JANUARY 2023
In his role as Board Chair, Gaines & Stacey Managing Partner Fred Gaines hosted the Valley Economic Alliance “Our Region/Our Future” Summit held at California State University, Northridge, featuring newly elected Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.
FEBRUARY 2023
Gaines & Stacey LLP Partner Rebecca Thompson was awarded her Master’s Degree in Fine Arts in Writing from the Vermont College of Fine Arts.
MARCH 2023
Gaines & Stacey LLP client Norman Haynie received unanimous approval from the California Coastal Commission for the Sea View Hotel Project in the City of Malibu. Fred Gaines and Rebecca Thompson successfully represented the client before the City and the Commission.
APRIL 2023
Gaines & Stacey LLP client Anderson Place LLC received City of Los Angeles Department of City Planning approval for a new 20-story mixed use development on Wilshire Boulevard. Fred Gaines and Alicia Bartley successfully represented the client before the City.
MAY 2023
Two Gaines & Stacey LLP clients received approvals for new single-family homes from the City of Malibu Planning Commission. Fred Gaines and Kim Rible successfully represented the clients before the City.
JUNE 2023
Gaines & Stacey LLP client Cole Family Investment Rentals LLC received unanimous approval from the California Coastal Commission for a beachfront home in San Clemente. Founding Partner Sherman Stacey successfully represented the client at the approval hearing in Sacramento.
JULY 2023
Gaines & Stacey LLP Managing Partner Fred Gaines was a featured speaker at the Valley Economic Alliance Next Level Business Growth & Capital Summit held at Los Angeles Mission College.
AUGUST 2023
Gaines & Stacey LLP Managing Partner Fred Gaines was interviewed as part of a featured article on the California Housing Accountability Act in the July 24, 2023 Real Estate Quarterly edition of the Los Angeles Business Journal.
SEPTEMBER 2023
The San Fernando Valley Business Journal once again included Gaines & Stacey LLP Managing Partner Fred Gaines in its “Valley 200” listing of the most influential business and community leaders in the San Fernando Valley region.
OCTOBER 2023
Gaines & Stacey LLP client Super League Triathlon received unanimous approval on appeal for the 38th Annual Malibu Triathlon. Fred Gaines successfully represented the client before the Malibu City Council.
NOVEMBER 2023
Gaines & Stacey LLP client California Food Managers LLC received unanimous approval from the California Coastal Commission for a new, five story, 39 unit mixed use project on Sunset Boulevard in Pacific Palisades. Partner Alicia Bartley successfully represented the client before the Commission.
DECEMBER 2023
After 26 years at Gaines & Stacey LLP Partner Lisa Weinberg announced her retirement effective December 31, 2023. Her brilliant analytical mind, clear and detailed legal writing, compelling oratory, sage advice, and genuine warmth will continue to help guide our law practice.
JANUARY 2022
After 20 years in Encino, Gaines & Stacey LLP moved into our beautiful new offices in The Campus at Warner Center in Woodland Hills.
FEBRUARY 2022
Managing Partner Fred Gaines was reelected to a three year term as Chair of the Board of Directors of The Valley Economic Alliance.
MARCH 2022
Partner Alicia Bartley was appointed to the faculty at the University of Southern California Gould School of Law. Alicia teaches legal writing in the school’s Master of Laws (LLM) program.
APRIL 2022
The California Coastal Commission gave final approval to a 500,000 sq.ft., 312 room expansion of the historic Fairmont Miramar Hotel in Santa Monica. Founding Partner Sherman Stacey represented the projected before the Commission.
MAY 2022
Partner Lisa Weinberg joined the Board of Directors of the Independent Living Center of Southern California. The Center provides job training, housing assistance and advocacy for youth, older adults and veterans with disabilities.
JUNE 2022
Managing Partner Fred Gaines and his wife Jill were honored by The Los Angeles Jewish Home for the Aging at its annual Circle of Life Gala. Fred has served on the Home’s Eisenberg Village/Grancell Village Board of Directors for over ten years.
