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HomeMy WebLinkAboutForm committee to study the closure of downtown Main Street u Of Council/Agency Meeting Held: 701111 MAY-31 .0110 -26 Deferred/Continued to: gApproved ❑ Conditionally Approved ut❑ Denier 1 . i t y er 's nat F :t!F 10' u Council Meeting Date: June 5, 2006 Department umber: ED 06-22 CITY OF HUNTINGTON BEACH REQUEST FOR CITY,COUNCIL ACTION SUBMITTED TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS SUBMITTED BY: PENELOPE CULBRETH-GRAFT,.DPA, CITY ADMINISTRATOR PREPARED BY: STANLEY SMALEWITZ, DIRECTOR OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT _ SUBJECT: FORM AN AD-HOC COMMITTEE TO STUDY THE CLOSURE OF DOWNTOWN MAINSTREET TO VEHICULAR TRAFFIC Statement of Issue, Funding Source, Recommended Action,Alternative Action(s),Analysis,Environmental Status,Attachment(s) Statement of Issue: The formation of. an ad-hoc committee is necessary to study the issues and strategize the next steps to potentially closing downtown Main Street to vehicular traffic. The..-future developments of Pacific City and The Strand will. heavily impact the downtown`foot traffic and revisiting the possibility of a Main Street Pedestrian Mall is critical for its future vitality. Funding Source: Not Applicable Recommended Action: Motion=to: -Form an ad'-hoc-committee comprised of the City Council Downtown Economic Development Committee (EDC), key staff members from required city departments and the Downtown Business Improvement District (BID) Board of Directors to study and strategize for a potential Main Street Pedestrian Mall 'Pilot Project. Alternative Action(s): 'Do not approve the proposed ad'-hoc committee thereby terminating the research . necessary to conduct the Main Street Pedestrian Mall Pilot Project. Analysis: On May 3, 2006 City Council Officials and the Downtown BID participated in a joint study session at Santa Monica to learn about the successful closure to vehicular traffic on the Third Street Promenade. At the Downtown EDC meeting on May 11, staff presented their analysis on this study session and the next steps that need to be taken to REREST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACAN MEETING DATE: June 5, 2006 DEPARTMENT ID NUMBER:., ED 06-22 potentially close downtown Main Street to vehicular traffic. On May 24, 2006 staff received a letter_ from -the Downtown Business Improvement District reviewing -the issues to be addressed:in the committee study and work plan (Attachment 1), A draft framework (Attachment 2) presents some of the `key issues that need to be further researched by various departments. A proposed ad-hoc committee to study Main Street would be comprised of the City Council Downtown EDC; key city staff from required departments, and,, the Downtown BID Board. of Directors. This project requires the participation of multiple city departments to compile and prepare information needed, including but not limited to: • Research.various street closure projects nationwide • Parking feasibility.and alternatives • Street cleaning and maintenance • Identify resources and in-kind services • Identify potential blocks • Required permits. . • Signage and store directory ' • Activities and organized street performers Public art .Homeless Investigate the'potential for a pilot street project • Prepare a budget of costs associated with 'any possible closure should the pilot project, be implemented. ,The proposed committee will be comprised of the Downtown BID Board of Directors, staff ` from, Economic. Development,-Planning, Public Works,. Fire, Police, Community Services, and the City.Council Downtown EDC. Should the City Council approve the formation of an ad-hoc committee; the City Administrator at her discretion, shall prioritize this project and . - direct required city departments contribute staff-time to compile and prepare information necessary to study and strategize a potential pilot project. It.is anticipated that the ad-hoc committee shall meet on a weekly basis for one to two hours and report monthly progress to-the Downtown EDC. Environmental Status: . Not Applicable Attachment(s): Number-City Clerk's Page . Description 1. Letter-from the Downtown Business Improvement District 2. . Staff Analysis: Draft Framework for Potential 'Downtown Main Street Pedestrian Mall -2- 5/30/2006 5:35 PM ATTACHMENT # 1 DOWNTOWN BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT HUNTINOTON BEACH, CA May 23 2006 RECEIVED Honorable Mayor, City Council and.Staff MAY L G ZE�06 Huntington Beach, CA > CITY OF HUNTINGTON BEACH RE: Main Street Proposed Closure and Related Matters ADMINISTRATION OFFICE Dear Mayor, Council Members and Staff: A majority of Main Street merchants are reporting a modest increase in business over. the same period of 2005. 2006 has been hampered a bit by inclement weather, but early signs of spring have brought increased traffic to Main Street. If there were one question that remains unanswered in all of the BID area it would be: What are the City's goals and objectives in its proposal to close Main Street? It is the general consensus of the Merchants within the BID that they would hope the answer would be (1) Increase the,sales activities within the BID, (2) Provide a cleaner and- safer retail, commercial and entertainment environment within the BID area that would lead to increased business activity, and (3) Provide sufficient parking which is visitor friendly within the BID area to help accomplish items 1 and 2. It is our desire to work with you to develop and refine those goals and to establish a series of action-oriented plans to accomplish them. We know you agree that closing Main Street in and of