence should come down by 04.01.2012. Fixing the concrete around the park and access road should start later this month. George Wolfberg asked about tying the irrigation at the corner of the Clubhouse into the timer; CD-11 was not aware that this work was part of the scope and George insisted that it has always been part of the work required. (5) Palisades Sewer Repair – know that there will be no street repaving this fiscal year on the streets affected by the sewer repair. It is supposed to be that streets on the schedule, deferred due to the sewer repair, will be rescheduled for the first available fiscal year. (6) Traffic Signal Complaints – Chautauqua and PCH reduced timing. Complaints have been heard and a few extra seconds on the green light will be given except during rush hours where consideration of traffic on the 405 is prioritized which creates a spill-over on PCH. (7) Swarthmore Flooding – CD-11 has requested a storm drain ($500,000) be built for the low area that floods. Design should be completed this month and the drain should hopefully be installed before the next rainy season. CD-11 will explore removal of the existing sandbags other than when they are needed due to weather.

7.2.2 Sr. Lead Officer Chris Ragsdale for Michael Moore – (1) the Palisades has seen a significant increase in burglaries, particularly in areas north of Sunset in the western areas of the Palisades. There have been two arrests recently but there are multiple people or “crews” working our area. “Knock-Knock” burglaries are on the rise where criminals knock on the front door and if there is no answer then they go to a side or rear door to gain entry. Amy Kalp reported a briefing she attended where the increase in crime has been attributed to the state mandated early release of prisoners who often deployed into residential areas, are re-arrested and are not monitored. LAPD suggested safety measures are: motion sensor lights, make your presence known if there is a knock on the door, don’t give out information to anonymous callers, ensure that doors and windows have working locks and consider a dog because dogs are great deterrents. (2) Donna Vaccarino asked about increased patrol of the bluff areas where people gather at night and leave evidence of alcohol, trash, drug use, etc. Chris stated that the bluffs and beach areas are priorities in terms of consistent patrol; however, department resources continue to be strained.

7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors

7.3.1 Motorcycles Update, CPAB report (Amy Kalp, Paul Glasgall) – See Item 7.2.2 above. Amy Kalp reported in addition that the budget problems are significant and we are losing 300-600 officers per year. Paul Glasgall deferred the balance of the report to the next PPCC meeting.

7.3.2 Recreation & Parks (Jennifer Malaret) – Jennifer (1) thanked Kurt and Haldis Toppel for their dedication and commitment over many years towards getting the police facility constructed and fundraising efforts, (2) announced the start of baseball season and the Pancake Breakfast this Saturday, March 10th from 7:30 – 10 AM, and (3) advised that in the event of an injury or property damage at the park the Park Director is required to fill out an Incident Report when negative events occur. Jennifer asked for increased public awareness of reporting negative incidents or injuries at the park so that complete and accurate records can be maintained.

