Eight of the nine remaining candidates in the race for West Hollywood City Council engaged in a lively debate Thursday evening at Beaches Tropicana hosted by WeHo For The People, an election advocacy group founded by the WeHo Chamber.
Ben Kawaller of the Free Press moderated the forum attended by candidates Larry Block, Jordan Cockeram, Mayor John M. Erickson, Danny Hang, Dorian Jackson, George Nickle, West Seegmiller and Zekiah “Z” Wright.
What’s your solution to ensuring developments are built in a timely manner?
In response to Kawaller’s question, Nickle noted that incomplete projects in his neighborhood attract squatters and pose safety risks. He called for stronger assurances that developers can finish projects before they are approved. Wright followed up by pointing to several unfinished projects around the city and supported the idea of removing red tape to ensure developers complete their work promptly.
Jackson echoed Nickle’s concerns, expressing frustration with delayed projects and emphasizing the need for developers to be held accountable to their timelines. Jackson also suggested that the city staff should work closely with developers to ensure progress and avoid prolonged delays.
Hang suggested an emergency clause be added to development agreements, allowing City Council to intervene in stalled projects. He cited the Melrose Triangle project as an example, where the developer’s legal troubles halted progress, leaving the Council unable to act.
Cockeram disagreed with the idea of City Council intervention, advocating instead for fast-tracking approvals regardless of personal opinions on the projects.
“It’s better for it to be something than nothing,” Cockeram said. “We want it to get approved and fast-tracked as quickly as we can.”
Erickson explained that some of the delays on the east side were due to the bankruptcy of a developer during the pandemic. He mentioned that the city has been working with Wells Fargo to try to buy out the properties and move the stalled developments forward, particularly the long-promised Melrose Triangle project.
Seegmiller admitted he was still catching up on the issue and chose to defer to others with more knowledge of the specific developments in question, offering a rare moment of transparency in the discussion.
Block shifted the conversation toward the broader issue of development in West Hollywood, criticizing the Chamber of Commerce for advocating the demolition of several buildings, including the French Market and the Factory, without offering viable plans to replace them. He expressed frustration that many major projects were torn down on the Chamber’s advice but have since stalled without progress.
Finally, Block closed the discussion by reflecting on the disconnect between promises made by developers and the reality on the ground. He called for more proactive measures from both the city and developers to ensure that major projects like the Melrose Triangle and the Arts Club are completed in a timely manner. He emphasized the need for installing time limits on revoking permits, which he believes would help manage the situation.
Do you feel that the city’s minimum wage law, which includes paid time off and sick leave for both full and part-time workers, has had an overall positive or negative effect on the city, its business owners, and its workforce?
Wright was the first to respond, affirming that the pandemic had a significant impact on both businesses and employees. They noted that, following the pandemic, multiple demands were placed on businesses, including the introduction of a plastics ban and mandatory employee training, which further strained them. Wright argued that while new regulations might have good intentions, proper planning is necessary to ensure businesses can adapt without mass layoffs.
Nickle followed by stating that the minimum wage ordinance had been detrimental to small businesses in the city. He noted that many beloved businesses had been forced to close and that while everyone agrees a wage increase was necessary, it was the additional provisions, like paid time off for part-time workers, that caused the most harm. Nickle also expressed frustration with external influences like UNITE HERE, which he claimed pushed these regulations through the City Council.
“We are a good progressive city,” Nickle said. “We don’t need to be told by outside forces that we’re not good enough when we have to compete with Beverly Hills and Los Angeles. And it is 20% cheaper to open a business in Beverly Hills than here because of this.
Erickson countered that the real issue was that $19 an hour is still not a livable wage. He pointed out that many people are barely making ends meet and recalled that back in 2015, the city had refused to support the Fight for 15, which he described as an embarrassing moment. Erickson emphasized that no one should have to choose between basic necessities, such as food, and called for a wage increase that would provide workers with a better standard of living.
“The fact that we are up here in 2024 discussing $19 and then about paid time off or sick time for workers is a conversation that I think goes to the crux of who we are as a people in this nation,” Erickson said. “No one is making enough money.”
