Venice Neighborhood Council Unites Against Controversial Housing Proposal Revisions

Venice Neighborhood Council Opposes Revised Housing Project

The Venice Neighborhood Council met on November 19 to discuss a controversial housing proposal. The council voted overwhelmingly for a resolution that demands the proposal undergo normal review before the California Coastal Commission examines it.

President Brian Averill led the discussion, emphasizing that this was the council’s only chance to address significant revisions to the plan. Changes include structured parking, fewer low-income housing units, and impacts on the historic Pacific Electric Short Line Canal Bridge. The removal of a community café and art studio also raised concerns.

Residents have long opposed the project, known as the “Monster on the Median,” which has been in the works for eight years. Local officials, including former Councilman Mike Bonin, were criticized for ignoring resident concerns. Interestingly, representatives from the Venice and Hollywood Community Housing organization did not attend the council meeting.

LA City Councilmember Traci Park attended but did not provide remarks. Residents expressed a strong desire for transparency and a thorough review of the revised proposal. Alex Lamb and Robin Rudisill, former VNC member, stressed the importance of properly evaluating the revisions. Many residents argued that the project’s changes did not comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Concerns were voiced about reducing low-income housing units and the lack of adequate beach parking. A resident labeled the proposal a “public land grab disguised as affordable housing.” Another described it as a “$120 million giveaway” linked to previous leadership.

The board members showed support for the resolution. President Averill noted 32 speaker cards backing the resolution were filed, highlighting community sentiment. However, some board members, like Community Officer Clark Brown, characterized the resolution as a “stalling tactic.”

After deliberation, the board voted 14 in favor of the resolution, three against, and others recused or ineligible to vote.

Upcoming VNC Elections

In other news, the Venice Neighborhood Council announced elections for its 21-member board scheduled for March 2025. Candidate filings are open until December 30. For information on running for a seat, visit venicenc.org.