Granada Hills Archived News

Citrus Sunday - June 13, 2010

Memorial Day Special Events in Granada Hills

There are three consecutive events on Monday May 31st (click for an informational flyer), comprised of two ceremonies and also a Charity Fundraiser Barbeque Steak Dinner.

• The first is at 1600 (4 PM) on the new patio at VFW Post 2323 dedicating our new flag pole featuring a 21 gun salute and bugle call for memorial day taps.
  
  
• The second will be at 1700 (5 PM) at Veterans Park on the southeast corner of Chatsworth and Zelzah with the same service plus other activities for 3 new flag poles and the New Beautiful Veterans Park Grand Opening rebuilt by the Rotary Club of Granada Hills.
  
  
• These will be followed by a great Charity Fundraiser Barbeque Steak Dinner at 1800 (6 PM) at Post 2323 on our beautiful new patio by the waterfall, across from the putting green. The Post is located just a few blocks east of the park at 17522 Chatsworth St. with parking in the Verizon lot in the rear. Dinner tickets are a $12 donation purchased at least two days before the event at VFW Post 2323, or a $15 donation after and on the day of the events. You may call the Post at 818 366-7799 for information any afternoon, 7 days a week.

The Granada Hills Veterans' Park project by the Granada Hills Rotary Foundation has transformed a dilapidated traffic median at the corner of Zelzah Ave. and Chatsworth St. into a beautiful tribute to the military men and women who have served our country.

The improvements include a new pergola (thanks to the generous contributions of the Granada Hills Improvement Association), new landscaping, brick and cement work, flagpoles, a monument and a statue (thanks to the generous contribution of Jake Parunyan, the 2009 Gil Benjamin Granada Hills Citizen of the Year).

Contributors have been Granada Hills North Neighborhood Council, Granada Hills South Neighborhood Council, Councilman Greig Smith's office, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2323, and the Granada Hills Rotary Foundation.

The tribute bricks are currently being installed, and more are still available for community members to dedicated to veterans, businesses, friends and loved ones. For information about donating for tribute bricks, contact John Weitkamp at (818) 363-3144 or jweitkamp@aol.com.

Mayor Villaraigosa Addresses Current Financial Crisis and Ways to Balance the Budget

My fellow Angelenos,

Good morning.

For the past year, I have been trying to work with the City Council to put the Department of Water and Power on a more sustainable path: a path towards transparency and accountability, a path towards clean renewable energy and a path towards fiscal health.

It has been clear to me and it has been clear to the City Council that the DWP needs to change.

So in March 2009, I began to speak about the Department’s fiscal health and the need to increase the Energy Cost Adjustment Factor to account for the rising cost of energy and fossil fuels.

In August 2009, the DWP Board recognized this need and proposed a two-cent rate adjustment. The Council rejected it and instead, asked for an independent fiscal review. I supported the Council in this decision, and I welcomed the outside opinion.

In February, the independent consultant finished their exhaustive review and recommended an even larger rate adjustment of 2.7-cents. The DWP Board correctly used this outside, independent review and approved a 2.7-cent rate hike spread over four quarters in a manner that not only secured the Department’s fiscal health but put us on a path to a greener, cleaner future.

The Council rejected it.

I listened to the Council’s concerns.  And I agreed to a compromise for a one-time 0.8 cent adjustment with added protections for residents and employers.

The Council rejected it.

The DWP Board listened to the Council and did its best to address the concerns and, over my objections, tried to meet the Council halfway with an even more modest adjustment than what I authorized.

And again, the Council rejected it.

The politics of no is no more sustainable than the DWP’s over-reliance on coal. Instead of acting in the tradition of past city councils, where progressives put partisanship aside and positioned Los Angeles as a national leader,  this Council leadership has demonstrated what we've already seen at the national level: they have shown the results of the politics of no.

With the Council leadership saying no to my every attempt at compromise, at the DWP Board’s attempt at compromise, and NO to their own outside, independent fiscal review, we've seen the detrimental effects of only saying NO, and it is simply not acceptable for the council leadership to continue this practice.

The facts tell us that the cost of energy and fossil fuels will only continue to rise.

The facts tell us that the DWP gets 44% of its energy from dirty coal.

The facts tell us that the State and Federal governments will soon penalize us because of this over-reliance on coal.

The facts tell us that the DWP has been under-collecting by $6 million per week.

And the facts tell us that the national agencies have withdrawn the DWP’s credit rating because of this under-collection.

The facts don't lie.

There are no easy decisions or simple ways to solve this budget crisis.But as the CEO of this great city, it is my responsibility to make these difficult, but necessary decisions to steer the city out of this crisis and onto solid financial ground.

As such, today, I am asking the CAO to develop a plan to shut down all General-funded city services - with the exception of public safety and revenue-generating positions - for two days per week beginning the week of April 12.

I am also calling an emergency meeting of the EERC to discuss the next steps to addressing this fiscal crisis and ways to balance our budget.

We can no longer wait. We can no longer keep saying no. We must act now.

Granada Hills' Fire Station 18 to Lose Their Ambulance at Night?

Local Councilman Greig Smith's Response to the City's Budget Dilemma:

Dear Friend:

It has come to my attention that there has been some misunderstanding about certain proposed reductions in the Fire Department as part of the City’s efforts to close the $212 million budget shortfall.

We received messages from community members in Porter Ranch, Granada Hills and West Hills voicing concern about a proposal from the L.A. Fire Department to reduce the BLS (Basic Life Support) ambulance to 12 hours a day at Fire Stations #8 in Porter Ranch, Station #18 in Granada Hills, and Station #106 on Roscoe Blvd. in West Hills (which is in District 3 but serves part of our area).

I sincerely understand this concern. As an LAPD Reserve Officer, I serve as a first responder myself, and the last thing that I would support is a cut that would affect emergency services.

However, it has been incorrectly stated that this was my proposal. This proposal was made by the Fire Department, and was brought forward to the Police and Fire Efficiencies Working Group as one of the means to meet the goal set for budget reductions in the Fire Department.

When the Fire Department presented this package of proposed reductions, Fire Chief Millage Peaks stated that he did not want to do this, but that it was the “easiest to suggest.” I served as the moderator of the Police and Fire Efficiencies Working Group and the group forwarded this proposal as part of several options. The City Administrative Officer then created a report recommending that proposal to the City Council. It was not my proposal. In fact, the Fire Chief has full authority over Fire Department deployment and could do this now without our approval.

The Chief's proposal states that Fire Stations #8, #18 and #106 will lose the BLS (Basic Life Support) ambulance for 12 hours a day at a time during which there are the lowest number of calls.

Station #8 gets only 2.2 calls a day in total, and less than one call per day during the affected time frame. Station #18 gets 3.8 calls per day and 1.4 calls during the affected time frame. Station #106 gets 2 calls per day and less than one call during the affected time frame.

(GHNNC.org note: The nightly average stated above is equal to 511 calls at night per year for the GHNNC area.)

The engine and the ALS (Advanced Life Support) ambulances from Station #96 in Chatsworth, Station #70 in Northridge, and Station #87 in Granada Hills will continue to cover the Porter Ranch and Granada Hills area as they have. The West Hills area will continue to be covered by Station #28 in Porter Ranch and #105 in Woodland Hills.

Finally, there has been some concern raised in the community about the Fire Department wanting to retain the Battalion Chiefs’ Staff Assistants whose functions include driving them to fire calls, and a feeling that they should be cut before reducing ambulance services.

The Fire Department and the Firefighters Union (UFLAC) both have fought vigorously against taking away the Staff Assistants. The City Council will consider the issue of whether we should eliminate service of 10 ambulances for 12 hours a day in very low-use areas, or eliminate the full-time Staff Assistants serving Battalion Chiefs.

