Hello Venice!

VNC ballot applications are now closed and the ballot return postmark deadline is TUESDAY MARCH 18TH!

The team:
Brian Averill - President
Gary Pearl - Vice President
Deborah Keaton - Treasurer
Alex Neiman - Outreach Chair
Mark Mack - Land Use Chair
Steve Bradbury - Communications Chair
Tima Bell - Secretary
and Community Officers
Nico Ruderman
Alley Bean
Christopher Lee
Fran Solomon
Jason Sugars
Yolanda Gonzalez

• We believe that the addiction and mental health crises on our streets need to be addressed immediately.
• We believe the current level of violent crime is unacceptable.
• We believe in the preservation and celebration of Venice’s unique cultural and historical legacy.
• We believe in the strong support of our local businesses.
• We believe in fiercely protecting our environment, most especially our beaches and open spaces.
• We believe in sensible, sustainable, respectful development and the protection of our affordable housing stock.
• We believe in empowering local artists and celebrating those who have forged this incredible creative culture.
• We believe that enormous projects like Venice-Dell are misguided and not the answer to our homelessness issues.
• We believe in civility, common ground, positivity, and respect.

President - Brian Averill
I’ve lived in Venice for 23 years. I’m a professional photographer and director and the current VNC president. I’m a founding board member of the Venice Surfing Association, the Last Thursday Concert Series, and the Venice Boardwalk Action Committee. The VBAC wrote and helped implement the proposal used by the city to house the boardwalk encampments in 2021. I've worked with all of the above candidates and I'm certain that they are the best team to continue moving Venice forward in a positive direction. 

Links/Interviews

The Boardwalk Encampments:
LA Times
Bloomberg 
Wall Street Journal 

The Venice Median Project:
LA Times

The Surfing Association:
The Argonaut

Vice President - Gary Pearl 

I have lived in Venice for more than 30 years, dedicating myself to preserving its unique culture and fostering community connections. As a parent of a young child, I worked tirelessly to replace the Venice Beach playground so all our children can enjoy it. I’m proud to be part of Venice’s tech and creative communities, where I’ve dedicated my career to fostering collaboration and innovation. My goal as Vice President is to preserve the authenticity of Venice while ensuring it remains inclusive and welcoming for everyone.

Outreach Chair - Alex Neiman

As a lifelong Venetian and 31-year resident, I’ve witnessed our community grow and evolve in remarkable ways. Venice is a vibrant tapestry of people from all walks of life—a reflection of the best of Los Angeles. I believe in our collective ability to honor Venice’s rich history while fostering an optimistic vision for how it continues to evolve. Together, we can address challenges, embrace opportunities, and create a neighborhood that thrives while remaining inclusive and true to its roots. I will work to ensure all voices are heard, and that we move forward with purpose, strengthening the sense of community that makes Venice so special. 

Treasurer - Deborah Keaton

As Chair of the OFW Committee I've brought a positive, solution-based approach focused on clear communication with our city representatives. Now, I’m running for Treasurer. With over 30 years of running my own successful business in Venice, I have developed a strong understanding of managing finances. I’ll apply this to ensure fiscal responsibility, transparency, and community-focused funding. I believe in collaboration, kindness, and common ground to achieve the best outcomes for our community. There’s no room for negativity, ego or unproductive behavior. For 15+ years, my family has hosted the “Think Positive Party,” a neighborhood music event that brings together 150+ locals for a full day of fellowship and great music - one example of how we build community in Venice. Our daughter attends Venice High and I’m a proud supporter of LAUSD, having served in the PTA and Girl Scouts. Thank you for your support! 

Land Use Chair - Mark Mack

As a 35 year resident and practicing architect with former teaching positions at the Department of Architecture and Urban Planning at UCLA and the College of Environmental Design at UC Berkeley, I would like to lend my expertise and passion to the wellbeing of Venice. I have seen many shades of development over the last few decades and witnessed the changes both in population and the urban fabric of our neighborhoods. In my professional life I have planned and executed award winning housing projects, planning proposals, commercial, institutional and residential architecture on four continents. I have now served a full term on the Venice Land Use and Venice Community Plan committees. Now, as a semi-retired architect, I would like to give back time and expertise to the Venice community.

Communications Chair - Steve Bradbury

My goals for the 2025 term include  (1) a re-designed and frequently updated VNC website; (2) regular distribution of an informative email newsletter; (3) an updated/refined VNC database and (4) clearer explanations for how to get involved (hint: you can join a VNC committee, it’s not just for board members). These deliverables and thoughtful pragmatism will be my continuing commitment as a VNC board member and your new Communications Chair. Thank you for your support.

Secretary - Tima Bell

As the incumbent Secretary of the VNC, I am excited to commit my time and resources to the position again. I was honored to be elected for the first time two years ago and I've enjoyed being able to give back to my lifelong community. As a 50+ year Venice native, I would love to continue this commitment.

Secretary