SLNC Governing Board, Minutes and Agendas

agenda June 2, 2004

Our meetings rely on input from the stakeholders of Silver Lake. Stakeholders are requested to fill out a “Speaker Card Card” to address the Board on any item of the
agenda prior to the Board taking action on that item. Comments from the public on Agenda items will be heard only when the respective item is being considered.
Comments from the public on other matters not appearing on the Agenda, but which are within the Board’s subject matter jurisdiction, will be heard during the
Public Comment period. Public comment is limited to 2 minutes per speaker, unless waived by the presiding co-chair of the Board.
Agenda is posted for public review at City Council District 13 Field Office and throughout Silver Lake. Internet users can sign up to receive agendas and minutes
via the city’s Early Notification System at http://parc3.lacity.org/ens/index.cfm?dept=ensnc ensnc.
As a covered entity under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Los Angeles does not discriminate on the basis of disability and upon request,
will provide reasonable accommodation to ensure equal access to its programs, services, and activities. Sign language interpreters, assistive listening devices, or
other auxiliary aids and/or services may be provided upon request. Interpreters are also available in seven languages. To ensure availability of services, please
make your request at least 3 business days prior to the meeting you wish to attend by contacting the SLNC Secretary at (323) 644-2859 or via e-mail at
MartyL.Hitt@aol.com com. Si gustaria un interpreter in espanol por favor de contactar al Vice Presidente Salvador Sanchez al telefono (323) 661-4559, tres dias antes
de la junta que se tiene cada mes.
TIMES ARE FOR REFERENCE ONLY. ITEMS MAY BE ADDRESSED OUT OF THE ORDER LISTED.
ALL ITEMS MAY BE ACTED UPION WHETHER SPECIFCALLY LISTED FOR ACTION OR NOT.
I. Call to Order& Roll Call 7:00
II. Approval of Minutes 7:01
.01 May 5
III. Correspondence 7:03
IV. Public Comment on Non-Agenda Items 7:05
V. Special Presentations & Reports 7:15
.01 Sunset Junction Street Fair - Michael McKinley
.02 Committee to Save Silver Lake’s Reservoirs – Shelley Marks
VI. Reports of Officers 7:55
.01 Co-Chair’s Report (Millar) – Display cases for agendas
.02 Co-Chair’s Report (Lyon) – LA Shares (http://www.lashares.org)
.03 Treasurer’s Report – New system : adopting budget revisions monthly
VII. Consent Agenda 8:05
.01 MOTION (Executive Committee) to adopt the SLNC quarterly budget as revised. *
.02 MOTION (Lyon): Co-Chair Lyon shall enroll the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council in the LA
SHARES program, a non-profit materials reuse program, which takes donations from the local business
community of reusable goods and materials (both new and used) and redistributes these items FREE- FREEOF-
CHARGE to non-profits and schools throughout Los Angeles County.
OF-.03 RESOLUTION (Lyon): WHEREAS the Committee to Save Silver Lake’s Reservoirs (CSSLR) is
nonprofit public benefit corporation established to preserve the historical, aesthetic, ecological and
recreational benefits of Silver Lake's open water reservoirs; and
WHEREAS the CSSLR has sought and continues to seek a consensus among Silver Lake stakeholders
with regard to the future of the reservoirs; and
WHEREAS the CSSLR has a long and productive relationship with the Los Angeles Department of
Water and Power,
THERFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council recognizes the CSSLR as
an official advisory panel to the Governing Board on issues related to the reservoirs.

.04 MTION (Elections) to approve Election timeline *
.05 MOTION (Beautification): The SLNC adopts the following mission statement for its Beautification
Committee: “The purpose the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council Beautification Committee is to
enhance, protect and preserve the natural and architectural beauty of the Silver Lake community; to
promote the idea of beautification to stakeholders, including residents, community organizations,
businesses, and property owners; and to identify areas in need of beautification and work with the
community to improve those areas.”
.06 RESOLUTION (Willis): WHEREAS neighborhood councils are mandated by the city as a newly- newlyformulated
sector of municipal government entrusted with developing a community-based, grassroots
formulated voice of the people; and
WHEREAS required for the achievement of this objective is the development of multi-media,
community-based communications resources through which the free flow of information can be
facilitated within the boundaries of the neighborhood councils' areas to promote and sustain ongoing
stakeholder participation and interactivity with the councils' boards of directors; and
WHEREAS cable television networks have the capacity to provide the neighborhood councils the
capability to cablecast neighborhood council meetings in real time into the homes of subscribers of
cable TV services in council areas, as well as to deliver other relevant and specific community- communityoriented
programming, i.e.; neighborhood council candidate forums and elections, forums on issues,
oriented school-based programs, etc., to stakeholders with cable TV in their homes, businesses, schools, and
other public places of assembly.; and
WHEREAS the development of neighborhood council cable TV access channels represents the
backbone of community-based communications resources and how that will contribute to advance the
goals of the City of Los Angeles Department of Neighborhood Empowerment (DONE) in meeting its
mission to create "a citywide system of independent and influential neighborhood councils" ; and
WHEREAS cited in the City of Los Angeles Information Technology Agency's needs assessment
studies carried out in preparation of the cable TV franchise renewal negotiations are the value and
need for expanded public and community access; and
WHEREAS the resources in place established by past franchises and cable TV companies' practices to
address public, education and government (PEG) access channels and the so-called community access
production centers that support PEG programming are failing to fulfill the requirement to meet the
needs and interests of the community;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council vigorously
encourages the Los Angeles City Council cable TV franchise renewal negotiating principals to
stipulate that all new cable TV franchises incorporate the following:
1. Establishment of a neighborhood council access channel in each neighborhood council area with- witharound-
the-clock access so that all stakeholders subscribing to any and all cable TV companies serving
around- each individual council's area are able to receive their neighborhood council's access channel;
2. Establishment of remote and mobile system connectivity that by plugging into cable TV company- companysupplied
line and equipment, cablecasting can be accomplished from multiple (at least three) locations
supplied as specified by the neighborhood councils in each neighborhood council's area;
3. Establishment of interconnectivity capability so that neighborhood councils can collaborate on
cablecasts when issues and discussion cross boundaries and intercommunications would benefit
multiple communities and the City;
4. Establishment of a new network structure for neighborhood council access channels and City of Los
Angeles public access facilities to better meet the needs of neighborhood councils and the city at large
and the requirements to provide public, education and government (PEG) access channels;
5. Establishment of a funds reserve from franchisee resources above and beyond franchise fees
through their requirement to meet the needs and interests of the community that specifically will be
designated to support neighborhood council access channels, including, but not limited to,
programming origination and production equipment; maintenance and repairs, consumables, limited
staff and any other related expenses; and
6. Establishment of a central oversight/advisory entity made up of neighborhood council, appropriate
City government department and cable TV company representatives with the mandate to put in place
and have operational the systems and resources required to meet the specific stipulations listed above
within a time frame of no later than eight months from the date of issuing the new cable TV franchises.
(See letter to City Council.) *
.07 MOTION (GA) to approve letter to City Council’s Education & Neighborhoods Committee urging
amendment of File #04-0800 to apply Code of Civility to all City Bodies, rather than only NCs *