I anticipate that eventually both will be gone, at least temporarily. But I am interested in hearing the community’s point of view in the debate at this time. 

I hope this clarifies my position, and I look forward to hearing your thoughts. (Click to email the Councilman)

Sincerely,
GREIG SMITH
Councilman, Twelfth District

Neighborhood Councils Demand a 'Seat at the Table' of Power

The NCs want "a seat at the table." They want Ex Officio status at the City Council, Council Committee, Task Force and Departmental meetings so that they can fulfill their Chartered responsibilities:

1. "...to promote more citizen participation in government..."
2. "...to make government more responsive to local needs..."
3. "...to present to the Mayor and Council an annual list of priorities for the City budget..." and
4. "...(to) monitor the delivery of City services in their respective areas and periodic meetings with responsible officials of City departments..."

The NCs want the opportunity and the ability, like all City-chartered officials, to bring their understanding, opinions and suggestions to our City's decision-makers.

To read more about this and the reasoning behind it, go to the article at OurLA.org.

Share Your Fruit

Many of us have fruit trees and use or distribute only a small portion of the fruit to our friends and families. Here’s an idea that will help you and many others at the same time:

FOOD FORWARD is an all-volunteer grassroots group of Los Angeles residents who care about reconnecting to our food system and making change around urban hunger and food waste. Food Forward volunteers (fully insured) convene at private properties they have been invited to and glean the excess fruit on their trees, donating 100% of it to local food pantries. Food Forward was founded in January 2009 and they have harvested over 130,000 pounds of fresh, free fruit and vegetables. Food Forward supplies the volunteers, equipment and coordination to pull off picks both large and small, creating an atmosphere of community that encourages its volunteers to reconnect and pass along the abundance of food already present in our daily lives. All property owners receive a tax deduction for every pound they harvest.

We encourage you to volunteer your property to be gleaned, or to be part of a pick. Call them at (818) 530-4125 or visit their website: www.foodforward.org. You will be proud to be part of our growing family of FRUITANTHROPISTS – now over 150 strong and growing weekly!

HARVEST FOOD * FIGHT HUNGER * BUILD COMMUNITY

2010 Census Information Available

Census Safety - Good Info to Share with People

Big Sunday Weekend: May 1 and 2

Take Action: The Census Forms are Here

Controller Greuel, along with Councilmembers Perry, Parks, and LaBonge
joined Mayor Villaraigosa to fill out and send off their census forms.

My fellow Angelenos,

I just took 10 minutes to fill out the 10 questions in my Census form, and I am encouraging all Angelenos to do the same. It critical to your community and your city that you make yourself count in this year's Census.

Your participation will help decide the future of our City for the next ten years. The census determines the number of representatives we can send to Washington, the amount of child-care and senior centers we can have, and the level of federal funding we will receive.

Yet, with each new decade, the census still manages to miss some of our most vulnerable residents: young children in low-income homes, large families living under one roof, minorities, renters, recent immigrants, and the homeless. In the 2000 census, it is estimated that 76,8000 Angelenos went uncounted. This was the second highest undercount in the nation.

What did the undercount mean for the City of Los Angeles? The loss of $206 million. In our dire economic climate, we simply cannot afford to leave that money on the table.

All of you should have already received your census forms in the mail this week, so if you have any questions or did not receive your form, please visit one the many Assistance Centers opening across the City tomorrow. To find out where the nearest one is located, call the City Hall info line, 3-1-1.

With only thirteen days left until National Census Day, we need your help to represent the interests of four million Angelenos. Because each census form represents about $2700 in federal funding for your community, we need you to not only turn in your own form, but bring up the census to your friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors, and tell them what the census means to their city and their community.

Tell them it is safe, confidential, and easy. Tell them that it will make a real difference in the future of our City. And tell them that by standing up and being counted, they will assume their rightful place in America's story.

Thank you,
Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa

Official List of GHNNC Election Candidates

List of Candidates who will appear on the Official Ballot with statements from the candidates

List of Write-In Candidates and their statements

The Granada Hills North Neighborhood Council (GHNNC) has been actively seeking individuals who are interested in serving their community.  There are currently over 30 individuals who have signed up to run as Candidates.  These Candidates are volunteers.  We do not get a salary, we do not get a car, and the only perk we get is the satisfaction that comes from knowing that we are making a huge difference in our community!

You will have an opportunity to meet all of the Candidates at our informal Candidate Forum which will be held on February 22, 2010.  This Candidate forum will take place immediately after the GHNNC’s General Meeting.   The General Meeting will start at 6:00 PM, with the Candidate Forum following at 7:00 PM. You will have a chance to meet the Candidates, hear directly from them about their views of the community, what their future goals for GHNNC will be, and ask questions about issues that concern you.  You can see the list of Candidates below (on this web page).

Elections will take place on March 2, 2010 from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the GHNNC Office which is located at 11139 Woodley Avenue, Granada Hills, in the Albertsons Shopping Center.  Please be prepared to state the nature of your interest in GHNNC and bring proof to show you are a stakeholder. Some acceptable forms are driver's license, pay stub, property tax bill, utility bill, tuition statement, church statement, etc.

We invite and encourage all GHNNC Stakeholders to come out and vote for your Granada Hills North Neighborhood Council.   Your vote is important.  Your vote will make a difference.  Put these two important dates on your calendar and make 2010 the year you get involved in your neighborhood!

2010 Election Newsletter Coming to a Mailbox Near You!

The City Council intends to take our rollover funds and cut next year's funding in half at next Tuesday's meeting.

A Letter from the Los Angeles Neighborhood Council Coalition

www.lanccoalition.org 

Our Neighborhood Council System is Under Attack

 We deserve a fair hearing before the City Council takes our current rollover funds and restricts our ability to carry out our Charter mandated functions.

 We need to have these agenda items referred to the E&N Committee where we can have a fair and open hearing and where NC members can have more than one minute to say why we should not lose our past rollover funds and future funding.

AGENDA
LOS ANGELES CITY COUNCIL
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2010
10:00 A.M. 

Items for Which Public Hearings Have Not Been Held - Items 11-18

(10 Votes Required for Consideration)

ITEM NO. (11) - Motion Required

09-0600-S159 COMMUNICATION FROM CITY ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER relative to a Three Year Plan to Fiscal Sustainability.

Recommendations for Council action,

SUBJECT TO THE APPROVAL OF THE MAYOR:

18. ELIMINATE the Neighborhood Council “rollover” policy and TRANSFER all suspended “rollover” funds totaling $1.61 million to the Reserve Fund.

19. ELIMINATE the Neighborhood Council bank card system and convert to a demand warrant system.

20. INSTRUCT and REQUEST as appropriate, the Department of Neighborhood Empowerment (DONE), City Attorney and CAO to evaluate and redefine allowable expenditure categories for Neighborhood Council funds.

21. INSTRUCT the General Manager, DONE to issue a memo to the Neighborhood Councils regarding a proposed 50 percent reduction to the annual allocation amount for 2010-11.

We need you to be at the City Council meeting next Tuesday.  Fill out a speaker card for agenda item number 11.  Even if you don’t intend to speak, fill out a card so they know we’re there.

The LANCC meets Saturday, 10:00 AM at 6501 Fountain Ave in Hollywood (a few blocks west of Vine St.)

GHNNC earns second place in the Granada Hills Holiday Parade!

Thank you to the many volunteers who helped decorate and tear down the float, as well as those who rode on it. You made the event special for a lot of people.

Photos of the parade can be seen in our updated Photo Gallery.

