Lincoln Place landlord settles with tenants

Source: Santa Monica Daily Press

Lincoln Place landlord settles with tenants

by Melody Hanatani

October 06, 2009

VENICE — A classic landlord-tenant battle came to a close recently when the owners and former residents of Lincoln Place reached a settlement that not only preserves a group of historic buildings from demolition but allows renters to return to their one-time home.

The agreement with the property owner, the Apartment Investment and Management Co. (AIMCO), will avail up to 83 units to former tenants who are part of the settling party and limit new construction to the replacement of 99 units that previously existed on a now-vacant lot, a far smaller-scaled project compared to a 1993 plan to build 850 units on the 33-acre site, most of which would have been market-rate condos.

While the settlement is contingent on a separate agreement between AIMCO, the city of Los Angeles and other tenant groups, residents are optimistic that their needs will prevail.

“We are confident the city will do everything they can to accommodate the interest of tenants and get the apartment back running,” John Murdock, an attorney representing the tenants, said.

Just less than a dozen tenants remain in the garden-style apartment complex that once boasted 52 buildings and 795 units that were developed in 1951 and backed by the Federal Housing Authority to support World War II veterans and their families. The complex has however been largely abandoned following a series of legal fights that began after 1993 when the property owner proposed redeveloping the site, including a lawsuit over the eviction of more than 50 households. Tenants claimed in the lawsuit that AIMCO violated conditions of the California Environmental Quality Act as well as an agreement with the city of L.A. to relocate tenants to other units or properties instead of evicting them. The Second District Court of Appeals later ruled the evictions were unlawful.

There were 147 households involved in litigation.

“We are very excited to put the community back together, to breathe some life to the area, to return much needed housing to the city of Venice and L.A. and get this behind us and chart a positive future,” Patti Shwayder, senior vice president for AIMCO, said. “We’ve been in three separate settlement negotiations over the years and I guess the third time is the charm.”

Most of the tenants voluntarily left the complex after accepting relocation packages that included thousands of dollars to help pay for moving expenses. Those who did not accept the offer were evicted. Some staged a “tent city” to protest the evictions.

The settlement includes the preservation of the exteriors of existing historically eligible buildings, a victory for preservationist Amanda Seward who nominated the property for listing on the California Register of Historic Resources.

The California State Historic Resources Commission determined the property was historic, which the property owner later appealed. AIMCO agreed to drop the appeal to the commission’s decision that the property is eligible in the California Register as a historic district.

Lincoln Place was designed by architect Ralph Vaughn in his signature “Hollywood stylized” version of modern architecture, Seward said.

“It was the largest post World War II development built under a special governmental program designed to provide financial support for working class housing after the war,” Seward said regarding the significance of the property.

AIMCO plans to submit a design plan after all legal disputes are settled. Shwayder said development of the 99 units will be contextual with the existing neighborhood.

Sheila Bernard, the president of the Lincoln Place Tenants Association, has lived in the complex since August 1988 and is one of 11 tenants who still remain, most of whom are seniors or disabled.

She said the tenants have been mostly “hunkered” down over the past several years and remain cautiously optimistic that a resolution will be reached with the city of Los Angeles.

“I think from the very beginning all we really wanted was a fair resolution and a chance to live there and be at peace,” she said. “Anything we did during all those years was fundamentally in that direction.

“We’re very hopeful that we will have achieved that objective with that settlement.”

melodyh@smdp.com

Please call 311 to report human feces!

Please call 311 to report human feces on the streets & alley ways!

They will take the report and also ask for the Department of Sanitation Watershed Division.

One of the residents did this recently and Inspector Lee responded in 6 hours!

They will clear feces from public areas and sidewalks, but not private property.

Remember, whatever is on the sidewalk and streets winds up in the storm drains!

UNTREATED human waste on the streets is an extreme public health risk to all of us!

We also recommend that you also the call the Department of Health at 800-427-8700 and file a report.

If you do call please follow up with an eMail and get the name of the person you spoke with, the date and the time. Creating a paper trail is really good, also if you have the stomach for it snap a picture and include it in your eMail. Most of us have cell phones with cameras and digital cameras, if you do not a throw away camera is very reasonable these days.