7.3.3 DWP Town Hall Meeting on the New Power Distribution Station (Christy Dennis) – Presentation: Christy Dennis read the following “Meeting Summary” report, authored by Janet Turner (PPCC President), Christy Dennis (MKPOA President) and Haldis Toppel (MKPOA Vice President, PPCC Vice President): The DWP Town Hall meeting at Marquez Elementary School on Wednesday, February 29, was organized and coordinated by DWP to inform the community about the plans, and potential sites of building a power substation in the Palisades, as well as getting community feedback. PPCC and MKPOA were asked by Councilman Bill Rosendahl's office and DWP to sponsor the meeting, assist DWP with public notification and with speaker arrangements during the meeting. DWP first gave a presentation about the need for additional power in the Palisades, discussed specifications of a distribution substation and showed potential sites researched by DWP. DWP stated its first choice for a distribution station is the State Park land behind Fire Station 23; the second location is on property adjacent to Marquez Elementary School which is owned by DWP. DWP stated that other parcels had been evaluated throughout the area but were found to be unsuitable. There were over 200 people from throughout the community (and beyond) that attended the DWP Town Hall meeting including a reporter from the Palisadian Post. More than 30 speakers expressed very diverse opinions. Many identified themselves as attorneys, physicians, parents, teachers and environmentalists. Every member of the audience was given the opportunity to speak. Neighbors and parents of children attending Marquez Elementary spoke out against building a substation near the school. Many cited concerns about EMF dangers. Advocates of Los Liones Canyon and the Chabad Preschool spoke against building a substation near the fire station and against the use of State Park Land. A few speakers did support the use of that property. The message to DWP was clear to continue to look for suitable sites other than near Fire Station 23 and near Marquez Elementary School. The DWP officials requested that the community submit alternate sites for investigation over the next two weeks and also stated that a full EIR and required public hearings will be conducted before a power distribution substation can be built in the Palisades. Discussion: (1) Referring to the DWP proposal to use public land in Los Liones Canyon behind Fire Station 23, Ted Mackie reported that Temescal Canyon Association is not in favor of giving up parkland for this facility. DWP has approached the state parks twice already and has been rejected so Ted would hope that this option is off the table. (2) Norma Spak agreed with Ted. Norma stated that she was surprised that state parkland was discussed by DWP or the residents as an option given past discussions and commitments on the preservation of park land, and the 10 years of community effort that went into saving Los Liones Canyon as a public park. Haldis Toppel agreed with Norma and stated that it was important to caution against the use of public land because of the precedent – meaning that once you breach public land it is easy to do again. (3) John Glasgow asked about the size of the distribution station. Christy Dennis said that the new substation may be similar to the one on Sunset Boulevard in the Palisades village, referring to the capacity of under 50 kv. Referring to physical size, Haldis said current plans are that the new station will be roughly 23 feet high above the ground and perhaps 23 feet under ground, but actual dimensions are not known at this point. Haldis received information that at the Marquez site all of the flat land will be used and the building will then be stepped down into the canyon because it requires at least 1.2 acres. (4) Joycee Wong-Kup, a Marquez Knolls resident, said that DWP needs to step-up increased effort to find alternative sites other than the Marquez Ave. and Los Liones state park because these two sites are obviously poor choices. (5) Shirley Haggstrom stated she attended the DWP meeting and that, in her opinion, that this was not a town hall meeting at all. Ms. Haggstrom reported her impression that this was a protest meeting, complete with signs and speaker after speaker identifying themselves as attorneys against the DWP’s proposed use of the site on Marquez Ave. Some Marquez Residents said "We don't want the project in our neighborhood so let's put it in yours." As one who has worked in that State Park for 10-12 years, I felt insulted. (5a) Haldis Toppel apologized for such statements of confrontational opinions by anyone and said that such divisive statements should never be made. She asked who made such statements. (5b) Shirley Haggstrom replied that this statement was made by some speakers who expressed their opposition to the use of the Marquez site. (5c) Haldis Toppel said that she did not hear this but that she will listen to the recoding of the meeting. (5d) Shirley Haggstrom questioned the appropriateness of PPCC participating in this Town Hall meeting and lending its name to the advertisement of the event. Several Board members voiced similar concerns. (7) Richard Cohen asked that the record be clear and reflect that the PPCC has not taken a position for or against either of the two locations and in case that any statements were made by anyone on the PPCC Board at the DWP meeting, they were personal opinions and not positions of this Board. (8) Haldis Toppel explained that Janet Turner had consulted with the Executive Committee on PPCC’s involvement with the event and that the Executive Committee had suggested various options of participation. Haldis explained that Janet was currently in Europe and that she could not speak for Janet on this issue in any more detail. (9) Jennifer confirmed that Janet had conferred with the Executive Committee (Janet Turner, Richard Cohen, Haldis Toppel, George Wolfberg, Jennifer Malaret, Ted Mackie and Dick Wulliger) (10) Haldis Toppel pointed out that this debate had moved away from the issue of site selection by DWP and had reached a discussion of the process for holding Town Hall meetings. She acknowledged that this appears to be an issue of concern and stated that the process for such meetings must be addressed at a separate Board meeting.
7.3.4Dangerous Intersection at Sunset and Castellammare (Carol Bruch) – see New Business, Item 10.1 below.

8. Reports From Committees

8.1 Sparkplug Award and Dinner Committee (Christy Dennis) – Christy reported that the event is being planned. Anyone who wishes to volunteer is encouraged to contact Christy directly.

8.2 Newsletter Update (Christy Dennis) – Christy thanked the committee for involvement and asked Board Members for contributions to the newsletter.

8.3 Bergamont Station (LUC) – George reiterated that Councilmember Rosendahl has asked for a DOT report. So far, the report states that there are many intersections that will be impacted by this large project. There are nine (9) intersections in West Los Angeles that cannot be mitigated according to the DOT. All members of the Westside Regional Alliance of Councils (“WRAC”) are concerned with the impacts.