VIII. New Business 8:10
.01 Motion (UD&PAC) The Urban Design & Preservation Advisory Committee (UD&PAC) offers a
number of recommendations for the proposed KOR Realty Group’s live/work development, situated at
1176 Myra Avenue, described in a written response to the Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND). The
UD&PAC recommends that the SLNC Governing Board endorse the written response and notify the
City of Los Angeles Office of Zoning Administration about its decision, prior to the hearing date. *
.02 MOTION (Lopez/Governmental Affairs) The SLNC will establish the Silver Lake NEIGHBORHOOD
MAPPING PROJECT (NMAP), to be directed by the Government Affairs Committee, which will
produce a series of demographic and population maps of the seven regions within SLNC boundaries
for the purpose of providing board members and community stakeholders a greater understanding of
the demographic characteristics of SLNC residents. *
IX. Old Business 8:35
.01 MOTION (Choi on behalf of Greg Ptacek of the Silver Lake Film Festival): The Silver Lake
Neighborhood Council shall co-sponsor a special event program at the 5th Annual Silver Lake Film
Festival on Sunday, September 26, which celebrates the community’s unique cinematic heritage with a
free-to-the-public outdoor evening screening of noteworthy silent film “The Tiger’s Coat” at Barnsdall
Park in Los Angeles. The total budget of the proposed project is approximately $10,000. SLFF is
asking SLNC to contribute approximately 25%. (i.e. $2500.) In return, the SLNC will be promoted as
the co-sponsor of the event in myriad ways including marketing materials, publicity and signage at the
event.
.02 MOTION (Beautification) requesting $3000 to help fund Myra St. underpass mural
X. Committee Reports 9:00
.01 Public Safety (B Dakin)
XI. Agenda Items for Next Meeting 9:08
XII. Announcements 9:10
XIII. Adjournment 9:15
*Indicates supplemental report is available at CD-13 office, or by contacting the SLNC Secretary.
Process for Reconsideration – The Board may reconsider and amend actions listed on the agenda if that reconsideration takes place immediately following
the original action or at the next regular meeting. The Board, on either of these two days, shall: 1) make a Motion to Reconsider and, if approved, 2) hear the
matter and take an action.
If the Motion to Reconsider is to be scheduled at the next meeting following the original action, then two items shall be placed on the agenda for that meeting: 1) a
Motion to Reconsider on the described matter and, 2) a [Proposed] Action should the Motion to Reconsider be approved.
A Motion to Reconsider can only be made by a Board Member who has previously voted on the prevailing side of the original action. If a Motion to Reconsider is
not made on the date the action was taken, then a Board Member on the prevailing side of the action must submit a memorandum to the Secretary identifying the
matter to be reconsidered and a brief description of the reason(s) for requesting reconsideration at the next regular meeting. The aforesaid shall be in compliance
with the Brown Act.

Minutes May 5, 2004

GOVERNING BOARD
Minutes
Wednesday, May 5, 2004

I. Call to Order& Roll Call
In Attendance:, Michael Locke, Roberto Haraldson ,Charles Wiggington, Robin Dakin, Lewis Myers, Rusty Millar, Sandra Emma Ruiz, Luis Lopez, , Garry Willis, Laura Dwan, Michael J. Horne, Elizabeth Bougart-Sharkov, Peter Choi, Barbara Dakin, Martin Hittelman, Jason Lyon, Jane Renahan, Darren Morton
Not in attendance: Marian Aguilar, Robert Brooks, Salvador Sanchez

II. Approval of Minutes
.01 March 29 approved as distributed
.02 April 7 approved as amended: Wes Joe stated that the Silver Lake Improvement Association had withdrawn their support of the Myra project and was now not taking a position on the project.

III. Correspondence: no correspondence

IV. Public Comment on Non-Agenda Items

Stakeholder Paul Apostle spoke to his concern that there was no glass case at the Silver Lake Recreation Center for the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council as there was for some other groups such as the Seniors Club.

Mr. Apostle was informed that the issue will be addressed at the next SLNC Executive Committee Meeting.

V. Special Presentations & Reports

.01 Fontayne Holmes, Asst City Librarian for Los Angeles Public Library, spoke to the Governing Board with respect to the proposed Silver Lake Library. She noted that the City will soon have 71 branches. 28 branches have been replaced and 4 brand new libraries have been built with bond money. The Edendale Library on Sunset Blvd. is one of the new libraries. Bond issue for 32 libraries. Replace 28 and 4 brand new. November 2004 will be six years after the bond and all 32 new libraries will be built on time and under budget. As a result of savings and a grant from the State of California, a Silver Lake branch library has been approved for site acquisition and architectural plans. It now goes to the City Council and the Mayor for final approval. After approved a site must first be chosen. There will be a meeting on June 15, 2004 at Micheltorena Street School to discuss the new library. Invitations to the meeting will be sent out to the SLNC mailing list if the Governing Board so agrees. The Board of Library Commissioners has developed criteria for new sites. Branch libraries are to built with up to 12,500 square feet. Sites should be at least 32,500 square feet including parking. Retail area locations are preferred. They would like libraries to be on major streets with good public access and near schools. A one story building is desired. The relative location of nearby libraries is also important. The City has only gone to eminent domain once and it doesn’t like to do that. 171 community meetings to date have been held on the library projects under the bond. Help with mailing lists would be appreciated. Ms. Holmes can be reached at fholmes@lapl.org or at 213 228-7586. It was noted that SLNC Governing Board member Laura Dwan has opened two new libraries.

Stakeholder Maryann Kuk from the Silver Lake Residents Association President stated that she is thrilled that Holmes is working with the community on finding a site. She and others have been going to library sites. On Saturday May 22nd they will go on a three branch field trip. They are trying to determine what has worked and what didn’t at the various libraries. She noted that design style will be a challenge.

