PLANNING AND LAND USE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE Tuesday, February 11, 2014 BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS EDWARD R. ROYBAL HEARING ROOM 350-2:30 PM 200 NORTH SPRING STREET, LOS ANGELES, CA 90012 MEMBERS: COUNCILMEMBER JOSE HUIZAR, CHAIR COUNCILMEMBER GILBERT A. CEDILLO COUNCILMEMBER MITCHELL ENGLANDER (Sharon Gin - Legislative Assistant - (213)-978-1074 or email Sharon.Gin@lacity.org) Click here for agenda packets Note: For information regarding the Committee and its operations, please contact the Committee Legislative Assistant at the phone number and/or email address listed above. The Legislative Assistant may answer questions and provide materials and notice of matters scheduled before the City Council. Sign Language Interpreters, Communication Access Real-Time Transcription (CART), Assistive Listening Devices, or other auxiliary aids and/or services may be provided upon request. To ensure availability, you are advised to make your request at least 72 hours prior to the meeting/event you wish to attend. Due to difficulties in securing Sign Language Interpreters, five or more business days notice is strongly recommended. For additional information, please contact the Legislative Assistant listed above. ITEM NO. (1) 14-0084 CD 4 TIME LIMIT: 3/10/14; LAST DAY FOR COUNCIL ACTION: 3/5/14 Communication from the Mayor relative to the appointment of Mr. George Hovaguimian to the Board of Building and Safety Commission for the term ending June 30, 2017. Community Impact Statement: None submitted. ITEM NO. (2) 14-0086 CD 14 TIME LIMIT: 3/10/14; LAST DAY FOR COUNCIL ACTION: 3/5/14 Communication from the Mayor relative to the appointment of Ms. Donna Choi to the East Los Angeles Area Planning Commission for the term ending June 30, 2016. Community Impact Statement: None submitted ITEM NO. (3) 13-1104 Motion (O'Farrell - LaBonge - et al) relative to the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety to include options for an increased fee structure to cover demolition work enforcement cost, public notification for demolition of structures, and related matters. Community Impact Statement: None submitted.
ITEM NO. (4) 13-1489 CD 5 TIME LIMIT: 4/2/14; LAST DAY FOR COUNCIL ACTION: 4/2/14 Mitigated Negative Declaration and related California Environmental Quality Act findings, and an appeal filed by Bradley D. Hornbacher on behalf of BH Wilshire International, LLC (Representative: Timothy McOsker, Mayer Brown, LLP), from the entire determination of the West Los Angeles Area Planning Commission (WLAAPC) in sustaining the Zoning Administrator's approval of a Zone Variance to permit the construction of an errant golf ball deflection fence ranging in height from 150 feet to 166 feet in lieu of the maximum height of 30 feet that is permitted in the A1-1XL zone, subject to Conditions of Approval, for property located at 10101 West Wilshire Boulevard. (The WLAAPC also sustained the Zoning Administrator's approval of an adjustment to allow a 166-foot high fence barrier within the required 25-foot side yard in lieu of the required setback being open and unobstructed from the ground to the sky.) Applicant: Los Angeles Country Club Representative: Jim Ries, Craig Lawson and Company, LLC Case No. ZA-2011-1046-ZV-ZAA-1A Fiscal Impact Statement: Yes Community Impact Statement: None submitted. DISPOSITION: REQUEST TO CONTINUE TO 3/4/14 PLUM ITEM NO. (5) 07-1175 Director of Planning s oral status report relative to ongoing development of City planning policies, work program, operations, and other items of interest. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON ITEMS OF PUBLIC INTEREST WITHIN THIS COMMITTEES SUBJECT MATTER JURISDICTION If you challenge this Committee's action(s) in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City Clerk at or prior to, the public hearing. Any written correspondence delivered to the City Clerk before the City Council's final action on a matter will become a part of the administrative record. Materials related to an item on this agenda submitted to the committee after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection in the City Clerk's Office at 200 North Spring Street, Room 395, City Hall, Los Angeles, CA 90012 during normal business hours.
ERIC GARCETTI MAYOR January 21, 2014 Honorable Members of the City Council clo City Clerk City Hall, Room 395 Honorable Members: Subject to your confirmation, I have appointed Mr. George Hovaguimian to the Board of Building and Safety Commissioners for the term ending June 3D, 2017. Mr. Hovaguimian will fill the vacancy created by Sepand Samzadeh, whom I removed effective March 31, 2014 or at the time Mr. Samzadeh's successor is confirmed by the City Council. I certify that in my opinion Mr. Hovaguimian upon him, and that I make the appointment is qualified for the work that will devolve solely in the interest of the City. Sincerely, ERIC GARCETTI Mayor EG:dlg Attachment 200 N. SPRING STREET, ROOM 303 LOS ANGELES, CA 90012 (213) 978-0600 MAYOR. LACITY.ORG
Attachment I Mr. George Hovaguimian
COMMISSION APPOINTMENT FORM Name: Commission: End of Term: George Hovaguimian Board of Building and Safety Commissioners 6/30/2017 Appointee Information 1. Race/ethnicity: Caucasian 2. Gender: Male 3. Council district and neighborhood of residence: 4 - South Valley 4. Are you a registered voter? Yes 5. Prior commission experience: 6. Highest level of education completed: 7. Occupation/profession: President, Airplus Engineering Consultants 8. Experience(s) that qualifies person for appointment: See attached resume 9. Purpose of this appointment: Replacement 10. Current composition of the commission (excluding appointee):..... :':.. :::.::... cb.::. Ambatielos, Evanaelos Central 5 Caucasian M 04-Apr-06 30-Jun-16 Brannon, Eleanor East 14 African American F 15-Dec-12 30-Jun-17 Cuevas, Victor H. North Valley 7 Latino M 27-Jun-08 30-Jun-15 Jubanv, Helena L East 14 Asian Pacific Islander F 05-0ct-06 30-Jun-14 Samzadeh, Sepand South Valley 3 Caucasian M 02-Jul-12 30-Jun-17
With over 35 years of proven expertise in engineering, project management, business planning, construction management, construction supervision, field engineering, corporate and government management both in the United States and overseas. Combines strategic and tactical engineering design expertise with strong qualifications in the development of plans and city permitting. Established familiarity with LEED Green and excellent knowledge of green design. Excellent team player with excellent communication and organizational skills. Determined professional individual with an extensive professional and educational background. Bachelors of Science Mechanical Engineering - American University of Beirut. Graduate Study in Mechanical Engineering - American University of Beirut. Graduate Study in Engineering - University of Los Angeles, California (UCLA). Code Compliance in Advance Technologies - University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee Certificate from California Energy Commission as Energy Auditor. Professional Registered Engineer - State of California. Professional Registered Engineer - State of Arizona Professional Registered Engineer - State of Nevada Professional Registered Engineer - State of Hawaii Fellow Member - American Society of Heating and Refrigeration; ASHREA. Fellow Member - American Society of Mechanical Engineers; ASME. Fellow Member - National Fire Protection Association; NFPA. Fellow Member - Mechanical Engineering Association. Fellow Member - Association of Energy Engineers. Fellow Member-Institute of Environmental Sciences and Technology.