Beware of Car Thieves

There has been an increase in Burglary Theft From Motor Vehicle activity throughout Devonshire Division. Some areas are being targeted more than others and for LAPD Basic Car area activity is prevalent north of Rinaldi Street between Balboa Avenue and Louise Avenue, especially Reporting Districts 1705 and 1716. Most of these crimes are occurring late at night. Purses, wallets, computers and tools are the most common items taken. Please make every effort to remove all valuables from your vehicle and report any suspicious activity to the LAPD dispatch center.

Congratulations to GHNNC Board Member, Joe Vitti

GHNNC congratulates Joe Vitti on receiving a "Leaders of Character" Award from Learning for Life, Western Los Angeles County Council. His accomplishments and contributions to our neighborhood are many, including:

• Joe actively participated in the formation and certification of GHNNC from 2001 - 2003.
• He was elected to the GHNNC Board in 2003 and serves on several committees.
• In 2006 he was appointed by Councilman Greig Smith to serve on the Neighborhood Council Review Board as a commissioner representing the 12th Council District.
• Joe is the GHNNC representative to the L.A. Department of Water and Power and participated in the development of the precedent-setting LA-DWP-NC Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in April of 2005.
• Joe currently represents GHNNC at the Los Angeles Neighborhood Council Coalition (LANCC).
• Joe has been an active board member of the Granada Hills Chamber since 2002 and is presently serving on the boards for Los Angeles Mission College Foundation and Mid-Valley Family YMCA.
• Joe Vitti, a Valley VOTE member since 1998, has served as Valley VOTE's President since 2003. He has guided Valley VOTE's members and committees in developing positions and preparing reports on key quality-of-life issues facing Valley residents and the citizens of Los Angeles. Joe has been a major driver behind Valley VOTE's mission, to "empower the people of the San Fernando Valley and the City of Los Angeles to improve local governance, education and public participation on policy matters."
  

Board of Neighborhood Commissioners Approves GHNNC Boundary Petition

To All Interested Stakeholders -

We are pleased to report that, at Monday October 19th's 11:30am meeting in City Hall, BONC approved the Granada Hills North Neighborhood Council's Boundary Adjustment Petition.

This means that the GHNNC's western boundary now extends to the western edge of Aliso Canyon, overlapping the Porter Ranch Neighborhood Council's boundary, which reaches the eastern edge of the canyon.

Despite the extremely short notice, four GHHNC Stakeholders managed to make it to the meeting. A big "thank you" to Eric Rosenberg, Sue DeVandry, Kim Thompson, and Barbara Iversen for their time and essential support!

We're confident that all GHNNC Stakeholders look forward to collaborating with the PRNC on issues that affect both of our Neighborhood Councils, and believe our respective organizations have been strengthened by this alliance.

The bottom line is that Aliso Canyon wins, now having the formal oversight of two Neighborhood Councils.

GHNNC has THREE Vacancies on its Board of Directors. Consider applying!

• District 2 Representative
• District 3 Representative
• Educational Representative

Click here for a detailed description of each position and their qualifications.

If you are interested in serving on the Board of Directors of the GHNNC, and you qualify to fill one of the vacancies described above, please fill out an application (a Stakeholder Verification Form can be found on our website at the end of our bylaws), and submit it to Leon Marzillier, President of the GHNNC Board of Directors. You may email the application to lmarzillier@ghnnc.org, or send it via postal mail to:

Granada Hills North Neighborhood Council
11862 Balboa Blvd, #137
Granada Hills, CA 91344

City Announces Prescription Savings Card

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa has launched the LARx Prescription Savings Card Program. The purpose is to provide prescriptions at a lower price. The card will offer prescriptions at a 5% to 40% discount. There are no age, income, or other restrictions on the card - and no enrollment fees.

The card and discounts will be offered at http://forlarx.com

Public Libraries, Recreation & Parks facilities and Senior Centers including those operated by the Department of Aging will have the cards readily available.

For a list of participating locations in Granada Hills, go to our LARx Info page.


"Los Angeles: Structure of a City Government" online download now available for free.

Everything about L.A. city government‑‑from who fixes potholes to how people run for city Council‑‑can be found in the new edition of Los Angeles: Structure of a City Government, published by the League of Women Voters of Los Angeles. To commemorate the publication, the League donated a total of 6,800 copies to the city of Los Angeles during a presentation in City Hall council chambers on November 7, 2006. It has distributed the remaining 7,200 copies to civic groups and residents throughout Los Angeles.

Written by Dr. Raphael J. Sonenshein of California State University, Fullerton, and recently appointed Executive Director of the Los Angeles Neighborhood Council Review commission, the publication is an entirely new and expanded version of a book first published by the League in 1964 and most recently updated in 1986. The John Randolph Haynes and Dora Haynes Foundation funded the book.

Dr. Sonenshein's edition adds a new chapter to the long and valued history of the League's published guides to the government of Los Angeles. with his invaluable experience as Executive Director of the City of Los Angeles Appointed Charter Reform commission, his book aptly serves as an introduction to this new governing document for the 21st century.

Los Angeles: Structure of a City Government includes sections on departments, commissions and agencies that did not exist prior to the passage of the 2000 charter. Other features of the 208‑page book include a newly revised city organizational chart, a recommended reading list, website resources, and an index, weaving the history of Los Angeles' civic infrastructure throughout, it serves as an invaluable educational resource for people of all ages.

Click here to download your copy of the book.

For Those Who Were Not Able to Testify - New Hearing Dates

FILING DEADLINE for all GHNNC Election Candidates

The deadline has passed to have your name appear on the ballot for the 2010 Region A Neighborhood Council Election. (GHNNC is within Region A.), but there is still time to file as a write-in candidate. Stakeholders must go through the same process as before of filling out and turning in an application to the City Clerk. You can mail, email, fax, or bring in person to the City Clerk's office. The deadline to file as a write-in candidate is February 1st.

Download your candidate filing form here: GHNNC_CANDIDATE_FILING_PACKET

For more questions, contact:

Sofia Torres
Project Coordinator
City of Los Angeles
Office of the City Clerk - Election Division
555 Ramirez Street, Space 300
Los Angeles, CA 90012
sofia.torres@lacity.org
Phone: (213) 978-0444
Fax: (213) 978-0376

Interested candidates can download their filing form directly from our website HERE.

E-Waste Collection at Van Gogh St. School this Friday

Click here for a bilingual event flyer.

Friday, January 22, 2010
7:30 am to 10:00 am
Why Recycle?
Every day, U.S. consumers get rid of 137,000 computers and 355,000 cell phones according to estimates by the EPA Only 10% are actually recycled. The vast majority of electronics are simply thrown away.

What Can I Recycle?
Check your house and garage for disused electronics you wish to safely dispose of.
“E-Waste” refers to a wide range of electronic products which can be recycled, including:
- Computers and Laptops
- TVs, Monitors LCDs and VCRs
- Computer Components
- Stereo Components
- Printers, Copiers, and Scanners
- Telephone Equipment
- Cables, wires and power supplies
- Modems, Routers, and Fax machines

*** NO Refrigerators, Microwaves, Washing Machines, Dryers or Dishwashers.***

Raises Money For Your Local School:
Unlike other States in California this event and service is free. As an approved collector for electronic recycling, PC Recycle LLC is paid directly by the State for e-waste we responsibly recycle. There is no charge for this basic service to all school districts.
For each school recycling event that we sponsor, PC Recycle donates $1.00 for every computer we collect and recycle in the State of California. On average we expect to collect between 200 - 500 units at a one day school event. Our events are usually held twice a year, once a school semester, Fall and Spring.

