San Pedro Community Plan Planning Commission Meetings in San Pedro

We are pleased to announce that the proposed San Pedro Community Plan
is scheduled for formal consideration at City Planning Commission
(CPC) on Thursday, March 14, 2013. Planning staff will make a
presentation followed by public comment. Prior to CPC, the Plan will
also be presented at the Harbor Area Planning Commission on Tuesday,
March 5, 2013 for review and comment; this is an informational meeting
and no decision will be made. Both meetings will be held in San Pedro,
bringing the decision-making process closer to the community as many
community members have suggested over the years.

Informational Meeting
Harbor Area Planning Commission (agenda is attached)
March 5, 2013, 4:30 p.m.
Harbor Commission Board Room
455 S. Palos Verdes Street, San Pedro, CA 90731

Formal Hearing
City Planning Commission
March 14, 2013, after 8:30 a.m.
Boys and Girls Club
100 W. 5th Street, San Pedro, CA 90731

Improving the community’s quality of life is central to the Plan,
which has several major themes. These themes include expanding housing
opportunities, strengthening the community’s connection to the
waterfront, and preserving industrial areas for local jobs.
Sustainability goals and policies, such as creating more
pedestrian-friendly environments, improving access to open space, and
fostering a healthy community, are integrated throughout the Plan.

Based upon community input following the public hearing in December
2012, some changes have been made to the San Pedro Community Plan.
Among these is the commercial area located at 25th Street and Western
Avenue (subarea 260). The Planning Department has recommended
retaining the existing neighborhood commercial land use designation
and no change is proposed for zoning or height regulations. This
change underscores the importance of the community’s involvement in
the plan update process.

Community Plans provide a guide for future land use development. The
Community Plan Update process has been based on engaging the community
in making decisions regarding existing land use, neighborhood and
community issues, and recommendations for future land use changes. A
written recommendation report, which represents a multi-year effort
and dozens of community meetings and community feedback, will be
forwarded for consideration by the Mayor and City Council following
the CPC meeting.

Thank you for your continued interest in the San Pedro Community Plan update.

We are currently in the process of adding our updated documents to the
website. For more information about the Plan, go to:
http://sites.google.com/site/sanpedrocommunityplan

Debbie Lawrence, San Pedro Community Planner, City of Los Angeles
Department of City Planning
Phone: (231) 978-1163 Email: Debbie.Lawrence@lacity.org

APC March 5 agenda.pdf Download this file

New California Laws Significantly Modify Indemnity Obligations in Construction Contracts

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	Morris Polich & Purdy LLP Construction & Design ALERT Dear Will, Effective as of January 1, 2013, new California laws further restrict the scope of indemnity provisions in construction contracts, necessitating that contracts be carefully reviewed. These significant modifications are a result of a growing national effort by contractors and subcontractors to limit their indemnity and defense obligations for work performed on both public and private works projects. One of these new laws voids indemnity provisions in construction contracts that require or "purport to insure or indemnify, including the cost to defend, a general contractor, construction manager, or other subcontractor, by a subcontractor against liability for claims… to the extent the claims arise out of, pertain to, or relate to the[ir] active negligence or willful misconduct." (Civil Code Section 2782.05). In plain English, these new laws prohibit indemnity provisions that attempt to shift liability or defense obligations for the active negligence of the party to be indemnified. Subject to very limited exceptions, California's construction contract anti-indemnity statute (Civil Code section 2782) has for many years made broad form indemnity provisions unenforceable by prohibiting a party from requiring indemnity against its own sole negligence or willful misconduct. (Civil Code section 2782(a).) A recent expansion of this law makes clear that indemnity for active negligence is also generally unenforceable for both public and private contracts entered into on or after January 1, 2013. These new revisions expressly extend this prohibition to "any contractor, subcontractor or supplier of goods and services." (Civil Code section 2782 (b)(2) and (c)(1).) In other words, a public agency or prime contractor on a public works project cannot require a subcontractor or supplier to indemnify against liability for the active negligence of the public agency and/or the general contractor. In addition, the prime contractor cannot be required to indemnify an owner of a public works project for the active negligence of the owner. (Civil Code section 2782(b)(1).) The same is true in the private contract context - the owner cannot impose on any contractor, subcontractor or supplier an indemnification obligation as a result of the active negligence of the owner. (Civil Code section 2782(c)(1).) As a result, the indemnity provision in your current contract may not be enforceable and owners, contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and material vendors should reassess and modify their current contracts, particularly the indemnity provision(s), in order to bring those contracts in line with the new provisions of Civil Code sections 2782 and 2782.05. Click HERE to view Civil Code section 2782. You may also click HERE to view Civil Code section 2782.05. If you have any questions or would like to discuss the impact of these new laws in greater detail, please feel free to contact me, or alternatively, Raina L. Richter (213.417.5312 or rrichter@mpplaw.com). Sincerely, D. Creighton Sebra Attorney at Law 213.417.5380 csebra@mpplaw.com Morris Polich & Purdy LLP 1055 West Seventh Street Twenty-Fourth Floor Los Angeles, CA 90017 Tel: 213.891.9100 www.mpplaw.com
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The information contained in this document is intended solely for use by the persons or entities identified above. This electronically transmitted document contains privileged and confidential information including information which may be protected by the attorney-client and/or work product privileges. If you are not the intended recipient, be aware that any disclosure, copying, distribution or other use of the contents of this transmission is prohibited. If you received this transmission in error, please notify us by telephone (213-891-9100) and permanently delete this message without making a copy.