9. Old Business – none.

10. New Business

10.1 Manoochehr Adhamiwil, DOT / Michael May, District Engineer – City-wide Automated Traffic Surveillance and Control System (ATSAC) – construction on Sunset. Presentation. For additional information visit http://pp90272.blogspot.com/2011/10/streamling-traffic-signals-on-sunset.html or go to http://trafficinfo.lacity.org. Presentation: ATSAC is a computer based, centrally controlled traffic system. For example, every intersection along Sunset Blvd. will “talk to each other” and then eventually talk to the control center downtown in City Hall East. Rather than sending an electrician out to physically open the signal boxes if signal time needed to be adjusted, the system allows personnel to do that automatically from downtown. There are 4,400 signals citywide and monitoring the signals is arranged into clusters of 40-60 lights based on the communities in which they are located. 4,000 traffic signals are currently linked into the system and only 40 left to be connected, including those in the Palisades. The total project cost of the Palisades and Canyon clusters are $6 million with $3.9 million required for the Palisades alone. Currently, thirteen (13) speed feed back locations are operational. Purpose/Advantages: to maintain traffic flow and reasonable mobility at an appropriate speed on streets throughout the city. The Palisades system is very old and required upgrading, including the removal of old poles and signals that cannot withstand current wind standards (100 mph). Questions: (1) George Wolfberg asked about the light at Chautauqua and PCH that is not a DOT light. It is a CalTrans light. George asserted that improved infrastructure is needed at this location. (2) Richard Cohen asked about the damage to Sunset Boulevard and the temporary fill in the trenching which is very dangerous to cars, motorcycles and bikes. DOT responded that temporary patch was used or that the problem would be a failure of a completed trench. Either way if there is hazard, then DOT will look at the area and take care of it right away. Else, DOT will remove the temporary patch and will then complete permanent asphalt which in our area is expected June 2013. (3) Donna Vaccarino asked about the surveillance aspects of the system. DOT said that no one had access to the images available and the images are limited solely to traffic conditions. (4) Ted Mackie asked about digital displays of speed feedback. DOT said that studies show that motorists slow down in response to these signs. These signs are not wired into the ATSAC system. (5) Carol Bruch reported the most recent accident at Castellammare and Sunset, outside the Vons Grocery store in which a man sped through the light, struck and killed a dog and almost killed the dog’s owner. Speeding through this light is a problem with motorists trying to “hit” the light at PCH. Carol asked if there is surveillance tape on this intersection, synchronizing green lights at Sunset/Castellammare and Sunset/PCH, and/or if a warming light of some sort is justified at this location. DOT said they are willing to talk to CalTrans about whether the two lights can be synchronized green at similar times; however, PCH timing cannot be synchronized because of the length of the red light for Sunset as PCH has priority. Barbara Kohn asked about coordinating the Los Liones light as well. DOT agreed to look into whether the three traffic lights in question are, or can be, coordinated. Stuart advocated increasing driver awareness of this signal in terms of size or otherwise to stop the eye from going past this light towards PCH when traveling down Sunset. (6) Richard Cohen asked about the traffic light at Sunset and Will Rogers that is a “rest on red” light that seems almost punitive at times and wondered if this light would be coordinated. DOT said the system will not be intentionally slowing traffic, however the “rest in red” lights will remain in operation. (7) Don McCourt, a resident, asked what was being built in front of his house near Fire Station 69. DOT responded that it was a “hub” box to help connect the system to downtown and that this box is specially designed to be far smaller than the hubs installed in other locations. DOT said that they were aware of the residents concern and have left space for landscaping. The resident objected to the installation with no building permit, the installation in an R-1 zone, installation within the set back, installation on public property v. public right of way, installation of equipment including air conditioning, generator, etc. DOT said it would correct any permit defects and that the equipment does not run continuously or is loud in anyway. Mr. McCourt asked the PPCC for help to intervene with the installation of this large ATSAC box in front of his house and asked DOT not to proceed beyond the current excavation until this issue can be resolved. Haldis Toppel asked him for contact information.

10.2 Mary Hopf, Palisades Librarian, names Michelle Bitting, Poet Laureate of Pacific Palisades – Mary introduced Michelle Bitting who has tremendous training and education in the arts. Michelle is a published book author and has received numerous awards. Her latest book “Notes to the Beloved” is a stunning collection of poems, yearning for self and finding a place in the universe. Michelle has been a featured speaker at many academic forums and has been in the American Poetry review that is a very prestigious publication. Mary Hopf presented Michelle with the award, honor and title of “Pacific Palisades Poet Laureate”. Michelle thanked the council for making time for poetry tonight. Ruth Lorens was the past Poet Laureate of the Palisades in the ‘70’s and ‘80’s and Michelle looked up her poem “Epitaph for Myself”. Like Ruth, Michelle is also dedicated to outreach, community service, and workshops with the incarcerated and volunteer teaching in schools.

11. General Public Comment – None.

12. Adjournment. Haldis Toppel adjourned the meeting at 9:18 PM.

MINUTES FOR MARCH 22nd, 2012

Voting Members in Attendance: Janet Turner, Haldis Toppel, Jennifer Malaret, Richard Cohen, Barbara Kohn, Paul Glasgall, Harry Sondheim, Jack Allen, George Wolfberg, Barbara Marinacci, Geoff Shelden, Donna Vaccarino, Carol Pfankuche, Gil Dembo, Chris Spitz, and Schuyler Dietz.
Voting Alternates: John Glasgow, and Cathy Russell.
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Flo Elfant, Kurt Toppel, Amy Kalp, Carol Bruch, and Bob Locker.

Start of Business Meeting

1.0 Reading of Community Council’s Mission: Harry Sondheim read the Mission Statement.

2.0 Call to Order and Introduction of the Board and Audience. Janet Turner called the meeting to order at 7:03 pm. Introduction of the Board and audience.

3.0 Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present at 7:06 pm.