.02 Richard Platkin, a City Planner from the Department of Planning, addressed the role of the City Planning Department. He noted that a small unit of the department has liaison responsibilities with neighborhood councils. They provide training, research, and information. He was asked about the status of a request for a summit with the director of planning. In response he outlined the reduction of the number of staff over recent years at the same time that the population of Los Angeles has increased. There is a reduction even though there are new obligations including the use of systems employees. He outlined the size of the oversight responsibilities of the Department. As a liaison with neighborhood councils he tries to answer e-mails. In response to a question concerning the ease and speed of attention that some large projects get as opposed to small cases, he stated that big developers hire people who are skilled at moving their projects through the system. They know what must go in their applications and how to file in a timely way. He would be interested to be appraised of any improprieties in the process. He responded to a question regarding access to information through the Early Notification System. Platkin noted that they have a Planning Case Tracking System where all discretionary planning decisions are entered when complete. They mail notifications of such decisions to the co-chairs of the SLNC who may distribute the information as widely as they wish. He noted that it is a service to the neighborhood councils, not necessarily to the public in general. He then spoke to the differences in power, membership and boundaries of the City Council (decision making and representing specific areas), City Planning (some decision making, some recommendations, and cover the entire City), and the Neighborhood Councils (self-defined areas and advisory powers). The City Council has defined boundaries, defined powers, and defined membership. Planning has certain defined powers – director’s determination (historical) and zoning administrator for zoning variances which can be appealed. Platkin said that he was not able to give a City Plan update as he did not know much about it. He does know that extensive outreach has been done and the city planning commission has been involved. Planning and Land Use is the next stage. The Plan then goes to the full City Council. Some changes may require an ordinance. The City Plan is a policy document. Policy documents are not the most powerful documents – largely shelved until implemented. Capital improvements of the City are not covered since no evidence regarding them has gone through the plans. Zoning is affected only by actual ordinance changes. Some small zoning changes may occur but most changes will happen with variances or zone change – consistent with the plan. Neighborhood Councils will have a chance to go on record as be for or against each proposed variance. Platkin stated that of about 2,000 cases per year requesting zoning administration waivers, only 200 are approved. Conditional use permit cannot be waived.

Stakeholder Wes Joe spoke to the effects of planning including how many cars you encounter and who lives near you. He called on stakeholders to not be embarrassed to ask questions. Planning needs a lot of help on what is important and community concerns should play a major role - it is about where you live.

Several members of the governing board stated that the Planning Department does not have a good record of outreach to neighborhood councils. Feeling were expressed that the department attitude is reprehensible.

A specific case was referred to Platkin. It involves an Orange County developer and his senior housing complex proposal for the Myra bridge area. He was granted variances in density, height, and setback without a hearing. It was explained that the decision was made on the basis that the community was not likely to have any problems with the plan. It was noted that the SLNC still has a problem with the waivers.

It was confirmed that Chief of Police Bratton will be at the September governing board meeting to speak to the one-half cent sales tax proposal.

VI. Reports of Officers
.01 Treasurer’s Report (Expenditures under $250): see report at end of the minutes.

VII. The motions on the Consent Agenda (Lyon), with the exception of item .03, were approved with no negative votes
It was requested that item .03 be pulled for further discussion.

.01 (Beautification) Letter to CalTrans regarding sound wall and exit closure on 101 freeway at Rampart *
May 5, 2004
Douglas R. Failing
District Director
California Department of Transportation
120 S. Spring Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Dear Mr. Failing,
Many years ago, there were plans to connect the 2 highway to the 101 freeway via Coronado Street and surrounding blocks. The Rampart street exit from the 101 was created to accommodate this new interchange. However, when these plans were scrapped, the neighborhood was returned to the citizens, but the Rampart Street exit was not closed. We believe that the existence of this on/off ramp is unnecessary and detrimental to the surrounding community, for the following reasons:
1) The Silver Lake area has 3 exits within a 1mile distance.
-- The Alvarado and Silver Lake Blvd. exits are roughly 1 mile apart with the Rampart Street exit in between them.
2) Currently, traffic is directed from Temple and Sunset Blvd. to the Benton/Rampart on-ramps creating a great deal of “freeway traffic” in a designated residential neighborhood.
-- Benton and Rampart Streets currently have speed humps to deter traffic. The overflow then falls on Coronado Street, where there are no speed humps (this project is currently on hiatus).
3) The traffic creates a great deal of noise and decreases property values. Freeway drivers tend to speed on Coronado Street (despite the presence of many children and pedestrians).
4) The traffic on the 101-N Freeway is slowed by the dangerous on/off ramps.
-- Rampart is a very short and dangerous on/off ramp.
-- The freeway traffic is already clogged by five on/off ramps in a span of 2 miles. (110/101 merge, Glendale Blvd, Alvarado St., Rampart St., Silver Lake Blvd.)

We propose that the Department of Transportation:
1) Remove of the signs on Sunset and Temple that direct cars through the residential neighborhoods to the Rampart Street on/off ramp. Redirect traffic to the surrounding commercial streets: Alvarado St. and Silver Lake Blvd on/off ramps.
2) Eliminate the Rampart Street exit by building a sound wall from Waterloo Street to just past the
Rampart street exit (1/4 mile).
-- This will increase the flow of traffic on the 101N.
-- It will also decrease freeway noise pollution from the freeway to the community
3) Create a garden/Playground in the area where the on/off ramp existed.
-- This will encourage children and community to use the garden.
-- Tree plantings along the freeway will further reduce noise and improve air quality.
-- It will increase property values and reduce crime in the area.

Currently, we are approved for a sound wall in the proposed area. We are on the wait list. This stretch of the freeway is the only area in Silver Lake that does not have a Sound Wall.

Thank you for your consideration of this matter.
Sincerely,
Jason Lyon
Co-Chair
Silver Lake Neighborhood Council

Rusty Millar
Co-Chair
Silver Lake Neighborhood Council

Tom Blanchard
Chair
Silver Lake Neighborhood Council Beautification Committee

.02 (Beautification) Letter requesting that Mayor Hahn and the Los Angeles City Council maintain funding for the city’s Environmental Affairs Department*
May 5, 2004
The Honorable James K. Hahn
200 North Spring Street, Room 303
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Los Angeles City Council
200 N. Spring Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012

Dear Mayor Hahn & Council Members,

The Silver Lake Neighborhood Council urges you to keep and further empower the Environmental Affairs Department. Support their goals of a healthy environment for all, and applaud the grant money they have brought to our city toward furthering the goal of a safe, healthy environment – over $25 million to date.

You may not know that a pregnant woman living close to a major transportation route is three times more likely to have a child with a birth defect. You may not know that the EAD has funded new trees in Silver Lake along major transportation routes. Think of the money saved in health care costs by this minor investment in trees, and the healthier children we will have. The EAD found the grant money to plant these trees in difficult, concrete and asphalt covered areas of Sunset Blvd. No other city organization or private group was willing or able to accomplish this, in record time.

The Environmental Affairs Department is especially valued in the dense urban areas of Los Angeles, such as Silver Lake. Improved air quality (currently, the worst in the nation!), brown-fields, pollution prevention, etc. are desperately needed in old central-area neighborhoods. As our city prepares to absorb a population boom the size of Chicago, please help keep all of our communities healthy now and in the future!

