SR 12-19-2023 16D
City Council
Report
City Council Meeting: December 19, 2023
Agenda Item: 16.D
1 of 1
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Denise Anderson Warren, City Clerk, Records and Election Services
Department
Subject: Request of Councilmember Zwick, Councilmember Davis, and
Councilmember Torosis that the City Manager and City Attorney evaluate the
potential to place a General Tax with an Advisory Measure on the November
2024 ballot to increase the parking facility tax to reduce traffic congestion and
the risk of traffic fatalities and serious injuries in Santa Monica, while
preserving free 90-minute parking in the downtown lots. Specifically, the City
Manager is being asked to evaluate the potential resources that can be
generated by increasing the parking facility tax and the use of resources to
restore the Safe Routes to School program and fund safety -enhancing street
infrastructure to protect children, elderly and disabled residents, hire
additional school crossing guards and traffic enforcement officers, and
address deferred maintenance needs of the City’s downtown parking
structures. The City Manager and City Attorney are also being asked to enter
into discussions with the California Coastal Commission and assess the
impacts of a proposed increase in the parking facility tax on parking rates in
the Coastal Zone.
Prepared By: Denise Anderson Warren, City Clerk
Approved
Forwarded to Council
Attachments:
A. Written Comments
16.D
Packet Pg. 930
1
Xavier Mota
From:Erik Lammerding <elammer@mac.com>
Sent:Saturday, December 16, 2023 8:59 AM
To:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse
Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Subject:👋I support item 16D
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am wriƟng in support of item 16D.
We’re frequent cyclists as a family in SaMo and this measure would greatly benefit our enƟre community by making our
streets safer for all road users for both residents and visitors.
AddiƟonally, We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents get around
our city safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportaƟon.
Despite the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic violence is sƟll a significant issue
we’re facing. In addiƟon, motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues were
worsened by budget cuts made in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help restore
some of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely and efficiently get around
our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Warmly,
Erik Lammerding
330 California Avenue
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 931 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Gregg Chadwick <greggchadwick@icloud.com>
Sent:Saturday, December 16, 2023 9:22 AM
To:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse
Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Subject:I support item 16D
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
As a Santa Monica resident and small business owner, I am wriƟng in support of item 16D. As studies have shown, post‐
pandemic staƟsƟcs on pedestrian and cyclist deaths due to aggressive driving are horrifying.
This measure would greatly benefit our enƟre community by making our streets safer for all road users for both residents
and visitors.
We owe it to our students to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents get around our city
safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportaƟon.
Despite all of the amazing progress Santa Monica has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic violence is sƟll a
significant issue we’re facing. In addiƟon, motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions.
These issues were worsened by budget cuts made in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item
could help restore some of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely and efficiently get around
our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Gregg Chadwick
2308 Schader Drive #206
Santa Monica, CA 90404
hƩps://urldefense.com/v3/__hƩp://www.greggchadwick.com__;!!OfuUnHCITYtmmjM!pEZ2Ns0GMh1vvFMF‐AZM_gD‐
ww3qqu2w96uWVWbYYc7Swbp8AumRSp1CKiOmPGn79XlSDVG43Voh4l73Nw4uRP7GbRJVqfJCfQ4$
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 932 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Jonah <jonahlinder@gmail.com>
Sent:Saturday, December 16, 2023 9:43 AM
To:Phil Brock; Gleam Davis; Christine Parra; Jesse Zwick; Oscar de la Torre; Caroline Torosis
Cc:councilmtgitems; David White; Anuj Gupta; Jason Kligier
Subject:Support Funding for Safe Streets (Item 16D)
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D.
This measure would benefit our whole community by making our streets safer for all road users for both residents and
visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents get around our city
safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic violence is still a significant
issue we’re facing. In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues
were worsened by budget cuts made in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help
restore some of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely and efficiently get around
our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Jonah Linder
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 933 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Michael Etzel <metzel74@gmail.com>
Sent:Saturday, December 16, 2023 9:59 AM
To:Caroline Torosis; Christine Parra; Gleam Davis; Jesse Zwick; Oscar de la Torre; Phil Brock
Cc:Anuj Gupta; Jason Kligier; councilmtgitems; David White
Subject:Support Funding for Safe Streets (Item 16D)
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D. This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets
safer for all road users for both residents and visitors. We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School
program, and help our residents get around our city safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation. Despite
all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic violence is still a significant issue
we’re facing. In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues were
worsened by budget cuts made in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help restore
some of these vital assets. If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely
and efficiently get around our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Michael Etzel 2400 Beverley Ave
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 934 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Sam Shapiro-Kline <sshapirokline@gmail.com>
Sent:Saturday, December 16, 2023 10:20 AM
To:Phil Brock; Gleam Davis; Christine Parra; Jesse Zwick; Oscar de la Torre; Caroline Torosis
Cc:councilmtgitems; David White; Anuj Gupta; Jason Kligier
Subject:Support Funding for Safe Streets (Item 16D)
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all road users for both
residents and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents get around our city
safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic violence is still a significant
issue we’re facing. In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues
were worsened by budget cuts made in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help
restore some of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely and efficiently get around
our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Sam Shapiro‐Kline
21st and Washington
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 935 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:John Farren <farrenj@gmail.com>
Sent:Saturday, December 16, 2023 10:41 AM
To:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse
Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Subject:I support item 16D
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all road users for both
residents and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents get around our city
safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic violence is still a significant
issue we’re facing. In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues
were worsened by budget cuts made in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help
restore some of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely and efficiently get around
our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
John Farren
6th St, Santa Monica
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 936 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Sarah-Doe Osborne <sarahdoe.osborne@gmail.com>
Sent:Saturday, December 16, 2023 10:46 AM
To:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse
Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Subject:I support item 16D
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am wriƟng in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our enƟre community by making our streets safer for all road users for both residents
and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents get around our city safely,
regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportaƟon.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic violence is sƟll a significant
issue we’re facing. In addiƟon, motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues
were worsened by budget cuts made in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help
restore some of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely and efficiently get around
our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Sarah‐Doe Osborne
3117 6th Street
Sent by my carrier pigeon
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 937 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Jesse Budlong <noreply@adv.actionnetwork.org>
Sent:Saturday, December 16, 2023 10:57 AM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Support Funding for Safe Streets in Santa Monica (16D)!!!
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all
road users for both residents and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents
get around our city safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic
violence is still a significant issue we’re facing. In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for
68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues were worsened by budget cuts made
in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help restore some
of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely
and efficiently get around our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Jesse Budlong
jesse.budlong@gmail.com
825 N Croft Ave, 301
West Hollywood, California 90069
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 938 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Jeff Suer <jeffrey.suer@gmail.com>
Sent:Saturday, December 16, 2023 9:17 PM
To:Gleam Davis; Lana Negrete; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; Jesse
Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject:Support for City's Commitment to Zero Traffic Fatalities (16C)
EXTERNAL
Councilmembers,
I lost my father from a car hiƫng him while he rode his bicycle.