itself will not cause any of the above to happen. Main.Street has been closed periodically over the last twenty years making it a one-way street, farmers' market, art fair, etc., with none of these venues being successful. Bandaids indicate bleeding. We are not sure where the cut is, except the streets and sidewalks remain dirty and current parking policies are penal in nature, enforcement and availability. We support leadership that provides a working Plan developed in concert with the members of the BID. This Plan should result in a comprehensive set of circumstances helping to accomplish the three general consensus issues listed above. Independent of that forum, I have been instructed by the Executive Committee of the BID to state that-the current Proposal falls short of the issues discussed above. If I can be of assistance in any way, please do not hesitate to contact.me. Mos s ly phen C. Daniel, President HB Downtown BID Attachment: List of Issues presented by BID Members 'Downtown Huntington Beach Main Street Closure Goals & Priorities Goals of the Street Closure Project: • Establish measurable goals that will incrementally determine the success or failure of the project: Evaluate progress monthly 1. Restaurants 2. Retail, 3. Services • Establish an"Escape Clause", should defined goals fair to materialize. Minimize.the 'Downside"effect that would impa local merchants Increase Sales Tax Revenue (Overall increase of sales'of downtown merchants/improve the downtown business prospects) Create a more popular Destination Area for Local Residents Off Season support • Increase Visitor& Tourist traffic Beautify the Downtown Business Area: . Art Plantings • Cleanliness/Daily maintenance Obtain additional parking: Affordability, • Accessibility. Adequate.quantity • Minimize impact of any redevelopment of the Downtown area . -Create more"Events"that will draw people to the Main Street"Promenade" Challenges Facing the City and the BID • Parking: more, convenient and affordable • Loss of 57 Main St parking places (3 blocks) • Impact on public parking entrances on Olive and Walnut Employee parking . • Undesirable elements: • . Adverse impact of the Homeless, Transients, Street Entertainers and Pan Handlers on local business •. Cleanliness • Daily maintenance, trash collection, street cleaning Toilet facilities • Traffic flow: • Loss of our Main Arterial access and egress • Redirecting the traffic from the Main Street through adjacent residential side streets, residential impact • Impact on Post Office access - Downtown Huntington Beach Business Improvement District AGENDA At Large Members Meeting Open to all Bid Members and The General Public Thursday January 26, 2006 ' 5:30,pm - W S Pizza &Grill • 200 Main St. 71.4-374-2224 - Huntington Beach, CA 92648 Welcome Presidents Report: Christmas Wrap Up Financial Update: Naida Os line: Specific Events Director,-City Of Huntington Beach Calendar Of Events for 2006. Pacific Shoreline Marathon-Update: Sunday February 5, 2606 Committee Assignments: Proposed Main Street Closure: • Primary Goal Of City Council in Closure of Main Street? Obtain facts from"Main St". Company in Minnesota �. Closure Of blocks 1,, 2, 3 • Homeless,Transients, Street Entertainers, Pan Handlers Affordable Parking 4. Replacement Parking for existing/lost parking spots • Cost Of Re-Development Temporary Closure(Weekend's & Special Events)/-Permanent Closure `. Measurable Goals: What determines the successor failure of the project. Escape Clause . . .what if? • Lost Business during re-development. How will businesses survive?. • What happens to traffic flow when segments of Main St are closed?What effect will it have on other streets and neighborhoods? • What lessons were learned in Huntington Beach from the previous failed attempt at Main Street closure? Downtown Marketing Plan Priority Projects List for 2006 New Business Adjourn 6. COST How much will it cost and who will pay? A. Increased Street Cleaning B. 'Loss of Parking Revenue C. -Increased Law Enforcement D. Possible loss of Retail Income - E. Possible loss of Sales Tax Revenue F. The"cost of the closure G. Will the City of H.B. reimburse the merchants for any loss of revenue? H. The cost of changing it back CONCLUSION We are a Main Street and not a third street. We are a Main Street and not a promenade. There is no:real benefit in closing Main Street. The majority of the merchants are not in favor-of closing-Main Street. The City Council,voted it down in 2004! Why is it back? .12..We need-to look at whole downtown area to keep it improving as The Strand, Pacific City and increased businesses come on line. We need to have a game plan for improvement over the next few years. 1• 3-5 year-plan for parking, traffic, cleaning, security,police and basic infrastructure:We have not had time to accomplish a plan.Let's try and accomplish a plan and future before spending time and money to close-Main Street that is not broken just needs a little care and cleaning. We are.spending staff and our time and money to study the impacts.of closing Main Street. The last-;time we did this study it was voted down.It was felt that some improvements had to be made fora true test. It was also a problem deciding what was best.the Second block was to only block that could be truly closed feasible for "test;closure". Cost in 2004 was $41,200.00 basic closure plus lost revenues for parking (not including tickets) $27396.00 Total cost three months $68596.00. This could be used for 2 hour free parking and maintence better tool to increase sales and ambiance of Main Street. . 