Community Edition

Previewing the December 15, 2025 City Council Meeting

An independent Civic Summary digest based on public city documents, highlighting the agenda, recent decisions, and follow-through residents should watch.

Grounded in the public record. Built for residents.

This edition pulls together 40 published civic items across agendas, decisions, and implementation tracking. Not an official city publication.

Community Edition · Community Edition · December 2025

Grounded in the public record. Built for residents.

Published June 13, 2026

Edited June 13, 2026 by system

Digest draft generated from 6 selected item(s). Complete QA before approval.

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Agenda

What's on the agenda — items coming before the council in this release cycle.

URGENCY ORDINANCE AND FIRST READING OF AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING BY REFERENCE TITLES 26, 27, 28, 29 30, 31, AND 33 OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY MUNICIPAL CODE INCORPORATING THE CALIFORNIA STATE BUILDING STANDARDS CODE [N. MARICICH, J. ALKIRE, B. GALAN]

This ordinance, funded by city resources, updates West Hollywood's building codes to align with the 2025 California Building Standards Code. It affects construction and renovation projects by incorporating new safety, environmental, and efficiency standards, potentially impacting construction costs and timelines for developers and homeowners.

CONSIDER REVISIONS TO THE CITY’S POLICY FOR RECOGNITIONS AND MEMORIALS [D. WILSON, J. ROCCO, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]

The proposed revisions to West Hollywood's Policy for Recognitions and Memorials aim to clarify the procedures for issuing recognition items like Proclamations and Keys to the City. This change is intended to streamline the process, ensuring that recognitions are awarded consistently and transparently. While there is no direct financial impact on residents, the policy update may enhance community engagement by making the recognition process more accessible and understandable.

URGENCY ORDINANCE AND FIRST READING OF AN ORDINANCE TO UPDATE REGULATIONS FOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS AND JUNIOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS IN COMPLIANCE WITH STATE LAW [N. MARICICH, F. CONTRERAS, M. MONTENEGRO, A. STAUBER]

The proposed urgency ordinance updates West Hollywood's regulations for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior accessory dwelling units (JADUs) to align with recent state law changes, taking effect on January 1, 2026. This update aims to streamline the process for adding ADUs, potentially increasing housing availability and offering more flexible living arrangements for residents. The ordinance is exempt from CEQA review, indicating no significant environmental impact.

2026 CALENDAR OF SPECIAL LIGHTING REQUESTS FOR CITY HALL AND SANTA MONICA BOULEVARD LANTERNS [A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]

The proposal to adopt a 2026 calendar for special lighting requests at City Hall and Santa Monica Boulevard lanterns is primarily a cultural and aesthetic initiative. It aims to enhance community engagement and visibility for various causes and celebrations throughout the year. This decision does not involve direct costs to residents as it is likely covered by existing city budgets or sponsorships.

ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 25-29 (2ND READING) "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD ADDING CHAPTER 11.50 AUTONOMOUS AND SEMI-AUTONOMOUS PERSONAL DELIVERY DEVICES TO THE WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE AND FINDING THAT SUCH ACTION DOES NOT QUALIFY AS A PROJECT SUBJECT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT UNDER STATE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15378 AND IS OTHERWISE EXEMPT FROM CEQA UNDER STATE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3)" [J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]

This ordinance introduces regulations for autonomous and semi-autonomous personal delivery devices in West Hollywood, aiming to integrate new technology into the city's delivery infrastructure without environmental review requirements. This could streamline delivery services, potentially reducing traffic congestion and delivery times, benefiting residents and local businesses.

2025 RAINBOW KEY, MELISSA ETHERIDGE, AND AUDRE LORDE AWARDEES SELECTION [D. WILSON, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO, M. MARQUEZ]

The City Council's approval of the LGBTQ+ Commission's award recommendations for 2025 recognizes local organizations and individuals for their contributions to the community. This decision highlights West Hollywood's ongoing commitment to celebrating and supporting LGBTQ+ culture and activism, fostering a sense of pride and community engagement among residents.

AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR JANITORIAL AND BUILDING MAINTENANCE SERVICES WITH DMS FACILITY SERVICES, INC. [H. COLLINS, P. TICUN, E. HAMANT]

Using city funds, this amendment increases the contract with DMS Facility Services, Inc. to a total of $21,207,164.12 for janitorial and building maintenance services. This ensures that public facilities in West Hollywood remain clean and well-maintained, which can enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors by providing safer and more pleasant public spaces.