I support the moƟon by Councilmembers Zwick and Torosis and Mayor Davis to keep our city’s intersecƟons safer!
Our city council must reaffirm Santa Monica's commitment to eliminate all fatal and severe‐injury crashes from Santa
Monica’s roads in light of the recent tragic fatal crash involving a cyclist on Idaho Avenue
Please vote to make Santa Monica's Streets safer for me and my family!
‐‐
Jeff Suer
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 939 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Jacob Wasserman <jacoblwasserman@gmail.com>
Sent:Saturday, December 16, 2023 9:22 PM
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la
Torre
Cc:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; David White; Anuj Gupta; Jason Kligier
Subject:Support for Item 16D
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
As a car-owner, walker, biker, parent, and Santa Monica resident, I am writing in support of Item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all road users, for
both residents and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program and help our residents get around our
city safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic violence is still a
significant issue we’re facing. In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our greenhouse gas
emissions. These issues were worsened by budget cuts made in 2020 that also caused us to lose many key
city staff. This item could help restore some of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely and efficiently get
around our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Jacob Wasserman
11th Street and Washington Avenue
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 940 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Eli Gill <eli@esbee.us>
Sent:Saturday, December 16, 2023 9:54 PM
To:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse
Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Subject:I fully support item 16D
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in full support of item 16D.
We need a reliable source of funding for road safety measures. An increase to the parking tax will both discourage
unnecessary car trips and help fund safer infrastructure.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all road users including both
residents and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents get around our city
safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic violence is still a significant
issue we’re facing. In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues
were worsened by budget cuts made in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help
restore some of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely and efficiently get around
our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Eli Gill
Wilmont Resident
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 941 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Márcio Augusto Diniz <dnz.marcio@gmail.com>
Sent:Sunday, December 17, 2023 7:18 AM
To:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse
Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Subject:I support item 16D
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all road users for both
residents and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents get around our city
safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic violence is still a significant
issue we’re facing. In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues
were worsened by budget cuts made in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help
restore some of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely and efficiently get around
our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Marcio A. DINIZ
119 N. Wetherly Dr. Apt 3
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 942 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Sirinya Matute <sirinya.matute@gmail.com>
Sent:Sunday, December 17, 2023 8:49 AM
To:Phil Brock; Gleam Davis; Christine Parra; Jesse Zwick; Oscar de la Torre; Caroline Torosis
Cc:councilmtgitems; David White; Anuj Gupta; Jason Kligier
Subject:Support Funding for Safe Streets (Item 16D)
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all road users for both
residents and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents get around our city
safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic violence is still a significant
issue we’re facing. In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues
were worsened by budget cuts made in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help
restore some of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people - including our kids! - the ability to safely
and efficiently get around our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Sirinya Matute
Santa Monica resident / parent
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 943 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Charlene Tritipeskul <ctriti@gmail.com>
Sent:Sunday, December 17, 2023 10:40 AM
To:Phil Brock; Gleam Davis; Christine Parra; Jesse Zwick; Oscar de la Torre; Caroline Torosis
Cc:councilmtgitems; David White; Anuj Gupta; Jason Kligier
Subject:Support Funding for Safe Streets (Item 16D)
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all road users for both
residents and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents get around our city
safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic violence is still a significant
issue we’re facing. In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues
were worsened by budget cuts made in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help
restore some of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely and efficiently get around
our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Chalinee Tritipeskul
[BLOCK EX. 500 22ND ST]
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 944 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:April De Stefano <noreply@adv.actionnetwork.org>
Sent:Sunday, December 17, 2023 11:48 AM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Support Funding for Safe Streets in Santa Monica (16D)!!!
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all
road users, both residents and visitors.
We owe it to our preK-12 children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help all
our residents get around our city safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic
violence is still a significant issue we’re facing. It is unacceptable that city residents are killed
or injured while walking or riding a bicycle.
In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. We
must do better.
These issues were worsened by budget cuts made in 2020, that also caused thr loss of many
key city staff; and this item could help restore some of these vital assets.
Because we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to
safely and efficiently get around our city, by car, bus, train, bicycle, or foot. Please support this
item!
Thank you,
April De Stefano
April De Stefano
april.destefano@gmail.com
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 945 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
2
1447 Franklin St
Santa Monica , California 90404
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 946 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Guy 19123 <guy19123@outlook.com>
Sent:Sunday, December 17, 2023 2:07 PM
To:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse
Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Subject:I support item 16D
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am wriƟng in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our enƟre community by making our streets safer for all road users for both residents
and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents get around our city safely,
regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportaƟon.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic violence is sƟll a significant
issue we’re facing. In addiƟon, motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues
were worsened by budget cuts made in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help
restore some of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely and efficiently get around
our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Guy Cheney
1912 Broadway 90404
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 947 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Frank J Gruber <frankgrubersm@gmail.com>
Sent:Sunday, December 17, 2023 4:37 PM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Dec. 19 agenda - Item 16.D - in support of councilmembers' request
EXTERNAL
Dear City Council Members,
I am wriƟng in support of the request by Council Members Zwick, Davis and Torosis for the City Manager to study the
idea of increasing the parking tax to fund various programs relaƟng to safety, etc. My only addiƟon would be to see
about applying parking taxes and parking revenues to increasing the frequency of buses that serve downtown Santa
Monica and the business district around 26th Street. I suspect that motorists would be more inclined to pay more for
parking if the money was going to improve transit service so that there would be fewer motorists compeƟng for space on
our crowded streets and for parking.
Thanks,
Frank Gruber
Ocean Park
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 948 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:John Lin <tkejlboom@gmail.com>
Sent:Sunday, December 17, 2023 5:54 PM
To:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse
Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Subject:I emphatically support item 16D
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all road users, residents and
visitors alike.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents get around our city
safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Council's efforts so far have been grossly inadequate. Traffic violence is still a significant issue we’re facing. In addition,
motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues were worsened by budget cuts
made in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help restore some of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely and efficiently get around
our city, especially outside of a car. Please support this item!
Parking is too cheap.
Thank you,
John Lin
500 Broadway
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 949 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Cian Ormond <cian.o25@k12.xrds.org>
Sent:Sunday, December 17, 2023 5:53 PM
To:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse
Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Subject:I support item 16D
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all road users for both
residents and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents get around our city
safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic violence is still a significant
issue we’re facing. In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues
were worsened by budget cuts made in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help
restore some of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely and efficiently get around
our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Cian Ormond
Crossroads' Public Transport and Infrastructure Club
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 950 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:greg chasen <gchasen@chasenarc.com>
Sent:Sunday, December 17, 2023 7:55 PM
To:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse
Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Subject:I support item 16D
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all road users for both
residents and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents get around our city
safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic violence is still a significant
issue we’re facing. In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues
were worsened by budget cuts made in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help
restore some of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely and efficiently get around
our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Greg Chasen
1318 10th St
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 951 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Brian Sweeney <bsweeney429@gmail.com>
Sent:Sunday, December 17, 2023 9:03 PM
To:Phil Brock; Gleam Davis; Christine Parra; Jesse Zwick; Oscar de la Torre; Caroline Torosis; Lana
Negrete
Cc:councilmtgitems; David White; Anuj Gupta; Jason Kligier; Devon Porter
Subject:Support Funding for Safe Streets (Item 16D)
EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Brock and City Council members,
My wife Devon and I are writing in support of item 16D. I know that budget cuts over the last few years have
meant fewer resources for meeting our transportation and mobility goals, and this measure would go a long
way toward funding essential safe streets programs.