2 Z If recent newspaper headlines are to be believed, Huntington Beach's downtown will soon be receiving a Santa Monica Promenade facelift. Unfortunately,that's not the case. Santa Monica has spent hundreds of millions of dollars to revitalize their downtown area which features six parking garages with free parking, extensive landscaping and streetscaping, public art, entertainment and umpteen movie screens that draws millions of people each year. Huntington Beach's proposal: Stick up some concrete barriers at each end of the street and presto! we have a downtown pedestrian mall. The problem is that city officials have long neglected to provide adequate resources to' maintain the downtown infrastructure. Downtown merchants have been asking the city for the last decade to provide more parking choices for residents, but city bureaucrats don't have the political will to create affordable downtown parking. Downtown merchants have also asked the city to provide more frequent trash removal and street cleaning, along with more security and police presence, only to be told there's no money to'do it with. How can the city ask the downtown merchants to sign onto any plan when the'city doesn't maintain the current infrastructure? Members of the Downtown Huntington Beach Business Improvement District would like nothing more than to see the city plan and deliver a downtown pedestrian mall that locals can be proud of and that provides a place for families to gather and enjoy a peaceful stroll along a beautifully landscaped.walkway. That would be a fitting welcome for the millions of people who visit downtown Huntington Beach each year. But temporary cement barriers at each end of Main Street? That is not the solution. If you take a walk downtown.these days, you'll-notice that new, vibrant businesses are on the increase. You'll see couples walking to the beach, families shopping and dining together and a general vitality up and down Main Street all the way up to the fourth, fifth and sixth block. But you'll also see the highest parking rates in Orange County, streets,and sidewalks that _ need to be cleaned, a growing homeless population and a need for more traffic enforcement. Despite these problems, downtown businesses are thriving. Subject:,Street Closure concern list Date Saturday, May 13, 2006 11:51 AM From: BRETTDUKES@aoi.com To: <store4482@theupsstore.com> Hi Steve, Here's mine in no particular order_ All infrastructure issues, including: Developing a comprehensive parking plan, with a funding plan as well. .Develop a restroom plan, with a maintenance plan, with funding. Develop a,beautification and maintenance plan, with funding. Ensure use of bollards. Develop a shuttle program, with funding. Do we have the ability to attract a,productive tenant mix with our lack of adequate parking? Put off any implementation until at least 2009,,to ensure it is done correctly the first time. Who manages it?. I'm sure I'll think of more...... Thanks; Brett Barnes Managing Partner Duke's Huntington Beach Page 1 of 1 Vol. 1 h May 21, Issue 1 Dowrtown Disp The Newsletter of the Downtown HuntingtonImprovement Downtown Merchants Say More Time a nd Study Needed for , Main 5treet Closure Clty Wants.Labor Day Monica's downtown area, with plans What are your Opinions for 2000 more in the near.future.. Closure; Downtown on closing.Main Street? Z. Millions of dollars were spent on Merchants Urge Caution The Downtown BID wants to relandscaping Third Street. Sidewalks know what you think Please fill and streets were reconstructed to make . You've probably heard by now that them pedestrian.friendly.The former 'the City.Council has again brought up out the attached survey to let your asphalt of old Third Street was over- the issue of closing Main Street to opinion be known. laid with hexagon-shaped tile,with Also be sure to attend the next traffic to allow pedestrian access on both ends of the avenue secured by the streets from Orange to PCH. general Downtwon BID meeting, large fountains. In 2004 the idea was defeated after June 1, at 5:30PM at Coach's Resta 3. Vital to the pedestrian mall's opposition by Downtown business urant. success is the presence of three movie owners.At that time,there was no General Meeting, theater multiplexes,which attract Downtown Business Improvement thousands of people to the mall.Other District (BID), only a loose coalition Downtown B I D entertainment attractions include a of downtown merchants who opposed June 1 variety of street performers. the measure before the City Council. 4. More than $300 million was When' Councilmember Dave 5.30 PM invested in the Third Street Prom- Sullivan became mayor this past year, Coacl'l's Restaurant enade project which began nearly 20 he stated that closing Main Street was years ago.Extensive planning and one of his priorities for the coming studies were undertaken by city staff, year. It's not a coincidence that this is director of the Bayside District of local businesspeople and an array of an election year and,the idea of clos- Santa Monica,and Santa Monica:real urban planners and architects. ing Main Street is widely popular - estate developers and urban planners The meeting left Downtown BID among city residents,fueled by a on May 3. members with the feeling that there" cheerleading local press. Of course At the meeting in Santa Monica, were many obstacles in the way of a the idea is a crowd-pleaser. Most Downtown BID members Bob Bolen, successful pedestrian mall on Main people imagine a landscaped, Steve Grabowski , Steve Daniel,Brett Street. streetscaped walkway such as Santa Barnes and Ron McLin heard about Nevertheless,Huntington Beach Monica's Third Street Promenade and the Third Street Promenade's success press reports of the study sessions left neither the Independent