Van Gogh Street Elementary School - Parking Lot
17160 Van Gogh St
Granada Hills, CA 91344

Holiday Safety Notes from our Public Safety Committee

Property crime is generally low in our area, but does up-tick during the holidays. Burglary-Theft from Motor Vehicle (BTMV) is the biggest one. Go to www.lapdonline.org and click on crime maps in your area hyperlink (http://www.lapdcrimemaps.org). Enter the address of concern and click on the GO button under all the colored dots. Only crimes that are reported (documented) are listed.

First, foremost, and easiest -- don't leave ANY mail by your mailbox for the postman. Wait to hand deliver it to the postal carrier or better, take it to the post office or drop-off location yourself.

Keep packages out of sight in your vehicle at all times while shopping.

If you return to your vehicle to drop off packages before continuing shopping, be sure to drive around, like you're leaving, and then park in another spot.

Don't leave anything visible in your vehicle while parked unattended, even for a moment, including in your driveway, anybody's driveway, or on the street, and keep it locked. Prime targets are iPods, GPS units, laptops, cell phones, purses and the like. If your in-dash radio has a removable faceplate, consider taking it with you when shopping, etc.

Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Walk like you own the place.

Watch for suspicious activity in your neighborhood, such as someone staring into car and house windows, checking door handles, etc. If you see someone like this, it's a 911call, although not a high priority 911 call. Get a good description without placing yourself in jeopardy. Police will respond.

Best not to let the world see your tree or other seasonal decoration with all the presents under it through that big window on the front (or side) of your home or business.

When disposing of boxes, especially those that once contained electronics, best to take them directly to a recycling center. Next best is to cut up and place in your blue bin, stored out of sight, and placed at the curb on the day of pickup. Don't make it easy for scavengers to get a peek at all the new and expensive stuff you've recently bought. Never leave the empty box sitting in your driveway, parkway or other highly visible spot on or near your property.

Be alert for scams and door-to-door solicitors, especially requests for charitable donations. Also be alert to scams on public transportation and mall parking lots.

Watch for the delivery truck (UPS, FedEx, USPS, etc.) in your neighborhood. If you're friendly with your neighbor and they get a package left on their doorstep while they're not home, consider holding it for them until they return. And let your neighbor know you'd appreciate the return favor. You could possibly prevent a theft. Yes, the thieves are that bold!

Recycle Your Christmas Tree

Christmas Tree Recycling Program

The City of LA Bureau of Sanitation is now expanding CURBSIDE collection for Christmas trees. If your Christmas tree is too big to cut and place it inside the green waste bin, simply place the tree next to your green waste bin on collection day.

Using your green bin to recycle Christmas tree?

Sandbag Distribution Available Across the Valley

Preparing for the worst, the Los Angeles Fire Department and Bureau of Street Services are coordinating the distribution of sandbags and sand at key locations as the first major storm of the season bears down on the Southland.

The Los Angeles Basin is periodically subject to floods that can result in property damage.

Such damage is greatly intensified by soil and debris flows in areas near the recent Station wildfire.

Homeowners and residents across Los Angeles -- especially those in San Fernando Valley foothill communities -- are encouraged to prepare their properties in advance of coming rainstorms.

Properly filled and placed sandbags are best used to divert -- rather than dam -- water run-off, redirecting storm and debris flow away from property improvements.

While the city can provide homeowners with empty sandbags and sand to protect their property, the city does not fill, load, or place sandbags for individual homeowners.

Those needing additional sand, sandbags and supplies may wish to contact a home improvement store or building supply center in their community, many of which will deliver flood preparedness and debris control aids.

Sandbagging and flood control is a labor-intensive process that can lead to injury, and that residents should consider hiring a licensed contractor for any large or special needs.

Here's a list of free sandbag locations:

-- Mission Hills: Fire Station 75, 15345 San Fernando Mission Blvd.

-- Sylmar: Olive View Hospital, 14445 Olive View Drive, (at the old fire station), Oak Ridge Mobile Home Park, 15455 Glenoaks Blvd, and Fire Station 91, 14430 Polk St.

-- Arleta: Fire Station 7, 14123 Nordhoff St.

-- Pacoima: Fire Station 98, 13035 Van Nuys Blvd.

-- Sunland: Fire Station 24, 9411 Wentworth St., and Fire Station 77, 9224 Sunland Blvd.

Also, both sand and ready-to-fill sandbags are available at many Bureau of Street Services locations.

More info: L.A. Daily News // L.A. Times

Sick of the Sunshine Canyon Landfill Odors???
We urge you to attend an important meeting Thursday evening.

Thursday, December 17, 2009 -- 6:00 pm
Van Gogh Street Elementary School
17160 Van Gogh Street
Granada Hills, CA 91344

At the November 5, 2009 meeting of the Sunshine Canyon Landfill – Community Advisory Meeting, there was much discussion about the recent increase in odor events resulting from Sunshine Canyon Landfill operations and the South Coast Air Quality Management District’s (AQMD) current and potential enforcement efforts in response to those complaints and documented public nuisance situations. At that meeting, the various corrective actions available to the AQMD that could be employed/imposed for purposes of resolving the odor problem resulting from landfill operations were discussed. One of the options was the possibility of the AQMD filing a petition for an Order for Abatement with the AQMD Hearing Board in an attempt to bring the facility in to compliance with Rules and Regulations and the California Health and Safety Code, particularly as their compliance status relates to nuisance.

On November 17, 2009, the South Coast Air Quality Management District filed such a petition against Allied Waste Company, Inc., and Republic Services, Inc. dba Sunshine Canyon Landfill. The matter is scheduled to be heard and considered by the AQMD Hearing Board on the evening of Thursday, December 17, 2009, at 6:00 p.m. at Van Gogh Elementary School located at 17160 Van Gogh Street, Granada Hills, CA.

*** Please note that it was at AQMD’s request that this hearing be conducted in the community instead of at AQMD’s headquarters in Diamond Bar.

Click here for a copy of the Public Notice providing additional details about the hearing. During the hearing proceedings, the interested public will have the opportunity to provide testimony to the AQMD Hearing Board regarding this matter.

GHNNC.org Photo Gallery has been Updated!
Including New Photos from the Granada Hills Street Faire and GHNNC Open House.

If you missed any of these events, or if you just want to re-live them, please visit our Photo Gallery. You can always get to the GHNNC Photo Gallery by rolling your mouse over the Resources link at the top of the page and selecting "Photo Gallery".

Bureau of Sanitation S.A.F.E. Centers Accept Analog Televisions

With the switch from analog to digital broadcasting, the City of Los Angeles' Bureau of Sanitation reminds the public to properly discard analog televisions, antennas and other electronics by taking them to a S.A.F.E Center. For information on locations and hours of S.A.F.E. Centers, go to their website.

Free Flu Vaccinations Available in L.A. County

Have you had your influenza vaccine yet? Flu season is here, and the L.A. County Department of Public Health is offering free vaccinations at parks, churches, schools, and community centers throughout the County for H1N1 (swine) flu and the regular seasonal flu between Oct. 23 and Nov. 8.

Flu shots and FluMist® vaccine nasal spray will available for free on a first-come, first-served basis to those who have no health insurance or personal doctor.

City of L.A. Public H1N1 Vaccination Clinic October Schedule:

Public H1N1 vaccination clinics are scheduled to be open from 9am until 5pm.

Vaccines are offered on a first come, first served basis.