Billboard and Visual Landscape Visioning Group :: Department of City Planning

Visioning Group members,

We're looking forward to talking with you again tonight! Attached is a PDF that contains:

- Our schedule for tonight's meeting (general schedule with order of discussion topics)

- Summary of themes discussed in 1st meeting

- Themes heard between groups

- Notes from the Neighborhood breakout session

- Notes from the Industry breakout session

The PDF is bookmarked to help you navigate among the sections. We'll also have hardcopies of all of the above documents available for you tonight. 

Also, just a note of clarification for the members of the public who wish to attend -- my previous note about limiting meeting attendance was just a suggestion. We do want to convey that the overriding intent for these meetings is that they be open to everyone.

Thank you again and see you tonight,

Daisy

Daisy Mo

City Planning Associate

City of Los Angeles Department of City Planning

200 N. Spring St.

Los Angeles, CA 90012

Meeting 2 handout.pdf Download this file

AGENDA :: AIA|LA Roundtable Discussion on Zoning Code Reform - February 27 (6:00 - 8:00pm) at GENSLER

AIA|LA Roundtable Discussion on Zoning Code Reform

Wednesday, February 27 (6:00pm - 8:00pm)

Gensler 
500 S. Figueroa Street 
Los Angeles CA 90071 

For directions click here.

AGENDA:

6:00 - 6:13pm Networking, refreshments

6:13 - 6:15pm Li Wen and Arpy Hatkikian welcome everyone on behalf of Gensler

6:15 - 6:30pm Powerpoint Presentation by Alan Bell and Tom Rothman

6:30 - 7:15pm PANELISTS frame the discussion :: How do we ensure the optimal process for revising zoning code?

7:15 - 8:00pm Q&A Roundtable Discussion w/ Audience :: What is the narrative of Los Angeles?

8:00pm End.

AIA|LA Roundtable Discussion on Zoning Code Reform

As you may know, the City of Los Angeles is committed to investing in a process to revise and streamline our outdated zoning code.  This is expected to be a $5 million investment over the next five years.  Although a consulting team has been assembled and their contract pending, there are still many questions to ask as we move forward with this endeavor:

THE QUESTIONS WE'D LIKE TO DISCUSS INCLUDE:

• If the zoning code is a map of LA's future, what is the narrative we're trying to tell?
• What is the most effective way to shape the City of LA zoning code reform process?
• How do we modernize and re-evaluate compatibility of land-uses?
• What should the zoning code of the 21st century look like?  
• With the primacy of so many other environmental and fiscal considerations, why do we even need to regulate land-use in the first place?
• How do we optimize economic development opportunities?
• How do we incentivize design innovation?
• How do we ensure equitable and accessible placemaking?

Presenters

Alan Bell, AICP - City of Los Angeles

Tom Rothman - City of Los Angeles

POWER POINT PRESENTATION :: COMPREHENSIVE ZONING CODE REVISION:

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/46776075/AIA%20Roundtable%20(02-27-13%20compressed).pptx

Panelists // Responders :: 

Chava Danielson, AIA - DSH Architects

Liz Falletta - University of Southern California

James Favaro, AIA - Johnson Favaro Architecture and Urban Design

Ann Gray, FAIA - Balcony Media

John Kaliski, AIA - John Kaliski Architects

Hank Koning, FAIA - Koning Eizenberg

Neal Payton, AIA - Torti Gallas and Partners, Inc.