nor the Wave and how it's become of the few the unrealistic impression that Down- have looked at the issue in serious thriving pedestrian malls in the United town Huntington Beach may be trans- depth. States. formed into something like the Third The city jumpstarted the proposal to The are.several keys to Santa Street Promenade,even though Hun- close Main Street,when incoming Monica's success: tington Beach doesn't have the vast Economic.Development Director 1.Affordable abundant parking. resources that were invested by the Stanley Smalewitz and his staff pro Santa Monica has six public parking City of Santa Monica. posed a"study session"with members garages, all of which offer 2-hour free On May 11,city economic develop- of the City of Santa Monica Economic parking. There are-nearly 8500 public ment staff,Councilmen Gil Coerper, Development staff,the executive and private parking spots in Santa See Main Street on page 3 What s On ' Your Mind?- It's our job to be a voice for What issues are confronting your business at this time? - downtown businesses and we take that job seriously. Help us to know what issues we should focus on.As we enter a new year for the BID,your feed- back will,help us to shape the downtown agenda. Please bring this form with you when you come to the next General Meeting June 1 or you may e-mail your concerns to the Downtown 'BID at dhbbid@socal.rrcom What issues do you think the Downtown BID should focus on? Main Street proposal was flawed for the following -� continued from page 1 reasons: Help Keep .the Dave Sullivan and members of the 1.There is not enough time between Fireworks Downtown! Board of the Downtown BID met at a now and Labor Day to do the amount regularly scheduled economic devel- of planning necessary for even a trial The Downtown BID has joined with opment meeting,to discuss what was closure, especially when downtown the Huntington Beach Fourth of July learned in Santa Monica. merchants are approaching the busiest Committee in an effort to keep the Downtown BID members were season of the year. annual fireworks display at the pier. surprised by the presentation of a 2. City staff are rushing a closure The Fourth of July Committee has proposal to close Main Street begin- without studying the traffic impact,the Provided attractive donation boxes for ning Labor Day,since the proposal parking impact and the economic downtown merchants to place on, was not on the agenda. impact on downtown businesses. counters to encourage our customers to BID members were dismayed that a The Downtown BID board are donate to this popular cause. proposal had been made so quickly,. adamant in requesting that proper Each year,the Fourth of July Com- with no consultation from downtown economic impact studies,parking mittee,a volunteer organization,is merchants.As a part of the closure studies and traffic studies are con- charged with raising up to$400,000- . plan,city staff asked that the board of ducted before any further plans for a for the costs of the Fourth of July the Downtown BID participate in a closure go forward. Parade and Fireworks. Please help us series of meetings this summer to iron The Downtown BID board also believe with keeping this important downtown out the details of a trial closing. that closing Main Street by Labor Day is event downtown! The Downtown BID board then met too ambitious,because a closure requires Visit us on the web at: on May 16th to discuss all the Bevel- more planning and more time to properly opments.All agreed that the city's study. www.hbdowntown.com Santa Monica Third Street Promenade Current Available Parking City Owned Parking. . . . . . . . .3,224 Spaces . , SM Place (City Owned). ... . . . .700 Spaces Total City. Spaces 4,924 Spaces Private-Spaces. ... . . . . . . . . . . . . .4,500 Spaces Total Spaces 8,424 Spaces . Future City Spaces.,. . . . .'.. 1,712 Spaces Total Future Space 10' 13'6 Spaces City,*Cleans Street & Sidewalks They. Have a Chronic Homeless Problem _ �K��',�j-2 �-'� t-,"S'°`7w'°` r �ls�. .�-rsFah"���" +f-R*�.��^'.,��y i �*�mr,. �'L�N, � ,�,,, �'+'314'- •z�-�^�>?.�..k• 't �r, � �� t-Fu.r'i tt�'✓�' t r _r,,, d` � k '�i` �- �•`.�3. ,� t� i �r: k"��` kac ^'{ f - '�� }.�- s ��,��-�,�fy� `'�."-c; ,.'a+�i3�ys�,r �uz _ c �i"'yx 3•��'^44 84�1 4 � t 1. +• " ' _ � � _d u ?�. x,•. eY 21e�' �.:���-.yJ..:�'F.�«�r'L.�.6..... 1.'C2. .- ''��c,.J.sj"-�` ` Is Homelessness a problern ! I{ or Your.B usiness? f r There are people ay andheip Y°u can salt to help "I ! • ! those!n need. You { on the omele�s 1 , SANiAMONICA A a 3f Front 3 If you or someonle eise is hawo9 an 911 ------- •EMERGENCY dia ................................................... [ _ -' j .If you see someone engaged in Illegal t r On a recent day in Downtown y hthis moment.diali activitVesn •••.• 458.8491' Police Dispatch at.........................l..ave ; Santa Monica, Saad Galal was managing his i homelessness issues,leave .for ongoing souvenir shop in the USUdI Way — One,eye a message for HLP Team Police Officers at.....:...a5E.S953 .Instead of giving handouts,donate or - towards helping potential customers and the i volunteer your tlme.To find out more,tali 314 0071 Eyy w otherwatching a homeless man who had'just j [he Westsde Sheltere f uner UeaC°aVitlomat 1' I �� t ' I wandered into his store. Though Galal usually chases the s s9M1THE CHAMBER'S CARDS i homeless out if they smell or are harassing INCLUDE HELPFUL TIPS AND CONTACTS.., b �. k customers, the vacant look in the mans ' j eyes told him to handle the situation in a j different manner. I hundreds of homeless individuals who "Within a few minutes,the man'took his , gather in the heart of this beachside tow n. l arm and