Venice, California – A new era has begun for the Venice Neighborhood Council (VNC) with the election of David Feige as its President. The transition follows the recent resignation of Brian Averill, a move marked by internal disputes that had plagued the council for months. Feige, a television producer and former public defender, assumed the role at a meeting held via Zoom on Tuesday evening, signaling a potential shift in direction for the influential community body. The VNC, representing a diverse and often contentious coastal district of Los Angeles, faces ongoing challenges related to development, homelessness, and quality of life issues.
Feige’s election, secured with support from thirteen of the twenty board members, comes at a critical juncture for Venice. The community is grappling with the impacts of increased tourism, rising housing costs, and a visible homelessness crisis. The VNC plays a vital role in mediating these concerns, acting as a liaison between residents, city officials, and developers. Feige’s background, combining legal experience with a background in media production, suggests a focus on transparent communication and a methodical approach to complex issues. The council’s deliberations are often highly publicized, and Feige’s media experience could prove valuable in navigating the public discourse surrounding local policy decisions.
The Tuesday meeting wasn’t solely focused on the presidential transition. The board addressed several key land-use proposals, including a contentious application for a shopping center at 606 Venice Blvd and a proposal concerning the popular Abbot Kinney bar, The Brig. Both applications ultimately faced rejection, highlighting the challenges developers face in securing approval for projects within the community. A motion to remove Lisa Redmond, a Community Officer, from the Administrative Committee failed, revealing ongoing divisions within the council. These events underscore the complex dynamics at play within the VNC and the diverse perspectives of its members.
Feige Takes the Reins Amidst Council Divisions
David Feige’s path to the presidency wasn’t without competition. He emerged as the frontrunner from a field of four candidates, including Gary Pearl, Ted Henderson, and Ben Simon. According to reporting from Yo! Venice, Pearl withdrew his candidacy during the question-and-answer session, throwing his support behind Feige. This move signaled a potential consolidation of support within the council and paved the way for Feige’s decisive victory. Feige’s prior experience on the Land Use & Planning Committee (LUPC) was cited as a key factor in his selection, demonstrating his understanding of the complex planning issues facing Venice. The VNC consists of 21 volunteer members, directly elected by stakeholders, making it a significant voice in local governance.
The circumstances surrounding the previous president, Brian Averill’s, resignation added to the complexity of the election. Averill stepped down in January following months of internal strife and disagreements with several board members, including Treasurer Helen Fallon, Outreach Chair Erica Moore, and Community Officers Lisa Redmond and Sarah Mahir. These divisions highlight the challenges of consensus-building within the VNC and the passionate advocacy of its members. The election of Feige represents an opportunity to bridge these divides and restore a sense of unity to the council. The Los Angeles Department of Neighborhood Empowerment (DONE) oversees the VNC and provides resources and support to neighborhood councils throughout the city. The DONE website provides information on the roles and responsibilities of neighborhood councils and their relationship with the city government.
Land Use Decisions: Shopping Center and The Brig Face Rejection
The VNC’s Tuesday meeting featured significant debate over two key land-use applications. The proposal for a shopping center at 606 Venice Blvd, encompassing retail, fitness, and dining options, was ultimately rejected by a vote of 8-6-2. Concerns regarding landscaping and tree coverage were central to the board’s decision, indicating a desire to prioritize environmental considerations in new developments. This decision reflects the community’s ongoing efforts to balance economic development with the preservation of Venice’s unique character. The rejection underscores the rigorous scrutiny that development projects face within the neighborhood.
Perhaps the most contentious item on the agenda was the application concerning The Brig, a long-standing bar on Abbot Kinney Blvd. The proposal sought to convert an existing parking lot into a permanent outdoor dining area, capitalizing on the “L.A. Al Fresco” program implemented during the pandemic to support local businesses. The L.A. Al Fresco program allowed restaurants to expand outdoor seating options to mitigate the economic impact of pandemic-related restrictions. Yet, the application faced strong opposition from neighbors citing noise complaints and concerns that The Brig, primarily a bar, was not an appropriate venue for expanded outdoor dining. The motion to deny the application passed with a vote of 11-2-4.
Redmond Removal Attempt Fails, Censure Motions Loom
Adding to the evening’s drama, a motion was made to remove Lisa Redmond, a Community Officer, from the Administrative Committee. Whereas President Feige initially attempted to dismiss the motion, a vote was ultimately held, resulting in a 9-6-1 decision to retain Redmond. This marks the second attempt to remove Redmond, suggesting ongoing tensions within the council. Redmond is known for her advocacy for the homeless population and has been a vocal critic of former VNC President Averill and Councilwoman Traci Park, who is currently seeking reelection in the June primary. Councilwoman Park represents the 11th District, which includes Venice.
Further complicating matters, reports indicate that two unnamed members of the VNC are facing potential censure motions. A request for information regarding these motions has been submitted to DONE, the Los Angeles Department of Neighborhood Empowerment. A censure order is a disciplinary measure used to address disorderly behavior, ethical violations, or to criticize the actions of a member of a legislative body. The outcome of these potential censure motions could further shape the dynamics within the VNC.
Charter Reform Committee Formed, Redmond and Rudisill Appointed as Co-Chairs
In a move to address broader civic issues, the VNC voted to establish an Ad Hoc committee focused on Los Angeles charter reform. This decision comes as the LA Charter Commission nears the completion of its review of potential changes to the city’s governing document. Key issues under consideration include expanding the size of the 15-member City Council, implementing rank-choice voting, and exploring budgetary reforms. These potential changes could have a significant impact on the future of Los Angeles governance and are expected to be presented to the City Council as a ballot initiative in the November General Election.
Lisa Redmond spearheaded the motion to create the Ad Hoc committee, demonstrating her commitment to broader civic engagement. Following the committee’s formation, President Feige appointed both Redmond and Robin Rudisill as co-chairs, a decision that was approved by the full board. Feige has also pledged to implement new procedures to streamline VNC meetings, aiming to reduce their length while enhancing the quality of discussion. The Tuesday meeting extended over three hours, highlighting the need for more efficient meeting management.
The Venice Neighborhood Council’s recent actions signal a period of transition and potential change. With a new president at the helm and ongoing debates over key local issues, the VNC will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the future of Venice. The council’s next steps will be closely watched by residents and stakeholders as they navigate the challenges and opportunities facing this vibrant coastal community.
The VNC is expected to address the vacancy on the Land Use & Planning Committee in March, advertising the unexpired term to residents. Further updates on the charter reform committee and ongoing land-use applications will be provided at future VNC meetings. Stay informed by visiting the Venice Neighborhood Council website for the latest information and meeting schedules.
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