The Los Angeles City Council was sharply divided in its decision to halt a controversial hotel project in Benedict Canyon. Concerns from neighbors regarding the project’s impact on the environment and public safety prompted the council to vote 8-6 in favor of Councilwoman Katy Yaroslavsky’s motion. The motion directs the city planning director to reconsider the approval of a General Plan amendment for the proposed Bulgari Hotel, which would be built in a residential area. Yaroslavsky emphasized the importance of land use, climate, and public safety, and expressed solidarity with colleagues in protecting special places unique to Los Angeles. While the council’s call for reconsideration is not binding, the city planning department has committed to reviewing the decision.
In support of her motion, Yaroslavsky highlighted four reasons, including a potential ethics violation involving her predecessor’s planning and land use deputy. Records from the Ethics Commission reveal significant lobbying efforts and financial compensation related to the General Plan amendment process. Yaroslavsky questioned the lack of consultatio with the City Ethics Office or City Attorney’s Office regarding the conflict of interest. Additionally, Yaroslavsky raised concerns about environmental threats and hazards posed by the proposed project, as well as the overwhelming opposition from constituents and prominent figures such as Mayor Karen Bass, the Sierra Club, and the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy.
The Bulgari project, introduced in 2018, seeks to construct a 59-room hotel and eight single-family homes on a 32.67-acre property. The hotel would consist of 18 buildings, a parking structure, a funicular railway, and various amenities, while the residential portion would comprise eight single-family homes with associated garage parking. Developer Gary Safady assured efforts to blend the hotel into the environment, minimize on-site events, and replace displaced trees on a 4-to-1 basis.
The project has ignited strong opposition from Benedict Canyon residents, as well as community and environmental groups, who cite concerns about public safety and environmental impact. On the other hand, labor organizations believe the project will generate employment opportunities and contribute to the city’s overall benefit. Celebrity endorsements and opposition have also added to the polarizing nature of the issue.
Prior to the recent vote, the council had been deadlocked on the matter. However, Councilwoman Traci Park’s change of position, influenced by engaging with constituents and considering the project’s impact on natural resources, proved pivotal in passing the motion. Council members Heather Hutt, John Lee, Monica Rodriguez, Paul Krekorian, Kevin de León, and Curren Price maintained their opposition, emphasizing the importance of completing environmental impact reviews before taking a definitive stance.
Yaroslavsky expressed satisfaction with the council’s decision, stating that they stood with the community and environmental leaders who have tirelessly fought to protect the Santa Monica Mountains from the proposed hotel.
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