4.0 Adoption of Minutes. George Wolfberg moved and Haldis Toppel seconded the adoption of the minutes for February 23, 2012. The minutes were adopted with one abstention. George Wolfberg moved adoption of the March 8, 2012 minutes, with further revision and correction of a reference to the Department of Recreation and Parks. Haldis Toppel seconded adoption of the minutes. The minutes were adopted with four abstentions. The next meeting is April 12, 2012.

5.0 Consideration of Agenda. The Chair considered the agenda.

6.0 Treasurer’s Report. Janet Turner read Ted Mackie’s report of the financial status as of March 22, 2012. The total account balances equal $23,308.89, which consist of USB Checking $4,135.22, Smith Barney account $17,985.05 and the Post Office account of $1,188.62.

7.0 Reports, Announcements and Concerns

7.1. Announcements from the Chair

7.1.1 Updates & Clarifications – Janet Turner explained that it’s the Council’s mission to be a forum for the discussion of issues and that we welcome City agencies informing us in advance of their plans that affect Pacific Palisades, unlike what happened with the ATSAC. She expressed her desire to clarify the process regarding the recent DWP substation presentation. DWP asked if they could make their presentation at PPCC and have residents come and voice their questions and concerns. This is something we often do with City agencies. However they needed 2-3 hours. Janet stated that she consulted with the Executive Committee who’s members agreed that the meeting should be held at a different time and location and that PPCC should have a presence. Janet told the board on February 23 that she would be there representing PPCC. CD-11 then asked Janet if PPCC could be listed as one of the “hosts” of the DWP meeting. Simply because PPCC hosted the DWP meeting, similar to the Fire Station 69 cutback meeting, does not mean that PPCC supported or not supported the DWP’s presentation. Janet expressed that she put PPCC’s name on the flyer to reflect the council’s presence at the DWP’s presentation and that it was her plan to bring the DWP issues back to PPCC’s entire Board for discussion. Janet reiterated to the Board that no stand on the DWP substation had been taken on behalf of PPCC. Janet clarified that she never spoke at the meeting and that her comments published in the Palisadian Post were personal comments and not statements made on behalf of PPCC.

7.1.2 WRAC Town Hall Meeting with Wendy Greuel – Janet Turner reported that this meeting would be taking place on Monday, April 16, 2012 from 6-8 pm at Stoner Recreation Center, 1835 Stoner Avenue, Los Angeles, CA.

7.1.3 Special Guests on April 12 – Janet Turner announced that CA Assemblywoman Betsy Butler will be attending our next meeting. CEQA will be a topic on the agenda and Janet asked the Board to submit any other ‘state’ issues for the agenda. Tentative guests are USPS Bridget Williams, Regional Director and Kim Faulkner PP interim postmaster; once confirmed PPCC will advise the Post to publish notice of these speakers so that residents can attend the PPCC meeting and discuss any issues with the postmaster.

7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives
7.2.1 Councilman Rosendahl’s office – Joaquin Macias. Joaquin reported that (1) DWP Substation – Councilmember met today with a group of Marquez Charter Elementary School parents (essentially eight attorneys) and DWP representatives relative to the substation proposal at the Marquez Avenue site. Joaquin invited representatives from Area 1 and Area 3 to attend a CD-11 meetings on this topic scheduled for May 10, 2012 to discuss alternative locations. Richard Cohen reported that he spoke with DWP officials who stated that the state parkland officials will absolutely not allow use of the parkland by Fire Station 23. Richard said that it may be possible to expand the existing Santa Ynez station in the Highlands, near the reservoir, and that location may have a much lower impact on the community. Richard stated that they are also looking at La Pulgas Canyon in the area accessed from PCH. Paul Glasgall asked to attend the May 10th CD-11 meeting if the Highlands was being considered for the location of the substation. He was invited to join the May 10 meeting. Carol Bruch suggested that Mr. Coaloa’s land could be considered for the substation. Other Board members discussed the Dick Jones property nearby which now has a new buyer (Barbara Kohn stated that she just read in the LA Times of a new Negative Mitigated Declaration for the former Jones property). Chris Spitz reiterated that the PPCC has not reached any conclusion about where this substation should be anywhere in the Palisades. Joaquin asked Board Members to submit any and all locations that they thought the DWP should be considering. (2) Sylmar Ground – Gil Dembo asked about the status. Joaquin will follow up. (3) Potrero Canyon – there is still no determination about bringing in the fill for Phases 2 and 3. Engineering must figure out if there will be an approved change order for extra fill to bring in and store on-site. In response to George Wolfberg’s statement that he thought this was finalized, Joaquin stated that this change order is not final. Construction is moving along fine. (4) Castellemare projects – CD-11 is looking at haul routes for 4-5 projects and is looking at them as a whole, though they are legally separate projects. CD-11 is working with LADBS. Chris Spitz stated that some of these projects will be on the LUC agenda on April 5, 2012 and welcomed Joaquin and all board members to attend the LUC’s meeting at 12:30 at the Library. (5) ATSAC Presentation – Joaquin clarified that they are following up on the resident’s concern expressed at PPCC’s last meeting regarding the equipment that is going near Fire Station 69. Gil Dembo expressed that the installation is out of character for Station 69 and the installation should be placed in back or landscaped. CD-11 has been contacted by Fiske Street residents who are concerned; Joaquin will forward that information to the Area 5 representatives. Joaquin will have a more detailed report once LADBS weighs in about what can be built or not built. (6) CCFO – Joaquin reported that Councilmember Rosendahl has concerns about voting in favor of the ordinance because it is too broad and affects services that it was not intended to affect. For example, programs for the homeless where single leases are required. Jennifer Malaret asked Joaquin to report back to the council about the status of Rosendahl’s own City Council Motion that had directed LADBS and Planning to meet with the City Attorney regarding enforcement. Joaquin stated that he would report back to the council. Chris Spitz expressed her concerns having attended the recent CCFO Hearing where the bulk of the testimony continued to be emotional concerns rather than an accurate understanding of the ordinance and the very negative affects of boarding homes on many stakeholders and communities throughout Los Angeles.