Block pointed out that he is likely the only person on stage who owns a business in West Hollywood and manages payroll. He argued that the minimum wage law had disrupted his business model, which allowed employees to trade shifts and work according to their schedules. Block lamented that the new rules made it impossible for small businesses to operate as flexibly as before, ultimately discouraging people from opening new businesses in the city.
“This law fucked up my business model,” Block said. “My business model doesn’t include all these rules for a little business that apply to housekeepers, and you’re never going to get anybody opening up stores under those rules if we don’t do something about it. We need to really go back and look at how we can build our small business community with rules for small businesses.”
Hang took a more positive stance, affirming that the minimum wage and paid time off provisions had a beneficial impact on the community by helping people meet essential expenses like rent and student loans. He praised the paid time off rule for allowing workers to recover from illness without sacrificing income or endangering others at work. Hang also reminded the audience that $19 an hour is still below the living wage in California, which he estimated to be around $45 an hour.
Seegmiller expressed reservations about the provisions, stating that while raising the minimum wage was morally correct, the real issue lies with the predatory practices of large corporations. He claimed that the minimum wage ordinance had disproportionately affected small businesses, forcing many to shut down, while big corporations and luxury enterprises like pot shops and hotels moved in, taking control of the local economy.
Jackson also appreciated the Council’s intentions but felt that the policy should be reassessed. She shared concerns about shop owners who are unable to afford paying sick leave or time off due to low revenue, forcing them to work long hours themselves.
“We also have to look at a lot of the people who are coming into our city to work for these $19 an hour plus an hour don’t live in our community,” Jackson said. “So when it’s our turn to go out to Barney’s Beanery to have a beer and a burger, that’s a $50 night. We can’t afford that as people who live in this community.”
Cockeram echoed Jackson’s point, emphasizing that as a City Councilmember, his priority is to represent the interests of West Hollywood residents. He acknowledged that around 80% of workers in the city commute from other areas, which complicates the local economy. Cockeram argued that while workers deserve fair wages, the current policy is hurting small businesses, with more closing than opening.
“It seems like for every one (business) that opens, two more of them close,” Cockeram said. “We just had our Chamber mixer at Pink Taco, and it seemed like everything was going fantastic, and then four days later, it was closing down. No, this has absolutely been hurting the businesses, which ends up hurting residents, hurting the taxpayers, and hurting everyone. It doesn’t help anyone at all.”
What is your long-term vision for the local business community, and how do you plan to make the city more attractive to entrepreneurs?
Seegmiller responded first, noting that he closely monitors global trends and their impact on West Hollywood. He voiced concerns about the increasing dominance of large corporations in the city and emphasized the need to prioritize local businesses. Seegmiller also called for a shift away from what he described as “drug tourism” and “sex tourism” in the nightlife scene, advocating for a return to family values.
Nickle was next to respond, stating that if the current trends continue, the city will be dominated by big-box stores. He argued that this would destroy West Hollywood’s unique character as an urban village where local businesses thrive. Nickle stressed the importance of creating stability for business owners, ensuring they know that decision-makers are on their side and not influenced by external forces.
Hang expressed his desire to make West Hollywood more business-friendly by simplifying the process of obtaining a business license. He noted that small business owners often face long delays — sometimes up to two years — before they can get the necessary approvals to open their doors. Hang advocated for cutting red tape and streamlining the permitting process to help businesses open faster and more efficiently.
Cockeram followed by emphasizing the need to expedite the permitting process for businesses. He explained that many business owners struggle not because of high rent, but because they have to pay rent for months before their permits are approved, preventing them from making any money. Cockeram stressed that helping businesses open and stay open is crucial for generating tax revenue that supports city services.
What is the hold-up of opening a business in West Hollywood, and how would you work to make this process less sclerotic?
Wright responded by calling for the removal of barriers that prevent businesses from thriving. They suggested re-engaging partnerships with the Chamber of Commerce and other business organizations to foster better communication and collaboration. Wright also advocated for bringing businesses to the table to engage in meaningful discussions with city staff to streamline processes and improve regulations.