We walk our oldest son to/from school every day in Sunset Park, and -- as is -- it's unfortunately all too
common to encounter drivers speeding or running through stop signs or red lights, so we're especially hopeful
that we can restore and increase funding for the Safe Routes to School program.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely and efficiently get around
our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Brian Sweeney & Devon Porter
2337 Oak St., Unit 6
Santa Monica, CA 90405
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 952 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Andrew Allison <andrewallison04@gmail.com>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 9:37 AM
To:David White; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Christine Parra; councilmtgitems; Gleam Davis; Lana
Negrete; Oscar de la Torre; Phil Brock
Subject:Re: Safe streets resolution
EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members,
I’m writing in support of Item 16D. I’m grateful for your recent action in the wake of the tragedy on Idaho
Avenue. My in‐laws, who live on that corner, have reported that the new stop sign has transformed the street.
Cars no longer cut through the intersection at high speed. Anxiety about crossing the street — and anxiety on
behalf of others approaching the intersection — has dissipated. It is evidence of how quickly we can improve
safety and well‐being if we simply act to implement practices that have been proven to work elsewhere in our
community and around the world.
The improvement at Idaho and 19th is also a reminder of how much more we have the power to do — of how
many more trips in our community still bring anxiety and risk for pedestrian, cyclists, and drivers. Item 16D will
help us mitigate those needless risks before other tragedies occur.
My daughter became a 9‐month‐old this past weekend. Among the gifts waiting for her under our Christmas
tree is a small, brightly‐colored bicycle helmet. I am looking forward to us biking down to the beach, and
eventually to preschool and, a few years from now, Franklin Elementary. But in the wake of preventable car
crashes across town, these daydreams now come with questions:
“Will we take Montana Ave, where the (unprotected) bike lane disappears at 20th Street, and where we will
be squeezed between parked cars (and their opening doors) on one side and passing traffic on the other for
four white‐knuckled blocks every morning?”
“Or, will we take Alta Ave, where the absence of north‐south stop signs leads to speeding cars racing through
nearly every intersection, and where oncoming traffic is usually not visible until one enters the intersection?”
“Or, finally, will my wife and I feel compelled to drive her to these destinations, replacing trips that should be
made on foot or by bike with a car trip, where we add to the traffic through these neighborhoods, occupy a
parking space on Ocean Ave, or put one more car on the Incline?”
Hundreds of parents in our school catchment area alone are facing the same decisions. Across the city, that
number is in the thousands. And every day, parents are either taking a bicycle trip that carries preventable
risks or a very short car trip that brings costs for them (time, money) and everyone else in the community
(traffic, pollution, wear and tear). I’m sure I’m not alone in saying that we would like the opportunity to decide
whether that is a choice that we want to keep making.
I hope we can once again see your unanimous support for this common‐sense safety measure.
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 953 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
2
Thank you,
Andrew Allison
733 18th St
On Mon, Nov 13, 2023 at 9:28 PM Andrew Allison <andrewallison04@gmail.com> wrote:
Dear Council Members,
I'm writing to ask you to adopt the resolution proposed by Mayor Davis and Councilmembers Zwick and Torosis to
make our streets safer for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers.
My mother‐ and father‐in‐law live at the corner of Idaho and 19th Street. They heard the fatal crash on October 27th
and witnessed its aftermath.
This intersection was known to be dangerous. In fact, my mother‐in‐law wrote to the city in August of this year
requesting a 4‐way stop. In her letter, she wrote:
"There are many, many walkers…children, families, seniors, etc. It is very hard to see around the cars parked on both
sides of 19th. It's an accident waiting to happen especially when there is a speeding car coming out of nowhere! Please
put a four way stop at this intersection before someone gets killed or maimed."
The day before the crash that killed Tania Mooser, the City responded to my mother‐in‐law, providing her with an
application for a stop sign.
This was too little, too late. And as last week's second crash at the same intersection makes clear, every day we wait to
do what is necessary to keep our streets safe is a day that may result in another needless loss of life, as well as the
cascading trauma that affects their loved ones, those that witness the accidents, and the rest of our community.
Adopting the resolution is a necessary first step, but I also urge the council to go further. We know the solutions that
will keep our intersections safe: daylighting, guaranteed by traffic furniture like bollards; bulbed sidewalks and
marked/raised crosswalks; mini‐roundabouts and other permanent, resilient installations designed to compel lower
speeds; and more.
Last Friday, the City responded again to my mother‐in‐law. They wrote, in part:
"We are in the process of hiring a consultant to perform the traffic evaluation and warrant analysis for this proposed
stop sign and several other locations within the City of Santa Monica. Your request for a stop sign will be carefully
reviewed by our city's traffic management team. They will assess various factors, including traffic volume, crash history,
and compliance with traffic regulations. This comprehensive evaluation process ensures that decisions related to traffic
control devices prioritize the safety and efficiency of our roadways."
We don't need to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars of taxpayer money on outside consultants to learn what
other cities already know: engineered solutions, not increased enforcement or public relations campaigns, are the only
answers to the intolerable frequency of these tragedies.
I hope to see this resolution pass unanimously tomorrow, and I'm looking forward to subsequent resolutions that will
take these critical next steps.
Thank you,
Andrew Allison
733 18th Street
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 954 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Chasen Daniels <noreply@adv.actionnetwork.org>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 9:58 AM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Support Funding for Safe Streets in Santa Monica (16D)!!!
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all
road users for both residents and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents
get around our city safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic
violence is still a significant issue we’re facing. In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for
68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues were worsened by budget cuts made
in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help restore some
of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely
and efficiently get around our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Chasen Daniels
Chasen Daniels
chasend11@gmail.com
1535 6th St, APT 306
SANTA MONICA, California 90401
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 955 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
2
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 956 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Jason DeVita <jason@wx13.com>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 10:35 AM
To:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse
Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Subject:I support item 16D
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all road users for both
residents and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents get around our city
safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic violence is still a significant
issue we’re facing. In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues
were worsened by budget cuts made in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help
restore some of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely and efficiently get around
our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Jason DeVita
1544 12th St
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 957 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Caro Vilain <carovilain@icloud.com>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 1:22 PM
To:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse
Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Subject:Support for item 16D
EXTERNAL
Dear council,
I’d like to express my strong for item 16D.
Rather than going into personal or “anecdotal” stories to express my support for this item, I’d like to share some data
that can help guide you when making decisions around this item and future items relating to transportation and
mobility.