JULY 2022
July 15, 2022 marked the 25th Anniversary of Gaines & Stacey LLP. Since 1997, we have successfully served over 2,500 clients, grown to seven lawyers in two offices, and been recognized as one of the top land use law firms in Southern California.
AUGUST 2022
Partner Rebecca Thompson became a candidate for a Master’s in Fine Arts in Writing from the Vermont College of Fine Arts. Rebecca is working on her first novel.
SEPTEMBER 2022
The San Fernando Valley Business Journal once again included Managing Partner Fred Gaines in its “Valley 200” listing of the most influential leaders in the San Fernando Valley.
OCTOBER 2022
Partner Alicia Bartley provided pro bono legal services to the Japanese Institute of Sawtelle. Alicia has assisted the Japanese Institute with their plans to rebuild its headquarters facilities in West Los Angeles.
NOVEMBER 2022
Gaines & Stacey LLP clients Drs. Reza Nabavi and Maryam Akbar received approval from the Malibu Planning Commission for a major remodel of their home in Big Rock. Managing Partner Fred Gaines represented our clients before the City.
DECEMBER 2022
Founding Partner Sherman Stacey and Partner Kim Rible successfully represented two clients before the California Coastal Commission at its meeting in Salinas. In one matter, our clients were approved for a new 4,400 square foot home in Newport Beach. In the other, our clients received approval for a beach revetment project in Oceanside.
JANUARY 2021
Partner Kim Rible led negotiations on behalf of Gaines & Stacey LLP client VONS Supermarkets regarding their participation in the proposed Inglewood Transit Connector Project.
FEBRUARY 2021
Los Angeles Magazine once again included Managing Partner Fred Gaines on its annual list of Southern California “Super Lawyers.” This was Fred’s 18th consecutive year of being honored.
MARCH 2021
The San Fernando Valley Business Journal included an interview with Managing Partner Fred Gaines focused on the post-Covid state of the local land use development.
APRIL 2021
Managing Partner Fred Gaines began his second year as Chair of The Valley Economic Alliance, and Business Life Magazine published an article detailing the work of the Alliance towards the Valley’s economic recovery.
MAY 2021
Legal Assistant Tiffany Perry has received her renewed Commission as a Notary Public from the California Secretary of State.
JUNE 2021
Gaines & Stacey LLP client Lighthouse Brooks, LLC won a complete reversal in the California Court of Appeal of an adverse lower court ruling that would have revoked their development project’s certificate of occupancy. Partner Lisa Weinberg handled the appeal after another firm had obtained the unfavorable trial court ruling.
JULY 2021
The San Fernando Valley Business Journal included Managing Partner Fred Gaines in “The Valley 200,” its 2021 listing of the most influential leaders in the San Fernando Valley.
AUGUST 2021
Partner Alicia Bartley became a member of the Mobility Committee for the Los Angeles Chapter of the Urban Land Institute (“ULI”).
SEPTEMBER 2021
Gaines & Stacey LLP client Norman Haynie received approval from the Malibu City Council for a new 39 room luxury boutique hotel on Pacific Coast Highway. Partners Rebecca Thompson and Fred Gaines assisted Mr. Haynie on the project.
OCTOBER 2021
Gaines & Stacey LLP client the Surf & Sand Resort in Laguna Beach received approval from the California Coastal Commission for an extensive renovation. Partner Sherman Stacey represented the Resort before the Commission.
NOVEMBER 2021
Managing Partner Fred Gaines was a featured speaker at the California Building Industry Association’s Select Committee on Industry Litigation conference held in Carmel by the Sea. Fred led sessions on the Housing Accountability Act and the California Coastal Commission.
DECEMBER 2021
In his role as Chair of The Valley Economic Alliance, Managing Partner Fred Gaines was a convenor of “Homelessness & Housing: A Multi-Sector Conference Addressing Solutions & Innovations” held at Pierce College in Woodland Hills.