From 2004 to present President - AirPlus Engineering Consultants >- North Hollywood, California. From 1999 to 2004 Vice President - LH Hajnal & Associates - Los Angeles, California. From 1989 to 1999 Vice President - Pacific Triax Corporation, Canoga Park, California. Assistant to the Minister of Energy & Fuel - Republic of Armenia. (January 1992 to June 1993) From 1985 to 1989 Project Engineer - The Ralph M Parsons Company, Pasadena California. From 1984 to 1985 Project Engineer - The Ralph M Parsons Company, Pasadena, California. From 1981 to 1984 Project Engineer - Ralph M Parsons Company, Vandenberg Air Force Base. California From 1979 to 1981 Project Engineer - Ralph M Parsons Company, Yanbu, Saudi Arabia. From 1976 to 1979 Senior Engineer - Ralph E Phillips, Santa Monica, California. From 1974 to 1976 Senior Engineer - Middle East Consultants, Beirut, Lebanon. Page 1
From 2004 to Present President - AirPlus Engineering Consultants - North Hollywood, California. Holy Trinity Romanian Orthodox Church - Sunland, California. Airplus Engineering Consultants designed the New Romanian Orthodox Church with adjacent social hall, prayer chapel, commercial size kitchen, museum, conference room, daytime classrooms, offices and sleeping quarters located at Sunland, California. Archie Dickranian School - Hollywood, California. Design the mechanical, plumbing and Fire Sprinklers systems for the new high school addition with its multi-purpose hall, administration rooms, Kitchen and parking structure four hundred students elementary and secondary school in Los Angeles, California. We obtained all the necessary permits. Bel-Air Bay Club, Pacific Palisades, California. Expansion and remodeling of existing beach front Bel-Air Bay Club facilities. The project consisted of several dining facilities, gymnasium, exercise facilities, locker rooms, cabins, commercial kitchens, shower facilities, as well beachfront dining and entertainment facilities. Perinos Complex - 4101 Wilshire Avenue - Los Angeles, California. Design the Mechanical and Plumbing systems for this multi-story apartment building project in Los Angeles, California and obtained all the necessary permits. From 1999 to 2004 Vice President- L.H. Hajnal & Associates, Los Angeles, California. Primary functions were design and constructton management of commercial facilities. Artist Management Group, Beverly Hills, California. The project was to design and built two stories (25,OOO-sq.ft.) of office spaces to house the headquarters of the Artist Management Group talent agency. It ended up to be one of a most prestigious office and luxurious office spaces in Beverly Hills, California. The facilities had private offices, conference rooms, screening rooms, open space seating, computer rooms and waiting areas. William-Morris Talent Agency, Beverly Hills, California. We have designed state of the art office building for William-Morris Talent Agency. Three story building complete with private offices, executive offices, boardrooms, conference rooms, open-air terraces, lunchrooms and computer rooms. Raytheon Systems Company, Goleta, California. Company Associates worked for a major remodeling work at Raytheon Systems Company that included the addition of five thousand square feet of Class 1000 clean room, upgrade of existing chilled water system, upgrade of electronics manufacturing and assembly facilities, Vacuum Bake area, Thermal Products and linear Cooler Laboratories, Test and Gowning areas, Sub-Assembly Integration rooms, Dicing Saw foams, Piece Part Vacuum Bake Subassembly areas, Test Stations and Thermal Chambers. PageZ
Fullerton Police Station - Fullerton, California. Expand and upgrade existing Fullerton Police Station. The project consisted of upgrading one historic Police Station, upgrade existing police office building and adding a new police fachitycomplete with modern facilities. Manhattan Beach Police and Fire Stations - Manhattan Beach, California. Expand and upgrade existing Fullerton Police Station. The project consisted of upgrading one historic Police Station, upgrade existing police office building and adding a new police facility complete with modern facilities. Boeing Satellite Systems, EI-Segundo, California. Company Associates worked at a project to develop 85,000 square feet new facilities that consist of 75 foot high clean rooms, integration areas, containerization area, utility areas, underground tunnels, test facilities, offices and high frequency chamber for launch tests. From 1989 to 1999 Project Engineer - Pacific Trlex Corporation, Canoga Park, California. Engaged in design, cost estimates and construction management of several commercial, residential and institutional facilities. Vartanian Center, Beirut, Lebanon. Engaged in the design, construction and management of a prestigious commercial complex located on main Beirut - Tripoli Highway, in Beirut, Lebanon. The Center consists of 100,000 square feet of retail areas, banking facilities and office spaces. Carried the project from conception to final inspection Tekeyan Cultural Central, Pasadena, California. The Center consists of 10,000 square feet of offices, banquette halls and cultural quarters. Located at 1901 North Allen Avenue the Center serves the Pasadena community at large. Northridge Housing Complex, Northridge, California. The Complex consists of eighteen (18) luxury homes, located 19401 through 19453 Plummer Street, Northridge, California. Sherman Way Plaza, Canoga Park, California. The Plaza consists of 21,000 square feet of medical offices, professional offices and retail outlets. It is located at 22122 Sherman Way, Canoga Park, California. Bentley.Triax Condominiums, Westwood, California. The project consists of Seven luxury condominiums located at 1430 South Bentley Avenue, Westwood, California. Los Angeles Jewelry Mart, Los Angeles, California The Jewelry Mart is Located at 712 South Olive Street, in the heart of Los Angeles business district area. The building was converted to house a jewelry plaza and wholesale outlets throughout. St. Vincent Jewelry Center, Los Angeles, California. The St. Vincent Jewelry Mart is Located on 740 South Hill Street, Los Angeles, California. It is the city's most prestigious jewelry center with over hundreds of manufacturers and jewelry wholesale outlets. This building was converted from a historical site to accommodate the jewelry wholesale outlets. Page 3
Los Angeles Merchandise Mart - Los Angeles, California. The ground floor was converted to shops and arcades, and the second floor was remodeled to suit the needs of the Greyhound Bus Terminal. Liquor Barn Stores - California. Several stores throughout the state of California were remodeled in order to add beverage and wine cooling warehouses, St. Jude Hospital - Yorba Linda, California. The Hospital went through a major renovation to upgrade the patients' rooms, the surgery center, the central system air conditioning system, and all kinds of electrical work. Garfield Medical Center - San Dimas, California. Replacement of window type air-conditioning units with a central system and electrical upgrade. Montclair Doctors Hospital - Montclair, California. The hospital added entirely a new x-ray system. We built two x-ray rooms, installed two state of the art x-ray machines with all its relevant Electro-mechanical work, Woodview Calabasas Hospital- Calabasas, California. The Hospital went through a major renovation to upgrade the surgery section, the pediatrics section as well as the entire air conditioning system throughout the hospital. All the window type air conditioners were removed and they were replaced by the state of the art Central Air Conditioning system as well as the old electrical system was replaced. Los Gatos Community Hospital- Los Gatos, California.