Friday, October 23, 2009:
Balboa Sports Center - 17015 Burbank Blvd, Encino 91316

October 24 - 25, 2009:
Granada Hills Rec. Center - 16730 Chatsworth St., Granada Hills 91344

Balboa Sports Center - 17015 Burbank Boulevard, Encino 91316

Chevy Chase Rec. Center - 4165 Chevy Chase Dr., Los Angeles 90039

Jackie Tatum/Harvard Rec. Center - 1535 W 62nd St., Los Angeles 90047

Lincoln Park Recreation Center - 3501 Valley Blvd., Los Angeles 90031

Oakwood Recreation Center - 767 California Ave., Venice 90291

Wilmington Recreation Center - 325 Neptune Avenue, Wilmington 90744

Woodland Hills Rec. Center - 5858 Shoup Ave., Woodland Hills 91367

Additional dates and locations will be available in November and December. New schedules are released every two to three weeks. To see the full schedule of H1N1 (swine) flu vaccination as well as regular seasonal flu vaccination clinics visit http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/ or call 2-1-1 or 3-1-1. Dates, time, and locations are subject to change.

Additionally, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns the public not to attempt to purchase any H1N1 flu vaccines over the Internet. There are multiple fraudulent vaccines being offered for purchase online. For more information, visit the FDA.gov swine flu info webpage.

You are invited to our Open House!

Did you know GHNNC has a brand new office? We are inviting all of our stakeholders to join us at our Open House on Thursday, October 15, 2009 from 5:00pm - 8:00pm. The GHNNC Board Members will be there, as well as special appearances by distinguished guests from Council District 12.

GHNNC is proud to sponsor the Granada Hills Street Faire - Coming October 3rd!!!
4 Blocks of Fun!

·	3 Stages of Entertainment & Music
·	Arts & Crafts
·	Kids Activities
·	Food from Around the World
·	Custom & Classic Car Show
·	Shopping
Click here for the Official Event Flyer.

Boy Scout & Cub Scout Open House

September is Open House for our Cub Scout Packs and Boy Scout Troops!

For 100 years, Scouting has helped youth develop academic skills, self-confidence, ethics, citizenship skills and leadership skills that influence their adult lives. Remember the fun and adventure you had being a Boy Scout? Open that door to your son, grandson, nephew, or cousin and join the thousands of boys enjoying the Scouting program right now in the San Fernando Valley.

Scouting provides youth with a sense that they are important as individuals. They find that those in the Scouting family care about what happens to them, regardless of whether a game is won or lost. While various activities and youth groups teach basic skills, Scouting goes beyond that and encourages youth to achieve a deeper appreciation for themselves, their family and their community.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, Scouting promotes activities that lead to personal responsibility and high self-esteem. As a result, when hard decisions have to be made, peer pressure can be resisted and the right choices made.

The Scouting program offers fun and challenging experiences for boys through activities like camping, hiking, building projects and community service, to name a few. The program builds boys mentally, physically, socially and spiritually. The skills they learn in Scouting help them overcome obstacles and challenges with courage and character throughout their lives.

Give your son a valuable gift by encouraging him to join Boy Scouts today. The time you invest in him today will make a difference in the person he becomes tomorrow. There are several units right here in your backyard. We invite you to drop in and check us out. Go to www.balboaoaks.bsa-la.org and see the list of all the Units in your area. Simply drop in at any of our meetings, or call ahead for information. Most Packs and Troops are slightly different in their program and approach, so we invite you to visit as many as you like to find one that is the best fit for your son and you. Invite all your friends to come along and visit us too. Bring in the coupon from this flyer when you join (at participating Units) and your son will receive a free Scout Handbook!

Community Blood Drive & Health Expo

Saturday, September 26, 2009 8 am to 4 pm Granada Hills Recreation Center (Petit Park) 16730 Chatsworth St. Granada Hills, CA 91344 Pancake Breakfast and Hot Dog Lunch ($5 Donation for non-blood donors) Register on line at www. ghrc.givesblood.org

Crime Tip: Craigslist-Based Robberies Occuring in Granada Hills

There was a robbery in Granada Hills last week that started with a "Craig's List" call. Victim-1 made contact with a man who advertised a car for sell on craigslist.com. Victim-1 and Victim-2 agreed to meet the seller at 10139 Woodley Avenue to the rear of the apartment complex. Victim-1 brought $4000.00 cash with him. Once the seller (suspect) and the victims were behind the complex, the suspect called two other males to meet him at the location. The suspect pointed a gun at both victims and demanded the $4000.00 cash, their jewelry and their wallets. This was the second radio call at this location within a week. On the first radio call, the buyer called the police before the suspect's friends responded. No robbery occurred at that time. If you are purchasing something from an online seller or any other unknown buyer, DO NOT meet them in a secluded location! Meet them in front of the police station or in another busy area! If something does not seem right, leave immediately!

Hearing on Pole Mounted Telecom Boxes
By Jerry Askew
Member, Board of Directors, Granada Hills South Neighborhood Council

You may have seen the equipment cabinets that Verizon has been installing in various areas in the City of Los Angeles.  These cabinets are part of Verizon's new FiOS network.  Many of these cabinets have been installed within the public right of way at a height that interferes with traffic visibility and presents a hazard to pedestrians.  Additionally, the cabinets are a graffiti nuisance.

The Granada Hills South Neighborhood Council, along with neighboring councils and area residents' groups, has been working with Verizon and the City to address the blight and hazards caused by these cabinets.

On September 11th at 9:30am, the Board of Public Works will be considering a recommendation that will require the cabinets to be relocated - either raised to a reasonable height, or converted to permitted installations.

Your support is needed to ensure that our efforts are successful.  Please attend the meeting if you can (meeting location below), or write a letter with any personal experiences that you may have.  We have heard reports of children on bicycles and skateboards running into these boxes and of associated minor injuries.  If you have knowledge of or witnessed such an incident, please write with information that can be presented.

The Board of Public Works will hear this issue at their regular meeting on September 11th at 9:30am:

You can contact me at jaskew@ghsnc.org.  Alternatively, you can write directly to the Board of Public Works.  Be sure to include a subject line referencing "BPW 9/11/09:  Request by Verizon to install pole mounted fiber distribution hubs at low height"

LADWP Seeks Public Input on Expansion of Solar Power in L.A.

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power is seeking public input on plans to expand solar power in Los Angeles during public workshops to be held this September. The workshops, planned for regional locations throughout Los Angeles, will offer an opportunity for the public to comment on existing and proposed solar programs. Interested parties are invited to attend, learn about the future of solar power in Los Angeles and provide input. 

Local workshops are listed below. For the other locations, see our calendar.

Saturday, September 26
10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
L.A. Mission College
13356 Eldridge Ave.
Sylmar, CA 91342

Wednesday, September 30
6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Marvin Braude Constituent Center
14410 Sylvan St.
Van Nuys, CA 91402

To register for a workshop please visit the LADWP solar power website or call 213-367-1361.  Maps to locations are also viewable on the registration website. 

For more information, view the LADWP's printable flyer.

LA County Office of Emergency Management Opening Local Assistance Centers

The LA County Office of Emergency Management is opening two local assistance centers in Sylmar and Acton for those affected by the Station Fire. For more information, please contact (323) 980-2093 or email atafoya@ceooem.lacounty.gov.


Online Survey Now Available For New Chief of Police Qualities

The Los Angeles Personnel Department invites the public to take an online survey designed to obtain the most desired qualities to be considered in the Chief of Police selection process. To have your voice be heard, log on to: www.lacity.org/per

The survey may be taken by clicking on "LAPD Chief of Police Qualities Survey/Your Opinion Counts." The survey will be available until September 17, 2009. At that time, the Personnel Department will compile the results of the survey and present them to the Police Commission.

The Police Commission is also holding community meetings throughout the City to hear what the people of Los Angeles would like to see in their next Chief of Police. The remaining meetings are as follows:

September 3, 2009
Department of Water and Power, Community Auditorium
6:00 pm
4030 Crenshaw Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90008

September 9, 2009
Felicia Mahood Senior Center
6:30 pm
11338 Santa Monica Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90025

September 10, 2009
One Generation
6:30 pm
18255 Victory Blvd
Reseda, CA 91335

September 17, 2009
Kedren Center
6:30 pm
710 East 111th Place
Los Angeles, CA 90059

The input from both the online survey and the community meetings will be used during the selection process of a new Chief of Police.