JANUARY 2020
Valley Lawyer Magazine featured an article authored by Gaines & Stacey LLP’s Alicia Bartley entitled “Inverse Condemnation and Private Utility for Wildfires”
FEBRUARY 2020
Gaines & Stacey LLP client Thomas Safran & Associates received Los Angeles City approval for a new 127 unit, 100% affordable, multi-family project in Southeast Los Angeles. Fred Gaines and Kim Rible represented the client throughout the land use entitlement process.
MARCH 2020
For the 10th consecutive year, Managing Partner Fred Gaines was been recognized by Los Angeles Magazine as a Southern California Super Lawyer.
APRIL 2020
Due to the COVID-19 emergency Gaines & Stacey LLP moved seamlessly to a remote work environment, while still providing clients with immediate response and the highest level of service.
MAY 2020
Managing Partner Fred Gaines was elected Chairman of the Board of Directors of The Valley Economic Alliance (VEA). VEA is playing a key role in the Valley’s economic recovery from the COVID-19 crisis.
JUNE 2020
Gaines & Stacey LLP clients won three public hearing victories all conducted online. Sherman Stacey won California Coastal Commission approval for a new home in San Clemente. Kim Rible obtained approval for Planet Fitness from the Van Nuys Neighborhood Council. Lisa Weinberg was successful at the Malibu City Council on approval of major litigation settlement.
JULY 2020
In his role as Chair of the Board of Directors of the Valley Economic Alliance, Managing Partner Fred Gaines had two articles published in the San Fernando Valley Business Journal and Business Life Magazine.
AUGUST 2020
Gaines & Stacey LLP client Mobile Park Investments, Inc. won California Coastal Commission approval for a new residential project on the Grand Canal in Venice. Fred Gaines made the presentation to the Commission “virtually.”
SEPTEMBER 2020
Gaines & Stacey LLP’s Alicia Bartley successfully litigated Cassilly v. City of Los Angeles, resulting in the Los Angeles Superior Court ordering the City to stop misuse of SurveyLA to hamper new development projects in Venice.
OCTOBER 2020
Managing Partner Fred Gaines was a guest lecturer at the California State University Northridge Department of Urban Studies and Planning. Fred spoke to students in their “Planning Law” class about zoning, eminent domain and takings.
NOVEMBER 2020
Partner Rebecca Thompson was reelected Chair of the Board of Directors of Valley Community Healthcare, an award winning non-profit provider of low cost healthcare services in the San Fernando Valley.
DECEMBER 2020
Gaines & Stacey LLP announced that effective January 1, 2021, Kimberly Rible and Alicia Bartley would become Partners of the firm. Kim and Alicia have both practiced at Gaines & Stacey LLP for more than 15 years and are two of the finest land use practitioners in the State of California.
JANUARY 2019
Gaines & Stacey LLP client Plus Development Group was successful in achieving unanimous approval from the City of Malibu Planning Commission for a new 10,000 sq. ft. beach front home. Managing Partner Fred Gaines presented the project to the Planning Commission.
FEBRUARY 2019
Gaines & Stacey LLP’s client was successful in overturning a Planning Commission denial and receiving approval from the Malibu City Council for a new 8,000 sq. ft. house on Point Dume. Managing Partner Fred Gaines represented the project before the City Council.
MARCH 2019
Partner Lisa Weinberg was successful in obtaining a court decision overturning the City of Glendale’s denial of a new residential subdivision. The court in Bonyadi v. City of Glendale ruled that the City Council failed to provide valid justification for its actions.
APRIL 2019
Gaines & Stacey LLP client SM Ocean Star LLC won California Coastal Commission approval for a new 14 unit ocean view condominium project in Santa Monica. Fred Gaines and Alicia Bartley represented the project before the Coastal Commission.
MAY 2019
Partner Rebecca Thompson was elected Chair of the Board of Valley Community Healthcare.
JUNE 2019
Gaines & Stacey LLP was inducted into the San Fernando Valley Business Hall of Fame as part of the Valley Industry & Commerce Association’s (VICA) 70th Anniversary Gala at the Sheraton Universal Hotel.
