May 19, 2025 City Council Meeting

UPDATE TO THE CITY’S NONDISCRIMINATION ORDINANCE TO INCLUDE PROTECTIONS FOR DIVERSE FAMILY AND RELATIONSHIP STRUCTURES [C. BYERS, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]

This proposal aims to update West Hollywood's Nondiscrimination Ordinance to explicitly protect individuals from discrimination based on diverse family and relationship structures, such as multi-parent families and polyamorous relationships. This change would ensure that all residents, regardless of their family or relationship configuration, receive equal treatment under city laws and services.

Why it matters For residents in non-traditional family structures, this ordinance update would provide legal protection against discrimination in housing, employment, and public services. For example, if you are part of a polyamorous relationship or a multi-parent family, you would have the same rights and protections as those in traditional family setups, reducing the risk of unfair treatment.

CONSIDERATION OF THE ANNUAL REPORT OF THE ADVISORY BOARD TO THE WEST HOLLYWOOD DESIGN DISTRICT AND ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION OF INTENTION TO LEVY AN ASSESSMENT FOR THE 2025-2026 FISCAL YEAR [L. BIERY, P. KESPRADIT, L. D’AMBROSIA]

The proposal to levy an assessment on businesses within the West Hollywood Design District for the 2025-2026 fiscal year is funded by these businesses themselves. This assessment aims to enhance the district's infrastructure and services, potentially increasing its attractiveness and economic vitality. Residents should care because improvements in the Design District can lead to increased property values and a more vibrant local economy.

Why it matters For residents, this means potential improvements in the Design District, such as better streetscapes, lighting, and public amenities, which can enhance the overall experience of visiting or living near the area. However, business owners in the district will face additional costs due to the assessment, which could influence pricing or business operations.

LEVY OF ANNUAL ASSESSMENT FOR SANTA MONICA BOULEVARD MAINTENANCE DISTRICT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 [L. BIERY, P. KESPRADIT, L. D’AMBROSIA]

Using taxpayer funding, this proposal would levy assessments on properties within the Santa Monica Boulevard Maintenance District to fund maintenance activities, including holiday decorations, for fiscal year 2025-2026. This affects property owners in the district who will see these assessments reflected in their property tax bills. The public hearing on June 9, 2025, provides an opportunity for residents to voice their opinions on the proposed assessments.

Why it matters If you own property within the Santa Monica Boulevard Maintenance District, your property tax bill will include an assessment to cover maintenance activities like holiday decorations. This could slightly increase your annual property expenses. Renters might see indirect effects if landlords pass on these costs through rent adjustments. Residents can attend the public hearing on June 9, 2025, to express their views on the proposed assessments.

STORYCORPS ORAL HISTORY PROJECT TO PRESERVE WEST HOLLYWOOD STORIES IN CELEBRATION OF 40 YEARS OF CITYHOOD [J. SCHARE, S. LUNN]

Using city funds, this project will cost residents approximately $200,000 to document and preserve the stories of West Hollywood's community in celebration of its 40th anniversary. This initiative aims to strengthen community identity and preserve local history, offering residents a chance to contribute their personal stories to a collective archive.

Why it matters This project provides an opportunity for residents to share their personal stories and experiences, which will be recorded and preserved as part of West Hollywood's history. It can foster a sense of community pride and belonging, as well as offer a platform for diverse voices to be heard and remembered. Residents may also have the chance to participate in events or listen to the stories collected, enhancing community engagement.

Fiscal impact The project will cost $200,000 from the General Fund.

INITIATION OF A SUNSET STRIP STRATEGIC PLAN [L. MEISTER, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]

Using city funds, this proposal would initiate a strategic plan for the Sunset Strip, aiming to shape its future through community engagement. This plan could influence local development, business opportunities, and public spaces, potentially affecting property values and local economy.

Why it matters The initiation of a Sunset Strip Strategic Plan could lead to changes in local development and business regulations, impacting residents' daily lives. For example, new zoning laws might affect property values or rental prices. Residents may also see changes in traffic patterns or public space usage as the plan develops.

Fiscal impact and 2) Direct staff to return to the City Council as part of the next two year budget cycle (FY27/28) with an outline of…

STRATEGIES TO PROMOTE A RESPECTFUL AND POSITIVE ENVIRONMENT IN PUBLIC MEETINGS, SUPPORT CIVIL DISCOURSE, AND PROVIDE TOOLS FOR EFFECTIVELY ADDRESSING DISRUPTIONS [D. WILSON, C. SAFRIET, J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, J. SCHARE]

The proposal aims to enhance the conduct and atmosphere of public meetings in West Hollywood by establishing a subcommittee to review and update the Code of Conduct for officials and by implementing strategies to manage disruptions effectively. This initiative is taxpayer-funded and seeks to ensure that public meetings are respectful and productive, benefiting all residents by fostering a more civil discourse and improving the decision-making process.

Why it matters For West Hollywood residents, this initiative means that public meetings, which are crucial for community decision-making, will be more orderly and respectful. This can lead to more effective governance and better representation of resident concerns. Residents attending these meetings can expect a more structured environment, potentially leading to more productive discussions and outcomes that reflect community needs.