went like this,"Gala[said,making a Instead of relying on instinct, chamber motion across his body with his arm curved officials hope business owners and their rN - 'like a scythe. workers will reach for one of the 6,00o newly tAr In one movement, the homeless man distributed 3 1/2 by six inch cards that will J q "' knocked every item off a nearby shelf onto help them-handle situations like the one the floor. But Galal did not confront the Galal faced. The cards, which are similar to "F man, who he .feared was'Mentally ill. the ones the City began issuing to visitors, ^� Instead, he cleaned up the mess and went residents and City employees•in March r back to business. include helpful tips and phone contacts. P For merchants, such-as Galat, dealing "If everyone responds the same way, i,`with the homeless is part of the daily routine then you won't have situations as much of conducting business Downtown. To"help where someone wants•to do something out them cope with the problem,the Chamber of of the.kindness of their.hearts, but are Commerce has launched a.program that actually enabling the homeless,".said Kathy i provides guidelines for dealing-with_ the I Dodson,the chamber's president and CEO. continued on page g - WAA "WHERE SEEMS TO BE A REAL- CHANGE IN THE CITY COUNCIL AND THE ARE APPROACH TO MERCHANT FAQ HOMELESSNESS THAT HAS BEEN LT.FRANKFABREGA,THE S.M.RD. VERY POSITIVE." SPOKESMAN,ANSWERS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS POSED BY KATHY DODSON DOWNTOWN MERCHANTS. continued from page 5 Q. Ifa transient is screaming'at the top of hisiher - lungsonwhatbasiscanyoucallthecops? The Chamber has also taken on the task A: Anybody can call the police at any time. of tackling homelessness in a more regional When police get there,they will make a manner. _........ .._..--'..-.-..--- determination how to progress with the subject. City Council member Bobby Shriver,wh0 The board has voted to back using the Q: What is the definition,of"aggressive Veteran's Administration building near i is spearheading the effort house homeless panhandling^as opposed to panhandling in Westwood as a center to help and house ` veterans at the VA facility in Westwood, has - general?What action can be taken against homeless veterans, many of whom sleep on j i been urging greater political involvement aggressive panhandling? the streets of the Westside,which claims the "Individuals can have a positive Impact A:Aggressive panhandling is if l stop to ask b letting their elected.officials know that you for5o cents and you sayno and l largest share of homeless vets in the county, ! y g continue to be persistent both physically and according to the census.The decision on how more and more people are following this verbally,or continue to follow you.lfthis the land will be used is pending before i issue and expecting them to act," Shriver happens,you can call the police department Said. "Homelessness Is d Political problem,!: and on officer will go to the scene.if it's a federaLofficials,who are expected to decide : p misdemeonorandrheojficerwasnotpresent the matter soon. and has a political solution. Every political , to witness the incident,the officer will ask if In addition, at a historic April 28thi solution begins with pressure from the ; you want to make an arrest.lfyoudon't,the meeting of the Westside Council Chambers of public. officer will conduct a field interview to identify Shriver urges writing to count supervisor the person and determine if thereisawarront Commerce organized by the local Chamber, i g g y p for his orhera.nest. business leaders addressed key problems ZevYaroslaysky,who represents the Westside; the homeless pose in larger business L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and members i Q. Ifa transient refuses to leave a place of ' communities, as well as explored potential i ; of the City Council. Santa Monica council' business after being asked by shopkeepers, solutions to the problem. member Richard Bloom,a participant of Bring what steps do you suggest to get them to p L.A. Home, a taskforce that spent two ears leave? The Chamber has been hard at work : p y A: We would ask the shopkeeper to call the organizing the meeting,which was not open carving out a regional approach to end police deportment.When the officerarrives, t0 the public and was informational in ; homelessness in ten years,agrees. he orshe will talk to the shopkeeper to find but what the incident is about.They will then nature, Dodson said, adding that she hopes ; "The public should pay particular i ask the subject to leave.But there has to be a it will be only the first of many meetings to attention to those politicians who profess reason,such as.bothering customers or address the issue:- that their communities bear no responsibility standing in the doorway.Shops are public "There seems to be a real change in the or refuse to assist in the solution," Bloom places that are open to the general public.if said."Instead of knee-jerk refusals to accept. the person refuses to leave,they will be City.Council and the area's approach t0 l p '� arrested for trespassing if the shopkeeper homelessness that has been very positive," i ; any social services in our communities, the wontsto press criminal charges.Without the she said. "The top leaders for Westside ` public should demand of their elected shopkeeper's consent,the police can't force i officials that essential services be provided in the person out. Chambers were in attendance: "We want to take action to get people 4 a responsible manner." Q: Ifan individual feels threatened oris' together and examine what are some really The chamber's efforts are no panacea to threatened by a transient,what can that fresh ideas out there," said Dodson, who , ; the vexing problem of homelessness,Dodson f person do to report this and what action will I acknowled es,but the are a start. j be taken? noted that there has been more of a political ; g y will to act on the issue of homelessness,both "We wanted to tackle some bite-sized I . A: !n all cases,the police department should � be notified.Ifit rises to the level ofocriminal locally and in regional governments. I pieces to help us get a handle on the larger action,the police will take a report and go to -----------................._._.