Gwynne Pugh, FAIA - Gwynne Pugh Urban Studio

ROUNDTABLE AUDIENCE :: Questions & Answers

Clifton Allen, AIA - Meyer & Allen Associates

Peter Zellner - ZELLNERPLUS 

Ryan Aubry - Kosmont Companies

Ava Bromberg - Atwater Crossing

Shiraz Tangri - Alston & Bird LLP

Martin Leitner, AIA - Torti Gallas and Partners, Inc.

Michael Sweeney, AIA - Rios Clementi Hale Studios

Catherine Roussel, AIA - Woodbury University

Alex DeGood - Jeffer Mangels Butler & Mitchell LLP

Neal LaMontagne - UCLA

Matt Goulet - Kosmont Companies

Steven Chavez, PLA, ASLA - SCA-LARC

Catherine Tang - AECOM

David Bergman, AICP - Metropolitan Research + Economics

Mark Vallianatos - Occidental College

Tina Hossain - Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce

Jean Armbruster - Los Angeles County Department of Public Health

Gloria Ohland - MOVE LA

Amber Hawkes - Melendrez

Jonathan Parfrey - ClimateResolve

Deborah Weintraub, AIA - City of Los Angeles

Mark Glassock, MPH - Community Health Councils

Carter Rubin - David Bohnett Fellow at the LA Mayor's Office

Kurt Rademakers - Urban Insight

Elaine Kabala - Kosmont Companies

Raeven Flores, AIA - Abode Communities

Rene Rodriguez - Abode Communities

Lydia Vilppu - Lydia Vilppu Architecture

Mehrnoosh Mojallali, AIA - Merhnoosh Architecture - Urban Design

Brian Reiff - DIGBAR interiors & architecture

Marissa Aho, AICP - The Planning Center

Woodie Tescher - The Planning Center

Will Wright - The American Institute of Architects, Los Angeles

USC Price School of Public Policy (students)

Jon Boyden

Nick Busalacchi

Stephanie Byrd

Yiming Chen

Amy Conway

Sarah Dominguez

Peter Enzminger

Ivy He

Bradley Henning

Ryan Kucinski

Janelle Mammini

Andre Sahakian

Zahratu Shabrina

Janis Stewart

Helen Wang

Xin Xin

Liping Zhang

BACKGROUND from the Department of City Planning ::

The last time the City of Los Angeles did a comprehensive revision was when the current Zoning Code was first adopted in 1946.  It has since grown from an 84-page pamphlet to a 600+ page book does not reflect our 21st Century needs or vision.

The proposal will result in a new Zoning Code that:

• Establishes clear & predictable language
• More effectively implements the Goals & Objectives of the General Plan and Community Plans
• Offers a wider variety of zoning options that protect and/or enhance our communities
• Reflects the diversity of Los Angeles and allows each neighborhood to maintain a distinct sense of place
• Accommodates the City’s current and future needs
• Improves the built environment, economic vitality, & quality of life
• Is an economic development tool that will help shore up the City’s tax base

The work program includes an enhanced public participation strategy that will include many opportunities for public involvement and feedback.  Our Department is committed to an open and transparent process that ensures that all stakeholders are given the opportunity to participate and contribute to the new land use and development standards.

The project will not: 1) override any existing Specific Plans or Overlays; or 2) result in the wholesale "up-zoning" of the City.  Although changes will eventually be pursued in order to implement the new Zoning Code, the proposed work program does not include any amendments to the current Zoning designations.  Any future changes will include notifications and public hearings.

OTHER INFORMATION

Below is a link to the Council File for the proposal.  It includes copies of the Department's funding request which outlines the proposed work program and budget plan, as well as other reports and comments submitted to date.