JULY 2019
Founding Partner Sherman Stacey was successful in obtaining approval from the City of Newport Beach for a new boat dock facility in Newport Harbor.
AUGUST 2019
Managing Partner Fred Gaines was included in the San Fernando Valley Business Journal’s 2019 listing of the 200 most influential leaders in the Valley area – known as “The Valley 200.”
SEPTEMBER 2019
Partner Rebecca Thompson was honored by the San Fernando Valley Business Journal as one of the Valley’s “Most Trusted Advisors.”
OCTOBER 2019
Managing Partner Fred Gaines received the prestigious Justice Armand Arabian Leaders in Public Service Award presented by the Encino Chamber of Commerce.
NOVEMBER 2019
Partner Lisa Weinberg was successful in resolving a complex regulatory enforcement matter when the California Coastal Commission unanimously approved a negotiated settlement.
DECEMBER 2019
Gaines & Stacey LLP client Live Oak 888, LLC, won unanimous approval from the Los Angeles County Regional Planning Commission for a new 86-unit townhome condominium development in Arcadia. Alicia Bartley represented the client throughout the approval process.
JANUARY 2018
Gaines & Stacey LLP clients received approvals for Coastal Development Permits for two new estate homes in Malibu. Alicia Bartley represented one client before the Malibu City Council. Fred Gaines handled the second matter at the Malibu Planning Commission.
FEBRUARY 2018
Los Angeles Magazine named Managing Partner Fred Gaines as a Southern California Super Lawyer. Fred was specifically recognized for his expertise in the Land Use/Zoning law practice area.
MARCH 2018
The Calabasas Chamber of Commerce honored Managing Partner Fred Gaines for his service as Mayor of the City of Calabasas.
APRIL 2018
Gaines & Stacey LLP was included on the San Fernando Valley Business Journal’s “The List” of the Top 50 Law Firms in the San Fernando Valley and North Los Angeles County Region.
MAY 2018
2018 marked ten years of service by Gaines & Stacey LLP’s Alicia Bartley on the Sherman Oaks Neighborhood Council Planning and Land Use Management Committee.
JUNE 2018
Managing Partner Fred Gaines achieved successful results for two clients at hotly contested
public hearings before the West Los Angeles Area Planning Commission. Commission approvals were achieved for a multi family project in Venice and a large estate home in Pacific Palisades.
JULY 2018
The July 2018 edition of Valley Lawyer Magazine contained an article authored by Gaines & Stacey LLP attorneys Alicia Bartley and Jason Szeftel entitled “Martins Beach and the Future of Inverse Condemnation.”
AUGUST 2018
Managing Partner Fred Gaines appeared before the California Coastal Commission in Chula Vista and received approval for a new multi family project in Venice.
SEPTEMBER 2018
Managing Partner Fred Gaines, in his role as Mayor of the City of Calabasas, presented the City’s 21st Annual State of the City Address.
OCTOBER 2018
Partner Rebecca Thompson serves on the Board of Directors of Valley Community Healthcare, which received the prestigious “National Quality Leaders Award” from the United States Health Resources and Services Administration.
NOVEMBER 2018
Managing Partner Fred Gaines, in his role as the Mayor of the City of Calabasas, made an official visit to Calabasas’ Sister City Anqing, China. While there Fred participated in a formal signing ceremony of a renewed Sister City Agreement.
DECEMBER 2018
Managing Partner Fred Gaines was included in “The Valley 200″ – the San Fernando Valley Business Journal’s listing of “the most influential leaders in the Valley Area 2018″.
OUR 20TH ANNIVERSARY YEAR
JANUARY 2017
Partner Lisa Weinberg negotiated a six figure settlement in an eminent domain action brought by the City of Camarillo seeking a water pipeline easement through strawberry fields owned by Gaines & Stacey LLP client Calleguas Land Company.