You all invest a lot of time and effort into being in the position that you’re in today, and I think the community you’re
serving would greatly benefit from you putting your differences aside and basing your decisions on data.
I hope that you remember to use your power for the greater good, rather than to satisfy small groups of residents that
you may interact with on NextDoor, Facebook, or via neighborhood associations.
Our community is MUCH more than that. And let’s not forget the impact that many of your decisions will have on future
generations.
Here are some quotes from our Local Roadway Safety Plan, which I recommend looking into when making decisions
around mobility:
From 2015‐2019, there were 2,334 crashes on Santa Monica’s local streets. [Let’s not forget that this number only
includes crashes that were reported. Many crashes involving people on foot and on bikes are not.].
There were 125 fatal and severe injury (FSI) crashes during the 2015‐2019 timeframe. Of the five years included in the
analysis, 2019 saw the highest number of fatal and severe crashes.
Bicyclists of color, specifically Black and Hispanic or Latino people, are overrepresented in fatal and severe crashes,
at 25% of involved bicyclists and only 19% of the Santa Monica population.
Hispanic or Latino people and those whose race was categorized as “other” appear to be disproportionately involved in
fatal and severe crashes while walking and bicycling.
The Priority Network is comprised of the 14% of Santa Monica’s streets that see the top 50% of weighted crashes. Much
of the Priority Network falls in and around areas of the city that bear the greatest pollution burden according to
CalEnviroScreen’s equity tool, which combines environmental, health, and socioeconomic factors.
I’d also recommend looking into our greenhouse gas emissions inventory, which shows that motor vehicles represented
68.5% of our emissions in 2022.
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 958 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
2
Electric cars might slightly help reduce these emissions, but they’re not a real solution. They emit more tire particles,
which are extremely polluting. The production of their batteries is also still very unsustainable. Not to mention that the
weight of electric cars makes them more dangerous than other cars, especially to anyone outside of a car.
Lastly, did you know that the parking operator SP+ made $1.75B this year? Considering how much their operations
contribute to congestion, pollution, and traffic safety issues in our city, I personally think it wouldn’t be a bad idea to
ensure that a small portion of their revenues is allocated to helping undo some of this harm.
If any of you actually read this email, thank you, and I hope you support this item, and continue to support safer streets
for all, for as long as you can. We all need it, regardless of how we get around.
Thank you,
Caro Vilain
90404
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 959 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Mario Melgarejo <noreply@adv.actionnetwork.org>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 1:25 PM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Support Funding for Safe Streets in Santa Monica (16D)!!!
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all
road users for both residents and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents
get around our city safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic
violence is still a significant issue we’re facing. In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for
68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues were worsened by budget cuts made
in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help restore some
of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely
and efficiently get around our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Mario Melgarejo
Lincoln and Pacific
Mario Melgarejo
casmcommunity@gmail.com
835 PACIFIC ST
Santa Monica, California 90405
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 960 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
2
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 961 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Ted Winterer <tedwinterer@gmail.com>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 2:09 PM
To:Phil Brock; Lana Negrete; Christine Parra; Gleam Davis; Jesse Zwick; Oscar de la Torre; Caroline
Torosis; councilmtgitems; David White
Cc:nicole faries
Subject:Item 16-D 12/19/23 Council agenda
EXTERNAL
Mayor and Councilmembers,
The Executive Committee of Community for Excellent Public Schools (CEPS) enthusiastically endorses a study of a new
funding mechanism for Safe Routes to School and for other measures to protect our children as they walk and bike to
their schools.
Please approve this item and initiate a feasibility study.
Regards,
Ted Winterer
CEPS Co‐Chair
‐‐
Ted Winterer
Realtor @Compass, 2115 Main Street Santa Monica
DRE #02047989
To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 962 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Brian Stedge <noreply@adv.actionnetwork.org>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 2:15 PM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Item 16 D - Support for Exploring an Increase to the Parking Facility Tax
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Mayor Brock Mayor Pro Tempore Negrete, and members of the Santa Monica City
Council,
Please support Item 16-D to explore how increasing our parking facility tax could reduce traffic
congestion and the risk of traffic fatalities and serious injuries in Santa Monica, while
preserving free 90-minute parking in the downtown lots.
Thank you,
Thank you,
Brian Stedge
brianstedge@gmail.com
1955 18th St
santa monica, California 90404
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 963 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Eric Kraft <noreply@adv.actionnetwork.org>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 2:18 PM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Item 16 D - Support for Exploring an Increase to the Parking Facility Tax
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Mayor Brock Mayor Pro Tempore Negrete, and members of the Santa Monica City
Council,
Please support Item 16-D to explore how increasing our parking facility tax could reduce traffic
congestion and the risk of traffic fatalities and serious injuries in Santa Monica, while
preserving free 90-minute parking in the downtown lots.
Thank you,
Thank you,
Eric Kraft
ericvkraft@gmail.com
851 19th St , Unit 2
Santa Monica, California 90403
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 964 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Sirinya Matute <noreply@adv.actionnetwork.org>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 2:20 PM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Support Funding for Safe Streets in Santa Monica (16D)!!!
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all
road users for both residents and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents
get around our city safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic
violence is still a significant issue we’re facing. In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for
68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues were worsened by budget cuts made
in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help restore some
of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely
and efficiently get around our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Sirinya Matute
sirinya.matute@gmail.com
947 19th St
Santa Monica, California 90403
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 965 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Michael Etzel <noreply@adv.actionnetwork.org>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 2:21 PM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Item 16 D - Support for Exploring an Increase to the Parking Facility Tax
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Mayor Brock Mayor Pro Tempore Negrete, and members of the Santa Monica City
Council,
Please support Item 16-D to explore how increasing our parking facility tax could reduce traffic
congestion and the risk of traffic fatalities and serious injuries in Santa Monica, while
preserving free 90-minute parking in the downtown lots.
Thank you,
Thank you,
Michael Etzel
metzel74@gmail.com
2400 Beverley Ave , Apt 15
Santa monica, California 90405
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 966 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Colleen O'Brien <noreply@adv.actionnetwork.org>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 2:22 PM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Item 16 D - Support for Exploring an Increase to the Parking Facility Tax
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Mayor Brock Mayor Pro Tempore Negrete, and members of the Santa Monica City
Council,
Please support Item 16-D to explore how increasing our parking facility tax could reduce traffic
congestion and the risk of traffic fatalities and serious injuries in Santa Monica, while
preserving free 90-minute parking in the downtown lots.
Thank you,
Thank you,
Colleen O'Brien
colleenkelleyobrien@gmail.com
1326 sunset ave
Santa Monica , California 90405
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 967 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Jennifer Swan <noreply@adv.actionnetwork.org>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 2:24 PM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Item 16 D - Support for Exploring an Increase to the Parking Facility Tax
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Mayor Brock Mayor Pro Tempore Negrete, and members of the Santa Monica City
Council,
Please support Item 16-D to explore how increasing our parking facility tax could reduce traffic
congestion and the risk of traffic fatalities and serious injuries in Santa Monica, while
preserving free 90-minute parking in the downtown lots.