Council File No. 12-0460

http://cityclerk.lacity.org/lacityclerkconnect/index.cfm?fa=ccfi.viewrecord&cfnumber=12-0460

POWER POINT PRESENTATION :: COMPREHENSIVE ZONING CODE REVISION:

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/46776075/AIA%20Roundtable%20(02-27-13%20compressed).pptx

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

As land use planning changes, ‘zoning’ is no longer appropriate

http://www.washingtonpost.com/realestate/as-land-use-planning-changes-zoning-is-no-longer-appropriate/2013/02/14/574feb12-6643-11e2-93e1-475791032daf_story.html

Ways to Fail at Form-Based Codes 01: Don’t Articulate a Vision

http://www.placemakers.com/2013/02/21/ways-to-fail-at-form-based-codes-01/

Zoning a Healthier Los Angeles?

http://la.streetsblog.org/2013/02/22/zoning-a-healthier-los-angeles/#.USvmLlyWVW8.twitter

Form-Based Codes Lite

http://www.planetizen.com/node/60721

REDEEMING TRANSECT ZONING by Nicole Stelle Garnett

http://ssrn.com/abstract=2188084

very truly yours,

Will Wright, Hon. AIA|LA

Director, Government and Public Affairs

AIA Los Angeles

3780 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 800

Los Angeles, CA 90010

213.639.0764  office

310.309.9580  mobile

213.639.0767  fax

will

@aialosangeles.org

www.aialosangeles.org

CEQA Modernization Bill SB 731 Introduced

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Senator Steinberg Introduces SB 731 as Initial Framework for CEQA Modernization _________________________________________________________________________ CEQA Working Group Coalition:   Today Senate President Pro Tempore Darrell Steinberg introduced SB 731, the initial bill that sets up CEQA modernization.   SB 731 is a good starting point to establish the framework of meaningful CEQA modernization, and we are committed to working through the long process it will take to negotiate thoughtful changes to the law that will preserve CEQA's intent of environmental protection, while eliminating CEQA misuse that frequently kills good projects in California.  You may also have heard that today Senator Michael J. Rubio (D-Bakersfield) announced his resignation from the State Senate effective immediately to address family issues. We are saddened to be losing one of our biggest champions for CEQA reform, but respect and understand his decision. Family comes first. At the same time, we are fortunate that the Governor, Senator Steinberg and democrats and republicans from both houses are committed to reform, and will continue work together to accomplish meaningful changes to CEQA.     We will keep you updated as this process unfolds, and encourage you to continue communicating with legislators to reinforce the importance of this effort. Download talking points here.  Read the CEQA Working Group press release here.  Please share the statement and retweet (@FixCEQA) or use the sample tweet below.  Sample tweet:   Thx @protemSteinberg for introducing SB 731. We look forward to making #CEQA modernization happen this year. http://bit.ly/XqVE4g  Thanks

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What are your ideas to improve Pershing Square?

The LA Public Space Project conducts innovative participatory workshops which allows individuals to use their sensory experiences and imagination to re-envision Los Angeles' public spaces and ultimately help contribute to more lively and accessible public spaces for everyone in the Greater Los Angeles area. For our first event, we would like to invite women and girls to help us experience, examine, and redesign this underutilized public space through playful interactive models and group discussion. 

The event will take place in Pershing Square on Sunday, March 3rd, from 1:00 – 3:00PM and facilitated by James Rojas, Anna Peccianti and Monika Shankar.

History of Pershing Square: The five-acre park currently known as Pershing Square has gone through several iterations over its 163-year history. Originally simply known as Block 15 on the southwest corner of historic Los Angeles, the park was little more than open pasture. In 1866, the city decided to designate Block 15 as a public square and in 1870 named it Los Angeles Park. Coordinating with wealthy landowners, the city raised $1600 to fence in the park and plant trees. What followed over a span of several decades were numerous redesigns and renovations of the park, as well as several names including Plaza Abaja (Lower Plaza), Sixth Street Park, St. Vincent Park, Central Park and finally Pershing Square in 1918. Following WWI, the park increasingly became known as a space for public speeches and preaching, as well as a gathering place for the underprivileged and marginalized. With growing complaints from local businesses, the city elected to renovate the park yet again in the 1950’s, this time building a subterranean parking garage and a fenced off lawn above. The shift in the public park’s confined appearance corresponded with the downtown’s decline as a residential and business center leading to less use of the public space. Finally, the park went through yet another redesign in the 1990’s. Keeping the historic context and the current state of Pershing Square in mind, the LA Public Space Project would like to give women and girls the opportunity to analyze the space and express their ideas about what the next iteration of Pershing Square should be like.

No previous experience necessary to participate in this workshop. Just bring your thoughts, a bottle of water and sunscreen. We will bring the rest!

