"Several months ago, an exploratory committee was formed to consider whether to run for a second two-year term on the Neighborhood Council that covers the Studio City area (“SCNC”). The committee was also established to explore key issues affecting our local neighborhood, our City and County and the Nation. Indeed, events in Washington and Beijing, and everywhere in between, impact on our families, our work and our futures here in Studio City.
In 2009 I was appointed by the then sitting members of the SCNC to fill a vacant seat as a Business Owner.
In the spring of 2010 I stood for election as an independent candidate for the SCNC and, having conducted a positive reform campaign, won election in my own right to the SCNC.
Since becoming a Neighborhood Councilmember, I have worked diligently and tirelessly on the bylaws, land use and government affairs committee, and served as a chairman of the government affairs committee.
My record has been one of independence, and I have also often been the voice calling for fiscal prudence and adherence to the rules and laws that govern the activities of the SCNC.
I have called for no further building of any kind on the Universal back lot.
I have opposed the expenditures of thousands of tax dollars for streetlight .
I called for a new look at rules on what – and that ultimately was accomplished.
I was the sole vote to save the Whitsett Golf Course.
I was the sole vote to for the upcoming election.
And I have often been the lone voice expressing concern and oversight as to the funneling of tax dollars to various “favored” organizations.
It has been a great honor to serve my neighbors as a Board member of the SCNC. And, at times, it has been fun.
However, the reform and streamlining of the organization that I had hoped for, and the adherence to true and robust involvement of all of our neighbors, and the fiscal prudence and procedural compliance that are crucial, are still goals and necessities if the SCNC is to become a truly useful, competent, respected and effective organization.
Three years of service is probably enough. I have always dedicated myself to public service and believe that I can do more, and be more effective, in other ways. And, my son Ben, who, although he loves the pizza at the Board meetings, has made it clear he would prefer to have me at home instead of going to so many meetings.
Accordingly, after much consideration and consultation with friends, family and others, I have decided not to stand for election to the SCNC.
It is hoped that the future will see more substantive accomplishment by, and more productive use of tax dollars given to, the Neighborhood Council.
Most of all, I wholeheartedly thank the people here in Studio City who have supported me in this endeavor – by their vote, their comments and even their constructive criticism.
I look forward to continuing to explore policies and ways to provide a better life and future for all of us.”
lives in Studio City with his wife, Rosalind Moore, a writer, and their nine year old son Ben. Carter is a lawyer with offices in Beverly Hills and Manhattan. He is the founder and principal of The New Commonwealth Company, which, through its groups, engages in mediation, education, consulting and publishes The Aquidneck Inquirer and New Commonwealth Magazine. Jeff is an alumnus of Brown University and Columbia Law School.