- A central air conditioning system replacement was requested in lieu of the old window type units. Prepared the design, obtained all necessary permits and replaced the entire air conditioning system with its related electrical work in record time, JFK Medical Center - Indio, California. This project called for the installation of an "emergency, diesel power generator". Subsequently, the room to accommodate the generator was built, the necessary electrical hookups carried out, i.e. a complete mechanical, electrical structural work. Oxygen outlets for the patients' rooms were also installed. St. Gregory School- Pasadena, California. Design the mechanical and the electrical system for a six hundred student elementary school in Pasadena, California. Obtained all the necessary permits as well as conducted overall installation supervision of the mechanical and the electrical systems. Marie Manoogian School - Canoga Park, California. Design the mechanical system for a Junior High school and a multi purpose covered hall in Canoga Park, California. Obtained all the necessary permits as well as conducted overall installation supervision of the mechanical and the electrical systems. St. Jude Hospital - Fullerton, California. Extensive work was carried out at this institution, which included upgrade of the patients rooms, addition of a surgery center, installation of a gas chiller, new oxygen outlets for the patients rooms, a temporary power line and smoke detector system. Page 4
Assistant to the lviinister of Energy & Fuel ~Republic of Armenia. Took leave of absence to work as Assistant Minister of Energy & Fuel for the newly independent Republic of Armenia. Engaged in setting up the Department of Energy & Fuel by combining the electrical power generation and distribution under one department as well as the natural gas and the oil section under one department. With a local team prepared deslqn and construction tasks that needed to be done to modernize and upgrade the local energy requirements. This included construction of new electrical power plants, new gas pipelines, upgrade existing power plants and gas distribution centers. The tasks were presented to different world bodies (The World Bank, International Monetary Fund, European Banks, and etc..) for proper financing and execution. From 1985 to 1989 Project Engineer - The Ralph M Parsons Company, Pasadena California. The purpose of the project was the destruction of the United State Army's chemical mass destruction weapons, which were stored throughout the United States. The congress funded for four such facilities to be built throughout the country. I worked through the development phase, design phase, construction phase, and the testing phase of the pilot plans at Toole Army Depot, Toole, Utah. Estimated project cost, $800 Million Dollars. From 1984 to 1985 Project Engineer - The Ralph M Parsons Company, Pasadena, California. Design, construction, testing and installation of ARCO's Central Gas Facilities at Prudhoe Bay, Alaska. A $600 Million Dollars project was about a gas gathering, gas compression and gas liquefaction plant to be built in a modular form at Seattle, Washington. Upon completion they will be towed on sea barges to Prudhoe Bay, Alaska for final setup and operation. I worked as a project engineer for the construction of the plant at Seattle, Washington. I had to oversee the design effort, which were done in Pasadena, California and the actual construction and testing, which were done in Seattle, Washington. It was a very interesting and a unique project to say the least. From 1981 to 1984 Project Engineer - Ralph M Parsons Company, Vandenberg Air Force Base. California The United States Defense Department, through U.S. Air Force embarked on the construction of a One Billion Dollars "Space Launch Complex" for the Space Shuttle program at Vandenberg Air Force Base. The space launch complex to have a launch pad, mission control centers, fueling facilities and support facilities. I worked as a project engineer for the construction of the support facilities, such as the office buildings, rocket assembly warehouses, shuttle storage and maintenance structure, rocket launch offices and guard stations. Page 5
From 1979 to 1981 Project Engineer. The Ralph M Parsons Company, Yenbu, Saudi Arabia, Developed technical specifications, scope of work, request for proposals, bidding documents, and construction management for several commercial & industrial facilities at Yanbu Industrial City project in Saudi Arabia. The project was about the construction of a brand new city on the Red Sea to house two hundred thousand people, complete with its residential, commercial, industrial and municipal facilities. I did oversee the development of the commercial sector, complete with its office buildings, individual re tail stores, shopping centers, food courts, open air vending arenas, schools and athletic stadiums. I do believe the project has logged over two billion dollars in construction cost. From 1976 to 1979 Senior Engineer. Ralph E Phiffips, Santa Monica, California. Engaged in design and construction supervision of Dunes Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada. I did commute between Los Angeles, where the plans were being prepared and Las Vegas, where the actual construction effort was being done. Because of the fact that the Hotel/Casino stayed open during the entire construction time, we did end up remodeling the building in phases and over a stretched period oftime. From 1974 to 1976 Senior Engineer - Middle East Consultants, Beirut, Lebanon. Engaged in design and construction supervision of a 500,000 Barrels per year lube oil blending and packing facility, for MOBIL Oil Company in Saudi Arabia. Page 6
ERIC GARCETTI MAYOR January 21, 2014 Mr. George Hovaguimian Dear Mr. Hovaguimian: r am pleased to inform you that I hereby appoint you to the Board of Building and Safety Commissioners for the term ending June 30,2017, In order to complete the process as quickly as possible, there are several steps that must be taken, many of which require visiting City Hall. If you require parking during these procedures, please call Justin Gonzalez in my Office at (213) 922-9788 to make arrangements for you. To begin the appointment process, please review, sign and return the enclosed Remuneration Form, Undated Separation Forms, Background Check Release and 'Information Sheet within one week of receiving this letter, These documents are necessary to ensuring the most efficient, open and accountable City government possible. Further, Mayor's Office policy requires you to be fingerprinted as part of the background check that is done on all potential Commissioners. To do so, please bring this letter to the Background Unit of Employment Services Division, Personnel Department Building, 700 East Temple Street, Room 235, Los Angeles, California. 90012. The division phone number is (213) 473-9343, Fingerprints must be taken within three working days from the receipt of this letter. Under separate cover you will be receiving a packet from the City Ethics Commission containing information about the City's conflict of interest laws and a copy of the State Form 700/Statement of Economic Interests, You are required to complete and return this form within 21 days of your nomination to the City Ethics Commission, 200 North Spring Street, City Hall, 24th Floor, Los Angeles, California 90012, Any inquiries regarding this form should be directed to Shannon Prior at the Ethics Commission at (213) 978-1960. 200 N. SPRING STREET, ROOM 303 LOS ANGELES, CA 90012 (213) 978-0600 MAYOR.LACITY.ORG