Erickson highlighted the importance of ongoing relationships between the city and the business community, noting the value of events like First Fridays, where business meetings are held monthly. He acknowledged the need to expedite the permit process but also emphasized the importance of involving residents in discussions about new businesses, particularly when they might affect noise and parking in residential neighborhoods. Erickson supported finding a balance between streamlining business approvals and addressing community concerns.
Jackson questioned the long delays in the business licensing process, contrasting it with her experience in local government, where a business license can be obtained in a week. She noted that while obtaining a basic business license is simple, opening a brick-and-mortar business often involves more red tape and community input. Jackson suggested that finding ways to reduce these delays without sacrificing community engagement would benefit both businesses and residents.
Nickle returned to the conversation, agreeing with the need for streamlining the process but reiterating his concern that large corporations were overtaking local businesses. He argued that the city should focus on protecting small, unique businesses that give West Hollywood its distinctive character, rather than allowing corporate interests to dominate the landscape.
Seegmiller reiterated his earlier point about the need to prioritize local business ownership. He suggested that by focusing on local entrepreneurs and reducing the influence of big corporations, the city could retain its charm and provide better services to residents.
Hang again emphasized the importance of cutting red tape and streamlining the permitting process. He argued that small business owners cannot afford to wait months or years to get the necessary approvals to open their doors and that the city should do everything possible to make the process faster and more efficient.
Cockeram agreed with Hang, stating that the city’s bureaucratic delays were a major obstacle to business success. He stressed that helping businesses open quickly is crucial for generating tax revenue and providing services to residents, and he called for reforms to make the process less burdensome.
Wright returned to the theme of collaboration, emphasizing the importance of engaging with business organizations like the Chamber of Commerce to ensure that businesses have a voice in shaping the city’s policies. They also called for revisiting current regulations to ensure they are flexible enough to allow businesses to expand and thrive.
Erickson reiterated the importance of community engagement in the business approval process, noting that residents often have concerns about noise and parking when new businesses open. He advocated for finding a balance between expediting business approvals and ensuring that residents have input on decisions that affect their neighborhoods.
Jackson closed by again stressing the need for reducing delays in the business licensing process. She emphasized that while community input is important, the city must find ways to streamline the process to support both businesses and residents.
Nickle concluded by warning that if the current trends continue, West Hollywood will lose its unique character as an urban village. He called for the city to focus on supporting small businesses and ensuring that they have the stability and support they need to succeed.
Seegmiller closed by reiterating his call for prioritizing local businesses over large corporations. He argued that by doing so, the city could protect its distinctive charm and provide better services to its residents.
Block responded by asserting that these community notifications often don’t happen as they should. He shared his experience of opening a store in Los Angeles in 30 days and said that much of the delay blamed on the city is actually due to lease negotiations between entrepreneurs and landlords. However, Block criticized the city’s permitting process, citing a specific case involving Dialog Café, which had been waiting three years for new awning permits while incurring over $100,000 in fees.
All candidates said they would not support reducing Fountain Avenue to one lane of traffic in either direction in order to install protected bike lanes — except for Erickson and Hang.
Kawaller continued with questions about campaign funding sources.
Hang mentioned that his funding primarily comes from family, friends, and a coalition of community supporters. Cockeram responded by thanking his family for their financial support, highlighting his personal connections in his campaign Block explained that he had invested $50,000 of his own money into his campaign, emphasizing that he was running to fight for the soul of the city. Jackson shared that her campaign was also funded by family and friends, humorously adding that she welcomed further donation.
Nickle proudly noted that over 70% of his donations came from West Hollywood residents, with the rest coming from local mom-and-pop businesses and other donors who support constitutional values. Wright asked for clarification on the time limit, after which Kawaller reiterated the focus of the question.
Erickson expressed that his campaign had a broad base of support but emphasized that everyone on the stage shared a vision for the city, although Jordan’s repeated interruptions led to Erickson calling for stricter enforcement of the debate rules. The discussion grew tense, with candidates voicing frustrations over disruptions and off-topic remarks. Nickle, seated nearby, asked for calm and suggested everyone check their phones to prevent further interruptions.