Thank you,
Thank you,
Jennifer Swan
jennycreeswan@gmail.com
224 South Venice Boulevard, Unit B
Venice, California 90291
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 968 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Ian Dutton <boeingsandbikes@gmail.com>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 2:23 PM
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la
Torre; councilmtgitems; David White; Anuj Gupta
Subject:I Support Item 16D Advisory Measure to Fund Safer Streets
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I support item 16D by Council Members Zwick, Davis and Torosis.
Thank you for prioriƟzing the most vulnerable street users, especially given recent tragedies and backsliding in driver
behaviors.
This measure can provide meaningful resources to restore Safe Routes to School programs and benefit everyone in our
community and everyone who visits Santa Monica, making our streets safer for everyone, regardless of their
transportaƟon mode. If we want a safe, clean and sustainable Santa Monica, we must provide people with the ability to
safely and efficiently move around our city with or without a motor vehicle, reduce GHG emissions and conƟnue to
advance us toward our climate and sustainability goals.
Despite momentum and the amazing progress Santa Monica is making to improve overall street safety for everyone,
traffic violence and equitable road safety remain significant and potenƟally catastrophic issues that we must conƟnue to
prioriƟze.
Please support this item!
Ian DuƩon
525 Broadway
Santa Monica 90401
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 969 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Diana Williams <noreply@adv.actionnetwork.org>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 2:27 PM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Item 16 D - Support for Exploring an Increase to the Parking Facility Tax
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Mayor Brock Mayor Pro Tempore Negrete, and members of the Santa Monica City
Council,
Please support Item 16-D to explore how increasing our parking facility tax could reduce traffic
congestion and the risk of traffic fatalities and serious injuries in Santa Monica. As a resident
and parent of a school-aged child, I strongly support this.
Thank you,
Diana Williams
Diana Williams
williams.diana@gmail.com
1039 25th Street
Santa Monica, California 90403
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 970 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Liliya Jones <noreply@adv.actionnetwork.org>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 2:30 PM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Item 16 D - Support for Exploring an Increase to the Parking Facility Tax
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Mayor Brock Mayor Pro Tempore Negrete, and members of the Santa Monica City
Council,
Please support Item 16-D to explore how increasing our parking facility tax could reduce traffic
congestion and the risk of traffic fatalities and serious injuries in Santa Monica, while
preserving free 90-minute parking in the downtown lots.
Thank you,
Thank you,
Liliya Jones
liliyadjones@gmail.com
923 5th st, Apt 3
Santa Monica , California 90403
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 971 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Jason Mastbaum <noreply@adv.actionnetwork.org>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 2:38 PM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Item 16 D - Support for Exploring an Increase to the Parking Facility Tax
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Mayor Brock Mayor Pro Tempore Negrete, and members of the Santa Monica City
Council,
Please support Item 16-D to explore how increasing our parking facility tax could reduce traffic
congestion and the risk of traffic fatalities and serious injuries in Santa Monica, while
preserving free 90-minute parking in the downtown lots.
2nd and 4th Sts are extremely dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists on a daily basis. On
multiple occasions I've nearly been hit by motorists barreling out of the parking structures only
looking for opposing car traffic. Downtown safety improvements are urgently needed.
Thank you.
Jason Mastbaum
jason.mastbaum@gmail.com
4th St
Santa Monica, California 90403
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 972 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Kent Strumpell <noreply@adv.actionnetwork.org>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 2:46 PM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:16 D, parking revenue opportunity
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Council Members,
A modest increase in the parking facility tax could provide much-needed revenue to help
address mobility needs in our city while preserving the 90 min free parking downtown.
Please support this proposal to explore this opportunity!
Thank you,
Kent Strumpell
1211 Michigan Ave
Santa Monica
Kent Strumpell
kentstrum@gmail.com
6483 Nancy Street
Los Angeles, California 90045
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 973 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:ANNE BUTTYAN <abuttyan@juno.com>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 2:50 PM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Item 16 D - Support for Exploring an Increase to the Parking Facility Tax
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Mayor Brock Mayor Pro Tempore Negrete, and members of the Santa Monica City
Council,
Please support Item 16-D to explore how increasing our parking facility tax could reduce traffic
congestion and the risk of traffic fatalities and serious injuries in Santa Monica, while
preserving free 90-minute parking in the downtown lots.
Thank you,
Thank you,
ANNE BUTTYAN
abuttyan@juno.com
1225 Princeton St
Santa Monica, California 90404-1475
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 974 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Luke Willoughby <noreply@adv.actionnetwork.org>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 3:13 PM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Support Funding for Safe Streets in Santa Monica (16D)
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all
road users for both residents and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents
get around our city safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic
violence is still a significant issue we’re facing. In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for
68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues were worsened by budget cuts made
in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help restore some
of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely
and efficiently get around our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item.
Thank you for taking the time to consider what is best for our future.
Thank you,
Luke Willoughby
willoughby.luke@gmail.com
1034 14th St. APT 1
Santa Monica, California 90403
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 975 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Katina Metzidakis <noreply@adv.actionnetwork.org>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 3:35 PM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Item 16 D - Support for Exploring an Increase to the Parking Facility Tax
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Mayor Brock Mayor Pro Tempore Negrete, and members of the Santa Monica City
Council,
Please support Item 16-D to explore how increasing our parking facility tax could reduce traffic
congestion and the risk of traffic fatalities and serious injuries in Santa Monica, while
preserving free 90-minute parking in the downtown lots.
Thank you,
Thank you,
Katina Metzidakis
kmetzidakis@gmail.com
1805 Warwick Avenue
Santa Monica, California 90404
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 976 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Anastasia Clarke <ajmazu@mac.com>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 3:57 PM
To:Phil Brock; Gleam Davis; Christine Parra; Jesse Zwick; Oscar de la Torre; Caroline Torosis
Cc:councilmtgitems; David White; Anuj Gupta; Jason Kligier
Subject:Support Funding for Safe Streets (Item 16D)
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am wriƟng in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our enƟre community by making our streets safer for all road users for both residents
and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents get around our city safely,
regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportaƟon.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic violence is sƟll a significant
issue we’re facing. In addiƟon, motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues
were worsened by budget cuts made in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help
restore some of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely and efficiently get around
our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
anastasia clarke
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 977 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Tomas Chor <t.chor0@gmail.com>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 5:00 PM
To:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana
Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Subject:I support item 16D
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all road users for both
residents and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents get around our city
safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic violence is still a significant
issue we’re facing. In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues
were worsened by budget cuts made in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help
restore some of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely and efficiently get around
our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Tomás
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 978 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Sienna Block <siennablock@yahoo.com>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 5:25 PM
To:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse
Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Subject:I support item 16D
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am wriƟng in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our enƟre community by making our streets safer for all road users for both residents
and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents get around our city safely,
regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportaƟon.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic violence is sƟll a significant
issue we’re facing. In addiƟon, motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues
were worsened by budget cuts made in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help
restore some of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely and efficiently get around
our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Sienna Block
900 block 9th St
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 979 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Cynthia Rose <Cynthia.Rose@SMSpoke.org>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 6:12 PM
To:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Lana Negrete; Oscar
de la Torre; Phil Brock; Christine Parra
Cc:David White; Anuj Gupta; cris.gutierrez@samosafestreets.org; Emery Cunningham
Subject:SUPPORT ITEM 16D
Attachments:2023-12 CC Support Item 16D parking facility tax.pdf
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
Please see the attached letter of support for Item 16D on the Dec 19th City Council Agenda.