Mr. George Hovaguimian January 21, 2014 Page 2 As part of the City Council confirmation process, you will need to meet with Tom LaBonge, your Councilmember, and Councilmember Jose Huizar, the Chair of the Planning and Land Use Management Committee, to answer any questions they may have. You will be hearing from a City Council committee clerk who whllet you know when your appointment will be considered by the Planning and Land Use Management Committee. Some time thereafter, you will be notified by the committee clerk when your appointment will be presented to the full City Council for confirmation. Once you are confirmed, you will be required to take the oath of office in the City Clerk's Office in Room 395 of City Hall. Cary Gross with the Mayor's staff will assist you during the confirmation process if you have questions. Commissioners must be residents of the City of Los Angeles. If you move at any point during your term, have any changes in your telephone numbers, or in the future plan to resign (resignation must be put in writing), please contact my office immediately. Congratulations and thank you for agreeing to serve the people of Los Angeles. Sincerely, L C;~ ERIC GARCETTI Mayor EG:dlg
Attachment I Mr. George Hovaguimian January 21,2014 Nominee Check List I. Within three days: Get fingerprinted to complete a background check. No appointment is necessary. Bring the Mayor's letter to: Background Unit of Employment Services Division, Personnel Department Building, 700 East Temple Street, Room 235, Los Angeles, California 90012. Phone: (213) 473-9343. II. Within seven days: Mail, fax or email the following forms to: Cary Gross, Office of the Mayor, Office of External Affairs, City Hail, 200 N. Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 or fax: 213-978-9719 or email: cary.gross@laclty.org. Remuneration Form Undated Separation Forms _--,- Background Check Release Information Sheet/Voluntary Statistics III. Within 21 days: File the following forms with the City Ethics Commission. If you are required to file, you will receive these forms in the mail from that office. Statement of Economic Interest ("Form 700") IMPORTANT: The City Council will not consider your nomination until your completed form is reviewed by the Ethics Commission. IV. -- Residence Verification Form As soon as possible, the Mayor's Office will schedule a meeting with you and: Your City CouncilmemberTom LaBonge (contact at 213-473-7004). Councilmember Jose Huizar, Chair of the Council Committee considering your nomination (contact at 213-473-7014). Staff in the Mayor's Office of External Affairs will assist you with these arrangements.
ERIC GARCETTI MAYOR January 21, 2014 Honorable Members of the City Council clo City Clerk City Hall, Room 395 Honorable Members: Subject to your confirmation, I have appointed Ms. Donna Choi to the East Los Angeles Area Planning Commission for the term ending June 30, 2016. Ms. Choi will fill the vacancy created by Javier Angulo, whom I removed effective March 31,2014 or at the time Mr. Angulo's successor is confirmed by the City Council, I certify that in my opinion Ms. Choi is qualified for the work that will devolve upon her, and that I make the appointment solely in the interest of the City. Sincerely, ERIC GARCETTI Mayor EG:dlg Attachment 200 N, SPRING STREET, ROOM 303 LOS ANGELES, CA 90012 (213) 978-0600 MAYOR, LACITY,QRG
Attachment I Ms. Donna Choi
COMMISSION APPOINTMENT FORM Name: Commission: End of Term: Donna Choi East Los Angeles Area Planning Commission 6/30/2016 Appointee Information 1. Race/ethntclty: Asian Pacific Islander 2. Gender: Female 3. Council district and neighborhood of residence: 14 - East Los Angeles 4. Are you a registered voter? Yes 5. Prior commission experience: 6. Highest level of education completed: 7. Occupation/profession: General Manager, Travel Town Museam Foundation 8. Experience(s) that qualifies person for appointment: See attached resume 9. Purpose of this appointment: Replacement 10. Current composition of the commission (excluding appointee):..... L '... : :: :... :,c :. :... :... :... ' ' i< \.....,t:fh~j:gtv.'... :.......,... ). I <:C \..:... :.ic i... i' :..:..,.',.. '.. Anqulo, Javier C. East LA 1 Latino M 29-0ct-08 30-Jun-16 Chavova, MoniQue East LA 14 Latina F 29-Mar-13 30-Jun-18 Fukushima, Mayumi East LA 1 Asian Pacific Islander F 25-Sep-12 30-Jun-17 Hanson, Ana East LA 1 Latina F 07-Jul-11 30-Jun-14 Marquez, David East LA 1 Latino M 28-Sep-05 30-Jun-15
Donna Choi Work Experience General Manager Travel Town Museum Foundation July 2009 - Present Oversee popular historic non-profit in Griffith Park. Responsible for Community Relations, Tours, Memberships, and Events. Increased all revenue streams by 40%. Organized annual volunteer program leading to presentation of President Obama Volunteer Service Awards. Communications Director The McMullen Company January 2013 - Present Supervise all social media for national forensic fire expert company. Create press releases and manage all promotions. Owner/Designer Serifos, Inc. August 2001 - May 2013 Responsible for every aspect of running successful retail gift boutique in Silver Lake (Voted Best in LA by Citysearch) including: Accounts Receivable/Payable, Bookkeeping & Taxes, Hiring/Training Employees, Community Relations, Buying/Selling, Merchandising, Marketing/Promotions. Jewelry designer of award winning Suzette Jewels. Director of Market Development Clear Channel Communications KBIGIKLAC Radio April 2000- April 200 I Responsible for hiring and training 15+ person sales team. Surpassed $1,000,000 annual budget. Created marketing and promotional programs for variety of clients including: Film Studios, Grocery Stores, Products. Recipient of "Chancellor Marketing Group Award" for Exceptional Sales performance. Account Executive Infinity Broadcasting Corporation KROQ Radio April 1997- April 2000 Responsible for annual budget. Created Advertising and Promotional campaigns for a wide array of clients including: Colleges, Film Studios, Video Gaming companies. Received the "CBS Eye on You Super Achiever Award" for innovative sales. Volunteer Activities Campaign worker, Eric Garcettifor Mayor - Eagle Rock HQ: GOTV (phone banking, settled end of day counts, sign delivery), active in social media (set up foursquare check in, shot and posted bi-lingual videos on vine, shared images on instagram), attended media events. Office Manager, 2008 Obama Presidential Campaign - Latinos for Obama HQ: Supervised volunteers in East LA office, coordinated teams for press events, GOTV. Producer, Serifos Annual Halloween Treat-a-than: Organized annual partnership with major Hollywood film studios for wildly popular neighborhood event giving local & low income children posters & promotional items from popular movies. Volunteer, Silver Lake Chamber of Commerce: Shot video & photos. Worked events. Attended meetings. Computer Skills Quicken, FileMaker Pro, Microsoft Office incl. Power Point & Excel. Education Glendale Community College, Glendale, CA - General Studies Santa Monica College, Santa Monica, CA - General Studies