Kawaller moved the conversation to a question regarding property owners’ concerns about feeling overlooked compared to renters, despite paying higher taxes. An anonymous speaker pointed out that while property owners have rights, it’s important to consider how their actions may infringe on others’ rights. Nickle stated that property owners were vital to the city’s development, and while he supported rent control, it was important to maintain a cooperative relationship between property owners and tenants. Block identified small mom-and-pop property owners as the city’s largest group of small business owners and criticized the debate for not addressing rent control adjustments, especially concerning market rate units. He stressed the importance of fair policies to protect both renters and landlords.
Next, Kawaller introduced the topic of supporting landlords in installing electric vehicle charging stations. Wright responded affirmatively, advocating for helping landlords with solar panels and other resources to support environmentally friendly initiatives. Cockeram added that tenants in rent-controlled units already have the right to install electric charging stations at their own expense but supported landlords taking on this responsibility. A third speaker expressed skepticism about a full switch to electric vehicles, citing concerns about the electrical grid’s stability and the continued need for gas-fueled cars. Nickle supported a more nuanced approach, promoting incentives for environmentally friendly cars rather than making driving overly difficult.
Erickson expanded on the city’s Climate Action Plan, highlighting statewide grants from Southern California Edison (SCE) and the California Department of Water and Power (DWP) that could help landlords with installations during seismic retrofitting. Cockeram reiterated his agreement with Nickle, advocating for incentives rather than penalties for drivers of fossil fuel-powered cars. Jackson spoke briefly in support of Wright’s suggestion, emphasizing the importance of state support for landlords in adopting electric vehicle infrastructure. She pointed out that while some grants exist, more resources were needed to facilitate the transition.
The next topic focused on scooters and delivery robots. Kawaller asked the candidates if scooters were a hazard on sidewalks and what actions the city should take. Hang voiced concerns about improper scooter use, particularly on sidewalks, and advocated for better infrastructure to protect both riders and pedestrians. He also noted that scooters were environmentally beneficial and provided an equitable transportation option for those without cars. Kawaller then opened the floor to other speakers.
The conversation returned to the importance of maintaining balance between property owner rights and renter protections. Block reiterated that small business owners, particularly property owners, were crucial to the city’s economic structure. He called for a better understanding of both sides in order to develop fair policies that would ensure the survival of both landlords and tenants. He also criticized the debate for failing to address key issues affecting small property owners, especially the economic pressures they face.
Cockeram and Wright both emphasized the importance of collaboration between landlords, tenants, and the city government. Cockeram noted that tenants should have the ability to install their own electric charging stations but supported the idea of landlords taking on that role in the future. Wright reiterated the need for state support in helping landlords modernize their buildings with sustainable technology, ensuring that all residents benefited from green initiatives.
The discussion of electric vehicles led to broader concerns about the city’s infrastructure and environmental sustainability. Nickle and Erickson both supported expanding the city’s environmental efforts, particularly in finding ways to make electric vehicles more accessible without punishing drivers of gas-fueled cars. Erickson pointed out the need for statewide collaboration and the use of grants to ensure that landlords could upgrade their buildings for both seismic and environmental reasons.
As the conversation moved back to scooters, the candidates expressed mixed views on their use in the city. While Hang supported scooters as a green transportation option, other speakers raised concerns about safety, particularly regarding the lack of infrastructure to keep scooters off sidewalks. The candidates debated potential solutions, including stricter enforcement of scooter laws and better infrastructure planning.
Closing remarks
Nickle began by expressing his deep love for West Hollywood, calling it a sanctuary for the LGBTQ community. He shared a personal story about his husband feeling comfortable enough to kiss him in public when they first moved to the city. Nickle lamented the direction the city had taken over the past four years, calling for a turnaround to support small businesses and restore the city’s vibrant character.
Erickson followed with a statement emphasizing West Hollywood’s history of progressive values and compassion. He highlighted the city’s efforts to save the Log Cabin, provide resources for homeless residents, and build affordable housing. Erickson pointed to the city’s budget surplus as evidence that progressive policies can coexist with financial stability and expressed his desire to continue working with the community to address challenges.