Sincerely,
Tom Blanchard
Chair, Silver Lake Neighborhood Council Beautification Committee

.03 (Public Safety) Letter to Planning Department’s Zoning Administration requesting use conditions to be imposed on the following businesses:*
M/S/P to Table (Lyon) (no negative votes) - committee will meet tomorrow to try to reach some agreement.
May 5, 2004
Office of Zoning Administration
200 N. Spring St. 7th Floor
Los Angeles, Ca. 90012

Dear Sir:
The Silver Lake Neighborhood Council supports the efforts being made by its Public Safety Committee to clean-up a section of our community that has been an eyesore for many years. The area being addressed is the intersection at the corner of Parkman Ave. and Sunset Blvd. and a few blocks east along Sunset Blvd.
Within that small radius there are three establishments which sell single containers of alcohol and one recycling center. These four businesses fall into the category of attractive nuisances as they attract loiterers who hang around drinking in parking lots or on public sidewalks, throw their trash on the sidewalks and streets, sometimes urinate in public, and generally made that area degraded in appearance. Numbers of school children and adults wait for city buses at the Parkman/Sunset location or walk there to shop. We would like to make the area safer and cleaner for everyone who comes in daily contact with it.

We are requesting that you conduct an investigation and schedule a public hearing on this matter. TThe businesses involved are Silver Sun Liquor Store located at 2901 Sunset Blvd., PM Market Liquor Store located at 2856 Sunset Blvd, Plaza Liquor Store at 2829 Sunset Blvd. and Flores Recycling Center at 2517 Sunset Blvd. The purpose of the hearings would be to impose corrective measures that address the nuisance conditions.

We recommend that you impose the following conditions on the liquor stores:
1) No sales of liquor before noon; 2) No sales of single containers of liquor; 3) Require that owners ensure that there is no trash or debris around their premises, 4) Prevent loitering by requiring the business to install potted plants or other design elements which discourage loitering; and 5) Provide training regarding the responsible sale of liquor to all employees selling alcohol.
2)
Thank-you for bringing these establishments to a public hearing so that each can be encouraged to be more responsible for the nuisance activities that surround their establishments and given conditions to follow that will ensure an improved situation in this area of Silver Lake.
Sincerely,
Barb Dakin
Chair, Public Safety Committee
Silver Lake Neighborhood Council Governing Board

i. Silver Sun Liquor Store located at 2901 Sunset Blvd.
ii. PM Market Liquor Store located at 2856 Sunset Blvd.
iii. Plaza Liquor Store at 2829 Sunset Blvd.
iv. Flores Recycling Center at 2517 Sunset Blvd.



.04 (UD&PAC/Parks & Green Spaces) Letter to Community Forest Advisory Committee supporting expansion of Oak Tree Ordinance.*
April 30, 2004
Community Forest Advisory Committee
c/o Chairperson, Clare Mater Kenyon
505 West Avenue 44
Los Angeles, CA 90065

Dear Chairperson Kenyon:
It has come to our attention that your committee has developed a plan to revise the City of Los Angeles’ Oak Tree Ordinance. We understand that such a revision would increase the number and types of trees to be protected and would include Walnut, Sycamore and Bay trees, also native to Southern California.

We would like to offer our support for this plan and urge its passage as soon as possible to better protect these native trees in a time of rampant development.
Very truly yours,
Carol Ng
Co-Chair SLNC Parks/Greenspaces Sub-Committee

Elizabeth Bougart Sharkov
SLNC Governing Board – Representative At-Large
Chair Urban Design & Preservation Advisory Committee

Jason Lyon
Co-Chair Silver Lake Neighborhood Council Governing Board

Cc: Council Member Tom LaBonge
Council Member Eric Garcetti

.05 (Sharkov, Lyon) Letter to City Council’s Ad Hoc Los Angeles River Advisory Committee recommending land use changes on Fletcher *
May 5, 2004
The Honorable Ed P. Reyes
The Honorable Eric Garcetti
The Honorable Wendy Greuel
The Honorable Jan Perry
The Honorable Tom LaBonge
Los Angeles City Council Ad Hoc River Committee

Dear Committee Members:
The Silver Lake Neighborhood Council thanks you for your work to revitalize the wonderful resource that is the Los Angeles River. In response to your recent call for input from neighborhood councils, the SLNC Governing Board recommends you consider the following land use revisions for the area surrounding the Fletcher Drive bridge, on the northern border of the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council. Fletcher Drive is a considerable commuter thoroughfare, and a primary entrance to the neighborhood. Soon it will serve as our link to the Van DeKamp campus of the Los Angeles Community College. The Fletcher Drive Bridge has the potential to be a terrific gateway to the LA River and its pleasures. However, the land uses and street design along Fletcher Drive do not support pedestrian use of the street, and make the River difficult to access by car or on foot. New land use designations and a new design for the street would be desirable. Possible revisions might include: widening sidewalks, increasing building setback, installing street trees and street lighting, crosswalk improvements, resetting signal lights for better traffic flow, improving safety for bicyclists (including a better connection between the road and the river trail), and suitable space for parking. In general, the area would benefit from a more pedestrian-friendly, neighborhood-oriented design in keeping with the River’s aesthetic and recreational features.

Thank you for your consideration. We look forward to following the evolution of the Committee’s plan for the River.
Sincerely,
Jason Lyon
Rusty Millar
Elizabeth Bougart-Sharkov

.06 MOTION (UD&PAC/Green Spaces) authorizing The Silver Lake Neighborhood Council Parks & Green Spaces Subcommittee to compose and send letters to the owners of two Silver Lake properties listed by the City as “nuisance lots,” which the subcommittee has found suitable for use as pocket parks.

.07 MOTION (Lyon): The Silver Lake Neighborhood Council supports the City of Los Angeles in proclaiming each Monday in May, 2004 an “eDay” and commits to replace paper communications with electronic communications on those days, except where absolutely necessary.*

Proclamation
eDay in L.A.
WHEREAS, the City of Los Angeles has made great progress utilizing Internet
based technologies to streamline service delivery and improve access to information and services; and
WHEREAS, the public, as well as the City employees, have become reliant upon tools on the City’s website such as “My Neighborhood”, Council Calendar and Agendas, Council File Index, ePermits and other online transactions; and
WHEREAS, to build on this success, City employees need to leverage existing technology and systems and continue to find new ways to provide services in a more efficient manner; and
WHEREAS, with an expected $300 million budget shortfall, this year’s operating procedures can no longer be business as usual; and
WHEREAS, tough economic times provide opportunities for innovation and creativity as we seek to run the City more efficiently; and
WHEREAS, electronic communication and/or the Internet does not replace interaction with the public but rather provides another communication channel for residents and businesses to interact with Government without coming to City Hall; and
WHEREAS, my vision for eGovernment is to provide access to City Government via the Internet 24/7 for information, service requests and feedback on legislative and community issues.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, JAMES K. HAHN, Mayor of the City of Los Angeles, do hereby proclaim every Monday in the month of May 2004 as “eDay” in the City of Los Angeles, during which we replace paper communication with electronic communication for the entire day, except where absolutely critical.





.08 MOTION (Haraldson) Recommend the Mayor mandate that by 2010, 20% of the energy provided by the DWP to the city of Los Angeles come from clean, renewable energy sources, and that this 20% standard be met only with renewable energy technologies such as wind, solar, geothermal, biomass, fuel cells and small hydro as defined by state law.