In addition to RSVP’ing on Facebook, please send an email to Monika at monika.shankar@gmail.com. Final instructions will be sent via email. Feel free to share this event with your friends! However, space is limited to 20 participants, so please RSVP as soon as possible!

We look forward to seeing you there!

~James Rojas, Anna Peccianti, and Monika Shankar

Our Jobs/TIF bill introduced TODAY- spread the word on AB690

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:                                                                CONTACT: Linda Rapattoni

February 21, 2013                                                                              (916) 319-2027

                                                                                                            (916) 747-5950 (cell)

 

Assemblymember Campos Introduces Jobs Bill

AB 690 Targets Areas of High Unemployment

 

SACRAMENTO – Assembly Speaker pro Tempore Nora Campos (D-San Jose) introduced Assembly Bill 690 today, a job creation measure that uses tax increment financing (TIF) to stimulate local hiring and reduce unemployment.

 

“Unemployment is the new blight,” Campos said. “Though our economy is showing signs of improvement, there are still 1.8 million Californians who are looking for work. California needs a program to help local communities attract and keep jobs.  I developed AB 690 in partnership with leading business organizations and economists, such as the Los Angeles County Business Federation (BizFed) and Larry Kosmont, to allow local governments to use tax increment financing in public-private partnerships to create new jobs.”

 

AB 690 is designed to expressly create jobs in California through the establishment of Jobs and Infrastructure Districts, which will provide incentives to the private sector to create new jobs and provide workforce training.

 

Tax increment financing is one of the most powerful financing tools available to state and local governments for encouraging economic development. In contrast to the 48 other states that have a TIF program, California lost this mechanism when redevelopment was eliminated in 2011. When applied to job creation, TIF could create funding for jobs at a new supermarket, at a once empty warehouse retrofitted into a manufacturing facility, or a new local restaurant in a distressed neighborhood by borrowing against the future increase in the property tax revenues in these areas.

 

With statewide unemployment at 9.7 percent, AB 690 will directly benefit key job sectors including construction, manufacturing, retail and other vital industries.

 

AB 690 also includes built-in accountability tools as well as objective, measurable results that will directly address high unemployment by requiring 10 permanent, full-time prevailing wage jobs to be created for every $1 million invested. In addition to adding jobs and strengthening our economy, AB 690 also provides a long term solution to the state’s structural budget deficit.

 

The 27^th Assembly District includes roughly half of the City of San Jose in Santa Clara County – the tenth largest city in the nation, and third largest in California. Assemblymember Campos served as a San Jose City Councilwoman before she was elected to the Assembly in 2010. 

 

In the days ahead, it will be vital that we ALL actively support this bill and reach out to all of our lawmakers – and the Governor – to ensure its passage!

Tracy

Tracy Rafter, CEO

BizFed, Los Angeles County Business Federation

818.429.0862 ~ tracy.rafter@bizfed.org

bizfed.org

A Grass Roots Alliance of Over 100 Top LA County Business Groups

Mobilizing More Than 250,000 Businesses

Ad-Hoc Working Group :: Citywide Design Guidelines for Los Angeles - February 20 (8:00 - 9:30am)

Are you available to join us in a discussion on February 20 (8am) to review and provide critical analysis of the proposed citywide design guidelines for the City of Los Angeles?

Ad-Hoc Working Group ::

Citywide Design Guidelines for Los Angeles

Wednesday, February 20 (8am - 9:30am)

*John Kaliski Architects*
3780 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 300
Los Angeles, California 90010

RSVP to will@aialosangeles.org

The guidelines are being voted on by City Council's Planning and Land use Committee on Tuesday, February 26 (2pm) at City Hall.  AIA|LA has been asked to provide feedback and comments.

We will be convening this ad-hoc working group to formulate the response for the official AIA|LA position letter, which will then be advanced to the AIA|LA Board for further review and endorsement.

The proposed citywide design guidelines will require all multi-family residential, mixed-use, commercial, and industrial projects in LA to be subject to these guidelines as binding regulations.

Click on the following links to access the PDF's:

Commercial Guidelines

Industrial Guidelines

Residential Guidelines

BACKGROUND INFO:

Back in 2010, The Department of City Planning's Urban Design Studio invited architects from AIA|LA to provide early input in the formation of the citywide design guidelines.  At the time they were created, there was concern that they didn't have any teeth.  Now that we're learning that they intend to apply these guidelines to all discretionary projects, the AIA|LA is forming an ad-hoc working group to provide additional critical input to make certain that the guidelines will not hinder innovation and design diversity.