Hang began his closing statement by expressing his deep love for West Hollywood and outlining the key issues he intends to address as a City Councilmember. He emphasized his focus on affordable housing, homelessness, safeguarding the workforce, improving local businesses, and making the city a safer and healthier place. Hang mentioned endorsements from the County Fire Department and Supervisor Lindsey Horvath but stressed that the most important endorsement would come from the voters. He closed by hoping to earn their support in the upcoming election.
Seegmiller followed with a more critical tone, explaining that while he once loved the city, it had lost much of its appeal over the last four years. He described residents walking around in a “hypnotic daze,” failing to learn from past mistakes.
“Everyone up here is well-meaning,” Seegmiller said. “They’ve all got great ideas. I appreciate it, and I’m happy to be up here with them. But they are all different shades of the same color blue. I represent a radically different, independent voice on City Council. And you know what? We really need somebody who’s totally different—not beholden to one clique or the other—to act as a solvent and as a voice for all the people who have been totally disenfranchised the last four years.”
Wright thanked the audience for their engagement throughout the forum. Wright underscored the importance of the upcoming local election, noting that local politics often have a more direct impact on residents than national elections. Wright said they were running out of love for the city and its people, emphasizing their long-term commitment to West Hollywood. They also mentioned their desire to ensure the city remained clean, green, and supportive of both marginalized groups and the elderly population.
Wright elaborated further on their platform, emphasizing that they were not motivated by special interests but by the interests of the entire community. They expressed a desire for development that enhances the city’s quality of life and ensures marginalized groups, including LGBTQ youth and seniors, are not left behind. Wright closed by asking for the support of the audience, reaffirming their commitment to serving the city for the long haul, rather than using the position as a stepping stone.
Jordan Cockeram took the stage next, thanking the audience for attending and encouraging them to support local West Hollywood businesses by purchasing drinks after the event. He joked that it wasn’t irresponsible to buy drinks at such events, further emphasizing the importance of supporting local businesses. Cockeram explained that one of the reasons he was running for City Council was to represent both the businesses and the residents of West Hollywood. He spoke about the struggles his neighbors and friends have faced and noted that he wanted to be a voice for their concerns.
Cockeram also shared that he was inspired by the successes of his community and wanted to be a champion for those achievements. He proudly mentioned endorsements from John Heilman, a founder of the city, and Laura Friedman, likely WeHo’s future congresswoman. Cockeram ended his speech by making a direct appeal to the audience for their vote, explaining that their support was crucial to his success in the election.
Larry Block’s closing statement started with a personal anecdote about his first time speaking at a City Council meeting. Nervous about addressing the issue of gum on the sidewalks outside his store, Block shared how he initially backed out but returned two weeks later to voice his concerns. Block discussed his ongoing involvement with the city, highlighting his fight to have the rainbow flag raised at City Hall and his work on the term limits initiative.
Block also mentioned his leadership roles on the Disability Advisory Board and the Public Facilities Commission, where he founded the Green City Awards. He touted his store as the largest Pride store in the city and said he works daily to serve the community. Block emphasized his platform as one that invites engagement from the public and positions him as an independent voice on the City Council. He asked the audience to give him a chance, assuring them that he was prepared to deliver results.
Jackson recounted her arrival in West Hollywood 18 years ago, describing how she got off a train at the Metro station on Sunset and Vermont and walked to her new home. Jackson expressed her love for the city and her desire to see it continue to thrive. However, she noted that certain groups were being left behind, and she wanted to be the voice for those people, particularly senior citizens and young families.
Jackson elaborated on her commitment to helping seniors age with dignity in the city they had chosen to live in many years ago. She also expressed concern for young families struggling to navigate child care and raise children in an increasingly dense urban environment. Jackson reaffirmed her desire to be a voice for all residents and stressed that she wanted to be part of West Hollywood’s bright future. She closed by thanking the audience for their participation and emphasizing the importance of their choice in the upcoming election.