FEBRUARY 2017
Partner Rebecca Thompson successfully defended a lawsuit regarding alleged environmental contamination of an industrial property in Gardena. The final settlement provided for the clean-up of Gaines & Stacey LLP client Halldale Partners LLC’s property at no cost to them.
MARCH 2017
Gaines & Stacey LLP client WCC and E Properties won Los Angeles City approval for a new 170 unit residential/commercial mixed use project in Tarzana. Fred Gaines and Alicia Bartley represented the client throughout the land use entitlement process.
APRIL 2017
Gaines & Stacey LLP was included on the San Fernando Valley Business Journal’s “List” of the Top 50 Law Firms in the San Fernando Valley and North Los Angeles County Region.
MAY 2017
Managing Partner Fred Gaines was successful in obtaining unanimous Coastal Development Permit approval from the West Los Angeles Area Planning Commission for a spectacular ocean view house in Pacific Palisades.
JUNE 2017
Founding Partner Sherman Stacey was successful in obtaining final approval from the California Coastal Commission for a new single family home project in Venice. The approval reversed a previous Coastal Commission denial.
JULY 2017
Associate Alicia Bartley was selected as a Southern California Rising Star Super Lawyer by Los Angeles Magazine. Alicia was honored in the Land Use/Zoning Law category.
AUGUST 2017
Gaines & Stacey LLP celebrated its 20th Anniversary. Since 1997, the firm has served over 1,200 clients and has been recognized as one of Southern California’s most well respected law firms specializing in land use, zoning and environmental law.
SEPTEMBER 2017
Gaines & Stacey LLP client R.D. Olson Development won unanimous approval from the Los Angeles City Council for their proposed 21-story, 275 room Ivar Gardens Hotel in Hollywood. Fred Gaines and Kim Rible represented the client throughout the land use entitlement process.
OCTOBER 2017
Gaines & Stacey LLP Partner Rebecca Thompson was named to the Board of Directors for Valley Community Health Care, a non-profit provider of low cost health care in the San Fernando Valley.
NOVEMBER 2017
Managing Partner Fred Gaines was sworn in for his second term as Mayor of the City of Calabasas.
DECEMBER 2017
Managing Partner Fred Gaines was included in “The Valley 200″ – the San Fernando Valley Business Journal’s list of “the most influential leaders in the Valley Area.”
JANUARY 2016
Partner Rebecca Thompson was elected Co-Chair of the Los Angeles Board of Directors for the Sky’s The Limit Fund, a non-profit organization that transforms the lives of at-risk youth by providing grants for wilderness therapy programs throughout the United States.
FEBRUARY 2016
Managing Partner Fred Gaines was quoted in the New York Times, Los Angeles Times and San Francisco Chronicle regarding the California Coastal Commission’s firing of its Executive Director. Fred also discussed the subject as a guest on KPCC’s AirTalk radio show.
MARCH 2016
Managing Partner Fred Gaines was a featured speaker at a Special Meeting of the Sherman Oaks Neighborhood Council Land Use Committee. Fred participated in a panel discussion regarding the proposed Sherman Oaks Vision Plan.
APRIL 2016
Founding Partner Sherman Stacey was successful in obtaining unanimous California Coastal Commission approval for the rebuilding of the 100 year old Newport Harbor Yacht Club.
MAY 2016
Managing Partner Fred Gaines was a featured speaker at the California Building Industry Association Select Committee on Industry Litigation. Fred’s presentation was entitled “How Property Owners and Developers Can Win Attorneys’ Fees Under the Private Attorney General Statute.”
JUNE 2016
Gaines & Stacey LLP client the Mountains Restoration Trust beneficially settled litigation involving land it owns in the Santa Monica Mountains. Managing Partner Fred Gaines negotiated the agreement for MRT.
JULY 2016
Partner Rebecca Thompson was elected to the Board of Directors of Valley Community Healthcare. VCH provides medical services for more than 20,000 low income San Fernando Valley residents annually.