7.2.2 Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore – (1) by way of follow-up to Flora Gil Kristoff’s efforts to get social service assistance for our homeless, Officer Moore did outreach today with eleven homeless persons, and some were willing to accept assistance. Officer Moore felt the homeless were very receptive to our outreach efforts and social workers from Los Angeles Country will start meeting personally with homeless members beginning next week. Carol Bruch asked where the homeless are residing. Officer Moore stated that it is near PCH in the canyon areas near Chautauqua, Temescal Canyon and Sunset Boulevard. George Wolfberg reported that a resident raised a concern regarding homeless people in the West Channel tunnel. Officer Moore said that he’d follow-up on that but the presence may be due to the recent rain and cold weather. Barbara Kohn asked about resident concerns about homeless in the bluffs near Corona del Mar. Officer Moore said that they are looking at the big blue tarp trying to determine if it is on private property or CalTrans property and determined that it is on private property of a home that is for sale. Chris Spitz asked about certain individuals that are at the PCH and Chautauqua Blvd. intersection and whether they will receive outreach because of the traffic danger; (2) Home Break-Ins – Officer Moore stated that home break-ins had a 450% increase at the beginning of the year but they have tapered off a bit since the beginning of the year but car break-ins are on the rise. The police have a good handle on who is causing the residential burglaries and are making arrests and are monitoring them. Officer Moore encouraged residents to be diligent instead of having apathy about locking their locks and doors and keeping their properties safe; (3) Wednesday Night Motorcycles – Officer Moore was taking a report and heard the motorcycles at approximately 12:50 AM. Officer Moore is continuing to work the problem. An audience member asked if anyone has tried talking to them as a group. Officer Moore said that there have been past effort; however the problem is that there are many, many motorcycle clubs and it might work for one night but that is all. Carol Bruch asked about a noise ordinance. Amy Kalp stated that there are efforts underway to address these concerns.

7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors

7.3.1 Police and Public Safety (Amy Kalp, Paul Glasgall) – Paul Glasgall stated that he and Amy Kalp attended the C-PAB meeting several weeks ago. Paul stated that it was notable that Assistant Police Chief Michael Moore (no relation to SLO Moore) was honest and direct about how the bad economy coupled with the city budget deficit are not going to keep up with the affect of early prisoner releases. The Assistant Chief said that he was looking for an “explosion” in crime and that crime is statistically up quite a bit. Paul stated that the Assistant Chief also spoke about (1) disaster preparedness, including earthquake preparedness, and the (2) “ring of fire”, meaning that this year’s fire dangers are the highest we have seen since the Bel Air fires. Flo Elfant expressed that she has been disseminating information from 1988 about disaster preparedness and asks every resident in the Palisades to assume their own responsibility for disaster preparedness. Barbara Kohn reminded Board members that there will be a total evacuation of Topanga Canyon the last weekend in April 2012 from approximately 8 am to noon. This is an annual event but includes a complete evacuation in anticipation of this year being the worst fire risk in years. The impact on PCH is unknown.

7.3.2 Pacific Palisades PAB Update – Jennifer Malaret reported that the next regularly scheduled quarterly meeting would take place on April 25, 2012 in the small gym at the Recreation Center at 7 PM. The public is welcome to attend. The Board will be installing new Youth Representative on the Park Advisory Board. The Park Director and Board would like input from the teen community on our special events, long term master plan and how to continue improving our park. There is a plan to start a “teen council” because a number of teens have expressed an interest in becoming involved.

7.3.3 Air Quality Conference – George Wolfberg reported that he attended a meeting in Fresno sponsored by the San Joaquin Air Quality District. The area suffers from a persistent inversion layer and has among the worst air pollution in the state. The focus of the conference was to address air pollution caused by lawn care activities, most specifically from leaf blowers and other equipment with two cycle engines. Leaf blowers pollute the air both through the activation of their engine and the materials that they blow into the air. Concerns included use near schools and public rights of way where pedestrians and bicyclists are exposed. There were citizens, scientists and city officials in attendance from throughout the state. There was a demonstration of electric lawn mowers, edgers, saws and blowers powered by lithium batteries.

