On Monday, we will pause to reflect on September 11, 2001, a date that altered the course of our nation's history. As a part of the broader community that still feels the impact of that day, I will stand with our firefighters and first responders to honor the bravery and sacrifice of so many men and women who perished on that tragic day.
Community Plan Updates
California law requires all cities to develop a General Plan, which is a comprehensive policy document that informs future land use decisions, establishes land use designations, and identifies a range of zoning options. The City of Los Angeles General Plan Land Use Element is comprised of 35 Community Plans that cover the entire 473 square miles of our city. Community Plans are developed and periodically updated by the Planning Department. These documents establish goals and policies to accommodate growth and guide decision-making when projects are proposed.
With dozens of new state laws mandating densification and eliminating R1 zoning, the Community Plan Updates present a critical opportunity for every neighborhood to have a say in the future of their community.
The Westside Community Plan Updates have been underway for several years, but Planning recently issued their draft updates for Westchester/Playa del Rey, Venice, West LA/Sawtelle, and Palms/Mar Vista/Del Rey. Updates to the Brentwood/Pacific Palisades Community Plan are still underway.
Like many residents, I have concerns that the current drafts prepared by the Planning Department don't adequately address traffic, infrastructure impacts, or many other distinctive features of our Westside neighborhoods. I look forward to further input and feedback from our community and neighborhood councils, community based organizations, BIDs, and local residents and stakeholders.
To that end, over the next few weeks, my team and I will be hosting several listening sessions to understand and address your concerns about the plans, laws, and the broader vision for our community.
Here are the dates are for each group:
Westchester/Playa del Rey: Sept 25 - Oct 6
Venice: Oct 2 - Oct 13
West LA/Sawtelle: Oct 9 - Oct 20
Palms/Mar Vista/Del Rey: Oct 16 - Oct 27
To schedule a listening session for any of the community plan updates listed above, please contact the field deputy for that area and they will reach out to you with some potential meeting times. Click here to connect with your field deputy.
Due to conflicting information circulating regarding the Community Plan Updates, I personally attended the Westchester/Playa del Rey Neighborhood Council Meeting this week to clarify the record. Watch my remarks about the Westchester/Playa del Rey Community Plan update below.
Preserving History
This week, I took decisive action to preserve the cherished Brentwood residence of the legendary Marilyn Monroe. When the Department of Building and Safety unexpectedly issued a demolition permit for this historic home, my team and I sprung into action. On Friday, we successfully introduced and unanimously approved a motion directing the Planning Department to initiate consideration of the property as an Historic-Cultural Monument and halt the potential demolition of this important asset pending further review by the Office of Historic Resources, the Cultural Heritage Commission, and the full City Council.
For people all over the City, and the entire world, Marilyn Monroe was more than just a movie icon. She overcame great adversity in her childhood and battled for fair compensation, often paid far less than her male counterparts, and far less than she was actually worth. Because she died far too young, we are all left to imagine what glass ceilings she might have shattered if she'd only had a little more time.
Thank you to the many, many hundreds of you who reached out to my office to advocate for saving this iconic and historic home!
Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 23, and join us for Coastal Cleanup Day at the Venice Beach Pier! We're joining forces to look after our environment, making sure our beaches and waters are clean and safe for us, and the marine habitat.
Metro plans to install digital billboards on up to 49 of its City-owned properties near freeways and major streets as part of the Transportation Communication Network (TCN) program. The proposed TCN ordinance will be reviewed by the City Planning Commission (CPC) on Thursday, September 14, 2023.
We encourage your participation in the CPC hearing, where you can provide input on the Metro TCN Ordinance. While the CPC may make recommendations to the City Council, no final decision will be reached during this meeting. You can access the CPC meeting agenda, submit comments to cpc@lacity.org, and find additional information, including the Staff Recommendation Report, revised draft ordinance, and maps, on the project website.
Al Fresco Dining: Important Update
Heads up! LADOT is updating the Al Fresco outdoor dining portal. From September 30, the current system will be temporarily down as it shifts to a more permanent platform. LADOT recommends submitting your application before September 30. All the specifics, from rules to the application process, can be accessed through the following link: LA Al Fresco Dining Details.
Park's Pick
Thrilled to spotlight Playa del Rey's gem, Caffe Pinguini, as this week's Park's Pick! The owner, Tony Cotrufo, a native of Rome, has made a big impact on our community by serving up authentic Italian food in a homespun environment! His commitment to genuine, home-cooked fare in such a cozy setting has truly enriched our community.
Adopt-A-Pet
Meet Denzel! Denzel, a playful 6-year-old weighing 51 pounds, loves splashing around in the doggie pool! He's eagerly waiting for a loving home and can be adopted from our Chesterfield Square Center.
Let's Stay Connected!
TRACI PARK
Councilwoman, 11th District
Log onto our #Better11 District Website for the latest information on upcoming meetings and community resources!