-....__._ ! problem of homelessness," she said."We're the scene.lfthe person is still there,the at the beginning of this effort." police will ask if the caller wants to make'o _I citizen's arrest.An officer cannot arrest someone fora misdemeanor crime not witnessed in his orher resence. A DECIDED ONE DAY THAT 3®MEN®®Y: HAS w I TO ®O SOMETHING. continued from page COMMUNITY Q&A �.. _. movie house that has sat vacant since the LASZLO VANDDR Q:What can a business or individual 1994 Northridge earthquake. + do to have a positive impact on the ! "It's a very difficult situation when you're homeless population? dealing with human beings," said Fischer, 'whose gentle demeanor seems in stark contrast to the fiery tattoo climbing up one f r. arm. "You have some good, you have some I Vandor the "block commander" x BILLTUCKER' bad. There's no cut-and-dry situation across I ' considers himself a benevolent guardian, Board Choi, the board." 1 though,distinguishing the"good guys"from Boyside District, l Fischer's policy is to take matters into his the"dirt." Corporation, i own hands when dealing with people inside "I'm not talking about your regular A:Individuals and businesses seeking to make a i his store, or when causing trouble positive impact in their area should encourage and they'reg homeless person that we're telling to get off outside. He rarely calls the police, but he our street," he said. "Many homeless are i support a regional approach to addressing the - homelessprobtem.weareall linked together with works closely with them on a regular basis, I clean and make an effort to get up in life. I'm the common goal of reducing or solving this Fischer said. talking about the violent types who are overly problem in a.humane manner;however,without "I know the Cops,"he said."They have a :' aggressive.". the cooperation and support of au the interested " nightmare time out there." i i But when trouble comes-such as'when parties,the solution will be doomed to failure. It "I boil it down to respect," Fischer , homeless people steal from the'liquor store must be addressed in a united fashion. j concluded. i next door-Vandor is quick to act. "If 1 see tTWO BLOCKS SOUTH on Broadway,Laszlo someone hanging out in front of the liquor Vandor, a hair stylist with David McCann's 1 store or around the corner, I call the police," )(M HONE ; salon, has taken a more active approach to I. ;Vandor said. y Fire chief dealing with the homeless on his block. i When the police aren't around, he's not Santa Monica "I decided one day that somebody has to afraid to take matters into his own hands In _ Fire Department i I , do something," said Vandor, a Hungarian the latest.incident, a homeless manaried to A: If you see someone who looks like they need i immediate medical help,don't ignore it-call 9,� immigrant who has worked at the salon For i ! fight a store clerk next door, spitting on him and request assistance.'Don't enable people to five years. Everyday, Vandor deals with the and using racial slurs. continue life on the streets. Instead of giving homeless who hang out outside the shop. 1 i "1 stopped doing highlights and went out handouts, donate food, clothing and money'to "They sleep, urinate, defecate, smoke and put the guy under citizen's arrest," homeless agencies and food banks. Vote for joints and drink alcohol right out front here, Vandor said. elected officials or ballot measures that address said Vandor, addingthat it was worse when i the regional impact of homelessness.,This is a } But the store clerk - a much smaller national,state and countywide problem that the double benches were located outside his i Asian man - didn't want'to press charges,; City of Santa Monica can'tsolve alone. Store, and the homeless would set up camp ; i because he was afraid and would Have to deal j ! i i there. 1 with the man again. Now, Vandor informally patrols his 1 Still,Vandor continues his patrols,which KATHY DODSON stretch of street with the help of business several neighboring merchants say they President&CEO, clerks who work nearby. It is part of a appreciate. Santa Monica ' grassroots effort Vandor calls a"clean block" 1 Carol Seo works at the liquor store next Chamber of Commerce approach. door to David McCann's salon. The woman I A:The most important thing anyone can do is to "A homeless person I was moving along smiled slightly as she talked about Vandor's help people transition out of homelessness.This is asked me one day who I was and what I was ! efforts,which she said she backs. not done by giving handouts,but by working with ` d0ing, and I joked that I was the 'block "I like what Laszlo's doing when he's the many professionals in Santa Monica who I commander.'It just kind of came out." 1 i around,"she said."I feel safer knowing that dedjobscate(Chrysalis),tlives to deal w with mentah 11lnesseless find Up i. (Step P — --- — ----—----.._�.