7.3.4 DWP Scattergood Line EIR – there will be a hearing at WLA, April 11, 2012 at 5:30 PM with the presentation starting at 6:30 PM. The new transmission line will run from near LAX to the corner of Olympic and Centinela and will be underground with the installation impacting major roads. Any Board Members are welcome to contact George Wolfberg.

8. Reports From Committees

8.1 CSBC – Report on Budget Day (George Wolfberg) – George reported that he and Quentin Fleming attended the Mayor’s Budget Day event at City Hall with over 100 other council members from throughout the City. During the break out session, Jay Handal made a presentation reporting that Councilmember Parks will not be in charge of the Budget Committee; Councilmember Kerkorian will be the new Budget Committee Chair. Budget Survey results distinguished West Los Angeles from other areas because of WLA’s predominant concern over traffic.

8.2LUC – Chris Spitz reported that she and Janet Turner attended the PLUM Hearing on March 20th at City Hall regarding the CCFO Ordinance. Concerns that we have suggested have not been addressed and recent modification to the ordinance in the opinion of the PPCC weaken the ordinance. Opposition is very strong, with Councilmember Alarcon speaking out against it. There was no result at the end of the session other than closed session to discuss litigation. Jennifer Malaret reported that PPCC had submitted a letter in support of the ordinance but against new changes that have been recommended by the Planning Department. The three positions recently advocated by the PPCC were that: (1) there must continue to be a “lease limit” measure in the definition of what constitutes a single housekeeping unit because it is an objective measure of enforcement, (2) the definition of a boarding house should continue to be 2 or more leases and not 3 or more leases or 5 or more leases, and (3) the definition of “parolee/probationer” home should not be deleted from the ordinance because independent of zoning issues, the definition provides an additional enforcement tool in the determination of what is a single housekeeping unit. The next PLUM Hearing on the matter will be April 10, 2012 in closed session.

8.3 PPCC Newsletter (Christy Dennis, Janet Turner) – there is outreach going on with Board members soliciting articles for the newsletter.

9.0 Old Business.

LAFD New Response Statistics (Janet Turner) – Janet Turner reported on recent articles regarding the mis-statement of LAFD response times. LAFD told City Council last year that they answer responses in 5 minutes 80% of the time. It was just revealed that this statistic was a computer projection. The actual data show that this response time is met 60% of the time. The City Council has gotten angry as did the Mayor today. LAFD has stopped releasing information, stating that it violates the right to privacy of medical records. The LA Times, Steve Lopez, reported that it takes 3.5 minutes just for the call to be taken and get the truck out the door where a person will be brain dead in 4-6 minutes. Janet expressed her concern about future budget cuts to the fire and police departments.

10. New Business – None.

11. General Public Comment

11.1 An audience member asked if we knew when Verizon might provide Fios. Richard Cohen stated that Verizon had contacted the community many years ago and the community was opposed to the large boxes that would be required in the public rights of way.

12. Adjournment. Janet Turner adjourned the meeting at 8:36 PM.

MINUTES FOR APRIL 12th, 2012

Voting members in attendance: Janet Turner, Richard Cohen, Joyce Brunelle, Barbara Marinacci, Goeff Shelden, Richard Wulliger, Barbara Kohn, Chris Spitz, Stuart Miller, George Wolfberg, Haldis Toppel, Ted Mackie, Margueritte Perkins Mautner, Joe Almaraz, Jack Allen, Gil Dembo, Harry Sondheim, Jim Rea, Carol Pfannkuche, Donna Vaccarino, Aurelia Friedman

Non-voting members in attendance: John Glasgow, Kurt Toppel, Norma Spak, Carol Bruch, Amy Kalp, Quentin Fleming

The Chair called the meeting to order at 7:00

1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission – Chris Spitz

2. Introduction of the Board and Audience

3. Certification of Quorum – The chair certified the presence of a quorum

4. Adoption of Minutes of March 22,2012, was moved by George Wolfberg and seconded by Gil Dembo Next Meeting is on May 10, 2012

5. Consideration of Agenda - The chair considered the agenda.

6. Treasurer’s Report – $3,818 in Checking, $18,135 in Smith Barney, and $1,289 in the post office account, for a total of $23,242.

7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns

7.1. Announcements from the Chair

7.1.1 Announce Election Committee for Area Rep Elections - Chris Spitz, Chair

7.1.2 Newsletter will go in the mail on Friday. Postal officials assure us that newsletter will be favorably handled.

7.1.3 Sparkplug Awards and Citizen of the Year Dinner is April 26. Honoring George Wolfberg and Sparkplug recipients. Purchase tickets soon to avoid disappointment.

