As is the tradition, hundreds of members descended upon University Synagogue Monday night for our Annual Meeting, to dine with neighbors, friends and emergency responders from LAFD and LAPD. Mike Bonin and Zev Yaroslavsky spoke to the audience after dinner folllowing President Kathleen Flanagan, who talked about what the BHA does and what's coming up this year. Here are some takeaways... “There are people in Sacramento who want to see an end to single family homes and neighborhoods.” Former City Councilman and County Board Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky discussed the realities of affordable housing and the threat of drastic legislation being put forth in Sacramento. He showed support for contemporary City planners who had the idea of "City Centers," which involved areas like Century City and Hollywood that had high density housing and offices graduating outward toward medium density housing and eventually low density housing, like Brentwood. He is concerned legislation such as SB50 is too intense and could be a real threat to communities like ours. Broad definitions of "transit-oriented" would include a bus line on Sunset Blvd and could expose Brentwood to more densified zoning laws. Mike Bonin Welcome Firefighters Your City Councilperson, Mike Bonin, started off by congratulating the efforts of our first responders during the recent wildfires. Later, he discussed several issues regarding hillside fire safety and the importance of his strides to make sure LAFD and the County had the equipment, resources and plans for future potential events. Mike is working with the BHA and other community groups to set up an evacuation drill and test our readiness for any serious natural disaster. LAPD and Lower Crime The BHA welcomed West LAPD Captain Jonathan Tom and Brentwood's new Senior Lead Officer Matt Kirk, who talked about the area's great reduction in most crime segments. They stressed the importance of community involvement and vigilance. Of particular concern is people still leaving valuables on display inside their cars and even people leaving the FOBS inside the vehicle while they are at home. Old and New President Kathleen Flanagan discussed some current topics including continued pending developments, traffic and homeless concerns. Mount St Mary's atop Bundy has still not released their Environmental Impact Report on their Wellness Center proposal and there has been no new information or meetings as of late. The "Texaco" Mixed Use proposal at Barrington and Sunset is currently redesigning and evaluating the best content for that site and we're hoping for some new details soon. Traffic is always a concern but the City remains focused on alternative transportation methods like public mass transit, ride sharing and bikes to relieve future congestion. With respect to housing, the BHA will put forth a proposal for additional area zoning rules in the coming months. Dozens of new Condo owners enjoyed their first Annual Meeting! Members got to see the latest in Emergency Preparedness Materials. Emergency Responders from Station 19 are grateful for your support through the BHA, in the form of meals and items to furnish their living quarters.
THANK YOU to our members who year after year participate, contribute and weigh in on issues for a better Brentwood!
Estate gift or larger contribution? Some members at the meeting asked about the ability to give tax deductible contributions outside of their dues. For more information on this, email us at BHA90049@gmail.com
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