Through creative, responsible measures like this Santa Monica can generate critical resources to create a safer, cleaner
and more sustainable Santa Monica, and support our collective commitment to make our streets safer for our most
vulnerable and everyone – now and for future generations!
We urge you to pass Item 16D to invest in a brighter future.
Cynthia Rose, Cris Gutierrez and Emery Cunningham
‐‐
Cynthia Rose, Director, Santa Monica Spoke and Co‐Chair Santa Monica Safe Streets Alliance
Cris Gutierrez, Co‐Chair Santa Monica Safe Streets Alliance
Emery Cunningham, Chair, Youth Leadership Collective, Santa Monica Safe Streets Alliance
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 980 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
A community group dedicated
to biking and walking in Santa Monica.
Working to make the
City of Santa Monica a
more sustainable,
bikeable & walkable place to live, work and play.
December 18, 2023
Support Item 16D to Resource Improved Street Safety and Support Safe Routes to School funding
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
Santa Monica Spoke and the Santa Monica Safe Streets Alliance express our support for the Item 16D motion
by Councilmembers Zwick, Davis and Torosis. The revenue generated by the intention of Item 16D, potentially
placing a measure on the November 2024 ballot to increase the parking facility tax while preserving free 90-
minute parking in the downtown lots, can help to address traffic congestion and with it the risk of traffic
fatalities and serious injuries in Santa Monica.
We applaud the allocation of the resources of the measure that would generate funding to be used to prioritize
today's youth and future generations by restoring essential resources to Santa Monica's Safe Routes to
School programs to fund safety-enhancing street infrastructure to protect children, elderly and disabled
residents; hire additional school crossing guards and traffic enforcement officers, and provide funding to address
the deferred maintenance needs of the City’s downtown parking structures.
Prioritizing today's youth and future generations must mean providing resources for Safe Routes to School
(SRTS) that support and encourage healthier active-transportation options and improve street safety, reduce
GHG emissions by supporting active-transportation options that can safely move us around our city without a
car and continue to advance us toward our climate and sustainability goals.
To do this Santa Monica must create and allocate resources to realize these critical safety and climate action
goals. The city is still recovering from 2020 budget cuts. Those cuts reduced mobility planning staff and cut
resources for SRTS programing. This measure can help restore some of these critically necessary assets and
resources to improve safety.
Public safety requires reasonable revenue-streams that enable essential investments. We again thank
Councilmembers Zwick, Davis and Torosis for yet another motion that can create a significant and positive
impact for street safety in Santa Monica through the creation of resources to fund safety-enhancing street
infrastructure and to protect the most vulnerable in our community, and all who live in or visit Santa Monica.
Through creative, responsible measures like this Santa Monica can generate critical resources to create a safer,
cleaner and more sustainable Santa Monica, and support our collective commitment to make our streets safer
for our most vulnerable and everyone – now and for future generations!
We urge you to pass Item 16D to invest in a brighter future.
Sincerely,
Cynthia Rose, Director, Santa Monica Spoke
Cynthia Rose and Cris Gutierrez
Co-Chair, Santa Monica Safe Street Alliance
Emery Cunningham
Chair, Youth Leadership Collective
Santa Monica Safe Streets Alliance
SMSpoke.org
SaMoSafeStreets.org
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 981 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Krista Shennum <kristashe@mac.com>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 6:37 PM
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la
Torre; councilmtgitems; David White; Anuj Gupta
Subject:SM resident in favor of 16D Advisory Measure to Fund Safer Streets
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I support item 16D by Council Members Zwick, Davis and Torosis. As a Santa Monica resident who is dependent on my
bicycle for transportaƟon, I believe this measure will make Santa Monica streets safer and healthier for our community.
This measure can provide meaningful resources to restore Safe Routes to School programs and benefit everyone in our
community and everyone who visits Santa Monica, making our streets safer for everyone, regardless of their
transportaƟon mode. If we want a safe, clean and sustainable Santa Monica, we must provide people with the ability to
safely and efficiently move around our city with or without a motor vehicle, reduce GHG emissions and conƟnue to
advance us toward our climate and sustainability goals.
Despite momentum and the amazing progress Santa Monica is making to improve overall street safety for everyone,
traffic violence and equitable road safety remain significant and potenƟally catastrophic issues that we must conƟnue to
prioriƟze.
Please support this item!
Thank you,
Krista Shennum
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 982 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Ferris Kawar <noreply@adv.actionnetwork.org>
Sent:Monday, December 18, 2023 10:02 PM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Item 16 D - Support for Exploring an Increase to the Parking Facility Tax
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Mayor Brock Mayor Pro Tempore Negrete, and members of the Santa Monica City
Council,
Please support Item 16-D. I used to live in Burbank, where free parking was everywhere in the
city. This created incentives for people to drive more, which made the roads less safe for my
daughters and I, who walk and cycle. I'm so glad to live back in Santa Monica where we see
the value of protecting all users of our streets, not just automobiles.
Thank you,
Thank you,
Ferris Kawar
ferrisk2@gmail.com
2666 31st Street, #7
Santa Monica, California 90405
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 983 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Jasper Kok <jasperfkok@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday, December 19, 2023 8:42 AM
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la
Torre; councilmtgitems; David White; Anuj Gupta
Subject:I Support Item 16D Advisory Measure to Fund Safer Streets
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I bike to school with my kids almost every day, so I support item 16D by Council Members Zwick, Davis and Torosis.
This measure can provide meaningful resources to restore Safe Routes to School programs and benefit everyone in our
community and everyone who visits Santa Monica, making our streets safer for everyone, regardless of their
transportation mode. If we want a safe, clean and sustainable Santa Monica, we must provide people with the ability to
safely and efficiently move around our city with or without a motor vehicle, reduce GHG emissions and continue to
advance us toward our climate and sustainability goals.
Despite momentum and the amazing progress Santa Monica is making to improve overall street safety for everyone,
traffic violence and equitable road safety remain significant and potentially catastrophic issues that we must continue to
prioritize.
Please support this item!
Jasper Kok
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 984 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Matthew Robinson <noreply@adv.actionnetwork.org>
Sent:Tuesday, December 19, 2023 9:18 AM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Support Funding for Safe Streets in Santa Monica (16D)!!!