VIII. New Business
.01 M/S/P (CLC) (no negative votes. One abstention) The SLNC approves $7500 for website design with integrated database and sets aside an additional $350 for web hosting and maintenance. The CLC is authorized to conclude negotiations with SAS Net Design and execute a final contract.*

Committee looked at the SAS Net Design proposal. All agreed that the design met our needs. The ability to send out mass e-mail was one critical factor.

SAS Net Design has built a couple of other neighborhood designs.

A question was raised as to whether money spent should be spent within the Silver Lake community. In this particular case an e-mail had been sent out regarding the need, the committee received two proposals, and SAS seemed to be the best for the SLNC needs.

Each committee chair will be able to post its own stuff to the website. Old minutes will be archived.

Infrastructure is constructed. It is user friendly. Searchable by key word. People can join on site. It should take from four to six to completion.

.02 M/S/P as amended below (15 yes, 1 no, 1 abstain) (Beautification) : A total of $3,300 is requested to help with the Gateway to Silver Lake (GSL) beautification project. Specifically, $800 is requested to pay for the preparation, cleaning, preservation and protection of eight murals at the GSL site at Silver Lake Blvd. and the 101 Freeway. In addition, the SLNC will set aside $2,500 to establish a GSL mural/landscaping maintenance fund, to be disbursed by the SLNC as needed.*

M/S/P to amend (Lyon) (no negative votes). The SLNC can release the funds if they have not been spent by the end of the fiscal year for other purposes.

Tom Blanchard spoke for the Beautification Committee. Many years of voluntary work has gone into the project. Holiday Inn Express has adopted the median strips. GSL is well run group.

Vince Brook stated that the funds are needed to prepare, protect, and preserve the murals. He noted that this is the seventh year of work on the Gateway to Silver Lake.

DONE has made clear the neighborhood councils may not give a grant to another group. Fund must be used for specific return or function.

Brook was asked what the application process for commissioning the murals was and why weren’t the people who commissioned the work not prepared for the murals upkeep. Brook replied that there was no neighborhood council when it began. There has been involvement with the Beautification Committee since it was formed. There were neighborhood matching grants for original painting. New expenses are draining the current fund. Local artists were chosen by existing groups in a coalition. They worked with local youth in doing the murals.

It was noted that one of the goals approved by the Governing Board of the SLNC was the Gateway to Silver Lake project.

Mr. Brook was asked if this a one-time cost. He replied that it s contingent on what happens with graffiti. They need a contingency fund. In any case, it will need a new motion in any future year.

.03 M/S/ (Beautification) requesting $3000 to help fund the Myra St. underpass mural.*

M/S/P (one opposed) (Hittelman) to table until the next meeting to find out the time line and how funds can be given for the project.

Blanchard: Beautification Committee approved. Franklin Hills Residence Association will supervise.

Guia Avesai spoke from Visionary Murals. She noted that the mural will be 11 feet by 50 feet and will cover half of the northwest wall. $7,000 has already been raised. Future restoration fund already being raised.

Stakeholder Jim McQuiston from the East Hollywood Community Association stated that no one has asked them for funds perhaps because they have none to donate. He cautioned that neighborhood council funds are in jeopardy for next year.

It was noted that two large developments are going up around where the proposed mural is to be located and will involve dust and other problems. It was not clear when the construction of the mural will begin.

It was asked whether businesses had been approached to donate money for the mural.

.04 M/S (Choi on behalf of Eric Howard & the Silver Lake Downhill Derby):
WHEREAS the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council has resolved to support the Silver Lake Downhill Derby, both in writing through its Letter of Support and further by resolution encouraging "its members to act as liaisons between the Silver Lake Downhill Derby staff and other members of the community and community government"
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the SLNC, through its Community Liaison Committee, shall help the Silver Lake Downhill Derby and organizer Eric Howard in distributing information about the event by use of the email database that the Council maintains. Mr. Howard proposes to send an email covering these areas:
1. Distribution of information/contact flier and sign-up form in PDF.
2. Target potential builders/contestants.
3. Target potential sponsors.

M/S/F (Lyon) (9 yes, 7 no – fails since 10 votes needed) to table the motion until the next meeting.

It is noted that we will send one e-mail to the stakeholders.

M/S/P (one no) to amend (Hittelman) that the Community Liaison Committee approve the material sent out.

M/S/P as amended (12-4)

It is understood that he would not actually get the database. The SLNC would send out the information.
.05 M/S/ (Choi on behalf of Greg Ptacek of the Silver Lake Film Festival):
WHEREAS the Silver Lake community played a vital role in the development of the cinematic art form, serving as home and work place for many of the seminal American film pioneers including D. W. Griffith, Walt Disney, Tom Mix, Mack Sennett, and Norma Talmadge, and
WHEREAS many of today’s film pioneers who call Silver Lake home continue the tradition of advancing the motion picture aesthetic,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council supports the concept of the annual event known as Silver Lake Film Festival, which celebrates yesterday’s, today’s and tomorrow’s independent filmmakers;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council shall co-sponsor a special event program at the 5th Annual Silver Lake Film Festival on Sunday, September 26, which celebrates the community’s unique cinematic heritage with a free-to-the-public outdoor evening screening of a noteworthy silent film at Barnsdall Park in Los Angeles. The total budget of the proposed project is approximately $10,000. SLFF is asking SLNC to contribute approximately 50%. (i.e. $5,000.) In return, the SLNC will be promoted as the co-sponsor of the event in myriad ways including marketing materials, publicity and signage at the event.

Greg Ptacek, SLFF spokesperson, spoke to the proposed festival involving films from our own community. He stated that it is one of the major film festivals in Los Angeles. It celebrates independent film making and is more multi-culturally diverse than most festival showings. He spoke to the unique cinematic history of the area. He is requesting funds for a particular event as a part of the festival – an outdoor screening at Barnsdale Park of a silent movie. This year the plan is for it not to be a ticketed event. Most of the films will be shown at the Los Feliz or Vista theatres. The festival is really a celebration of the East Side, not just Silver Lake. It should be seen as a community film event. Most of film makers are Silver Lake residents. People do come into the community and spend money. Equipment rental, projectionist, etc. is most of the cost that he is asking assistance with. His organization is a non profit organization.

Jim McQuiston of the East Hollywood Community Association noted that Barnsdale Park is actually in East Hollywood and not Silver Lake. It is his opinion that there are too many trees for an open air movie there. He also felt that the financing request is high.

M/S/P to divide (Lyon) the issues and vote on the support and money portions separately.

M/S/P to support (passed with no negative votes)

M/S/P (12-5) (Hittelman) to table the money item until the next meeting.

IX. Old Business
.01 M/S/F (7 yes, 9 No, 2 abstain) TO RECONSIDER (Sharkov) opposition to the Laguna Senior Housing Facility* [see .02 below]

Stakeholder Andrew Sears spoke in favor of the project and the reconsideration. He felt that the SLNC should not be attacking Project New Hope but rather the Zoning administration. Project New Hope does important and useful work and the SLNC should keep open minds and hearts. The proposed project will help seniors and save lives..