With regard to the Fountain Ave debacle
https://www.change.org/p/stop-the-fountain-ave-bike-lanes?recruiter=636721208&recruited_by_id=31b81870-aba9-11e6-9b47-9991311c76be&utm_source=share_petition&utm_campaign=psf_combo_share_initial&utm_term=psf&utm_medium=copylink&utm_content=cl_sharecopy_490230427_en-US%3A7
I hate to say that anyone “has earned” or “deserves” a seat on the City Council, but if anyone does, it’s Larry Block. Larry already has enough experience & expertise with city government, inside & out, to hit the ground running. Larry genuinely loves West Hollywood & is not looking to use the City Council as a steppingstone to higher office but as a course of action to help make West Hollywood an all-around better place for everyone. I think most people are already aware of Larry’s public service to this city & I don’t think it’s wise to take… Read more »
United HERE Loco 11 uses their union dues to do some really sketchy stuff. No wonder they only have 2.5 stars on google reviews. Not mindful. Not demure.
How many readers actually know what “sclerotic” means?
Larry is right. None these bozos know what it’s like to run a business here. Get ready for way more empty storefronts if this trend continues.
Whoever said a minimum wage job would provide a living wage? I noticed one candidate said the minimum wage needed to be $45/hour to be a living wage. That’s great but you better be prepared to pay $100 for a burger. Kamala Harris worked at McDonalds while she was in college. These jobs should be entry level jobs or part time jobs to earn some money. These are not living wage jobs. The idea is to start with an entry level job and prove your value so you can climb the ladder to better paying jobs. Only lazy or lousy… Read more »
I worked with Unite Here to raise the minimum wage for hotel workers a few years back. But since then their ambition has been to become the absolute power brokers of WeHo politics. Unite Here has become a toxic presence in West Hollywood and is a danger to local democracy. It has brought us “de-fund the Sheriff” and the Fountain Avenue “Re-Design”. Unite Here allows Erickson and Hang to avoid any accountability to the residents as the union is willing to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars of the members’ dues in its’ quest to create a political monopoly in… Read more »
Unite Here has committed almost a quarter of a million dollars (thus far) to spread a narrative of lies. Unite Here is a broker of deceit, pure and simple. Part of their deceit is their misinformation campaign on the pages of local media under anonymous names. If John Erickson and Danny Hang had an ounce of integrity and honor, they would disavow the lies that are being spread on their behalf. They have neither integrity nor honor and they won’t disavow the complete lies. It’s sad that Unite Here is spending their members’ dues on multiple political agenda that have… Read more »
Erickson must have a messianic complex because he alone is going to save these minimum skilled/wage workers so they can afford to live in West Hollywood for the rest of their lives and maybe even have a family. He may be surprised to learn that many of these workers have some other main source of income and consider the low wage job they are working to be transitional while they prepare for the career their sights are set on. But if they’re going to make enough money with the minimum wage that Erickson and Hang are demanding, these workers may… Read more »
“All candidates said they would not support reducing Fountain Avenue to one lane of traffic in either direction in order to install protected bike lanes — except for Erickson and Hang.“
Indicating, to me, that those two have brains instead of chocolate for brains
Funny how Erickson & Hang made no mention of Unite Here with regards to campaign funding and support. I have received at least 3 flyers for those 2 and if you read the fine print at the bottom you will see UNITE HERE. So, we know who is in bed with whom.
Yup. Deceptive all the way.
The answer to having developments not stall in the city isn’t having less resident input. Resident input is what the city is paid to hear. The solution to the problem are completion bonds and hard dates on the construction schedule that must be met. If they don’t complete they forfeit.
The city council needs to pass a rule that if landlords let a storefront go vacant and derelict for more than 30 days, it’s $150,000 urban blight fee per month as they hold out for some fool who will pay their exorbitant rents. It’s time for the government of West Hollywood to get tough on greedy greedy landlords who are destroying Businesses and quality life in West Hollywood due to their psychotic insatiable greed for exorbitant rents that crush business owners, raise prices for citizens, and leave empty storefronts that make our city look like exterior sets for night of… Read more »
Maybe consider examining what the expenses are for these landlords on these properties that you may not know about and you may find they are not making the profit you think they are.
Now that’s what I’m talking bout!