AUTHORIZATION TO ESTABLISH NEW AGREEMENTS FOR ON-CALL PLAN CHECK AND SUPPLEMENTAL BUILDING AND SAFETY SERVICES [N. MARICICH, J. ALKIRE, B. GALAN, C. ZABALA]

Using city funds, this proposal would cost residents approximately $5.25 million over three years to maintain a pool of consultants for on-call plan check and building safety services. This ensures that building projects in West Hollywood are reviewed and inspected efficiently, potentially speeding up construction timelines and maintaining safety standards.

AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH KANA SUBSURFACE ENGINEERING FOR DIG ALERT SERVICES FOR CITY-OWNED UTILITY SYSTEMS [H. COLLINS, J. GILMOUR, R. GARLAND]

Using city funds, this amendment increases the contract with Kana Subsurface Engineering by $51,645, bringing the total to $451,645, to continue providing dig alert services for city-owned utility systems until June 30, 2027. This ensures that utility maintenance and construction projects proceed safely without disrupting underground infrastructure, benefiting residents by preventing service interruptions and potential hazards.

APPOINTMENT OF CITY MANAGER, ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION APPROVING EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT, AND AMENDMENT TO SALARY SCHEDULE [L. LANGER, J. JIMENEZ, R. NAPPER]

Using city funds, this decision appoints Jacqueline Rocco as the new City Manager effective January 8, 2026, and updates the salary schedule to comply with state retirement system requirements. This change in leadership could influence city policies and priorities, potentially affecting local services and community projects.

CONSTRUCTION AGREEMENT WITH SELECT ELECTRIC, INC. TO CONSTRUCT CIP 2504, BATTERY BACK-UP SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS PHASE II PROJECT AND AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH TRANSTECH ENGINEERS, INC. FOR CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AND INSPECTION SERVICES AND CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION 25-________: "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD APPROVING THE DESIGN AND PLANS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF CIP 2504, BATTERY BACK-UP SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS PHASE 2 PROJECT, PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 830.6" [H. COLLINS, J. GILMOUR, R. GARLAND]

Using city funds, this project will cost residents approximately $785,725 for the construction of battery back-up system improvements, with an additional $1,000,000 allocated for construction management and inspection services. This initiative aims to enhance the reliability of critical infrastructure in West Hollywood, potentially reducing power outage impacts on public services.

ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 25-28 (2ND READING) "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD ADOPTING AN AMENDMENT TO TITLE 19 OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE TO ENCOURAGE AND FACILITATE THE CONVERSION OF EXISTING COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENTS TO RESIDENTIAL USES THROUGH A MINISTERIAL APPROVAL PROCESS, EXCLUDING HOTELS AND MOTELS FROM MINISTERIAL ELIGIBILITY, AND FINDING THE ACTION EXEMPT FROM CEQA" [J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]

This ordinance aims to streamline the process for converting commercial properties into residential units in West Hollywood, excluding hotels and motels. By adopting a ministerial approval process, the city seeks to increase housing availability without the lengthy discretionary review, potentially easing the housing shortage and benefiting residents seeking more housing options.

CLAIMS ADMINISTRATION [J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, Y. ZHOSAN]

The City Council has been notified that Carl Warren & Co., the city's third-party administrator, has denied a claim for damages submitted by Brooke Washington. This decision does not involve any taxpayer funding or financial impact on residents, as it pertains to a specific legal claim rather than a city-wide policy or project.

APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER NO. 982 [O. JONES, K. BARENG, Y. MARTINEZ]

Using city funds, this demand register approval authorizes the payment of various city expenses totaling millions of dollars. This routine financial action ensures that city services and operations continue smoothly, impacting everything from public safety to infrastructure maintenance. Residents should care because it reflects how taxpayer money is being allocated to maintain and improve city services.

POSTING OF AGENDA

The posting of the agenda for the upcoming city council meeting ensures transparency and allows residents to stay informed about the issues that will be discussed. This practice supports civic engagement by providing the community with the opportunity to review and prepare for the meeting, potentially influencing decisions that affect their daily lives.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Approving the minutes of the previous City Council meeting is a routine administrative task that ensures the official record accurately reflects the discussions and decisions made. This action does not directly impact residents' daily lives but is essential for maintaining transparency and accountability in local government operations.

FISCAL IMPACT ON CONSENT CALENDAR

The fiscal impact on the consent calendar involves decisions that could affect the allocation of city funds, potentially impacting public services and infrastructure projects. Using city funds, this could cost residents approximately a significant amount, depending on the specific items approved. This decision is crucial as it determines how taxpayer money is utilized, affecting community resources and services.