AUGUST 2016
Gaines & Stacey LLP client Hermitage Enterprises, LLC successfully defeated all claims in Save Valley Village v. City of Los Angeles, including that their property should be declared an historic landmark because Marilyn Monroe once lived there. Associate Alicia Bartley successfully argued the case at trial.
SEPTEMBER 2016
Managing Partner Fred Gaines was a featured speaker for the Santa Monica Bar Association. Fred spoke on the topic of “Representing Clients Before the California Coastal Commission.”
OCTOBER 2016
Valley Lawyer Magazine included an article featuring Managing Partner Fred Gaines. The article, entitled “Legal Governance: Four Valley Lawyer Legislators,” highlighted Fred’s service on the Calabasas City Council.
NOVEMBER 2016
Managing Partner Fred Gaines was a featured presenter at the City of Los Angeles Valley Alliance of Neighborhood Councils’ 2016 Planning Forum, held at the CBS Studios in Studio City.
DECEMBER 2016
Managing Partner Fred Gaines was elected to a one year team as Mayor Pro Tem of The City of Calabasas. Fred has served on the Calabasas City Council since 2011.
JANUARY 2015
Managing Partner Fred Gaines was a featured speaker at the Valley Alliance of Neighborhood Councils (VANC) Annual Planning Forum. Fred led a session entitled “Planning 101 – An Overview of Community Plans, Zoning, Variances and By-Right Development.”
FEBRUARY 2015
Managing Partner Fred Gaines was selected to serve on the Building Committee for the Los Angeles Jewish Home for the Aging. The Jewish Home is currently undertaking over $100 million in new construction on its San Fernando Valley and West Los Angeles campuses.
MARCH 2015
Gaines & Stacey LLP client Sportsmen’s Lodge REW, LLC won the unanimous approval of the City of Los Angeles’ South Valley Area Planning Commission for a nearly 100,000 sq. ft. redevelopment of its iconic Studio City property.
APRIL 2015
Los Angeles Magazine named Managing Partner Fred Gaines as a 2015 Southern California Super Lawyer. Fred was recognized in the Land Use/Zoning category.
MAY 2015
The San Fernando Valley Business Journal included Gaines & Stacey LLP on its “List” of the Top 40 Law Firms in the San Fernando Valley and North Los Angeles County Region.
JUNE 2015
Managing Partner Fred Gaines was a featured speaker at Law Seminars International’s Advanced Seminar on Land Use Planning in California. Fred led a session entitled “New Government Decision Making Processes: Use of Initiatives by Proponents of Projects to By-Pass CEQA and Opponents of Projects to Block Them.”
JULY 2015
Los Angeles Magazine named Associate Alicia Bartley as a Southern California “Rising Star Super Lawyer.” Alicia was recognized in the Real Estate Law category.
AUGUST 2015
Managing Partner Fred Gaines was named one of the San Fernando Valley’s “Most Trusted Advisors” by the San Fernando Valley Business Journal. Fred was one of only five attorneys to receive the honor.
SEPTEMBER 2015
Gaines & Stacey LLP client Trancas PCH, LLC was awarded over $120,000.00 in attorneys’ fees and costs to be paid by the City of Malibu. The Court found that Trancas acted in the public interest in bringing its successful suit challenging the City’s affordable housing laws.
OCTOBER 2015
Gaines & Stacey LLP client R.D. Olson Real Estate Group, represented by Founding Partner Sherman Stacey, won approval of the Lido House Hotel project from the California Coastal Commission. The 130 room boutique hotel will replace the former Newport Beach City Hall at the entrance of the Balboa Peninsula.
NOVEMBER 2015
Managing Partner Fred Gaines won reelection to the Calabasas City Council. Fred was sworn in for his second four year term by California State Assemblyman Matt Dababneh.
DECEMBER 2015
Gaines & Stacey LLP client 2901 Waverly LLC won unanimous approval from the City of Los Angeles Central Area Planning Commission for a new nine unit small lot single family subdivision in Silver Lake.