.02 (If previous motion passes: ) M/S (Sharkov) To advise the East Los Angeles Area Planning Commission with regards to the SLNC Governing Board decision to support the Zoning Administration’s approval for Senior Affordable Housing Project, subject to the following conditions being imposed the project’s design and operations:
1. Reduce the height of building at the north end. At the very least, cut one story off the NE corner. If given budgetary constrains the size of the building cannot be reduced, the following conditions are still important to put into effect.
2. Landscape the parkway along Myra Avenue with large canopy trees, with minimum mature height of 45 feet. Spacing of these trees should provide a continuous canopy along Myra.
3. Provide a landscaped median along Myra.
4. Submit a detailed landscape plan for the Sunset Boulevard frontage, for the approval of the Zoning Administrator.
5. Connect the community room and media room to allow for larger unified space.
6. Subject to the availability of adequate street parking, make the community room available for occasional use by local community groups such as senior clubs.
7. The marketing of units should include specific outreach to the local community.
8. A Neighborhood Advisory Board (NAB) shall be formed, and shall meet a minimum of four times a year. Meetings should be held in the new building at times, which allow for participation by local community members.
9. With regards to the supportive housing component of the project:
A. The applicant shall involve the local Neighborhood Councils (NC-s) and the NAB in any decision to change the population served by the supportive housing.
B. The applicant will require six months sobriety and six months drug-free status prior to any tenant moving into the building.
C. As part of evaluating tenant applications, the applicant shall perform a criminal background check on all prospective residents.
D. If approved for tenancy, a drug test will be administered prior to move-in.
10. Applicant acknowledges that the Sunset Junction Street Fair takes place annually along Sunset Boulevard in front of the site and agrees to manage construction activities in a manner that minimizes any impact on the operation of the Fair. Applicant will inform prospective residents about the annual Street Fair and closure of Sunset Boulevard.

X. Committee Reports

.01 Public Safety: B Dakin spoke to the cleanup of the Sunset and Parkman area. They have requested a hearing. They will have a dialogue on May 6. Some security problems have been raised regarding Hyperion.

.02 Youth & Families: B Dakin reported that the committee does not have the resources to do the project on youth service availability. They will be working on a pilot project.

.03 Arts and Culture Committee: Peter Choi reported that the Summer series has been pushed to next summer. He also announced that he will have to step down because of personal workload as the chair of the Arts and Culture Committee. He requested that other step up and get involved.

XI. Agenda Items for Next Meeting

Jim McQuiston requested that the City budget analysis be distributed. He called on increasing the trash fees of single family home so that other vital services can be funded.

Sunset Junction Fair – May 11 meeting at CD 13. Will have someone from the Sunset Junction Fair Committee to discuss how income from the Fair can be used in the community.

XII. Announcements

Tom Blanchard announced that the SLNC had been given an award for significant contributions to urban greening. Jan Perry signed it as well as the Environmental Affairs Department.
Several new businesses in the area were noted.

An announcement was made concerning the May 7, 2004 event featuring Marshall High students, including SLNC Governing Board member Jane Renahan.

People are invited to attend the May 27 meeting of SLIA.

XIII. Adjourned at 9:45 PM.

*Indicates supplemental report is available at CD-13 office, or by contacting the SLNC Secretary.



Minutes by M. Hittelman


GOVERNING BOARD
Special Meeting
Wednesday, May 5, 2004 Minutes
Concurrent with Regular Governing Board Meeting

XIV. Approval of budget for fiscal 3rd quarter (April – June, 2004)
Balance end for April 30, 2004 is $11,809. Two reimbursements for printing and the like have been made. Under $250 can be given to the Treasurer and signed by him or one of co-chairs if the item was approved in advance.

Second quarter budget is for $12,500 but the funds will not be received until the first quarter funding has been spent. It was noted that the Fiscal year starts October 1.

Money will be there for the fiscal year. Will lose what is unspent.

M/s/P (Lyon) to approve as submitted. No negative votes.

SILVERLAKE NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL BUDGET
October 2003-- September 2004


Projected Expenses 1st QTR 2nd QTR 3rd QTR 4th QTR Total

General Operations 500 500 500 500 2000
Office Supplies 500 500 500 500 2000
Staffing 1500 1000 1500 1500 5500
Communication/Tech 3000 1000 1000 1000 6000
Postage 250 250 250 250 1000
Outreach/Advertising 1000 1100 1000 1000 4100
Elections
Community Projects 5500 5500 3000 3000 17000
Meeting 250 250 250 250 1000
Facilities 2400 4500 4500 11400


TOTAL 12500 12500 12500 12500 50000




Minutes by M. Hittelman



Governing Board Minutes April 7, 2004

GOVERNING BOARD
Minutes
Wednesday, April 7, 2004


Call to Order: The meeting was called to order at 7 PM by Jason Lyon
Roll Call In attendance: Marian Aguilar, Michael Locke, Robin Dakin, Rusty Millar, Robert Brooks, Garry Willis, Elizabeth Bougart-Sharkov, Peter Choi, Martin Hittelman, Jason Lyon, Jane Renahan, Salvador Sanchez, Charles Wiggington, Roberto Haraldson, Luis Lopez, Darren Morton, Barbara Dakin, Michael J. Horne

Not in Attendance: Lewis Myers, Sandra Emma Ruiz, Laura Dwan,
Minutes The minutes of March 3 and March 17 were approved as distributed. The March 27 minutes were amended to include that Vincent Brook and the SLRA will be coming to the Governing Board to request $5,000 to be used for the Silverlake Gateway Project.

Correspondence- none

Public Comment on Non-Agenda Items

Stakeholder Dorit Dowler-Guerrero spoke in relation to the Sunset Junction Street Fair. She called on people to attend a May 11 meeting at CD 13 beginning at 7 PM regarding the upcoming Street Fair. The meeting will be concerned with the Street Fair organization’s responsiveness to the concerns of neighborhood residents. Accountability for the funds raised will also be addressed. Flyers will be available at the next SLNC Governing Board meeting.

Stakeholder Roberto Juarez spoke to problems with the “El Cid Club.” He lives in the neighborhood and complained about public urination, sex, drug use, and public drunkenness by patrons of the club. He stated that the noise and other public disturbances go on until 3 A.M. in the morning. The noise is so loud that it is very difficult to sleep on Friday and Saturday nights. Residents have called the police but have gotten no response. He will continue to monitor the problem.

Stakeholder Tobin Shea, general manager of El Cid Restaurant, spoke to his willingness to work with the neighbors to correct the problems cited. He has made attempts to make it easier on the neighbors. He did not realize that the club would become so popular for night life. He will be hiring a security guard to circle the neighborhood. He can be reached at (323) 668-0318.