7.1.4 Special Welcome to Boy Scout Troop 23

7.1.4 On April 28 from 10 am to 2 pm, the DEA will have a national take-back day for prescription medicines. The closest take back site to the Palisades is on 666 Olympic Blvd., the Santa Monica police station.

7.1.5 John Glasgow has been appointed to the LUC.

7.1.6 Haldis Toppel to chair the holiday party committee.

7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives 7.2.1 Councilman Rosendahl’s office – Norman Kulla reports: The city is starting budget season. CD 11 seeks to restore full service of Fire Station 69. A Town Hall is scheduled on Monday April 16, at which LAUSD representative Steve Zimmer will speak at Marquez Charter Elementary School re DWP distribution station. The meeting will serve as forum for citizens to express opinions on the matter. Rosendahl has taken the position of urging the DWP to seek an alternate site to the one adjacent to the Marquez school. CD 11 office was informed that due to budget matters West L.A. zoning hearings will henceforth be held downtown, not at W.L.A. Civic Center. Rosendahl co-authored a motion denouncing this. Valley hearings will still be held.

7.2.2 Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore is on assignment - Amy Kalp reports: Amy and Janet met with Chief Beck at a YMCA breakfast. The monthly traffic committee meeting was held yesterday. Traffic collisions are up 6%. Recent ticket taskforce on Sunset Blvd. wrote 260 tickets, mostly for speeding. Flash mob parties can erupt facilitated by social media use by teens. Please report such activity by calling 911. Warning about knock-knock burglaries. Crime up 450% in our area in recent period. Capt. Crump of West Traffic will be at PPCC meeting on May 10th.

7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors

7.3.1 Historical Society Fund Raiser. Dick Wulliger – On Monday, April 23 at 7:00 PM at Theatre Palisades author Jason Felch will talk about the book and story of “Chasing Aphrodite”, which he co-wrote. Felch will autograph books and discuss the compelling story. Also on May 8, Randy Young will speak at an Historical Society event which is open to the public and free.

7.3.2 Palisades Chamber and The Palisades Optimist Event: Joyce Brunelle – Saturday, April 21st, the Optimists and the Chamber are sponsoring a wine tasting fund raiser at the Lutheran Church.

7.3.3 Janet Turner reports that Wendy Gruel will appear at a WRAC town hall meeting on Monday, April 16. Details to follow.

8. Reports From Committees

8.1 LUC - 17000 Sunset Project Preliminary Mtg with LUC.

Chris reports that the LUC favors a focused EIR for this project and due to an imminent deadline a letter approved by Executive Committee was sent asking for such. Developer wishes to speak to PPCC, probably in May.

Cell Tower approved East of Capri in the Riviera - Chris Spitz – this is an old issue from 2010. Tower was approved for east of Capri, south side of Sunset, near the existing monopole antenna.

9. Old Business

10. New Business

10.1 Assemblywoman Betsy Butler – She has served in Assembly since December 2010 representing the Marina, Venice, West LA area down through the South Bay Beach Cities and Lomita. She favors environmental issues and once served as trade rep for President Clinton. She has emphasized environmental issues. She introduced a bill to address elder abuse and identity theft. Elder care and elder care abuse is a concern of hers. She favored a system of special treatment of veterans accused of petty crimes to address their mental health issues and take account of their special needs. She is introducing a bill to require improved conditions for farm workers. She is running for re-election in newly created district which includes our area. She asks for our support. She has turned attention to PCH safety issues including pedestrian and bike safety. She opposes offshore oil drilling. Huge budget cuts have fallen largely on education. She favors restoration of funding for education. She serves on Aerospace Committee and sees a need for improved technology training. She favors the Governor’s budget initiative and distributed a petition to get it on the ballot.

Question: What does she think about attempts to weaken CEQA? She favored the football stadium bill. Some streamlining may be in order, consistent with clean water and other important issues. She feels that the environment and economy can both be protected simultaneously. She supported AB 900 and SB 292 (the stadium bill). She feels that these bills will still protect the environment while allowing economic development, her goal is to foster both.

Question: would you author a bill to ban automated enforcement of traffic violations for revenue raising purposes? How can we get some oversight of MRCA, which is answerable to no one? She did not directly answer either question.

Question: State budget is required to be balanced. What is your plan to achieve this? Answer: Trigger cuts and additional revenues are possible approaches. The 2/3 rule has stood in the way of additional revenue, which is critical to a balanced budget. In the next election the Democrats may pick up 2/3 majority of Democrats which would enable possible tax increases. She favors possible initiatives for increased taxes.

Question: Prop 13? Complicated issue – Corporations should pay their fair share.

Question: Motorcycle noise enforcement? – Enforcement in many areas is inadequate.

Question: High Speed Rail? - She is big supporter of high speed rail. She sees future benefits like those from interstate highways and state universities. Such investments are worthwhile in her view.

10.2 Jay Handal, Co-chair, NC Budget Advocates - Report on their white paper. Available at www.budgetadvocatesla.com. Jim Rea introduces the subject and Jay.