The Station Fire Update

For up-to-date information regarding the Station Fire, visit http://fire.lacounty.gov/

Conservation Measures for Lawn Watering in Effect June 1

Starting June 1, DWP water conservation measures go into effect restricting lawn watering with automatic sprinklers to Mondays and Thursdays. Watering must be done before 9am or after 4pm. Rotator-type or gear-driven sprinklers may not be on for more that 15 minutes per day, or not more than 10 minutes for other (i.e., non-rotation type) sprinklers.

Violations are subject to fines.

Also, the "hand watering" exception mentioned does not override the 9am to 4pm restriction. If watering by hand, you still have to do it before 9am or after 4pm., and the hose has to have a self-closing nozzle.

Below are several links with detailed information on the water conservation measures.

Shortage Year Rates Fact Sheet

Frequently Asked Questions

Sprinkler Use Ordinance

Prohibited Uses of Water

Amended Water Conservation Ordinance

To report water waste call 1-800-Dial DWP or email waterconservationteam@ladwp.com.

NEW: Public Safety Committee Member, Bill Hopkins, has kindly put together this informative sheet to explain the new ordinance as well as provide helpful information to enable you to read your own meter and keep track of the water you save.

DWP Info Phone Line and Web Site Now Active

The DWP has activated its special phone line and website to allow residents to find out what their water usage allotment is. This will allow residents to determine if they need to conserve more water to avoid the higher rates under the DWP's water shortage measures.

DWP Phone Line: (800) Dial DWP
www.LADWP.com

Los Angeles is suffering a serious drought plus significant water supply shortages.
To boost conservation, DWP has implemented higher water-shortage rates and lawn watering restrictions. About 85% of single-family homes and 99% of apartment buildings in the 12th District will remain in the lowest water usage tier, so their rates won't go up.

Single-family households are allocated a certain amount of water at the lowest rate – Tier 1. This allotment is determined by three things: lot size, location and number of household members. The higher rate is for every additional gallon of water used above that. This means that you will not be penalized if you have already been conserving water, because the Tier is not set based on your own use.

Community Alert Notification

All Devonshire Area Residents, especially Porter Ranch and Northridge neighborhoods, be on the lookout for a:
1997 White Chrysler Town & Country Minivan, CA lic # 3WQC282.

The Vehicle was taken during a recent residential burglary which occured in the 19000 block of Castlebay Lane in RD 1703.

There is a likelyhood the suspect may be using this vehicle to commit more residential burglaries in the area.

If you happen to spot this vehicle, please call 911, give the license plate of the vehicle to the police operator, and ask the verify if the vehicle is in fact stolen.

If the vehicle is moving give the operator direction of travel. Do not put yourself in harms way!

Once the vehicle is recovered I will put out a follow up email advising everyone that the vehicle is no longer wanted.

Thank you all your continuous support and stay safe & alert.
Devonshire Senior Lead Officer Dario Del Core
Basic Car 17A35

Important Telephone Numbers | EMERGENCY CALL 911
CITY-WIDE DIRECTORY 311 | NON EMERGENCY 1-877-ASKLAPD
For additional Crime Prevention information, Log on: www.lapdonline.org
Support the LA Police Foundation: www.lapolicefoundation.org

Brush Clearance at Aliso Canyon for Citywide Day of Service

Volunteers are invited to participate in a brush clearance project in Aliso Canyon Park in Granada Hills on Saturday, June 27 at part of the Citywide Day of Service.

Aliso Canyon Park was one of the areas that was heavily affected by the wildfires last fall. As we head into summer, the brush that has built up in Aliso Canyon needs to be cleared out. It's a great way to teach kids about community service, and get some fresh air and outdoor exercise while helping keep our community safe and beautiful.

Saturday, June 27
8:00 am to 11:00 am
Aliso Canyon Park
Granada Hills, CA
(north side of Rinaldi St. 1 block west of Zelzah Ave.)

*Parking will be available onsite

All ages welcome, but kids under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Bring sturdy shoes, water and sunscreen.

For more information, contact the Mayor’s West Valley Area Director at Barri.Worth@lacity.org

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2323 Grand Opening II

If you enjoyed the first VFW Grand Opening Party, come back for the unveiling of their beautiful rare Rain Forest Granite Bar and Grill on the patio. You will be amazed by the beauty and may want one for your own patio!

VFW Post 2323
17522 Chatsworth Street
Granada Hills, CA 91344

June 27th from Noon to 10pm+

Lunch, Dinner, or Both. Great events guarantee a fun time for everyone. Texas Hold-em Charity Poker, Golf Tournament, Raffles, Etc. (818) 366-7799 for details and reservations.

Click here for more information.

GHNNC is represented well among Valley Regional Congress award winners

Budget & Finance Chair of the Year Scott Manatt, Granada Hills North Neighborhood Council

Outreach Chair of the Year Sue DeVandry, Granada Hills North Neighborhood Council

Thank you for all the hard work that you have done as well as the work that you are currently doing for our council.

The city of Granada Hills (including the Granada Hills South Neighborhood Council and the Granada Hills Rotary Club) took 5 awards out of 18 across the entire San Fernando Valley, so we did very well.

These award winners were honored at the Valley Regional Congress Event luncheon on Saturday, May 30th.

Thanks to your donations, Citrus Sunday was a success!

Click here for photos from the May 3 event.

Text-A-Tip

In the ongoing fight against crime, the LAPD has come up with a new way to report criminal activity. You can now text the information to "CRIMES" (2-7-4-6-3-7) to make an anonymous report. Do your part to get the criminals off the street. This tip as well as other information was passed along via E-Police bulletin. Sign up to receive it by going to http://lapdcrimemaps.org/. You can also check out the crime reports in your area while you are there.

There are FOUR Vacancies on the GHNNC Board of Directors!

Consider Applying!

The GHNNC Board of Directors is looking for representatives to fill the following vacant positions:

City of Los Angeles Community Budget Survey

The results of the Community Budget Survey are in and can be viewed on-line at: http://www.mayor.lacity.org/budget/mayfy0910.htm.  The Granada Hills North NC area is a part of the North Valley report.

GHNNC Honored as We Celebrate our 5th Anniversary

Be Aware of Coyotes and Other Wild Animals Displaced by Recent Wildfires

Recent wildfires in the hills surrounding the San Fernando Valley have burned over 20,000 acres, removing the natural home of many wild animals.

Coyotes have been seen seeking food and water in the streets of hillside neighborhoods in Granada Hills.

Coyotes, racoons, skunks and other wild animals generally avoid people. However, it is a good idea to keep pets indoors after dark, and especially to not leave dog or cat food outside because it attracts animals.

Do not touch or attempt to feed or capture wild animals. The Department of Animal Services advises residents to leave them alone unless the animals appear injured, sick or aggressive. In that case, please report the animals to West Valley Animal Shelter at (818) 756-9325.

GHNNC is sponsoring Citrus Sunday this Sunday, May 3!!!

Citrus Sunday is coming up fast, and the Neighborhood Councils, community groups, Fire Stations and hundreds of volunteers that are joining our effort are preparing for a record harvest on Sunday, May 3.

Northridge East, Northridge West, Granada Hills North, Granada Hills South, West Hills, North Hills West, and Chatsworth Neighborhood Councils, as well as the San Fernando Valley Jaycees have agreed to "adopt" Fire Stations that will serve as fruit drop-off locations. Volunteers from the Neighborhood Councils will be on hand to assist people arriving to drop off citrus fruit picked on Citrus Sunday, and ensure that the operation goes smoothly.