In general, if we adopt citywide design guidelines we should ensure that:

1. Innovation is rewarded.
2. Mundane drivel is discouraged.
3. Building stock is built to last.
4. Humans feel welcome there.
5. It looks good, inspires society and motivates the mind.
6. Nourishes an ecosystem diverse and resplendent
7. Reminds you you're in Los Angeles: the best city on earth.

We will need to deliver the official AIA|LA response on Tuesday, February 26 (2pm) at City Hall during the Council's Planning and Land use Committee meeting.

very truly yours,

Will Wright, Hon. AIA|LA

Director, Government and Public Affairs

AIA Los Angeles

3780 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 800

Los Angeles, CA 90010

213.639.0764  office

310.309.9580  mobile

213.639.0767  fax

will

@aialosangeles.org

www.aialosangeles.org

http://clkrep.lacity.org/onlinedocs/2013/13-0050_rpt_cpc_1-8-13.pdf

http://cityplanning.lacity.org/PolicyInitiatives/Urban%20Design/Commercial%20Design%20Guidelines%20High%20Res%206_23_2011.pdf

http://cityplanning.lacity.org/PolicyInitiatives/Urban%20Design/Industrial%20Design%20Guidelines%20High%20Res_6_23_2011.pdf

http://cityplanning.lacity.org/PolicyInitiatives/Urban%20Design/ResidentialDesignGuidelinesHighRes_6_23_2011.pdf

Finally adopted CEQA Guidelines for SB 226

Guidelines adopted by California Secretary for Natural Resources John Laird were approved by the Office of Administrative Law, and went into effect on February 14, 2013.  You can review what was filed with the Secretary of State here: http://ceres.ca.gov/ceqa/docs/Final_Regulations_Round_Two_Typo_Correciton-_2-11-2013_formatted.pdf

You can also find complete package documents, including the Final Statement of Reasons and the addendum to it here:

http://ceres.ca.gov/ceqa/

When the Secretary of State provides a file endorsed stamped copy to the Natural Resources Agency, that will also be made available online at the link provided above. 

Sincerely,

 

Heather C. Baugh, Assistant General Counsel

California Natural Resources Agency

1416 Ninth Street, Suite 1311

Sacramento, CA 95814

AIA|LA Urban Design Committee - March 20, 2013 (6:30pm - 8:30pm)

AIA|LA Urban Design Committee Presents...

BY-RIGHT/BY-DISCRETION < BY-DESIGN: ALTERNATIVE RESIDENTIAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES IN LOS ANGELES

Wednesday, March 20 (6:30pm - 8:30pm)

AIA Los Angeles

3780 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 800

Los Angeles, CA  90010

RSVP to will@aialosangeles.org - Limited Capacity.

BY-RIGHT/BY-DISCRETION < BY-DESIGN: ALTERNATIVE RESIDENTIAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES IN LOS ANGELES

Guest Speakers:

RIC ABRAMSON, AIA - WORKPLAYS studio*architecture

LIZ FALLETTA - USC Price School of Public Policy

BY-RIGHT/BY-DISCRETION < BY-DESIGN: ALTERNATIVE RESIDENTIAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES IN LOS ANGELES

For the past half-century in Los Angeles residential housing has been driven by complicated interactions between design, planning and development interests operating in isolation.  Led by desires for ease of approval using strict adherence prescriptive zoning and building code requirements (“BY-RIGHT”) or for negotiated solutions that seek development relief from perceived economic forces (“BY-DISCRETION”) both have resulted in less than desirable outcomes. 

This discussion re-examines some of the long-standing assumptions and conventional drivers often associated with infill housing solutions and instead proposes alternative “trade-off” typologies BY-DESIGN that begin to link these interests as well as neighborhood interests in a more comprehensive manner.

The two-part discussion led by Liz Falletta, Assistant Professor (Teaching) at the USC Price School of Public Policy and Ric. Abramson AIA Architect and current Board Secretary of the AIA/LA Chapter.  In Part A, Liz Falletta will contrast an historic example of urban infill multi-unit housing through the lens of “by-right” and “by-design” approaches.  In Part B, Ric. Abramson will look at the developer’s “by-right” or “by discretion” mindsets that can be reshaped using “by-design” strategies that allow for more effective residential neighborhood solutions.