JANUARY 2014
Gaines & Stacey LLP Managing Partner Fred Gaines, in his role as Mayor of the City of Calabasas, delivered the annual Calabasas State of the City Address in the new Performing Arts and Education Center at Calabasas High School. Over 300 people attended the festivities.
FEBRUARY 2014
Gaines & Stacey LLP launched its completely revamped and redesigned law firm website – gaineslaw.com. In addition to new graphics and photographs, the website includes updated information on the firm’s attorneys, practice areas, clients, case highlights and articles.
MARCH 2014
Gaines & Stacey LLP Founding Partner Sherman Stacey was successful in obtaining approval from Los Angeles County for a new single family home in the Latigo Canyon area of Malibu. The project involved obtaining a Conditional Use Permit on a property governed partially by the County’s Santa Monica Mountains North Area Plan and partially by the California Coastal Act.
APRIL 2014
Gaines & Stacey LLP Partner Rebecca Thompson successfully closed a $38 Million sales transaction involving a 59 acre industrial property in the City of Compton. The deal involved lengthy multi-party negotiations with complicated financial and environmental contingencies.
MAY 2014
The California Coastal Commission approved the application of Gaines & Stacey LLP client John Morehart for new commercial construction, including a new bulkhead in Newport Harbor. Founding Partner Sherman Stacey represented our client before the Commission.
JUNE 2014
Gaines & Stacey LLP client The Festival Companies closed on the purchase of a signature shopping center in Sherman Oaks. Partner Rebecca Thompson represented our client in the transaction.
JULY 2014
Los Angeles Magazine once again named Gaines & Stacey LLP Associate Alicia Bartley as a Southern California “Rising Star Super Lawyer.” The selections are made based on the evaluation of 12 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement. Alicia was honored in the Real Estate Law category.
AUGUST 2014
The California Court of Appeal upheld an over half-million dollar judgment obtained at trial for Gaines & Stacey LLP clients Realty Executives and Sara Fincher-Schmidt. Partner Lisa Weinberg successfully represented our clients at trial and on the appeal.
SEPTEMBER 2014
Gaines & Stacey LLP Partner Rebecca Thompson completed the closing of a $24 million real estate purchase transaction for client Plaza de Hacienda, LLC. The subject property includes a multi-tenant shopping center in Riverside County.
OCTOBER 2014
Gaines & Stacey LLP client Community Recycling and Resource Recovery Inc. received unanimous approval from the Los Angeles City Planning Commission for the construction of a state-of-the-art solid waste transfer facility in Sun Valley. Managing Partner Fred Gaines and Associate Kimberly Rible represented Community Recycling throughout the permitting process.
NOVEMBER 2014
Gaines & Stacey LLP Partner Lisa Weinberg delivered a presentation to a group of bank officers and employees. The topic was “Issues to Consider When Pursuing Litigation and Judgment Collection.”
DECEMBER 2014
Partner Rebecca Thompson and Associate Alicia Bartley won an important trial court victory in the matter of Emcke v. Holst, LASC Case No. SC120886. The court granted an access easement for hilltop property in Malibu which would have otherwise been landlocked and unable to be developed.
JANUARY 2013
Gaines & Stacey LLP client Sebitna, LLC won Los Angeles City Planning Department approval for a 627 unit mixed use project in the Warner Center area of Woodland Hills. Managing Partner Fred Gaines and Associate Alicia Bartley represented our client before the City.
FEBRUARY 2013
For the tenth year in a row, Los Angeles Magazine named Gaines & Stacey Managing Partner Fred Gaines as a Southern California “Super Lawyer.” Fred was recognized for his expertise in the Land Use and Zoning law area of practice.
MARCH 2013
On March 27, 2013, Gaines & Stacey LLP Managing Partner Fred Gaines was sworn in as Mayor of the City of Calabasas. Fred was elected to the Calabasas City Council in 2011.
APRIL 2013
The California Coastal Commission approved the application of Gaines & Stacey LLP client John Morehart for new commercial construction, including a new bulkhead in Newport Harbor. Founding Partner Sherman Stacey represented our client before the Commission.