WEST HOLLYWOOD TOURISM IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT 2026 ANNUAL REPORT [L. BIERY, P. KESPRADIT, L. D’AMBROSIA]

The West Hollywood Tourism Improvement District 2026 Annual Report outlines the activities and financial performance of the district, which is funded by assessments on local hotels. This report is crucial for maintaining and enhancing tourism-related services and infrastructure in West Hollywood, which can boost local businesses and the economy. Residents should care because a thriving tourism sector can lead to increased city revenues, potentially reducing the need for higher taxes or cuts to other services.

ELECTION OF MAYOR AND VICE MAYOR [J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]

The election of a new Mayor and Vice Mayor in West Hollywood is a significant event as it determines the leadership that will guide the city's policies and priorities for the coming term. This decision can influence local governance, including the focus on community issues such as housing, public safety, and economic development. Residents should be aware of this change as it may affect the direction of city initiatives and resource allocation.

ECONOMIC IMPACT ANALYSIS OF MAJOR SPECIAL EVENTS IN THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD: [L. BIERY, P. KESPRADIT, L. D'AMBROSIA]

The Economic Impact Analysis of Major Special Events in West Hollywood, prepared by CVL Economics, provides insights into how these events contribute to the local economy. This analysis is crucial for understanding the financial benefits and potential costs associated with hosting large-scale events, which can influence future city planning and budgeting decisions. Residents should care because these events can affect local business revenues, city services, and potentially lead to changes in public funding allocations.

ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 25-27 (2ND READING) "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD AMENDING TITLE 19, ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE WEST HOLLYWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDING REGULATIONS FOR HOUSING TYPOLOGIES FOR UNHOUSED PERSONS AND PERSONS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE LAW AND FINDING SUCH ACTION DOES NOT QUALIFY AS A PROJECT SUBJECT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) AND IS OTHERWISE EXEMPT UNDER STATE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTIONS 15378(B)(5) AND 15061(B)(3)" [J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]

This ordinance amends the zoning regulations in West Hollywood to better accommodate housing for unhoused individuals and those with special needs, aligning with state law. This change aims to facilitate the development of supportive housing types without triggering additional environmental reviews, potentially speeding up the process and reducing costs for developers.

Minutes

What was decided — vote outcomes from recent meetings.

Accountability Watch

What happens next — the follow-ups and city commitments residents should keep an eye on.

CONSTRUCTION AGREEMENT WITH SELECT ELECTRIC, INC. TO CONSTRUCT CIP 2504, BATTERY BACK-UP SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS PHASE II PROJECT AND AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH TRANSTECH ENGINEERS, INC. FOR CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AND INSPECTION SERVICES AND CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION 25-________: "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD APPROVING THE DESIGN AND PLANS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF CIP 2504, BATTERY BACK-UP SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS PHASE 2 PROJECT, PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 830.6" [H. COLLINS, J. GILMOUR, R. GARLAND]

Using city funds, this project will cost residents approximately $785,725 for the construction of battery back-up system improvements, with an additional $1,000,000 allocated for construction management and inspection services. This initiative aims to enhance the reliability of critical infrastructure in West Hollywood, potentially reducing power outage impacts on public services.

CONSIDER REVISIONS TO THE CITY’S POLICY FOR RECOGNITIONS AND MEMORIALS [D. WILSON, J. ROCCO, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO]

The proposed revisions to West Hollywood's Policy for Recognitions and Memorials aim to clarify the procedures for issuing recognition items like Proclamations and Keys to the City. This change is intended to streamline the process, ensuring that recognitions are awarded consistently and transparently. While there is no direct financial impact on residents, the policy update may enhance community engagement by making the recognition process more accessible and understandable.

APPOINTMENT OF CITY MANAGER, ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION APPROVING EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT, AND AMENDMENT TO SALARY SCHEDULE [L. LANGER, J. JIMENEZ, R. NAPPER]

Using city funds, this decision appoints Jacqueline Rocco as the new City Manager effective January 8, 2026, and updates the salary schedule to comply with state retirement system requirements. This change in leadership could influence city policies and priorities, potentially affecting local services and community projects.

ELECTION OF MAYOR AND VICE MAYOR [J. JIMENEZ, M. CROWDER, L. MORALES]

The election of a new Mayor and Vice Mayor in West Hollywood is a significant event as it determines the leadership that will guide the city's policies and priorities for the coming term. This decision can influence local governance, including the focus on community issues such as housing, public safety, and economic development. Residents should be aware of this change as it may affect the direction of city initiatives and resource allocation.

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