ERIC GARCETTI MAYOR January 21, 2014 Ms. Donna Choi Dear Ms. Choi: I am pleased to inform you that I hereby appoint you to the East Los Angeles Area Planning Commission for the term ending June 30,2016. In order to complete the process as quickly as possible, there are several steps that must be taken, many of which require visiting City Hall. If you require parking during these procedures, please call Justin Gonzalez in my Office at (213) 922-9788 to make arrangements for you, To begin the appointment process, please review, sign and return the enclosed Remuneration Form, Undated Separation Forms, Background Check Release and Information Sheet within one week of receiving this letter. These documents are necessary to ensuring the most efficient, open and accountable City government possible. Further, Mayor's Office policy requires you to be fingerprinted as part of the background check that is done on all potential Commissioners. To do so, please bring this letter to the Background Unit of Employment Services Division, Personnel Department Building, 700 East Temple Street, Room 235, Los Angeles, California 90012. The division phone number is (213) 473-9343. Fingerprints must be taken within three working days from the receipt of this letter. Under separate cover you will be receiving a packet from the City Ethics Commission containing information about the City's conflict of interest laws and a copy of the State Form 700/Statement of Economic Interests. You are required to complete and return this form within 21 days of your nomination to the City Ethics Commission, 200 North Spring Street, City Hall, 24th Floor, Los Angeles, California 90012. Any inquiries regarding this form should be directed to Shannon Prior at the Ethics Commission at (213) 978-1960, 2:00 N. SPRING STREET, ROOM 303 LOS ANGELES, CA 90012 (213) 978-0600 MAYOR. LACITY.ORG
Ms. Donna Choi January 21, 2014 Page 2 As part of the City Council confirmation process, you will need to meet with Jose Huizar, who is both your Councilmember and the Chair of the Planning and Land Use Management Committee, to answer any questions they may have. You will be hearing from a City Council committee clerk who will let you know when your appointment will be considered by the Planning and Land Use Management Committee. Some time thereafter, you will be notified by the committee clerk when your appointment will be presented to the full City Council for confirmation. Once you are confirmed, you will be required to take the oath of office in the City Clerk's Office in Room 395 of City Hall. Cary Gross with the Mayor's staff will assist you during the confirmation process if you have questions. Commissioners must be residents of the City of Los Angeles. If you move at any point during your term, have any changes in your telephone numbers, or in the future plan to resign (resignation must be put in writing), please contact my office immediately. Congratulations and thank you for agreeing to serve the people of Los Angeles. Sincerely, L 0~~ ERIC GARCETTI Mayor EG:dlg
Attachment I Ms. Donna Choi January 21, 2014 Nominee Check List I. Within three days: Get fingerprinted to complete a background check. No appointment is necessary, Bring the Mayor's letter to: Background Unit of Employment Services Division, Personnel Department Building, 700 East Temple Street, Room 235, Los Angeles, California 90012. Phone: (213) 473-9343. II. Within seven days: Mail, fax or email the following forms to: Cary Gross, Office of the Mayor, Office of External Affairs, City Hall, 200 N. Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 or fax: 213-978-9719 or email: cary.gross@lacity,org. ---. Remuneration Form Undated Separation Forms Background Check Release Information SheeWoluntary Statistics 111. Within 21 days: File the following forms with the City Ethics Commission. If you are required to file, you will receive these forms in the mail from that office. IV. Statement of Economic Interest ("Form 700") IMPORTANT: The City Council will not consider your nomination unti! your completed form is reviewed by the Ethics Commission. -- Residence Verification Form As soon as possible, the Mayor's Office will schedule a meeting with you and: Councilmember Jose Huizar, Chair of the Council Committee considering your nomination (contact at 213-473-7014). Staff in the Mayor's arrangements. Office of External Affairs will assist you with these
AUG 2 t 20\3 /3-//D1- PLANNING & tand USE MANAGEMENT MOTION Demolition penults are issued without a public process. When a property owner decides to demolish an existing structure, it can significantly change the character of the surrounding community. There is no recourse for community stakeholders who are concerned about the character of their community because they do not have the opportunity to be involved in a public process prior to demolition. It is time for the City to enhance its demolition process, so that community stakeholders are fully involved in all decision making that can potentially alter the character of their community. I THEREFORE MOVE that the Council instruct the Department of Building and Safety to include options for an increased fee structure to cover the cost of any demolition work enforcement, and to develop a public notification process for the demolition of any structure located in all zones, and which includes a 30 day onsite posting requirement. PRESENTEDBY:~:a: ~~ / ~O'FARRELL ~ ~cr, 13'" District SECONDED BY:,I ' '/' -----4~~----~--~~~~----.. laug 212Gb rrm
TRANSMITTAL TO CITY COUNCIL Case No. Planning Staff Nallle(s) and Contact No. C.D. No. ZA-2011-1 046-ZV -ZAA-1 A Sue Chang (213) 978-3304 5 Related Case No(s). Last Day to Appeal OCTaO 2013 Location of Project (Include project titles, if any.) 10101 West Wilshire Boulevard. Applicant(s) and Representative(s) Name(s) and Contact Information, if available. Applicant: Kirk 0, ReeselDave Tannar Representative: Jim Ries Los Angeles Country Club Craig Lawson & Co, LLC 10101 West Wilshire Blvd, 8758 Venice Boulevard, #200 Los Angeles, CA 90024 Los Angeles, CA 90034 Tel No. (310) 276-6104 Tel No. (310) 838-2400, Email: jim@craiglawson,com Appellant(s) and Representative(s) Name(s) and Contact.lnformation, including phone numbers, if available. Appellant: Bradley D, Hornbacher Representative: Timothy McOsker 1 Alhambra Plaza, Suite 605 Mayer Brown LLP Coral Gables, FL 33134 350 South Grand Avenue, zs" Floor, Tel No. (786) 517-2929, Los Angeles, CA 90071 Email: bh@ctfdlcom Tel No. (213) 229-9500.".,..,.. Email: tmcosker@mayerbrown,com Final Project Description (Description is for consideration' by Committee/Council, and for use on agendas and official public notices. If a General Plan Amendment andlor Zone Change case, include the prior land use designation and zone, as well as the proposed land use designation and zone change (i.e. "from Very 'Low' Density Residential land use designation to Low Density land use designation and concurrent zone change from RA~1~Kto (T){Q)R1~1~K).In addition, for all cases appealed in the Council, please include in the description only those items which are appealable to councu.) Project description: Construction of an ertantqolf b.all deflection fence ranging in height from 150 feet to 166 feetin lieu of the maximum height of 30 feet that is permitted in the A1-1XLZone, An appeal of the decision of the West Los Angeles AreaPlannmp Commission to approve a Zone Variance from Section 12,21, 1-A, 1 to permit the construction of an errant golf ball deflection fence ranging in height from 150 feet to 166 feet in lieu of the maximum height of 30 feet that is permitted in the A 1-1XL Zone, Items Appealable to Council Zone Variance Fiscal Impact Statement Env. No.: Commission Vote: "lf determination states administrative costs are recovered through fees, indicate "Yes," 2011-1047-MND 3-0,. Yes,,.,., In addition to this transmittal sheet, City Clerk, needs..,, : (1) One original & two copies of the Commission, Zoning Administrator or Director of Planning Determination (2) Staff recomm.ry~,atirn: report. (3) Appeal, if applicable;". (4) Environmental:ciqcupj'~qt;used' to: approve:the:,'ptoject, jf applicable; (5) Public hearirig'nofi'ce;, '" '., (6) Commissio!idetertnination mailing labels (7) Condo projects only: 2 copies of Commission Determination mailing 'labels (includes project's tenants) and 500 foot radius mailing list ~m.2~,,., Ista,. DATE, 1~.,..$;/ ;).0/3 North' Vallev Area Planninq Co. iss ion ' ( t~<.