---- — he's out there." I On Second), provide showers and meals (OPCC) Se0, who tries not to work nights ' and many others. Donate orvotunteeryourtime— ; because She feels it i5 less risky, wryly i a great place to start is the Wesiside Shelter and Hunger Coalition at www.westsideshelter.org. e BY ED .MOOSBRUGGER Setting the Essence ®f Catiforn ia Tourism [eadeCS may want your help in imprinting the city's new destination branding s program on the fabric of Santa Monica. cleanliness/safety, attraction/sightseeing, the weather, And just what is the promise to visitors that they location,transportation and visitor services. want Jthe community to embrace and bring tolife? The top ten perceived weaknesses are y-' Here it is,developed after more than of year homeless/solicitors/teen dro outs,traffic,expense,lack of �. P YP of research and analysis: experience/atmosphere, lack of public transportation, n4. "Santa Monica...the best way to discover LA cleanliness/safety, need of more restaurants, grumpy or an unforgettable beach city experience filled with mean locals,weather and grocery stores. eye-catching people, cutting edge culture and bold As you can see, perception is in the eye of each innovations.It is the essence of the California lifestyle." individual visitor.Some say the locals are friendly,others say If you're like me,it will require a little translation to put they are grumpy. It probably depends on who they dealt this into practice.And that is the:phase the Santa Monica with.And that is why programs to encourage the community Convention &Visitors Bureau has entered.following a Santa to welcome visitors are important. It can be as simple as Monica Destination Brand Summit on March 24 at the Loews cheerfully helping visitors find their way around Downtown. Santa Monica Beach Hotel Several programs are planned this year to make the Many of the planned programs, including training promise of the Santa Monica brand'a reality.They include opportunities,will be aimed at businesses,but City leaders guest contact service training,sales staff training,a training want the whole community involved, guide,SMCVB staff brand training and beach summit. As the Santa Monica Destination Brand Blueprint says, The goal of"being better at the beach"is a big one,said "This is a community wide initiative that will involve city Gary Sherwin, president of Believable Brands,a consultant leaders and .residents,the business community, and all to the SMCVB. others that depend on a vibrant and healthy economic flow The people in attendance at the brand summit seem to, to-Santa Monica." agree because when Sherwin called for ideas to improve the It's not just about jobs,said Duane Knapp,president of beach experience,numerous attendees spoke up. BrandStrategy Inc., whichhelped the SMCVB develop the Just a few of the many ideas given were a beach branding program, concierge concept,festivals on the beach, a sand tram and It's_also about the lifestyle of Santa Monica residents, beach tours and eliminating eyesores such as the city -because a strong tourism industry supports many things, dumpsters that spoil the view when emerging from the including restaurants, that local people also enjoy, he told McClure Tunnel. Other ideas were better signs to help the brand summit. pedestrians know where they are and how to get where they No part of the city.has more at stake than Downtown, want to go, cheaper beach parking rates and more short- because its. hotels, restaurants, .shops, arts and term parking. entertainment are key parts of the product Santa Monica The active participation of the people who attended the offers to visitors. brand summit was encouraging,since an effective branding "It's all.about perception,"Knapp said."How you want program will require that. people to feel...It's delivering the experience people want." "A Brand Promise...should be a focal point for everyone Although Santa Monica has a strong tourism industry, in the community so it is clearly understood by both visitors the city can do more. and residents, what defines the unique Santa Monica There are significant latent positive perceptions about experience,"Sherwin wrote in'.a recent SMCVB newsletter. Santa Monica,but the city is not really well known in some The stakes are high:- key markets,such as Chicago,New York and London,Knapp The high room rates that hotel visitors pay in Santa told the brand summit meeting. Monica means they have high expectations of what they will Both strengths and weaknesses emerged in interviews experience, said hotel consultant Bruce Baltin, senior vice and focus groups conducted as part of the brand president of PKF Consulting in Los Angeles. development process. Many of these will be no surprise to "It is important to deliver,"'he said. Downtown residents,employees and business owners. That is the essence of the brand campaign in which The top ten strengths are friendly/healthy people,the Santa Monica will be sold as a destination with unique and beach, shopping, the experience/atmosphere, distinctive attributes. Downtown. E m to ®® lust show proof of your employment in the Downtown Santa Monica area to start receiving discounts from' D• the following participating businesses.Check with the iscount Program businesses for additional limitations and restrictions that may apply.Businesses with an asterisk(*)extend Enjoy the Perks of Working Downtown! discounts to all Santa Monica employees.Merchants �Mr for the most updated list of participants, located in the Santa Monica Place Mall are noted as BAYSIDE DISTRICT �„i log on to downtownsm.com "SM Place."Offers expire December3l,2006. Beauty Bay Cities Beauty Supply Co. 310-393.3700 10%off David McCann Salon 310.917.9177 20%Off Salon Vivace(SM Place) 310.26o.oli3 20%off,haircuts,hair care Bookstores Arcana: Books On The Arts* 310-458•14§9 lo%off,in-store purchases only