Remember a picture is worth a thousand words.

Please be vigilant in reporting to official agencies and let them know we have an extreme
and chronic homeless situation & human feces in in the streets of Venice. People living on the streets also use the streets as their toilet.

Keep track of your complaints.

Some useful phone numbers.

First when should you call 911?

911 is used for Life Threatening Emergencies Only

• A crime is in progress
• You require medical attention and need Paramedics
  
• There is a fire
• Domestic Violence in progress

You can call 911 from a Cell Phone but the response time may be delayed, if you have an Emergency when ever possible use a Land Line for a faster response.

***

The Non-Emergency phone number for the L.A.P.D. is 1-877-ASK-LAPD or 1-877-275-5273

• Loud Parties or other Disturbances
• Suspicious Activity
• Trespass or Loitering

***

For access to all city services for Residents of Los Angeles call 311
Los Angeles County Residents the number is 211

• For Non Police related information
• They will either provide you information or advise the contact information of the agency you should contact for your specific need.

***

Here is a useful number if you are stuck on the freeway and there is no call box and you do not want to leave your car. Call 399 from your cell phone.

• This works from any cell phone
• Live operator will connect you with either the Metro Freeway Service Patrol or your Auto Club
• This is a non Emergency number for roadside assistance while on the freeway

***

Anonymous tip line for L.A.P.D. 877-LAWFULL or 877-529-3855

***

Graffiti problems, call Pacific Division Graffiti Solutions 310-204-2749

• Pacific Graffiti Solutions will identidy the graffiti if it is gang related and reports are issued to L.A.P.D.
• Be specific and have the exact street address and or cross streets and what the graffiti is on. ie telephone pole, garage door etc.
  

Los Angeles Police Department Pacific Division front desk 310-482-6334

L.A.P.D. Blog lapdblog.typepad.com/

Crime Prevention Tip from the L.A.P.D.

Vehicle Robbery, "Carjacking" Prevention

Vehicle robbery is by no means a new crime, nor is it sweeping the nation in epidemic proportions. Vehicle owners have been victims of this crime for decades. The term "carjacking" was coined by the news media. The term has raised fear levels out of proportion with the actual probability of becoming a victim. Realistically, this is a crime of low probability, but potentially high consequences........


Being the victim of a "carjacking" can be dangerous, even deadly......

• When there is an emergency not requiring 9-1-1, spare change for a phone call can save the day. Keep the spare change with you at all times and keep important phone numbers in your wallet or purse.
  

• Know the area in which you are traveling. Take the time to learn the locations of police and fire stations and emergency rooms. Leave a written itinerary with family or friends including the expected time of departure and arrival. Call to announce your arrival, or any changes in your plans.

• When traveling out of town, plan all trips carefully. Carry maps with routes and destinations clearly marked. Service your vehicle regularly to ensure it is mechanically sound. It is much safer to travel on main roads during daylight hours. Never pick up strangers, under any circumstances, and keep your doors locked and windows closed at all times. Never drive with less than a 1/4 of a tank of gasoline on short trips. Never drive with less than a 1/2 of a tank of gasoline on long trips.

• When possible, drive in the lane nearest the center of the road to distance any would-be pedestrian attacker from your vehicle. Drive on well-lighted, well-traveled streets. Avoid shortcuts that take you on dark, isolated streets. Do not drive wearing expensive jewelry. Do not leave other valuable items in view. Lock valuables in the trunk.

• When stopped in traffic, leave sufficient space between your vehicle and any vehicle in front of yours. If someone approaches in a threatening manner, the open space will allow you to move forward or leave the location. Do not stop directly along side a vehicle in an adjacent lane. If possible, stop 1/2 vehicle length offset, keeping your vehicle in gear.

• Do not park next to vans or other high profile vehicles that could conceal a suspect. When returning to your vehicle, have your keys in hand and be ready to unlock and enter your vehicle without delay. As you approach your vehicle, check from a distance for any suspicious activity along your path. Look under your vehicle from a distance. Upon arriving at your vehicle, look in the back seat area for any secluded intruder. If you have a two-door vehicle, leave the seat backs pushed forward so you can easily inspect the rear area. Most importantly, if you have suspicions, request a security escort, or walk with other people to where your vehicle is parked. Walk together and keep an eye on each other until everyone is safely locked inside their vehicles.

