1. As a follow-up to the October meeting, a report on residential burglaries comparing calendar years 2007, 2008 and year-to-date 2009 was distributed. Those statistics have been posted on this website for residents' review. 2008 showed a reduction from 2007 but annualized figures for 2009 indicate an approximate 26% increase from 2008. Updates will be made through the end of the year as figures become available.

2. As an outcome to the discussion about motorcycle noise in October, traffic calming options along the 2nd St/Livingston/Ocean interchange and along Broadway have been undertaken. Julie Maleki, from Councilman DeLong's office, reported that they are working with a local architect to develop plans for a bike lane, pedestrian crossings, and reduction of traffic lanes on Livingston Drive between 2nd and Ocean. The office is also working with a local architect to develop plans for a tree lined center median and bike lane on Broadway between Nieto Ave and Park Ave. We are also awaiting statistics regarding accidents at Colorado & Roycroft. I have sent an email to Sergeant Marcoux asking for an update on other outstanding issues but have not yet received a response.

3. Code enforcement has identified that the owner of the building at 124 Mira Mar is in violation by renting to a fraternity. A letter has been sent to the owner of the property and we should see some resolution within 30-60 days.

4. The proposed design for the Belmont Shore gateway sign was distributed. According to Councilman De Long's office and City staff, the public will have an opportunity to have input as the permit and variance process moves forward next year. Information on the project will be attached to this posting. This project may be delayed due to funding.

5. December's agenda will include a presentation by John Keisler, the current Manager for Animal Control and in January, Steve Gerhardt will return for more discussion on Long Beach 2030. We also hope to have specific feedback from our "walkabout" meeting by then. Please post questions or discussion points for the December meeting to this website and they will be sent to John Keisler.

6. Dianne Sundstrom discussed the possibility of having a joint meeting with the Belmont Shore Resident's Association to host a debate among those running for the 3rd district Council seat. Those at the meeting voiced interest and support in doing so; the meeting will likely be held mid-March.

7. Several residents of the Heights, including Bette McKinney and Craig Starnes, are decorating a room at the Bembridge house for the holiday season. Thanks for volunteering!

8. Our guest speaker, Erin Kellogg, a staff member from El Dorado Nature Center, gave an excellent presentation on native gardening with a focus of doing so in containers. She provided a number of resources including:

California Native Plan Society
http://www.cnps.org

Tree of Life Nursery:
33201 Ortega Highway
San Juan Capistrano
949-728-0685
http://www.californianativeplants.com

Las Pilitas Nursery
Escondido, CA
760-749-5930
http://www.laspilitas.com

Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden
1500 North College Avenue
Claremont, CA
909-625-8767
http://www.rsabg.org

A great deal of information can be found on these websites; in addition, Rancho Santa Ana has a "hotline" for questions, particularly those related to native plants.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 PM.