By-Right, By-Discretion, and By-Design need not be understood as three disparate approaches to developing the built environment.  Urban neighborhoods can evolve through an expanded field of options within which propriety trumps expediency and environmental-responsiveness upends pure convenience.

For more information, please contact:

Will Wright, Hon. AIA|LA

Director, Government and Public Affairs

The American Institute of Architects // Los Angeles

3780 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 800

Los Angeles, CA 90010

213.639.0764  phone

213.639.0767  fax

will

@aialosangeles.org

www.aialosangeles.org

CEQA Misuse Release #3: University Gateway at USC

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Another Example of CEQA Misuse: University Gateway Student Housing at USC _________________________________________________________________________ CEQA Working Group Coalition:   Today we've released the third case study in our weekly series profiling examples of misuses of CEQA: University Gateway Student Housing at USC. This mixed-use, transit oriented student housing development was sued by a competing developer in an attempt to stop the project -- resulting in 4 years of delays and increased project costs.  Read full case study here.  Please share the case study widely and retweet (@FixCEQA) or use the sample tweet below.  Sample tweet:  Another example of #CEQA misuse: Competitor sues student housing project at USC causing 4 yrs of delay & added costs http://bit.ly/Ufq4GL  Thanks

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INVITE :: AIA|LA Roundtable Discussion on Zoning Code Reform - February 27 (6:00 - 8:00pm) at GENSLER

Please join City Planners Alan Bell and Tom Rothman in a roundtable discussion about the City of Los Angeles' efforts to transform the zoning code into document that will advance health, design innovation and economic vitality for the Los Angeles region.

AIA|LA Roundtable Discussion on Zoning Code Reform

Wednesday, February 27 (6:00pm - 8:00pm)

Gensler 
500 S. Figueroa Street 
Los Angeles CA 90071 

For directions click here.

PLEASE RSVP to WILL WRIGHT at will@aialosangeles.org // LIMITED CAPACITY to the first 30.

Light refreshments will be served thanks to the generosity of Gensler.

AIA|LA Roundtable Discussion on Zoning Code Reform

As you may know, the City of Los Angeles is committed to investing in a process to revise and streamline our outdated zoning code.  This is expected to be a $5 million investment over the next five years.  Although a consulting team has been assembled and their contract pending, there are still many questions to ask as we move forward with this endeavor:

• If the zoning code is a map of LA's future, what is the narrative we're trying to tell?
• What is the most effective way to shape the City of LA zoning code reform process?
• How do we modernize and re-evaluate compatibility of land-uses?
• What should the zoning code of the 21st century look like?  
• With the primacy of so many other environmental and fiscal considerations, why do we even need to regulate land-use in the first place?
• How do we optimize economic development opportunities?
• How do we incentivize design innovation?
• How do we ensure equitable and accessible placemaking?

Your leadership and participation is highly encouraged to discuss questions like these and more.

INVITED SPEAKERS INCLUDE:

Alan Bell

Tom Rothman

Michael LoGrande

Chava Danielson

Liz Falletta

James Favaro

David Grannis

John Kaliski

Hank Koning

Larry Kosmont

Mitch Menzer

Neal Payton

Gwynne Pugh

Stephanos Polyzoides

Roger Sherman

Bill Roschen

Peter Zellner

and more.... (RSVP and I will add/remove your name on the list)

NOTE:  Since parking will not be validated, we recommend to either RIDE METRO or park in the garage for the LA Central Library (entrance located at 524 S. Flower) for $8 flat rate after 4pm.

BACKGROUND from the Department of City Planning ::

The last time the City of Los Angeles did a comprehensive revision was when t

he current Zoning Code was first adopted in 1946.  It has since grown from an 84-page pamphlet to a 600+ page book does not reflect our 21st Century needs or vision.

The proposal will result in a new Zoning Code that:

• Establishes clear & predictable language
• More effectively implements the Goals & Objectives of the General Plan and Community Plans
• Offers a wider variety of zoning options that protect and/or enhance our communities
• Reflects the diversity of Los Angeles and allows each neighborhood to maintain a distinct sense of place
• Accommodates the City’s current and future needs
• Improves the built environment, economic vitality, & quality of life
• Is an economic development tool that will help shore up the City’s tax base

The work program includes an enhanced public participation strategy that will include many opportunities for public involvement and feedback.  Our Department is committed to an open and transparent process that ensures that all stakeholders are given the opportunity to participate and contribute to the new land use and development standards.