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all
modes of transportation for both residents and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents
get around our city safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic
violence is still a significant issue we’re facing. I know that it might seem like taking transit or
biking or walking is a luxury, but I want to emphasize that it shouldn’t be a luxury to use
money-saving options.
I rent an electric bike from a company in Culver City for $150 per month. It has a cargo and
secure lock system. I can do my grocery shopping and run errands all while climbing hills. I
rent the bike on a month to month basis. This saves me and my family thousands of dollars
each year because we can now get around with one car that we share, instead of needing at
least two cars.
We must give people the ability to safely and efficiently get around our the West Side, both
inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Matthew Robinson
pacificrobinson@stoop.email
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 985 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
2
11781 W Sunset Blvd
Los Angeles , California 90049
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 986 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Jesse Zwick <noreply@adv.actionnetwork.org>
Sent:Tuesday, December 19, 2023 9:56 AM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Please Support Exploration of 16D in Order to Facilitate Safer Streets
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Councilmembers,
As you all know, Santa Monica has recently experienced a traffic fatality at the intersection of
Idaho and 19th involving a biker and vehicle. The traffic accident would have surely been
avoided if there were speed bumps or a four-way stop at that intersection. After Tania's death,
the City sprung into action and finally implemented a four-way stop at this intersection.
However, Idaho and 19th was only the beginning of the problem. There are countless other
dangerous intersections in our residential neighborhoods that threaten to injure or kill our
children -- many of whom walk or bike to school.
A potential tax on parking, with its proceeds then earmarked for necessary traffic-related
improvements would greatly assist the City's Dept of Transportation in finally implementing
changes to these critical intersections. As I understand it, tonight's vote is just to explore the
option, and any final tax change proposal will have to come back for Council approval
(followed by voter approval). I implore you to vote yes and take a step in the right direction
toward safer streets in our city. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Ali Moghaddas
(Resident who lives a block away from where Tania died)
Jesse Zwick
jesse.zwick@gmail.com
858 21st
santa monica, California 90403
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 987 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Samantha Jamali <noreply@adv.actionnetwork.org>
Sent:Tuesday, December 19, 2023 10:01 AM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Support Funding for Safe Streets in Santa Monica (16D)!!!
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all
road users for both residents and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents
get around our city safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic
violence is still a significant issue we’re facing. In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for
68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues were worsened by budget cuts made
in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help restore some
of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely
and efficiently get around our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Samantha Jamali
samrobbins19@gmail.com
810 California ave
Santa Monica , California 90403
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 988 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Ellis Raskin <ellis.raskin@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday, December 19, 2023 10:19 AM
To:councilmtgitems; Gleam Davis; Lana Negrete; Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre; Christine Parra; Caroline
Torosis; Jesse Zwick
Cc:Douglas Sloan; David White; Clerk Mailbox
Subject:Agenda Item 16.D
EXTERNAL
Dear Hon. Councilmembers,
I am writing in support of the proposed modifications to the City's existing parking facility tax. Empirical data shows that
parking taxes are an effective method of regulating and offsetting negative externalities associated with car culture (see,
e.g., https://cityobservatory.org/parking_pay_way/). I hope that you will embrace data‐driven solutions to our City's
mobility solutions.
Best,
Ellis Raskin
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 989 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Dan Hall <daniel.stephen.hall@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday, December 19, 2023 10:34 AM
To:councilmtgitems; Phil Brock; Lana Negrete; Gleam Davis; Christine Parra; Oscar de la Torre; Caroline
Torosis; Jesse Zwick
Subject:Item 16D - Support for Exploring an Increase to the Parking Facility Tax
EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Brock, Mayor Pro Tempore Negrete, and members of the Santa Monica City Council,
Please support Item 16D to explore how increasing our parking facility tax could reduce traffic congestion and
the risk of traffic fatalities and serious injuries in Santa Monica, while preserving free 90-minute parking in the
downtown lots.
Smarter parking pricing has the potential to reduce traffic, pollution, and car-related injuries, while providing
additional revenue for alternative transportation options and even support deferred maintenance costs on the
parking structures themselves.
I highly encourage all of you to explore UCLA Professor Donald Shoup's research on parking. Here is a great
6-minute primer of his pre-eminent work "The High Cost of Free Parking": https://youtu.be/Akm7ik-H_7U?si=Ki-
VJTPOLgufD4vn
"Land is expensive for housing, but free for parking. And you wonder why we have a problem?" - Shoup
Thank you for your consideration,
Dan Hall
Santa Monica, CA
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 990 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Johanna Kracke <johannakracke@fit4mom.com>
Sent:Tuesday, December 19, 2023 11:02 AM
To:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse
Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Subject:I support item 16D!!!
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all road users for both
residents and visitors.
I have 3 kids, two attending Will Rogers right now, and I would like nothing more than for them to be able to ride their
bikes safely to school on their own as they get older. We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School
program, and help our residents get around our city safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic violence is still a significant
issue we’re facing. With two recent cyclist deaths on our roadways, the commitment to Vision Zero in our community
seems questionable, and that is incredibly disheartening. In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for 68.5% of our
greenhouse gas emissions. These issues were worsened by budget cuts made in 2020, that also caused us to lose many
key city staff; and this item could help restore some of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely and efficiently get around
our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Johanna Kracke
Santa Monica resident, parent, and small business owner
santamonica.fit4mom.com
(310) 694‐0719
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 991 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Genise Schnitman <immensefrogs@mac.com>
Sent:Tuesday, December 19, 2023 12:21 PM
To:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Phil Brock; Lana
Negrete; Christine Parra; Oscar de la Torre
Subject:In support of Item-16D
EXTERNAL
Please support Item 16‐D to give the voters of Santa Monica the opportunity to improve the health and safety of those
who live, work in, and visit our city while reducing greenhouse emissions at a Ɵme when the indicators of the fossil‐fuel‐
caused climate crisis are hiƫng levels of unprecedented alarm.
The item directs staff to evaluate a proposed ballot measure creaƟng a tax on parking faciliƟes that would fund
maintenance of those faciliƟes and a set of transportaƟon projects that would enhance the safety and usability of our
streets for all users, including the young, the old, and those with various mobility challenges. Streets that are safe for
our youngest and oldest users are streets that are safe for everyone, whether they are geƫng around in private motor
vehicles — the worst contributors to traffic congesƟon and greenhouse emissions — or by means that are beƩer for the
environment and for personal and public health, from public transportaƟon, to electric‐powered and human‐powered
micromobility devices, to walking.
Next fall I will have reached four decades since moving across the country to Santa Monica, the enƟrety of which I have
lived car free. I look forward to spending the years ahead, when I anƟcipate the likelihood that the physical changes of
later life may pose various challenges to geƫng around on foot, bicycle, and public transit, in a city where measures,
including physical modificaƟons to street and sidewalk form, will make it safer as well as more convenient go where I
need and wish to, day and night.
The economic repercussions of the pandemic have straitened the City’s capacity to fulfill our Vision Zero goals. The
proposed ballot tax will provide the resources to enable us to get back on track and make Santa Monica a safer and
healthier place for all. From the great, recently concluded streaming series ReservaƟon Dogs I learned the chipper,
c’mon‐now expression “skoden!” (“Let’s go then!”).