Special Presentations and Reports

DOT Hollywood-Wilshire District Senior Transportation Engineer Robert Camou was scheduled to speak but he was unable to attend. Jeannie Shen spoke in his place. She handed out a chart of the City Department of Transportation. She also handed out an LADOT piece on frequently asked questions regarding the City’s Speed Hump program. She noted that the primary objective for the use of speed humps is the reduction of vehicle speeds on residential streets. Her number to call for information and help is 323-845-9835. She stated that the process to get a speed hump begins with a request submitted to the local DOT District Office. A traffic engineering study will be conducted and then a recommendation made. If speed humps are recommended then a formal petition signed by block residents will be required. The entire process may take up to a year. The same process is used to get a stop sign except that a petition is not required. The renaming of streets goes through a different process with the final decision made by the City Council.

Reports of Officers

Treasurer’s report (Wiggington): Treasurer Wiggington reported that the SLNC has a balance in the funding account of $11,915.02. $500 was spent on outreach advertising in the LA Alternative Press. $84.48 was paid out in reimbursements to Rusty Millar.

A discussion was held regarding the purchase of 7 tables and 21 chairs for the board meetings was discussed. A COSTCO price of $47 per table and $17 per chair was noted. The Principal at Micheltorena Street School will use them in the time between meetings. The school has the space to store them and will set them up for our meetings for use by the Governing Board. A question was raised as to whether a better price could be gotten at Office Depot using the City account.

M/S/P (no negative votes) (Aguilar) to purchase the tables and the chairs. Co-Chair Millar will check out both the COSCO and Office Depot prices before purchase.

2004 SLNC Election Committee: Stakeholder Carol Ng spoke for Milt Rosenberg regarding the election process and what he has learned. It was suggested that the By-laws be amended so that there is not a requirement that one person on the Elections Committee be from each region. It was also pointed out that DONE has developed a way to handle absentee ballots and that this be considered for the September election. Milt will provide a proposed process for handling absentee ballots. Ng also pointed out that an updated stakeholder list is needed. A call for volunteers to serve on the Election Committee was made (Regions 1 and 2 volunteers are needed).

Action Items
Consent Agenda: It was M/S/P (Hittelman) (one abstain) to approve the following consent agenda items:
MOTION (Exec. Comm.) to adopt the funding/event questionnaire.
Board Member or Committee Submitting Motion (please indicate if the motion is made on behalf of another individual or group); Text of Motion for the Agenda; Describe the event/project in detail. Include as much supplemental information as possible (background information; supporting and opposing viewpoints, if available, etc.) Attach additional sheets as necessary; What is the perceived /potential impact on the community if we adopt the motion (pro and con)?; What is the total budget for the project? How much is the SLNC asked to commit? Are there alternate funding sources? (Please attach itemized budget.); What is the timeline for the project? (Be sure to include deadline for Board action, major dates, etc.)

MOTION (Millar) to appoint Rusty Millar as the SLNC rep to work with DWP on MOU with NCs

MOTION (UD&PAC): The SLNC adopts the UD&PAC guidelines for Developers and SFR/Duplexes as written. (See Attachment I)

RESOLUTION (Choi): WHEREAS a written agenda Motion is the result of the time taken by and hard work of the Presenter/Maker of the Motion; And
WHEREAS the Presenter of the Motion should be acknowledged for their work bringing the Motion to the SLNC Board for their attention and approval;
It is RESOLVED that during the SLNC's General Board Meetings, each Motion shall be read by the Presenter of the Motion. If the Presenter of the Motion is not in attendance or unavailable, then the presiding Chair shall read the Motion with full due respect and precision.

MOTION (Beautification) to approve the NMF grant application for the Adopt-a-Trashcan program

MOTION (Beautification) to approve the NMF grant application for the Triangle Park fountain rehab

MOTION (Haraldson, Lopez, Ruiz): Per the recommendation of the SLNC Latino Caucus, and in recognition of the need to increase access and participation by Spanish speaking stakeholders in the SLNC, the SLNC Board shall request DONE's assistance in translating monthly SLNC board agendas into Spanish.

New Business

M/S/ (Millar): The SLNC respects the diversity of spiritual beliefs in our community and therefore affirms Its commitment to maintaining the separation of church and state. As a governmental body, the SLNC does not base its decisions or activities on theological principles. Further, the SLNC shall not fund the activities of religious organizations, nor engage in the distribution of materials affiliated with, or derived from, any religious philosophy.

Stakeholder Wes Joe stated his feeling that the motion is too broadly worded and that there are instances where support of non secular organizations will make sense.

M/S/F (Brooks) 7 yes, 5 No, 4 Abstain to amend the motion to read “The SLNC respects the diversity of spiritual beliefs in our community and therefore affirms Its commitment to the first amendment of the Constitution of the United States of America.”

M/S/P (Hittelman) 11-4-2 to amend the motion to read “The SLNC respects the diversity of spiritual beliefs in our community and therefore affirms Its commitment to maintaining the separation of church and state. The SLNC shall not fund the religious activities of religious organizations nor engage in the distribution of materials of a religious nature.”

A discussion of the board included issues revolving around the separation of church and state, the vagueness of the motion with regard to what are “materials of a religious nature”, what the rules of the City of Los Angeles are, and the general advisability of the motion.

M/S/P (Aguilar) 12-5 to table the motion as amended until more information and clarity on the issue is presented.

M/S/P (15-1) (B. Dakin): to write a letter in support of Nicky D’s Wood-Fired Pizza Restaurant being granted a beer and wine license/conditional use permit by the City of LA Office of Zoning and Administration.

It was stated by Nick DeMarinis (a co-owner of Nicky D’s) that it is common to have restaurants deliver wine and beer and it is standard to go until 2 AM for his type of restaurant. In response to question regarding the variance on parking, he stated that he eventually hopes to have valet parking or use a nearby lot. He also noted that his lot could park 20 cars if the parking was valet style. He noted that most of his employees and many of his customers walk to Nicky D’s. A variance hearing will be held on April 22.

Stakeholder James Eidel (the owner of the soon to be completed Breezeways Restaurant) stated that he felt that all businesses (both existing and prospective) should be treated the same with respect to parking. He noted that new businesses are meeting unbelievable parking requirements.

M/S/ and then withdrawn (UD&PAC): to advise the East Los Angeles Area Planning Commission with regard to the SLNC Governing Board decision to support the Zoning Administration’s approval for senior affordable housing development, subject to 10 conditions being imposed on the project’s design and operations.
1. Reduce the height of building at the north end. At the very least, cut one story off the NE corner. If given budgetary constrains the size of the building cannot be reduced, the following conditions are still important to put into effect.
2. Landscape the parkway along Myra Avenue with large canopy trees, with minimum mature height of 45 feet. Spacing of these trees should provide a continuous canopy along Myra.
3. Provide a landscaped median along Myra.
4. Submit a detailed landscape plan for the Sunset Boulevard frontage, for the approval of the Zoning Administrator.
5. Connect the community room and media room to allow for larger unified space.
6. Subject to the availability of adequate street parking, make the community room available for occasional use by local community groups such as senior clubs.
7. The marketing of units should include specific outreach to the local community.
8. A Neighborhood Advisory Board (NAB) shall be formed, and shall meet a minimum of four times a year. Meetings should be held in the new building at times, which allow for participation by local community members.
9. With regards to the supportive housing component of the project:
A. The applicant shall involve the local Neighborhood Councils (NC-s) and the NAB in any decision to change the population served by the supportive housing.
B. The applicant will require six months sobriety and six months drug-free status prior to any tenant moving into the building.
C. As part of evaluating tenant applications, the applicant shall perform a criminal background check on all prospective residents.
D. If approved for tenancy, a drug test will be administered prior to move-in.