WEST los Af\.lGELES AREA PLANNING COMMISSION 200 N. Spring Street, Room 272, Los Angeles, California, 90012-4801, (213) 978-1300 www.lacity.org/plnlindex.htm Determination Mailing Date: OCT15 2013 Case No. ZA-2011-1046-ZV-ZAA-1A Location: 10101 West Wilshire Boulevard CEQA: ENV-2011-1047-MND Council District: 5 Plan Area: Westwood Zone: A1-1XL Applicant: Los Angeles Country Club Representative: Jim Ries, Craig Lauson & Co, LLC Appellant: Bradley D. Hornbacher Representative: Patrick A. Perry, Esq, Allen Matkins Leck Gamble Mallory & Natsis LLp.,:i'. :.'::l: At its meeting on September Area Planning Commission: 18, 2013, the following action was taken by the West Los Angeles 1. Denied the appeal. 2. Sustained the decision of the Zoning Administrator and approved a Variance from Section 12.21.1-A,1 to permit the construction of an errant golf ball deflection fence ranging in height from 150 feet to 166 feet in lieu of the maximum height of 30 feet that is permitted in the A1-1XL Zone; and approved a Zoning Administrator's Adjustment from Section 12.21-C,1 (g) to allow a i66-foot high fence barrier within the' requlred 25-foot side yard in lieu of the required setback being open and unobstructed from the ground to the sky. 3. Adopted the Findings. 4. Adopted the environmental clearance Mitigated Negative Declaration ENV 2011-1 047-MND. This action was taken by the following vote: Moved: Seconded: Ayes: Absent: Commissioner Halper Commissioner Linnick Commissioners Halper, Linnick, arid Donovan Commissioners Foster and-martinez Vote: 3-0.'.-4./ ':0 7r.::C?-~_ Rho da Ketay, Com ission xecutive Assistant We t Los Angeles Area r.( ning Commission
ZA-2011-1046-ZV-ZAA-1A Page 2 Effective Date I Appeals: The Commission's determination on the Zone Variance will be final 15 days from the mailing date of this determination unless an appeal is filed to the City Council within that time. AlIllP~e'alil shall be filed on forms provided at the Planning Department's Public Counters at 201 N. Figueroa Street, Fourth Floor, Los Angeles, or at 6262 Van Nuys Boulevard, Suite 251, Van Nuys. LAST DAY TO APPEAL OCT ~ 02013 If you seek judicial review of any decision of the City pursuant to California Code of Civil Procedure Section 1094.5, the petition for writ of mandate pursuant to that section must be filed no later than the 90 th day following the date on which the City's decision became final pursuant to the California Code of Civil Procedure Section 1094.6. There may be other time limits which also affect your ability to seek judicial review. Attachment(s): Conditions of Approval and Findings cc: Notification List Sue Chang Linda Clarke
CASE NO.ZA 2011-1 046-ZV-ZAA-1A C - 1 CONDITIONS [THE WEST LOS ANGELES AREA PLANNING COMMISSION ON SEPTEMBER 18, 2013] 1. All other use, height and area regulations of the Municipal Code and all other applicable government/regulatory agencies shall be strictly complied with in the development and use of the property, except as such regulations are herein specifically varied or required. 2. The use and development of the property shall be in SUbstantial conformance with the plot plan and elevation plan stamp dated June 21, 2013 and marked Exhibit "A", except as may be revised as a result of this action.. 3. The authorized use shall be conducted at all times with due regard for the character of the surrounding district; and the right is reserved to the Zoning Administrator to impose additional corrective Conditions, if, in the Administrator's opinion, such Conditions are proven necessary for the protection of persons in the neighborhood or occupants of adjacent property. 4. All graffiti on the site shall be removed or painted over to match the color of the surface to which it is applied within 24 hours of its occurrence. 5. A copy of the first page of this grant and all Conditions and/or any subsequent appeal of this grant and its resultant Conditions and/or letters of clarification shall be printed on the building plans.eubnutted to the Development Services Center and the Department of Building arid Safety for purposes of having a building permit issued. 6. The applicant shall defend, indemnify and hold harmless the City, its agents, officers, or employees from any claim, action or proceedings against the City or its agents, officers, or employees relating to or to attack, set aside, void or annul this approval which action is brought within the applicable limitation period. The City shall promptly notify the applicant of any claim, action, or proceeding and the City shall cooperate fully in the defense. If the City fails to promptly notify the applicant of any claim action or proceeding, or if the City fails to cooperate fully in the defense, the applicant shall not thereafter be responsible to defend, indemnify, or hold harmless the City. 7. The netting barrier fence with poles shall not exceed 166 feet in height measured to the top of the pole and below faux palm fronds as shown on Exhibit "A". The netting barrier shall be made of transparent fabric. 8. The pole, fence and netting fabric shall be of a discreet color that matches the surroundings, and shall be maintained in good condition at all times. Errant balls on the fence netting shau..be removed regularly to ensure its transparency is maintained...