Yes, Santa Monica, skoden!
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 992 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Peter DiChellis <pdichellis@yahoo.com>
Sent:Tuesday, December 19, 2023 1:24 PM
To:councilmtgitems; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline
Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Cc:Editor santamonicalookout.com
Subject:Item 16 D: Oppose inequitable tax
EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council:
The tax proposal described in Agenda Item 16D unfairly and inequitably targets drivers, conƟnuing an unjust war on
drivers being waged by some councilmembers.
Note that City of Santa Monica data show bicyclists and motorists are nearly equally at fault in bicycle‐related Fatal and
Severe Injury crashes, yet drivers are cited almost 3x more than bicyclists. (Data and references below.)
Yet there is no discussion of taxes or fees on bicycles to fund needed roadway safety, only more taxes and restricƟons on
drivers.
Every voter who holds a driver’s license must rebuff those at City Hall waging unjust war against them.
Sincerely,
Peter DiChellis
Santa Monica 90403
***
“Bicyclists Share Fault in Serious Crashes, Data Show”
hƩps://urldefense.com/v3/__hƩps://www.surfsantamonica.com/ssm_site/the_lookout/news/News‐2023/December‐
2023/12_14_2023_Bicyclists_Share_Fault_in_Serious_Crashes.html__;!!OfuUnHCITYtmmjM!s8pa5oKkPopqĩ8vhUm6iD
kJUZfruY4ykRKn4wfr3SKgbZmRX25Xd1EoLTj4ytxYjQ0Nwryr6U6fPNMQIo3jsnQIFoLkHSU$
(Key data below. Source: City of Santa Monica via publicaƟon in The Santa Monica Lookout.)
Bicycle‐involved Fatal and Severe Injury crashes in Santa Monica since 2010
Total: 72 =100%
Driver at Fault: 31= 43%
Cyclist at Fault: 26 = 36%
Other/No Fault: 15 = 21%
Most Recent Bicycle Safety OperaƟons
Total CitaƟons: 132 = 100%
Vehicle CitaƟons: 97 = 73%
Cyclist CitaƟons: 35 = 27%
(“AddiƟonal ‐ 9 speeding citaƟons”)
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 993 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
2
‐END‐
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 994 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Natalya Zernitskaya <nzernitskaya@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday, December 19, 2023 2:38 PM
To:councilmtgitems
Cc:David White; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis; Oscar de la Torre; Phil Brock; Christine Parra;
Lana Negrete
Subject:12/19/23 City Council Agenda Item 16D
EXTERNAL
Re: 12/19/2023 City Council Agenda Item 16D
Dear Mayor Brock, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and City Councilmembers,
I strongly support item 16D, the “Request of Councilmember Zwick, Councilmember Davis, and Councilmember Torosis
that the City Manager and City Attorney evaluate the potential to place a General Tax with an Advisory Measure on the
November 2024 ballot to increase the parking facility tax to reduce traffic congestion and the risk of traffic fatalities and
serious injuries in Santa Monica, while preserving free 90‐minute parking in the downtown lots. Specifically, the City
Manager is being asked to evaluate the potential resources that can be generated by increasing the parking facility tax
and the use of resources to restore the Safe Routes to School program and fund safety‐enhancing street infrastructure
to protect children, elderly and disabled residents, hire additional school crossing guards and traffic enforcement
officers, and address deferred maintenance needs of the City’s downtown parking structures. The City Manager and City
Attorney are also being asked to enter into discussions with the California Coastal Commission and assess the impacts of
a proposed increase in the parking facility tax on parking rates in the Coastal Zone.”
We have made incredible strides in expanding our multimodal transportation network and making safety improvements,
but there is still much more work to do to make our streets safe for all. As part of the Council's direction on this item, I
urge you to encourage the City Manager and City Attorney to look into how cities that have achieved Vision Zero have
funded mobility and safety enhancements.
While a general tax with an advisory measure is one option for funding safety enhancements, I believe that the Council
will be able to make better decisions regarding how to best fund necessary safety enhancements, including restoring the
Safe Routes to School program, if and when they are presented with a robust “menu” of options and could evaluate the
pros and cons of different funding methods.
Other potential alternatives to review could include dynamic pricing for parking in locations with higher demand for
parking, a congestion tax, or other creative solutions for funding necessary safety measures.
Thank you for your continued dedication to our community and making our streets safe for all who use them.
Sincerely,
Natalya Zernitskaya
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 995 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Jahan Bruce <jahanrbruce@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday, December 19, 2023 2:40 PM
To:Phil Brock; Gleam Davis; Christine Parra; Jesse Zwick; Oscar de la Torre; Caroline Torosis
Cc:councilmtgitems; David White; Anuj Gupta; Jason Kligier
Subject:Please Support Funding for Safe Streets (Item 16D)
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am wriƟng in support of item 16D. This is a very important first step to making the streets safe for all vulnerable road
users.
However I must object to the provision that the funds be used to maintain parking structures, and that the 90min free be
maintained. We all want downtown to be more successful, but study aŌer study has shown that the vast majority of
sales comes from foot traffic. By subsidizing driving via free parking, the city is intenƟonally making downtown extremely
unpleasant for those that actually pay the bills of stores.
I recommend replacing all downtown parking with missing middle apartments, and pedestrianizing the enƟre area. We
need only look to Europe to see that this model is extremely successful.
It should not be a surprise that stores are going out of business when you expect people to drive there to then walk
around. But the act of driving there makes it unpleasant to walk around. By removing car access to downtown and
increasing the density, shops will be able to support themselves with local residents. It’s Ɵme to return to Ɵme tested,
economically proven tradiƟonal downtowns.
Thank you,
Jahan Bruce
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 996 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
1
Xavier Mota
From:Alison Pearson <noreply@adv.actionnetwork.org>
Sent:Tuesday, December 19, 2023 8:59 PM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Support Funding for Safe Streets in Santa Monica (16D)!!!
EXTERNAL
Council Comments ,
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in support of item 16D.
This measure would greatly benefit our entire community by making our streets safer for all
road users for both residents and visitors.
We owe it to our children to restore the Safe Routes to School program, and help our residents
get around our city safely, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
Despite all of the amazing progress our city has made to make our streets safer for all, traffic
violence is still a significant issue we’re facing. In addition, motor vehicles are responsible for
68.5% of our greenhouse gas emissions. These issues were worsened by budget cuts made
in 2020, that also caused us to lose many key city staff; and this item could help restore some
of these vital assets.
If we want a safe, clean, sustainable Santa Monica, we must give people the ability to safely
and efficiently get around our city, both inside and outside a car. Please support this item!
Thank you,
Alison Pearson
Alison Pearson
apearso2@gmail.com
1532 9th st unit 8
Santa Monica , California 90401
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 997 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)
2
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
ITEM 16.D.
December 19, 2023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 998 Attachment: Written Comments (6190 : Parking facility tax ballot measure for Nov. 2024)