• When parking in your garage, leave your vehicle lights on and inspect the surroundings as you close your garage door. Automatic door openers are recommended. Once the automatic garage door is closed, only then unlock your door and exit the vehicle.

• If your vehicle breaks down on the road, attempt to move your vehicle to a safe location. Activate the emergency flashers and stay locked inside until help arrives. If someone stops to offer assistance, request they summon help from an authorized emergency roadside service.

• If the driver of a vehicle with no markings motions you to pull over to the side of the road, do not pull over. Keep driving to the nearest open business or where other people are present. However, comply immediately when directed by an officer in a marked vehicle. Nevertheless, if you sense anything out of the ordinary, you may request to see identification. Law enforcement officials understand this type of concern.

• If you feel you are being followed by another vehicle, do not drive home. Drive to the nearest police or fire station. If one is not nearby, drive to an open business and honk your horn. Call the police immediately and give them the suspect and vehicle description. This will alert the police and could possibly assist in solving other similar crimes.

• If you are involved in a minor traffic accident and suspect suspicious circumstances, do not check the damage in a remote area or on the freeway. Motion the other driver to follow you to the nearest police or fire station or open business to exchange information. In all situations, immediately note the driver and vehicle description.

• If you are attacked and the suspect has a weapon and demands your valuables or vehicle, comply. Your property can be replaced or recovered later. In some cases "carjackers" have abducted their victims along with their vehicles. These cases require in-depth mental preparedness. There is no cut and dried security advice for drivers threatened with abduction. In these situations, the attacker’s actions and victim abilities vary widely. Taking action is a personal decision. If pleading for your release, and all other measures fail, do everything within your power to escape.

• Once you and your attacker are in your vehicle, the "carjacker" has total control. There is no way to predict if the "carjacker" will harm you. One tactic you might consider, if you are outside your vehicle is to fall flat on the ground. The "carjacker" may not want to take the time to force you inside the vehicle.

• If you are inside your vehicle, consider offering a credit or cash withdrawal card to entice the attacker. If accepted, this may give you the opportunity to flee.

Vehicle Robbery Prevention - You Can Make The Difference

Reduce the risk of vehicle robbery and avoid setting yourself up;

• Keep doors locked and windows up;

• When stopped, leave room to maneuver and escape;

• Driving in the center lane makes you a more difficult robbery target;

• Be wary of strangers approaching you. Trust your instincts and drive away when you feel threatened;

• Keep valuables out of sight;

• Park in lots or garages with attendants;

• Park in well-lighted areas;

• Park in the open. Never let a high profile vehicle or truck hide a robber;

• Be aware of your surroundings when walking to and from your vehicle;

• Walk with other people when possible;

• Walk with purpose and stay alert;

• Approach your vehicle with your key in hand;

• Look in and around your car before entering; and

• If the "carjacker" is armed, don't resist, give up your vehicle and get away as soon as possible.

• What if you are followed, or involved in a suspicious accident?

If you have a cellular phone, call the police and advise them of the situation;

If you suspect you are being followed, immediately drive to a police, sheriff or fire station or to busy area;

DO NOT drive home; and

In both cases, write down the license number and description of the suspects. If you are involved in a suspicious traffic accident, do not inspect the damage in a remote area. Motion for the other driver to follow you to the nearest police station or busy, well-lighted location to exchange information. Use your emergency flashers at the same time.

• If you get robbed, give up your vehicle and leave the scene immediately. Do everything you can to avoid being kidnapped.

• Consider having a vehicle tracking system installed in your vehicle. Your vehicle can be tracked immediately and an arrest or recovery of property is more likely.

• Consider installing an alarm system that will shut down the vehicle engine after a few seconds or minutes. This allows the "carjacker" to drive away until the engine turns off. The suspect will abandon the vehicle when it fails to restart.

Vehicle Robbery Prevention - Interesting Facts

What is it: A robbery where the object of the robbery is a car.
Where is it: Mostly in big cities - less so in the suburbs, small towns, and rural areas.
When is it: Usually during hours of darkness, but it can happen anytime.
What suspects look for: Opportunity, ease of attack.
Chances for victimization: Low probability, but high potential for serious consequences.
Statistical information:
One percent of all vehicle thefts is categorized as GTA's.