Granada Hills North Neighborhood Council has adopted Fire Station 18, and we encourage you to bring as much citrus fruit as you can to the fire station on Sunday.

Fire Station 18
12050 Balboa Blvd.
Granada Hills, CA 91344

Please be part of this effort! Together we will bring tens of thousands of pounds of fresh, nutritious fruit to needy families served at local food banks operated by the Valley Interfaith Council (VIC).

Participating is easy:
1. Pick oranges, grapefruits, or other citrus fruit (up to three days in advance of Citrus Sunday).
2. Wash them and put them in plastic bags.
3. Drop them off at participating Fire Stations between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm on Sunday, May 3, and VIC will distribute it at their food banks.

If you can't pick the fruit on your own, call (818) 756-8501 and we will try to assist you.

For a list of participating Fire Stations, and other information on Citrus Sunday, visit www.CD12.org and click Citrus Sunday or call (818) 756-8501.

Survey L.A. - Your help needed

Survey LA is a multi-year project with the goal of identifying significant historic places throughout Los Angeles and the people and events that formed our social and cultural history. 

Beginning in 2009, professional survey teams will canvass the City, neighborhood by neighborhood, to assess the potential historic significance of properties.  They need your help to identify those places that may not be architecturally significant, but are associated with an important person who contributed to the development of the city, or with an event of social significance.  In order to find those places, you are invited to share your stories with them.

Visit www.Surveyla.org and click on the "MyhistoricLA" link where you can tell them about what is important in your neighborhood.  The website is extremely interesting and packed with information about the whole process of surveying Los Angeles.

Bring your family to the FREE Granada Hills Spring Egg Hunt!

Saturday, April 4, beginning at 10:00am.

O'Melveny Park
17300 Sesnon Blvd.
Granada Hills, CA 91344


Join hundreds of local children and families at our beautiful park.

  -- Egg Hunt
  -- Easter Bunny
  -- Moon bounces
  -- Win prizes
  -- Lots of candy
  -- ...and much more!

25th Annual Granada Hills Holiday Parade

We hope you were able to make it to the Dec. 7 parade.

Click here to see photos from this year's event.

Over four thousand youth participants representing 150 entries marched down Chatsworth Street on Sunday, December 7th. This year's theme was "Favorite Holiday Movies."

The Granada Hills Holiday Parade is the largest holiday youth celebration in the San Fernando Valley featuring celebrities, marching bands, equestrian units, youth groups, drill teams, and decorated floats.

Potential Flood and Mudslide Warning

Heavy rains have been forecast for the Los Angeles area starting Monday night and lasting through Thanksgiving weekend, bringing the possibility of flooding and mudslides in the areas that recently experienced wildfires.  

Winter rains could cause floods, landslides, mudslides, and erosion in neighborhoods where the fires have burned away vegetation that normally holds runoff water and stabilizes hillsides.

The City has deployed sand and bags today to critical locations so that crews can place sandbags where needed to address flooding as quickly as possible.

The City has also placed sand and bags at many locations where residents can get their own sandbags for free if they wish to use sandbags around their driveways, and yards and in front of doorways to further protect their own homes from water.

All Fire Stations in the City of Los Angeles also have burlap bags and several have sand, that residents can pick up for free, and the firefighters can offer advice on how to properly use them.

The Department of Transportation (LADOT) and Street Services have provided extra K-railing to be strategically placed to divert mudslides and protect homes. 

The City has emergency crews on watch to respond quickly if flooding or mudslides become a problem.

The City has sent notifications to relevant general mangers of City Departments to be on alert during the approaching storm and be ready to take action if needed.

For ongoing flood and emergency updates visit the LA Fire Department website at http://LAFD.org. 

SAND & BAGS AVAILABLE FOR FREE

Burlap bags used to make sandbags are available at all Fire Stations. The LAFD website has information on where to find all locations where free sand is available, as well as instructions on properly using sandbags at

http://lafd.blogspot.com/2008/11/lafd-provides-sandbags-for-homeowners.html.

SAND IS AVAILABLE AT THESE FIRE STATIONS

Fire Station 18
12050 Balboa Blvd., Granada Hills

Fire Station 28
11641 Corbin Ave., Porter Ranch

Fire Station 87
10124 Balboa Blvd., Granada Hills

Fire Station 96
21800 Marilla St., Chatsworth

SAND IS AVAILABLE AT THESE LOCATIONS

Knollwood Country Club Parking Lot
12040 Balboa Blvd., Granada Hills

The bridge at O’Melveny Park
17300 Sesnon Blvd., Granada Hills

Brown’s Canyon
At De Soto Ave. and the 118 Freeway, Chatsworth

POST-SESNON WILDFIRE TASK FORCE UPDATE

Immediately after the Sesnon fire was brought under control, members of City, County, State and Federal agencies, and Neighborhood Councils were brought together for a Post-Sesnon Wildfire Task Force Meeting to discuss potential flooding and landslides in the burned areas.

The task force reported that:

The LA Fire Department has already used bulldozers to cut “water bars” or trenches in the hills above O'Melveny Park in Granada Hills to divert runoff water into areas with green vegetation.

County Flood Control crews have cleared out all debris basins in the area to be ready to divert debris in case of flooding and mudslides.

The US Geological Survey has provided us with the most accurate and up-to-date maps showing where hillsides may be weakened and pose potential landslide threats.

Make It a Green Christmas

Recycle your Christmas tree!

Cut it up and put it in your green receptacle -- or take it to a drop off center. Go to www.ci.la.ca.us/san/tree-recycle.htm to find a location near you.

The nearest treecycle location to Granada Hills is:

FIRE STATION #28
11641 Corbin Ave.
Porter Ranch, CA 91326
(818) 756-9728

Children's Day 2008

FREE EVENT

Woodley Park
Woodley Ave and Victory Blvd
Lake Balboa, CA 91406


For more information go to http://www.childrensday2008.com

Adopt-A-Tree

The Friends of O'Melveny Park have started a program called "Adopt-a-Tree". Because the city of Los Angeles mandated that all parks be watered only twice per week for 15 minutes each watering, the Friends of O'Melveny Park ask each resident to adopt a tree or bush or flower patch in a park. When you go hiking or walking through the park, please bring a one gallon jug of water and help water the foliage. The little you do will make a great impact.

Security Notice - Thieves posing as DWP employees

Please help us to spread this information to the elderly and all residents in the SF Valley. It is imperative that no one is allowed into your home, unless you personally scheduled the workers or have first verified that they are properly identified as who they say they are.

All DWP Personnel carry identification and are glad and happy to answer your questions. If not, then call "911".

Earthquake Preparedness

On July 29th, the Los Angeles region experienced a 5.4 scale earthquake. It was a reminder and a warning that we live in earthquake country and we need to be prepared for the big one. Luckily, it was uneventful compared to the 6.6 Sylmar earthquake in 1971 and the 6.7 Northridge earthquake in 1994. Both quakes claimed many lives and caused billions of dollars in property damage. It's been over ten years since the Northridge earthquake and experts regularly say it is not a matter of if, but when another earthquake of this magnitude will occur. Take a moment to click on the links and read through all the earthquake preparedness tip sheets. Requires Adobe Acrobat or Adobe Reader (Free download).

Having the right information and being prepared means that we are saving lives.

North Valley Disaster Preparedness Event

Judge calls on L.A. council to reconsider OK of hospital expansion

By David Zahniser
Los Angeles Times Staff Writer

September 30, 2008

A judge has issued a tentative ruling calling for the Los Angeles City Council to reconsider its decision allowing a San Fernando Valley hospital to expand, handing a victory to the union activists and neighborhood groups that had criticized the project.

Superior Court Judge Thomas McKnew said the 15-member council used the wrong voting process when it approved a $180-million expansion at Providence Holy Cross Medical Center, a facility that treated 17 injured passengers in the Sept. 12 Metrolink train crash in Chatsworth.

Eight of the council's 15 members voted last November to overturn a Planning Commission decision approving the expansion. The project went forward anyway because city law requires 10 votes to reverse the commission.

In his written tentative ruling, McKnew said the council must take up the matter again. His final ruling is expected Thursday.

Roughly half the 101 new hospital beds planned under the expansion would go for emergency room patients. Still, the hospital's proposal has run into a buzz saw of union and neighborhood politics, with the Service Employees International Union arguing that the hospital needs to do more to address the effect of its project on traffic and parking.

SEIU represents healthcare workers and has been in a labor dispute with the chain that operates Providence Holy Cross. In Los Angeles and other parts of the West Coast, the union has used environmental laws to gain greater leverage over hospital chains by filing challenges to their construction projects.

Councilman Richard Alarcon, who has sided with critics of the hospital project, said Providence Holy Cross should stop all work on the expansion until its legal issues are resolved. Alarcon also said that if the ruling becomes final, he would find the votes to force the hospital to prepare an environmental impact report, delaying the project by at least a year.

"Providence Holy Cross has been saying this is about healthcare, when it fact it's about the California Environmental Quality Act," he said. "I believe this judge has put this in the right perspective." 

Tim McOsker, a lawyer representing Providence Holy Cross, said his client was weighing its next steps and waiting for the judge's final order. The hospital has already begun construction on the expansion project and could file an appeal, McOsker said.

"We still have the need for [hospital] beds in the Valley," he said. "Providence will need to evaluate the best and quickest way to bring these additional beds on line."

McOsker was one of several lobbyists to represent the hospital during last year's council debate. 

The SEIU and the pro-labor Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy teamed up with a handful of neighborhood groups to argue against the project. The alliance also helped organize Community Advocates for a Responsible Expansion, a group that is now a plaintiff in the lawsuit.

Although he did not rule on the environmental process used by Providence Holy Cross, McKnew warned that the report prepared for the project "may not be the appropriate document."

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, who appoints each planning commissioner, toured Providence Holy Cross in the wake of the Metrolink crash and met injured passengers. 

On Friday, the mayor held a $1,000-per-ticket fundraiser at the law offices of Mayer Brown LLC, a firm that represents the hospital chain in the case.

Two days later, Villaraigosa attended a fundraiser held by various liberal community organizers, including some with the Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy. Two of the event's co-hosts, Roxana Tynan and Patricia Castellanos, have registered as lobbyists at City Hall.

david.zahniser@latimes.com

Granada Hills Street Faire: Saturday, October 4, 2008

Mark your calendar for the 8th Annual Granada Hills Street Faire, a great Valley tradition, on Saturday, Oct. 4, in Old Granada Village.

More than 200 local business and nonprofit groups participate, with giveaways at many booths.

Your Granada Hills North Neighborhood Council will have a booth there to answer any questions you may have and show you how to get involved in your community.

Enjoy outstanding dishes from the area's restaurants and free entertainment including classic cars, dance troupes and live blue grass music. Children's activities include pony rides, a petting zoo, rock climbing, moon bounces, face painting, and health screening services.

October 4, 2008
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Chatsworth Street (between Zelzah Ave. and Encino Ave.)
in Granada Hills
Click HERE for a map of the Street Faire location.

Parking and admission are free.

For more information, visit the Granada Hills Chamber of Commerce website.

Massive Las Lomas Development Blocked in City Council
March 19, 2008

Councilman Greig Smith's motion to have the City make a policy decision to stop the Las Lomas development, stop the annexation of the land into City of Los Angeles and reject the Supplemental Fee Agreement to allow the developer to expedite the project, was approved by the City Council today. The Las Lomas project was too big, too dense, and couldn’t be planned in a worse place. It would have a devastating effect on traffic and the environment, and would unacceptably strain our water, infrastructure and public safety resources.

The huge coalition of opponents to Las Lomas who came together to say no to this project have our gratitude and praise for stepping up to the plate to defend our community. Residents, community groups, elected officials, Neighborhood Councils, and environmental groups took official positions of opposition to Las Lomas, wrote letters of opposition, and made public comments against the development at Neighborhood Council meetings, City Council meetings and Planning & Land Use Management Committee meetings.

Today was a big victory for the San Fernando Valley in the fight to protect our quality of life and ensure that we focus on the needs of our communities.

Councilman Smith Introduces Motion to Kill Massive Las Lomas Development

Feb. 6, 2008

Los Angeles - Councilman Greig Smith introduced a motion Wednesday, Feb. 6, signed by seven Councilmembers, the maximum allowed, to make a policy decision to stop the massive Las Lomas development. It allows the City to dictate its future land use, and not leave it up to developers to determine.

"This project has been lurking in the dark corners of City Hall for nearly a decade," said Councilman Smith, whose District is next to the proposed development site and would suffer immeasurable negative impacts from it. "It's time to finally take them out of the shadows and stop this project for good."

The motion states: Las Lomas Land Company wants to expand the boundaries of the City of Los Angeles by annexing County-Unincorporated territory, 2/3 of which is located outside the City of Los Angeles' Sphere of Influence (SOI) in order to build a massive development at the confluence of five major freeways.

Unlike proposed projects located within the boundaries of the City, whereby the City must process the project, proposed projects outside of the City boundaries require a policy decision pursuant to the City Charter.

In six years since the project surfaced, the City has not made a formal policy decision on whether it wants to expand the City of Los Angeles in order to build the Las Lomas project and provide the necessary resources to service this new "mini-city." These resources include, but are not limited to: water, sewer, police and fire, power and public works services.

In light of the information presented to the Budget & Finance Committee that questions the appropriateness of a supplemental fee agreement prior to a policy decision being made by the City;

I THEREFORE MOVE that all work on the proposed Las Lomas project stops until the aforementioned policy decision is made by the City Council.

I FURTHER MOVE that the Council pursuant to the Los Angeles Municipal Code (LAMC) section 12.35, which states: ".The Council may establish specific zoning by ordinance for land or territory to be annexed." make the policy decision whether or not to pre-zone the land area before any supplemental fee agreement be considered.

I FURTHER MOVE that if the Council votes not to pre-zone the land portion within the City's Sphere of Influence that all City Departments immediately cease and desist all work associated with the Las Lomas Development by the Las Lomas Land Company, LLC and return all materials submitted by the Developer.

I FURTHER MOVE that if the City should decide to move forward with the Las Lomas project then prior to negotiating or entering into a supplemental fee agreement, the City shall obtain an opinion from all relevant governmental agencies to determine; (1) if the City is the proper lead agency for the entire proposed project; (2) if the City can legally process an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) outside of its jurisdiction in this particular case; and (3) if the City can pre-zone outside the City's Sphere of Influence.

The NCRC (Neighborhood Council Review Commission) Final Report is now available.


• Part One -- Cover Letter, Executive Summary and Recommendations.
  
  
• Part Two -- Vision & Values, Powers & Roles, Governance.
  
  
• Part Three -- Outreach, Assistance and Conclusion.
  
  
• Part Four -- Attachments.
  
  
• Read entire report here. (May load slowly.)

What recyclable items should go in your Blue Bin?


NC/LADWP/MOU Oversight Committee Letter of Resolution


Las Lomas Development Project Proposal Information - Opposed by GHNNC


L.A. Times' Opinion of Neighborhood Councils' impact


Street Resurfacing Memo


Councilman Smith's War on Weeds and Graffiti