CASE NO.ZA 2011-1046-ZV-ZAA-1A C-2 9. No signage or banners shall be attached to or painted on the subject pole and fence netting. 10. The on-site mature trees abutting the subject fence shall be retained so as to provide additional buffering and aesthetic screenmq, 11. No lighting shall be installed on the pole/fence/netting barrier. This condition shall not preclude the installation of low-level security and landscape lighting, which shall be shielded and directed onto the site in such a manner that does not unreasonably illuminate the window area of nearby residences. 12. The following mitigation measures stated in ENV 20011-1047-MND shall be complied with: ):) a. Tree Report Prior to the issuance of a grading or building permit, the applicant shall prepare and submit a Tree Report, prepared by a Tree Expert as defined in Section 17.02, including the location, size, and condition of all existing trees on the site, such report shall also contain a recommendation of measures to ensure the protection, relocation, or replacement of affected trees during grading and construction activities. b. Tree Removal (Non-Protected Trees) 'I.. 1) Priorto the issuance of a grading permit or building permit, a plot plan prepared indicating the location, size, type, and condition of all existing trees on the site and within the adjacent public right(s)-ofway. 2) All significant (8-inch or,greater trunk diameter, or cumulative trunk diameter if multl-trunked, as measured 54 inches above the ground) non-protected trees on the site proposed for removal shall be replaced at at :1' ratio with a minimum 24-inch box tree. Net, new trees, located within the parkway of the adjacent public right(s)-ofway, may be counted toward replacement tree requirements. c. Explosion/Release (Fairfax District) The applicant shall comply with Administrative procedures of Ordinance No. 175,790, Sec. 91.7104, General Methane Requirements. d. Activities During Nesting Season [Added by the WLA APC] Initiate grading activities prior to the breeding season (which is generally February 1st through August 31st) and keep disturbance activities constant throughout the breeding season to prevent birds from establishing nests in surrounding habitat (in order to avoid possible abandonment). If there is a lapse in activities of more than five days, pre-
CASE NO.ZA 2011-1046-ZV-ZAA-1A C - 3 construction surveys shall be required to ensure no interim nesting. Activities Outside of Nesting Season: Conduct pre-construction surveys for nesting birds if vegetation removal or grading is initiated. A qualified wildlife biologist shall conduct weekly pre-construction bird surveys no more than 30 days prior to initiation of grading to provide confirmation on the presence or absence of active nests in the vicinity (at least 300 to 500 feet around the individual construction site, as access allows). The last survey should be conducted no more than three days prior to the initiation of clearance/construction work. If active nests are encountered, clearing and construction in the vicinity of the nest shall be deferred until the young birds have fledged and there is no evidence of a second attempt at nesting. A minimum exclusion buffer of 300 feet (500 feet for raptor nests) or as determined by a qualified biologist, shall be maintained during construction depending on the species and location. The perimeter of the nest-setback zone shall be fenced or adequately demarcated with staked flagging at 22-foot intervals, and construction personnel and activities restricted from the area. Construction personnel should be instructed on the sensitivity of the area. A survey report by the qualified biologist documenting and verifying compliance with the mitigation and with applicable state and federal regulations protecting birds shall be submitted to the City, depending on within which jurisdiction the construction activity is occurring. The qualified biologist shall serve as a construction monitor during those periods when construction activities would occur near active,< Ill,!-, nest areas to ensure.ihat no inadvertent impacts on these nests would occur. 13. Within 30 days of effective date of this action, a covenant acknowledging and agreeing to comply with 1;111 the, terms and conditions established herein shall be recorded in the County Recorder's Office. The agreement (standard master covenant and agreementform CP-6770) shall run with the land and shall be binding on any subsequent owners, heirs or assigns. The agreement with the conditions attached.must be submitted to the Development Services Center for approval before being recorded. After recordation, a certified copy bearing the Recorder's J. ' number and date shall be provided to the Zoning Administrator for attachment to the subject case file.. '.
CASE NO.ZA 2011-1 046-ZV-ZAA-1A F-1 VARIANCE FINDINGS: FINDINGS: In order for a variance to be granted, all five of the legally mandated findings delineated in City Charter Section 562 and Municipal Code Section 12.27 must be made in the affirmative. Following (highlighted) is a delineation of the findings and the application of the relevant facts of the case to same: 1. The strict application of the provisions of the Zoning Ordinance would result in practical difficulties or unnecessary hardships inconsistent with the general purpose and intent of the zoning regulations. The subject site is improved with an existing golf course known as Los Angeles Country Club [LACC) with its associated support amenities that include a proshop, a golf practice range, a restaurant and surface parking. The site contains approximately 295 acres, bisected by Wilshire Boulevard. The south of Wilshire contains approximately 93 acres, and is developed with the South Course. The subject application entails, a. series of requests, one of which is a variance to allow the construction Of an over-in-height protective barrier referred to as an Errant Golf Ball Deflection Device ("EGBDD") comprised of mesh netting and poles reaching a maximum height of 166 feet in height along approximately 803 linear feet of the South Course's easterly property line where it abuts the border of the City of Beverly Hills, The North Course located on the north of Wilshire Boulevard is not part of this request. The EGBDD is being proposed to mitigate potential problems that may result from the redevelopment of the adjacent properties located to the east in the City of Beverly Hills. The City of Beverly Hills has granted approvals for the demolition of the now vacant Robinson's-May department store and its surface parking lot to permit the constructiori of a high density mixed-use project, known as 9900 Wilshire {also referred to as the 9900 Wilshire Specific Plan by the City of Beverly Hills]. The 910,514 square-foot, 14- to 16-story mixed use project would contain 235 luxury residential condominiums in two towers along with 16,442 square feet of retail and restaurant uses. Portions of this development are designed to be within 20 to 69 feet of the common property line with the subject property, The tower location and design with balconies and glazing windows facing the LACC property may result in the potential for damage or injury from errant golf balls. The Applicant retained th~' s~~j'ces of Golf Laboratories, Inc., to analyze the potential maximum height an errant golf ball could travel. According to their study, it is statistically possible for. a golf ball to be hit to a height of 207,5 feet. While this study demonstrates this height is possible, it was unable to define the frequency of such a shot and therefore whether such a high protective barrier is necessary. The Applicant obtained a second opinion from Tanner Consulting Group ("Tanner"), experts in the design and construction of golf ball barriers, Tanner's Study indicates that the vast majority of the golf balls will be captured.by a 150-foot high EGE\DD, As a result of the two studies, the applicant