The project will not: 1) override any existing Specific Plans or Overlays; or 2) result in the wholesale "up-zoning" of the City.  Although changes will eventually be pursued in order to implement the new Zoning Code, the proposed work program does not include any amendments to the current Zoning designations.  Any future changes will include notifications and public hearings.

OTHER INFORMATION

Below is a link to the Council File for the proposal.  It includes copies of the Department's funding request which outlines the proposed work program and budget plan, as well as other reports and comments submitted to date.

Council File No. 12-0460

http://cityclerk.lacity.org/lacityclerkconnect/index.cfm?fa=ccfi.viewrecord&cfnumber=12-0460

very truly yours,

Will Wright, 

Hon. AIA|LA

Director, Government and Public Affairs

AIA Los Angeles

3780 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 800

Los Angeles, CA 90010

213.639.0764  office

310.309.9580  mobile

213.639.0767  fax

will

@aialosangeles.org

www.aialosangeles.org

How do you feel about the proposed Citywide Design Guidelines for Los Angeles?

Dear AIA|LA Members:

How do you feel about the proposed citywide design guidelines for the City of Los Angeles?  These guidelines will require all multi-family residential, mixed-use, commercial, and industrial projects in LA to be subject to these guidelines as binding regulations:

Commercial Guidelines

Industrial Guidelines

Residential Guidelines

Do you support these documents as planning tools?  Or do you have specific recommendations for how to improve these proposed regulations?

Please share your thoughts with me in writing by the Friday, February 22nd via email to will@aialosangeles.org

The Los Angeles City Council's Planning and Land Use Committee and the Department of City Planning are both interested in hearing feedback from the architecture and design profession in advance of the next PLUM meeting, which will be on Tuesday, February 26 (2pm) at City Hall.

very truly yours,

Will Wright, Hon. AIA|LA

Director, Government and Public Affairs

AIA Los Angeles

3780 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 800

Los Angeles, CA 90010

213.639.0764  office

310.309.9580  mobile

213.639.0767  fax

will

@aialosangeles.org

www.aialosangeles.org

http://clkrep.lacity.org/onlinedocs/2013/13-0050_rpt_cpc_1-8-13.pdf

http://cityplanning.lacity.org/PolicyInitiatives/Urban%20Design/Commercial%20Design%20Guidelines%20High%20Res%206_23_2011.pdf

http://cityplanning.lacity.org/PolicyInitiatives/Urban%20Design/Industrial%20Design%20Guidelines%20High%20Res_6_23_2011.pdf

http://cityplanning.lacity.org/PolicyInitiatives/Urban%20Design/ResidentialDesignGuidelinesHighRes_6_23_2011.pdf

Reserve your spot now for the Hot City, Cool Roofs ConferenceLos Angeles is hot but getting cooler on March 8.

The City of Los Angeles, Climate Resolve, the Los Angeles Regional Collaborative and the Emmett Center on Climate Change and the Environment at UCLA School of LA invite you to: Climate Solutions for Los Angeles Hot City, Cool Roofs Conference Los Angeles City Hall, Deaton Auditorium 100 West First Street, Los Angeles CA 90012 Friday, March 8 • 9:00am- 4:00pm This exclusive conference brings together experts, innovators, and policymakers to inform the Los Angeles area leaders on cool roof technologies and how cool roofs can help Los Angeles survive and thrive in a changing climate. Speakers include: • Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa* • Dr. Larry Kalkstein, Synoptic Climatology Lab at the University of Miami • Kurt Shickman, Global Cool Cities Alliance • Haley Gilbert, Heat Island Group at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory • Sherry Hao, Cool Roof Rating Council • Craig Tranby, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power • Cara Horowitz, Emmett Center on Climate Change and the Environment at UCLA School of Law • Juan Carlos P.E., White Roof Project • Michael Swords, Strategic Research Initiatives at UCLA • Jorge Partida, USGBC-LA * schedule permitting RSVP at climateresolve.org/hot-city-cool-roofs/

1000 N. Alameda St. #240 | Los Angeles, CA 90012 | 213.346.3200x303 Copyright © 2012 Climate Resolve, a project of Community Partners

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