Two percent of all robberies involve "carjackings."

Three percent of all vehicles in Los Angeles City and Los Angeles County involve "carjackings."

A high percentage of the victims are affluent. Suspects target expensive vehicles.
Conclusion

There are many preparatory actions one can take to prevent "carjacking." Behavior Modification and mental preparedness are key to its prevention. This information is meant to contribute to your personal security, in and around your vehicle. You can never be too careful, prepared or aware. Share this information with family and friends. Schedule family discussions, ensure everyone is aware and prepared in event of a "carjacking."

For more crime prevention tips click here

Coastal Commission staff recommends permit parking in Venice

http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-venice27-2009may27,0,4140194.story

From the Los Angeles Times

If the board approves the proposal, parking in certain zones near the beach in the early morning hours would be restricted to those who live in the neighborhood.

By Martha Groves

May 27, 2009

The staff of the California Coastal Commission has recommended that the agency approve permit parking zones in five areas near Venice beach, delighting residents aggravated by the constant presence of recreational vehicles and provoking anger from public access and homeless advocates.

If the so-called overnight parking districts are approved in June, it would mark the end of a 12-year battle by residents, said Mark Ryavec, a Venice activist.

"This is a struggle for residents to be able to secure their neighborhoods and secure parking in their neighborhoods and to stop what too often was a public nuisance," Ryavec said Tuesday.

Many who live near the beach complain that people living in campers take up precious curb spaces and pose health and safety problems.

In a letter to the commission, Nikoletta Skarlatos said she came home from a hearing in February to find her street filled with campers and their occupants.

"One was dumping raw sewage and urine directly into the storm drain," she wrote. She said she walked to the back of her house and "saw a pile of human fecal matter against my house wall."

Steve Clare, executive director of the Venice Community Housing Corp., expressed disappointment in the recommendation. Restricting parking, he said, is part of a "pattern of denial of public access" to the beach overnight.

Other opponents also challenged the proposed restrictions, complaining that they would displace people who now live in campers and cars.

"That is a big issue," acknowledged City Councilman Bill Rosendahl, who represents Venice.

Rosendahl said he was studying programs in Santa Barbara and Eugene, Ore., that have designated overnight parking lots for RV dwellers where they can also take advantage of social services. Rosendahl said his office has contacted the Obama administration to plead for federal stimulus money for such "wraparound services" for RV occupants staying in designated areas.

Municipal code prohibits overnight sleeping in vehicles on city streets, but police have fought a losing battle to enforce the law, Rosendahl said.

"If the commission votes in favor," he said, "it becomes the kickoff of an overall process that will take several years before all aspects are met."

Of the five permit parking zones proposed by residents, two extend to the coastline. In those areas, the staff report said, street parking for individuals without permits would be prohibited from 2 a.m. to 5 a.m.

Three public parking lots near the beach would stay open 24 hours a day. Visitors could prepay for four hours of parking. Three other inland areas would restrict parking from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m.

Residents could buy three annual permits for $15 each and two visitor permits, good for four months, for $10 each.

A permit, however, would not guarantee a parking space, said Yadi Hashemi, the acting senior engineer responsible for the Los Angeles Department of Transportation's parking permits division. He added that permit prices were expected to remain the same for "the foreseeable future."

martha.groves@latimes.com

The Battle for Venice

As seen on KCET Local television

The Battle for Venice

For years, the Los Angeles beachside community of Venice has been a magnet for the so-called "vehicular homeless." These are people who park in residential and commercial neighborhoods and live long term in their recreational vehicles, vans and cars. The motor-homeless say they have no place else to go and only want to be left alone. But many Venice residents contend the vehicle dwellers are turning their community into skidrow by the sea.

From MSNBC National News.

Venice Beach mobile homeless shown on MSNBC National News. Bill Rosendahl is interviewed on the subject by Chris Jansen. Mr. Rosendahl talked about trying out the Santa Barbara solution regarding parking lots for the RV's. Take a look:

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy