Santa Monica Mirror June 24, 2023

How To Avoid Catalytic Converter Theft

Santa Monica Council advances proposal for more gun restrictions

City Manager and the City Attorney Will Make an Ordinance Within Two Months

By Zach Armstrong

The Santa Monica City Council has advanced a proposal by Councilmember Caroline Torosis to restrict the sale of guns and create new regulations on ownership.

As part of the proposal, the council will direct the City Manager and the City Attorney to make an ordinance within two months on restricting gun sales in Santa Monica with

more gun owner responsibilities.

While the city already has stringent firearm laws, there are still incidents of gun violence in Santa Monica. In 2013, five people were killed after a gunman opened fire at Santa Monica College. The City already has rules in place that requires gun dealers to obtain a local license, prohibits firearm sales at home businesses and requires dealers to occasionally report their inventories to law enforcement.

The proposal pointed out that surrounding cities have adopted additional restrictions, such as San Jose which became the first U.S. city to require gun owners to pay an annual fee and carry liability insurance

“In Santa Monica, we have yet to restrict gun dealers from operating near sensitive areas where children or families are congregating,

How Polluted are the Waters Around Santa Monica State Beach?

Waters Around the Pier Were Ranked Most Polluted in California

By Zach Armstrong

In a new report by environmental non-profit organization Heal the Bay, water surrounding the Santa Monica Pier was ranked as the most polluted in California while other areas around Santa Monica State Beach got mixed reviews.

“Being a perpetual Beach Bummer was the norm for [Santa Monica Pier] until 2018 when the city installed a stormwater capture system next to the pier. Unfortunately, it appears that Santa Monica Pier’s water quality woes go beyond polluted runoff.” the report read.

Because bird feces could be a large factor for poor water quality, the city is replacing the bird deterrent netting under the pier. It is also installing a trash removal device in the large storm drain at Pico Boulevard, which could reduce bacteria levels. The City also completed a stormwater capture project preventing contaminated water from entering the ocean and increasing water resilience.

But it wasn’t all terrible news for waters

surrounding Santa Monica. Santa Monica Beach at Montana Ave got an A+ grade for summer conditions and a B grade for wet conditions (after rainfall) in the report, while Santa Monica Beach at Wilshire Blvd. got an A for summer conditions. The area around Wilshire unfortunately failed under wet conditions.

Coastal counties in California got 50% more rainfall than the decade average during the winter months, while the state saw 19 large storm events from October 2022 to March 2023, far more than the six the state usually gets.

The extreme amounts of precipitation caused landslides, floods, power outages and blizzards. The rainfall had multiple negative impacts on water quality by washing pollutants such as bacteria into the ocean, leading to a decline in Wet Weather Grades

we do not require dealers to videotape sales, we do not prohibit unaccompanied minors from entering gun stores, and we do not require regular police inspections of gun dealer premises,” the proposal read. “Moreover,

Santa Monica has not adopted safe storage laws to require safe storage in the home and in vehicles, nor do we require loss and theft reporting.”

City Approves $2.2M Contract With Private Firm for Security at Parking Structures

The Firm Almost Had Its San Jose Contract Taken Away Over Labor Issues

By Zach Armstrong

Santa Monica City Council approved a $2.2 million, five and a half-year contract with Good Guard Security Inc. for the firm to provide overnight security in parking facilities and adjacent areas.

In January, the City piloted a six-month agreement with Good Guard for overnight security in ten parking structures in the

downtown area. The program was successful, according to an agenda item, with results such as a 48% decrease in calls for service, a 60% decrease in calls on burglary theft from motor vehicles and Good Guard assigning six guards with a supervisor within 24 hours notice when needed on the Promenade.

In February, San Jose City Council approved a $9 million agreement with Good Guard to manage the city’s security guards, but only after it resolved labor issues, San Jose Spotlight reported. After the firm failed to meet a labor agreement, SJCC sent a memo to find a new contractor. At which point, Good Guard reversed course to promise its workers their health care and retirement benefits wouldn’t be taken away and that they could unionize.

How To Avoid Catalytic Converter Theft and the Link To Smog Check Compliance

Essential Tips to Protect Your Catalytic Converter and Avoid Costly Replacements

By Dolores Quintana

Because of the rise in catalytic converter theft in California, the California Bureau of Automotive Repair has some guidelines about how to prevent catalytic converter theft and what to do if the catalytic converter in your car is stolen.

A catalytic converter holds a crucial role in emissions control and undergoes thorough inspection during a Smog Check. It contains rare metals responsible for converting smog-causing pollutants into less harmful compounds as they pass through a vehicle’s exhaust system. However, the rising value of these metals has led to a surge in catalytic converter theft. Experienced thieves can remove a catalytic converter in just one to two minutes, utilizing basic tools. While they can fetch significant sums at scrapyards or recyclers, replacing a stolen converter can cost vehicle owners thousands of dollars, depending on their vehicle’s make and model. To safeguard your catalytic converter and prepare for the next Smog Check, consider the following measures:

1. Install a theft prevention device: Visit a licensed auto shop to have a protective plate, shield, clamp, cage, strap, or similar device installed on your catalytic converter. Ensure the device is correctly fitted to prevent damage and allow all identifying information to remain visible. It should not be directly attached or welded to the catalytic converter.

2. Mark your catalytic converter: Engrave or etch your vehicle identification number (VIN) or license plate number onto the converter. This can act as a deterrent to theft and potentially aid in identifying the owner if the device is stolen. If you choose to paint your catalytic converter with bright, fluorescent paint, make sure it doesn’t cover any identifying information. Check with your local law enforcement agency

for information on no-cost engraving/etching events.

3. Adjust your vehicle’s alarm: Ensure that your vehicle’s alarm system is calibrated to detect vibrations. This way, it can alert you or deter thieves when tampering is detected.

4. Park in safe locations: Utilize your garage if available. If parking in your driveway, consider installing motion-sensitive lights. When using public lots, try to park close to building entrances in well-lit areas with high traffic.

It’s essential to be aware of how theft prevention devices can affect Smog Check results:

1. Failure due to modifications or damage: If a theft prevention device alters or damages the catalytic converter, your vehicle will fail the Smog Check.

2. Visibility of identifying information: All required identifying information on the catalytic converter must remain visible; otherwise, your vehicle will not pass the Smog Check.

To ensure proper installation, always visit a licensed auto shop when installing a theftprevention device on your vehicle.

If your vehicle’s catalytic converter has been stolen or requires replacement, follow these steps:

1. Visit a licensed Smog Check station: Take your vehicle to a licensed Smog Check station to have a replacement converter installed. The replacement must be an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) part or a California Air Resources Board-approved aftermarket converter with an assigned Executive Order (EO) number, meeting your vehicle’s specific requirements. The station will ensure correct installation.

2. Use BAR’s Auto Shop Locator: To find a suitable Smog Check station for installation, use BAR’s Auto Shop Locator tool. If you encounter difficulties locating a replacement converter, reach out to the vehicle manufacturer or Smog Check Referee for assistance.

It is very important to note that the car’s catalytic converter must be replaced as quickly as possible and that not replacing it can cause damage to the vehicle, and your vehicle will not pass a smog check. You can check with your insurance company to verify if your policy covers the replacement of stolen car parts.

Parks BBQ, Father’s Office, and The Hundreds Launch Korean American Lager

A Collaborative Brew

Celebrating Special Anniversaries, Perfect for Warm Weather

By Dolores Quintana

In celebrating friendships and special anniversaries, Parks BBQ, Father’s Office, and The Hundreds have introduced the Korean American Lager. The collaborative brew offers a refreshing, crisp, light lager experience as summer really starts to get underway.

The Park’s BBQ Instagram said, “Get fired up as Park’s BBQ turns up the flavor for 20 amazing years! We’ve teamed up with @ fathersofficeofficial for an epic brewventure.

Slide into a table and enjoy a free bottle of Park’s BBQ beer and soju ’cause we’ve got your back! Let’s toast to two decades of mouthwatering madness!”

The Korean American Lager is now available at Parks BBQ and all Father’s Office locations, allowing beer enthusiasts to indulge in this unique creation. A special limited edition T-Shirt commemorating the collaboration can be purchased exclusively on The Hundreds website.

The collaboration between Parks BBQ, renowned for its authentic Korean barbecue, and Father’s Office, a beloved gastropub known for its craft beer selection, brings together the best of both worlds. With a shared commitment to quality and innovation, the partnership seeks to offer beer aficionados and food enthusiasts an exceptional experience.

The Korean American Lager is designed to be the perfect companion for warm weather

Alfresco Dining Spot Reopens for Summer Season

occasions, providing a light and crisp profile that complements the flavors of Korean cuisine. Whether enjoyed with a mouthwatering plate

of Korean barbecue or sipped on its own, the lager aims to enhance the dining and drinking experience.

WEEK-LONG YOUTH CAMPS

Menu Items Include Open-Faced Swordfish Sandwiches and Margherita Flatbreads

According to Patch.com, the alfresco Patio del Mar at Hotel Casa del Mar in Santa Monica, situated at 1910 Ocean Way, has reopened for the summer season.

Diners have the opportunity to relish the ocean breeze while sipping on beverages including champagne, Aperol Spritz, and refreshing beers. The appetizers menu features

chopped pier salad, kale salad and a heartier steak salad. Seafood enthusiasts can indulge in oysters sourced from both coasts, shrimp ceviche accompanied by vegetable chips, a Maine lobster roll, shrimp quesadillas featuring pickled pineapple and an open-faced swordfish sandwich. For those seeking sandwiches, Patio del Mar offers a chicken avocado sandwich and a skirt steak chimichurri sandwich, along with carbonara and margherita flatbreads.

Pier Bridge Replacement Project Moves Forward

Retail Project Gets $27.4M in Construction Financing

Design Is Expected to Take a Year, While Construction Could Begin in 2025

By Zach Armstrong

Santa Monica City Council approved an Environmental Quality Act report unanimously, advancing the anticipated Pier Bridge Replacement Project.

The LA County Department of Public Works routinely inspects the Pier Bridge and has deemed it structurally deficient. Original construction of the bridge doesn’t meet current standards and has a “sufficiency rating” of 8.2 on a scale of 100, according to an agenda item. The replacement project would replace the bridge with a new structure designed to current standards and have a 75-year service life.

Design of the project is expected to take a year, while construction could begin Fall 2025 taking between as much as two years. The estimated completion is prior to the Los Angeles 2028 Summer Olympics.

The Three-Story Building Will Feature a 2,500 Sq Ft Deck

Sonnenblick-Eichner Co. arranged $27.4 million in construction financing for Blatteis & Schnur’s retail project within the Third Street Promenade shopping district, according to reports from Commercial Observer.

Located at 1404-1408 Third St., the upcoming three-story retail building will span 25,000 square feet and boast approximately 50 feet of retail frontage. Notably, the

development will also feature a 2,500-squarefoot roof deck. Its strategic position will be adjacent to the Santa Monica Place mall, spanning 475,000 square feet, and merely one mile away from the iconic Santa Monica Pier.

The funding was provided by Civitas Capital Group. The non-recourse loan carries an interest rate of 550 basis points over SOFR. The proceeds will support new retail construction, replacing a 77-year-old mixeduse structure that was demolished last year.

RMAX4™ 1000

AS LOW AS FOR 36 MONTHS 1

subject to change. Professional riders depicted on a closed course. ATV Riders: ATV models shown are recommended for use by riders 16 years and older. Yamaha recommends an approved training course. See your dealer or call 1-800-887-2887. ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Always avoid paved surfaces. Never ride on public roads. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing; never carry passengers; never engage in stunt riding; riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix; avoid excessive speed; and be particularly careful on difficult terrain. Side-by-Side Riders: Always wear your seat belt, helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Yamaha recommends that all Side-by-Side riders take an approved training course. For training information, see your dealer or call the ROHVA at 1-866-267-2751. ©2023 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. • YamahaMotorsports.com

A Comfortable City for All

SMa.r.t.

Santa Monica Architects for a Responsible Tomorrow

Picture this: a concerned citizen takes to Facebook to ask about the mysteriously vanishing benches and chairs on the Promenade. Turns out, they were supposedly being repaired and would be back soon. But for our beloved senior citizens, those benches are more than just a place to rest their weary legs—they’re essential for catching their breath and enjoying the city. Too bad those benches were never replaced.

Now, this Facebook post sheds light on a bigger issue facing Santa Monica. Poor planning, inconsiderate design, and weak communication have made it tough for residents to navigate our city’s manmade environment. We’re talking about parking structure signs blocking our view of oncoming traffic, misbehaving bus benches, unenforced noise regulations, and infrequent bus service (although it is improving now, to be fair). It’s a mess that affects folks of all ages, not just seniors.

Did you know that over 40% of Santa Monica’s residents are baby boomers? They’re dealing with their own challenges, like mobility issues, vision impairments, and slower response times. Sure, the city has made efforts to cater to seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income folks, but it’s not enough. We need a user-friendly city that benefits everyone.

So, how do we make Santa Monica agefriendly? The World Health Organization has some great suggestions. We’re talking clean, secure streets with limited noise and unpleasant odors, well-maintained outdoor seating in parks and public spaces, separate bike paths, reliable and frequent public transport (including nights and weekends), conveniently located and well-equipped transportation stops, unobstructed roads, and housing designs that integrate older people into the community. These are the ingredients for success.

Now, Santa Monica has embraced some of these ideas but has failed to implement others. It’s time for a systematic effort to ensure our physical environment matches the needs of our residents—those who are aging themselves or taking care of their parents and children. It should be a nobrainer for our competent planners!

Here’s a to-do list for the city to get started:

• Join the World Health Organization’s Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities and Communities. Their guide and checklist can be our roadmap. Check it out here.

• Assign a planner to create an agingfriendly checklist and dedicate monthly hours to implement it across the city, considering all projects from parks to bus stops. No more isolated bureaucratic silos!

• Update zoning to convert two-story apartment buildings (known as “dingbat” buildings) into small assisted living facilities. Some of these buildings are perfectly suited for this purpose, with staff spaces upstairs and resident care rooms downstairs.

• Enforce noise, litter, and smoking laws. The downtown bus stops have turned into outdoor smoking zones, posing health risks to everyone, especially those with respiratory problems. Let’s also crack down on noise pollution from mufflerless motorcycles and other offenders that disrupt peace in our neighborhoods and make sure the parks are clean and safe.

• Fix the bus stops citywide, provide shade where possible, and increase service frequency.

• Address the height issue of parking structure signs downtown that obstruct the view of oncoming traffic.

These steps are just the beginning of our journey toward an all-ages city. Santa Monica should affiliate with the WHO Global Network and take inspiration from New York’s Aging Improvement Districts. Check it out here. Let’s plan and design a city that’s comfortable and enjoyable for everyone, no matter their age. Imagine a place where clean streets, accessible seating, reliable public transport, and welllit walkways become the norm. A city that truly values the well-being and comfort

of its residents, regardless of their age. Together, let’s transform Santa Monica into a city for everyone.

Daniel Jansenson, Architect, Building and Fire-Life Safety Commission.

Architect, Robert H. Taylor AIA, Dan Jansenson, Architect & Building and FireLife Safety Commission, Samuel Tolkin Architect & Planning Commissioner, Mario Fonda-Bonardi AIA & Planning Commissioner, Michael Jolly, AIR-CRE

SANTA MONICA COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES Barry Snell, Chair; Dr. Margaret Quiñones-Perez, Vice Chair; Dr. Susan Aminoff; Dr. Nancy Greenstein; Dr. Tom Peters; Rob Rader; Dr. Sion Roy; Alyssa Arreola, Student Trustee; Kathryn E. Jeffery, Ph.D., Superintendent/President Santa Monica College | 1900 Pico Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90405 | smc.edu