Clothing Hanna Hartnell Studio` 310.393.6587 io%off,regular items only Leather Expo (SM Place) 310•458.2884 GWP-Free.Leather Day Timer with every leather jacket purchase of $150 or more while supplies last Max Studio 310 587 3226' lo%off Dining Angelato Cafe* 310.656.9999 io%off- Barney's Beanery 31o.656.5777 io%.off,alcohol excluded Benihana* 3.10-395.1688 lo%off dining room only;not valid on holidays or with Emperor's.Club, or any other discount. Border Grill 310-451.1655 20%Off Monday-Friday lunch/dine'-in only not valid with other discounts, . alcohol excluded Cento&Fanti (SM Place) 310-451.3031 10%off regular entree only,not valid with specials Charlie Burger(SM Place) 310-395:1077. lo%off regular entree Charlie Kabob(SM Place) 310.393.5535 io%off regular entree only,not valid with specials Coffee Bean&Tea Leaf 310•394.9737 10%off,Third St Promenade location only Fatburger* 310393.7331 10%off Gotham Hall 310.394.8865 20%off food and bar items Great Steak and Potato(SM,Place) 310-576.7470 1o%off combo meals only Hot Dog on a Stick(SM Place) 310.395-o668 io.%off I Cugini 310.451.4595 20%off lunch only Monday--Saturday,alcohol,tax and gratuity excluded It Fornaio 310-451.7800 20%off lunch,11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.,limit party of six,alcohol excluded 'Locanda del Lago 310-451.3525 io%off,parties 8 or more excluded Monsoons Cafe 310 576 9996 io%off Mrs.Fields Cookies(SM Place) 310-3953575 Buy 3.cookies or brownies and get i FREE Ocean Avenue Seafood* 310 394 5669 10%off Trastevere *.319.i985 10%off Yankee Doodles* 310•394.4632 20%off lunch only Monday-Friday,alcohol,tax and gratuity excluded Ye Olde Kings Head Pub&Restaurant 310-451.3402 20%off lunch only Monday-Friday,food only, specially booked parties excluded *All Santa Monica Employees [Continued on other sides ATTACHMENT #2 Proposed Study and Strategy for Downtown Pedestrian Mall Analysis of Issues Confronting. Transition to a Pedestrian Mall Economic impact to merchants, property owners and City Scope of closure including required permits Paring alternatives n Si gnage and Street Directory Street Cleaning and Maintenance .Activities & organized street performers 'Homeless Issues Public Art Security Steps for Analyzing Issues Raised Form an.ad-hoc committee Research various street closure projects - nationwide Determine feasibility/scope/budget and schedule associated with a Pilot Project -Monthly reporting to Downtown .EDC Formation of Ad-hoc Committee Committee Members: Downtown BID Board of Directors , Economic Development.Department.Representatives " Public Works Department Representatives Planni tic,;Department Representative Community services Department Representative Police Department Representative Fire Department Representative City Council Downtown EDC ` Committee will report back to the Downtown EDC on a monthly basis. 2 RCA ROUTING SHEET INITIATING_ DEPARTMENT: Economic Development SUBJECT: Approve Committee for Study of Main Street Pedestrian Mall COUNCIL MEETING DATE: ,tune 5, 2006 RCA ATTACHMENTS ..STATUS z Ordinance (w/exhibits & legislative draft if applicable) Attached ❑ Not Applicable ❑ Resolution (w/exhibits & legislative draft if applicable) Attached ❑ Not Applicable ❑ Tract Map, Location Map and/or other Exhibits Attached El Not Applicable ❑ Contract/Agreement (w/exhibits if applicable) Attached ❑ (Signed in full by the City Attorney) Not Applicable ❑ . Subleases, Third Party Agreements, etc. Attached ❑ (Approved as to form by City Attorney) Not Applicable ❑ Certificates of Insurance (Approved by the City Attorney) Attached ❑ Not Applicable ❑ Fiscal Impact Statement (Unbudgeted, over$5,000) Attached ❑ Not Applicable ❑ Bonds (If applicable) Attached Not Applicable Staff Report (If applicable) Attached Not Applicable ❑ Commission, Board or Committee Report (If applicable) Attached ❑ Not Applicable ❑ Findings/Conditions for Approval and/or Denial Attached ❑ Not Applicable ❑ EXPLANATION FOR MISSING ATTACHMENTS:,' r REVIEWED t w:, RETURNED FORWARDED .Administrative Staff ( ) Assistant City Administrator Initial City Administrator Initial City Clerk { ) V EXPLANATION FOR RETURN-.OF ITEM' Only)(Below Space For City Clerk's Use RCA Author: Punongbayan i CITY OF HUNTINGTON BEACH INTERDEPARTMENTAL COMMUNICATION Joan L. Flynn, City Clerk Office of the City Clerk TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council FROM: Joan L: Flynn, City Clerk DATE: June 5, 2006 SUBJECT: LATE COMM UNICATIONS7O THE'CITY COUNCIL FOR THE JUNE 5, 2006 CITY COUNCIL MEETING Attached are the Late Communications to the City Council received after distribution of the Agenda Packets: consent Calendar - E-4: Voicemail communication submitted by Anthony Ourenzo and Robert Mull, residents of Seventh Street, stating support for the closure of Main Street into a Promenade and requesting Council consider a Traffic impact Report.be-done concerning how the overflow traffic will impact their neighborhood. E-12. Communication submitted by Paul Emery, Deputy City Administrator, dated June 2, 2006, and titled Late Communication-Item E-12, Adopt Resolution for the Property Tax Exchange Between the City of Huntington Beach and the County of Orange for the Signal Landmark Property Annexation and Approve the Out of Service Area Agreement, noting the omission of the Legal Description referred to as Exhibit "A" in Attachment No: 2. Administrative Items F-1. Communication submitted by Jill Hardy, Chair, on behalf of the Intergovernmental Relations Committee Members, Mayor Pro Tern Coerper and Councilmember Hansen, dated June 5, 2006, and titled Item F-1 Intergovernmental Relations Committee Recommendations, submitting copies of two amended bills.