Proposal to raise minimum retirement age has generally been accepted by the Mayor. Pensions are a huge budget problem, need to be cut across the board. May require initiative, may need to apply to current employees.

Public private partnerships are favored by the Advocates – Zoo, convention center, parking lots (through management contracts, not sale of lots). But replacement of union employees by non-union employees can be difficult under current law but nonetheless needs to be pursued. Parks – some work can be done by non-profits. Also, contracting out grounds-keeping can save money. Tree trimming also has been contracted out to some extent.

Controller’s Audits – Implementation of recommendations has languished. The Advocates favor mandating that action be taken within 90 days of controller’s recommendation.

Unified bill collection by the City – Centralize all billing for city collections. Also, relating old debts to new or ongoing services to enhance collection. This requires improved data processing and integration of departments’ efforts.

Reinstatement of 50/50 program – Mayor’s budget has no funds for infrastructure budgeted for the coming year. 50/50 would at least get the sidewalks improved.

Proposal to close the Police Academy for a year and use the officers from the Academy and elsewhere to put on streets - Advocates object to use of sworn officers to do clerical tasks necessitated by hiring freeze on civilian employees. LAPPL supports the mothballing of the Academy for a year. How to keep pace with the approximate 600 officers we lose each year if the Academy is closed? This could be a problem, according to Amy Kalp. Jay answered that there are 650 sworn officers not out on deployment that could be put on the streets. Therefore we could lose a year’s worth of Academy grads (about 600) and still come out even. Then after one year the Academy could reopen.

Janet asks: Fiscal Emergency Declaration? – For past three years we have had such emergency declarations, coming up on fourth year of such declaration. This provides greater flexibility with unions and other benefits.

They recommend DOT be returned to LAPD. This means that parking enforcement would be unified with LAPD instead of being under the Department of Transportation.

Advocates recommend that recovery of judgments should be taken from respective department budgets to provide additional accountability. George Wolfberg notes that docking tree trimming budget when trees injure public is counterproductive. Jay explains that he means issues like personnel mismanagement dispute judgments.

Janet proposes that we support the budget advocates to strengthen their hand with the mayor and the city council.

Motion by George Wolfberg, second by Gil Dembo: At this time PPCC acknowledges and appreciates the diligent work of the NC Budget Advocates to produce a list of well thought-out budget recommendations. We support #4, #9, #11, #13, #19, and #20, but not for potholes.Text of motion below.

Discussion: Jack Allen objects to undue extension of retirement age, possibly causing increased disability claims. Jay responds that with extended life spans pension costs have greatly increased and increasing the retirement age is a necessity.

Vote: 2 opposed, 16 in favor, 1 abstention. Motion carries.

Item 10.3 - Janet announces that Nomination Committee will announce their recommendations the first meeting of May.

Haldis speaks. She claims that she was asked to step aside and threatened with personal attacks. She nominates Gil Dembo for Vice Chair, John Glasgow for Secretary, and Second nomination for Secretary of Joyce Wong Kup.

Richard Cohen, chair of Nominating Committee, responds saying that the Nominating Committee, comprised by George Wolgberg, Stuart Muller and Richard Cohen, take seriously their responsibility to recommend the best possible list of candidates. The chair of the committee asked each current officer about their intension and desire to continue to serve. The work of the committee continues and will be announced the first week of May. Janet asked the committee to prepare a response to Haldis Toppel’s claims.

Item 10.4 - Janet announces that many of us wear many hats in the community. Sometimes others will incorrectly assume that when one of us speaks that we represents the PPCC. Please be careful to correct the record when others misconstrue a personal statement as policy of the PPCC.

11. General Public Comment

Bruce Schwartz and Bart Giordano – Concerned with pedestrian safety. They propose a “Palisades Traffic Safety Week” to advocate traffic safety. They are concerned with crosswalk safety and distracted drivers. They advocate greater enforcement and awareness of such issues. Janet and Amy will further explore what can be done and ask that they return on May 10.

12. Adjournment – 9:09

From the PPCC City State Budget Committee

MOTION: PPCC acknowledges and appreciates the diligent work of the NC Budget Advocates to produce a list of well thought out budget recommendations. We support #4, #9, #11, #13, #19, and #20 but not for potholes.

# 4. Raise the minimum retirement age from 55 to 65 or 67. (However, need to clarify if this if for also for Fire Fighters who may not be as effective at age 65 or 67.) # 9 Private Public Partnerships for the Zoo. Questions - Will the City still need to fund any of it? What kind of profit participation would the City have? #11. Promptly review and implement the unfulfilled recommendations in the Controller's Audits including a central billing/collections program #13. Implement a comprehensive and efficient and effective Central Billing/Collection Program which serves all City Departments

#19. Authorize Private sector Veterinarians to issue and collect Dog License Fees. # 20. Reinstatement of the 50-50 program for sidewalks and possibly tree trimming ( Not potholes.)