CASE NO,ZA 2011-1046-ZV-ZAA-1A F-2 determined that a 150 foot EGBDD would provide the greatest protection to the residents of 9900 Wilshire, Due to elevation changes along the easterly property line where the subject EGBDD is proposed, the height of the EGBDD ranges from 150 feet on the north to 166 feet on the south, As summarized in this determination, various experts retained by the applicant and the 9900 Wilshire property.owner agree that under existing conditions, errant golf balls will reach.the future' 9900 Wilshire project. The only question is how many errant balls will hit the 9900 Wilshire property. In the past, there have been errant ball incidents from the subject golf course, some of which resulted in significant injuries, Such injuries include an incident that resulted in a minor being blind in one eye. The applicant with.this variance seeks to remedy any future such occurrence which could harm a member of the public. The zoning regulations include height limitations to restrict the height of buildings and structures for compatibility with the surrounding properties. The project site is zoned A1-1XL. The At agricultural zone allows golf course uses by-right. The maximum building height permitted by the Height District 1XL is 30 feet. Because the building height regulations are written on a city-wide basis, they cannot take into account individual circumstances. In this instance, the LACe has been at this location since 1911 in what was then an undeveloped area; however, now that the surrounding area has been built-out, the LACC is surrounded by residential and commercial uses in the midst of a densely populated urban environment. The sole purpose of the EGBDD is to provide security to 9900 Wilshire and its future occupants or any other f~i\\jreuse on that site from errant golf balls. There is no vacant land available to provide a buffer between the 16th hole and the 9900 Wilshire property. Despite the applicant's numerous requests to consider any design changes or conditions of approval that would have alleviated the proposed fence barrier, no design changes were made to the 9900 Wilshire project. The applicant and the 9900 Wilshire discussed various alternatives that will avoid the subject fence. However, expert reports indicate that such alternatives including re-orientation of the South Course do not mitigate safety impacts and may result in a new hazard from errant balls. Further, the 9900 Wilshire refused to enter into an indemnity and assumption of risk agreement with the applicant. Thus, the only alternative to provide effective protection is erection of the proposed 166-footEGBDD, which is the rninirnum height recommended by an expert in golf course technology and design. The protective over-in-height fence is not uncommon and is expected for a golf course. Denial of the request would unfairly impair/prevent the applicant from securing the safety of neighboring properties and occupants. The strict application of the provisions of the Zoning Ordinance would result in practical difficulties or unnecessary hardships inconsistent with the general purpose and intent of the zoning regulations, which intend to promote public safety. '1'", "', 2. There are special circ:lm1iitances applicable to the subject property such as size, shape, topography, location or surroundings that do not apply generally to other property in the same zone and vicinity,
:', CASE NO.ZA 2011-1046-ZV-ZAA-1A. F-3 The special circumstances include the improvements thereon, which have been on the site since 1911 when the surrounding properties were not fully developed, and the primarily residential development proposed on the adjoining property. The 16th hole is adjacent to the Robinson's-May building. The current layout of the existing Robinson's-May site includes a large surface parking lot and a portion of the department store buildi,ng,adjacent to the project site's easterly property line where the, proposed EGBDD is to be located. Even though errant golf balls have landed on the neighboring property over the years, they have not posed a danger because of the configuration of the Robinson's-May building, oriented to the east and at the greatest distance from the golf course's boundary, and the nature of the use with customers parking and entering the building from the eastern side of the site. The proposed 9900 Wilshire development will include two residential condominium buildings adjacent to LACC's easterly property line. The 9900 Wilshire project's south building is a 15-story building (185 feet high) with 130 residential units and the north building is a 13-story building (161 feet high) with 93 residential units. The 9900 Wilshire building will be located 20 feet up to 69 feet from the common property line with the subject property in close proximity to LACC's 16th hole. The 9900 Wilshire project will include two buildings with facades that include extensive window,glazing and balconies that directly face LACC, unlike the existing orientation of the former Robinson's-May building. Additionally, there is a landscaped vehicular drop off area which serves as the building's main residential entry located between the south residential building and the LACC property line, whereas the parking entry for the Robinson's-May building was on the eastern boundary of, the property at the greatest distance from the golf course's boundary.. The construction of such a large scale development which includes 235 residential condominium units immediately adjacent to LACC's easterly property line is a special circumstance that no other nearby golf course has experienced. The unique situation of this site, as well as the location, use and design of existing improvements and the proposed project on the adjoining property make the request as proposed,!ogicflland do not apply to other property in the same zone and vicinity. '. 3. Such variance is necessary for the.,preservation and enjoyment of a substantial property right or use generally possessed by other property in the same zone and vicinity but which, because of such special circumstances and practical difficllities or unnecessary hardships, is denied the property in question. Granting deviation of the fence heights for a golf course is not uncommon. There are numerous golf courses in the City of Los Angeles which have received approvals for over-in-heightfences varying in height to protect neighboring uses. These cases are included in this determination.
CASE NO.ZA 2011-1046-ZV-ZAA-1A F-4 Considering the proposed development [9900 Wilshire] on the adjoining property in immediate proximity with the subject site, the proposed height of 166 feet is needed to deflect errant golf balls as recommended by the experts. The grant allows the development to beg."n par with developments that have been granted similar entitlements for other golf courses. 4. The granting of such variance will not be materially detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to the property or improvements in the same zone or vicinity in which the property is located. The expert reports prepared by the 9900 Wilshire consultants suggest that trees and/or re-orientation of the South Course in lieu of the proposed fence barrier will mitigate errant ball impacts to acceptable level. It is noted that due to high transparency, trees will not effectively. deflect errant balls. Considering that the time to achieve the necessary height and climate condition, trees are not efficient nor a practical mitigation for errant balls. Further, there are 40- to 60-foot high existing trees at the exact same location. Reorientation of the South Course will result in a new hazard from errant golf balls. The 9900 Wilshire submitted a shade and shadow study and a biological impact study on birds and bats. Said studies imply that the proposed fence barrier will result in adverse impacts' on birds and bats and shade/shadow, but, the suggested conclusion is vag\j.e'?arid' speculative in nature, For example, the biological impact concluded in 'part "... the proposed Fence may have moderate impacts on bird and bal species with a greater likelihood 6f impacts to avian species due to their higher flight speeds and their documented difficulties in detecting man-made structures with characteristics similar to the Fence... The actual potential related to bird and bats species are unknown and not studied and further study is required to draw a final conclusion.... " The report does not specify what should be included in a more detailed study to determine the impact. Due to the.transparent nature of netting material of the fence and considering the height of the 9900 Wilshire Project, which is 14 to 16 stories [or 161 feet and 185 feet in heigt1t], the shade and shadow impact is not expected to be significant.. The experts retained by the applicant and the 9900 Wilshire owners estimate a different number of errant balls that will strike the 9900 Wilshire property. The applicant's consultant (Dave Tanner) anticipates roughly 3.5 balls per day. The 9900 Wilshire consultant (Probable Golf Instruction) estimates 0.77 balls per day, which is considered marginal and insignificant by the 9900 Wilshire. No one can determine how many errant balls will' be "significant or acceptable". In terms of public safety, regardless of how many errant balls will land on the neighboring properties, one incident resultih~j~ any injury should be considered too many., The see-through characteristic of the mesh netting provides a visual transparency (while also allowing in light and air) and will not, therefore, obstruct the views of adjacent properties. The EGBDD netting fabric is black in color and is only 8% in mass. The expert reports indicate that once installed, the fabric becomes almost transparent. The poles for the EGBDD will be painted black to