10. Applicant acknowledges that the Sunset Junction Street Fair takes place annually along Sunset Boulevard in front of the site and agrees to manage construction activities in a manner that minimizes any impact on the operation of the Fair. Applicant will inform prospective residents about the annual Street Fair and closure of Sunset Boulevard.

M/S/ (B. Dakin) to oppose this project .
M/S/P to amend (Hittelman) add “as currently proposed”
M/S/P as amended (with one abstention) Oppose this project as currently proposed.

The SLNC will write a letter on the issue for the hearing to be held on April 14.
The location of the proposed construction is 4201 Sunset Blvd is the location.

Stakeholder Wes Joe who helped write the original motion opposes the project at this time. He stated his belief that the benefits to the community are outweighed by the problems that this project brings to the community. He spoke to some gang-related drug dealing at another Project New Hope building.

Ellen Readinger submitted a speaker card opposing the original item approving the project.
Kenneth Owen from the Greater Griffith Park Neighborhood Council spoke in opposition to the project. He asked the SLNC to speak against the project at the April 14 hearing. He stated that it the belief of the Greater Griffith Park Neighborhood Council that the project will impact the SLNC area as well. There are 24 letters opposed to the project. Drug abuse is a concern. Franklin Hills Homeowners is also opposed to the project.

Justino Moreno stated that the project is not designed for this neighborhood. Parking problems will result. She emphasized that the developers should be required to play by the rules.

Peter Bedard stated that no one is against senior housing or AIDS housing – when the idea was presented people were in support. He stated that the project should not be constructed without public concessions or discussion. The developer has been unwilling to take neighborhood concerns into consideration. The plan for a 5 story building would create a structure that is well above current heights of other buildings. He also complained of minimal planting and not enough parking available.

Stacy Stearns spoke in opposition to the project. She lives across from the back of the project. She stated that is her belief that the way that the neighborhood is developing matters. Two hearings were waived on this project. Height limits would be violated without checking in with residents of the area. She called on keeping our standards high.

Mary Rodriguez of the Greater Griffith Park Neighborhood Council felt supported by the new motion. The community has not had a say to this point and the help of the SLNC is appreciated. There has been no movement on height since the developer felt they needed the income derived from the additional space available.

It was pointed out that the zoning administrator waived the hearing with the belief that there would be no controversy. The developer’s board would not allow a change in their plans.

M/S/F (all opposed with 1 abstention) All SLNC sub-committees shall not schedule meetings that overlap other meetings.

Stakeholder Carol Ng helped work on the by-laws and noted that they were written to allow flexibility. Subcommittees were not addressed in the by-laws. The night chosen by the Parks/Greenspace subcommittee coincided with the Executive Committee because it was the best night for the subcommittee members.

Dorit Dowler-Guerrero asked the governing board not to force the Parks/Greenspace subcommittee to meet on another night.

M/S/P (1 abstained) (Haraldson) to approve the letter to the City Council’s Education & Neighborhoods committee, et al. regarding the legal status of NCs (See Attachment V)

The requirement for financial disclosure was questioned. It was explained that the issue is still not decided.
The issue of a city entities and its impact was discussed.

Non-Action Items

Committee Reports

Community Liaison (Willis): The February and March committee meetings were reported on. Peter Bedard is starting a mural project in the Myra Ave. underpass. He will be coming to the SLNC for money and support. He was referred to the appropriate committees. David Etzen from Red Bar gave a presentation on web sites. A template for all neighborhood councils was discussed. The committee will bring recommendations to the next Governing Board meeting. It was agreed to renew the www.silverlakenc.org registration at a cost of $20. Volunteers are needed to enter information for the stakeholder data base.

Beautification: Joe Fedorowich reported that 60 people participated in the recent Beautification Day event. Dion Neutra presented a proposal for a Ecological Garden adjacent to the Silver Lake reservoir. The issue was held over for further discussion with the Committee to Save the Silver Lake Reservoir. A Sunset Triangle Park Transformation survey was distributed to get input on the needs of the community in relation to the Park. The Committee will participate in a tree planting project on Sunset Blvd and need business custodians for the trees. Trees may be available for planting as soon as early summer. A letter of support for the elimination of the Rampart street exit will be coming to the Governing Board for approval. The work of the Environmental Affairs Department was recognized.

Arts & Culture(Choi): a reminder that the Silver Lake Easter Promenade will be held on Saturday April 10 from 12 noon to 5 PM. Posters, flyers and advertisements have been widely distributed that contain the SLNC logo as one of the sponsors. A reminder that the Summer in the Park with Art program is still looking for artists willing to participate.

Barbara Dakin stated that the Beautification Day was the most successful cleanup ever. Many groups came together. 13 local businesses donated food.

Public Safety & Disaster Prevention (B. Dakin): Barbara Dakin spoke to the continuing problem at Parkman and Sunset and also under the bridge at Sunset. She stated that four establishments in the area were attractive nuisances and were contributing to the problem and needed to be studied in public hearings. Petitions containing over 100 signatures have been gathered with respect to each location. LA International Church program have had shovels, etc. funded by the Silver Lake Improvement Association. Two teams are working – ten people each working 5 ½ hours per week cleaning up the area around Sunset and Vendome. This work is a part of a rehabilitation project. Dakin also called to people’s attention an April 22 meeting on Emergency Preparedness at the Russian Orthodox Church at which the Red Cross will demonstrate the preparation of emergency kits.

Announcements
Alexia Pilat announced a meeting at the Silver Lake Recreation Center on Thursday April 8 regarding the Microwave Radiation Hazards from Neighborhood Cell Towers and Antennas such as those currently under consideration in the Silver Lake area. The meeting is sponsored by the Residents Opposed to Neighborhood Cell Sites. Contact can be made at silverlakeneighbors@yahoo.com.

Rusty Millar stated that the fire department’s brush cleaning notice only relates to native vegetation.

It was reported that the LA Leather Coalition event on March 28 was a “nonevent” (no problems) from the police point of view. Others had heard complaints of near naked people walking around.

Jane Renahan handed out flyers for the May 7th “Bach, Rock and Shakespeare” event at the Greek Theatre. The doors open at 6:30 PM. John Marshall High School’s Play Production, Orchestra and State Crew will present “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” as part of the event. There will also be a battle of garage bands. Parking is free. Tickets are $10.

Adjournment : The meeting was adjourned at 10 PM.



Minutes by M. Hittelman


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