MAY 2013
Gaines & Stacey LLP client Thomas Safran & Associates celebrated the Grand Opening of the 124-unit Del Rey Square Senior Affordable Housing Community in West Los Angeles. Los Angeles City Councilman Bill Rosendahl recognized Gaines & Stacey LLP Managing Partner Fred Gaines for his role in obtaining the land use entitlements for the project.
JUNE 2013
Gaines & Stacey LLP client REW De Soto Partners, LLC was successful in achieving a waiver of over $2,000,000.00 in development fees for a 707 unit multi-family residential project in Warner Center. Managing Partner Fred Gaines and Associate Alicia Bartley handled the matter before the Los Angeles City Council.
JULY 2013
Gaines & Stacey LLP client SC & JB Investments, LLC won approval for a new 96-unit Eldercare Facility to be built in the Sun Valley area of the City of Los Angeles. Managing Partner Fred Gaines represented the client before the City’s North Valley Area Planning Commission.
AUGUST 2013
Gaines & Stacey LLP Associate Alicia Bartley participated on a relay team that swam around the island of Manhattan in New York. Alicia’s “Just Keep Swimming” team raised funds for Swim Free, a non-profit organization that improves the lives of children and adults through swimming.
SEPTEMBER 2013
Gaines & Stacey LLP Managing Partner Fred Gaines was successful in winning approval from the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors for a new housing development in the Lake Malibou area of unincorporated Los Angeles County.
OCTOBER 2013
Gaines & Stacey LLP Founding Partner Sherman Stacey obtained the dismissal of a lawsuit seeking to block the development of a new home in Pacific Palisades. Sherman had previously prevailed in a hotly contested Coastal Commission decision to approve the project.
NOVEMBER 2013
Gaines & Stacey LLP Associate Kimberly Rible successfully defended a lawsuit which sought to overturn the land use and CEQA approvals for The New West Charter School in West Los Angeles. Kim prevailed in having all of the neighborhood opposition group’s writ of mandate claims denied by the Los Angeles Superior Court.
DECEMBER 2013
Gaines & Stacey LLP Managing Partner Fred Gaines was re-appointed to the Board of Directors for the Los Angeles Jewish Home for the Aging Eisenberg Village and Grancell Village campuses. Fred also serves on the Building Committee for the Jewish Home.
JANUARY 2012
Founding Partner Sherman Stacey obtained a judgment against the California Coastal Commission on behalf of Gaines & Stacey LLP client Donald Norberg. The decision invalidated a condition requiring a property rights waiver in Laguna Beach.
FEBRUARY 2012
Founding Partner Sherman Stacey and Managing Partner Fred Gaines were both recognized as Southern California “Super Laywers” by Los Angeles Magazine. Fred and Sherman were honored for their expertise in handling Land Use and Zoning law matters.
MARCH 2012
Associate Alicia Bartley was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Sherman Oaks
Neighborhood Council. Alicia has served on the Sherman Oaks Neighborhood Council Land Use Committee since 2006.
APRIL 2012
Managing Partner Fred Gaines was unanimously elected by the Calabasas City Council to serve as the City’s Mayor Pro Tem for 2012-2013. Fred was elected to the City Council in 2011 for a four year term.
MAY 2012
Gaines & Stacey LLP clients New Community Jewish High School and New West Charter
Middle School both obtained approvals for new campuses from the Los Angeles City Planning Commission. Managing Partner Fred Gaines and Associate Kimberly Rible represented the schools.
JUNE 2012
As part of the Centennial of the Los Angeles Jewish Home for the Aging, Managing Partner Fred Gaines was selected as one of the Home’s 100 for 100 Honorees. Fred currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Home’s Grancell and Eisenberg Village Campuses.
JULY 2012
On July 15, 2012, Gaines & Stacey LLP marked its 15th Anniversary. Since 1997, the firm has consistently been recognized as one of the top land use and real estate law firms in California.
AUGUST 2012
Founding Partner Sherman Stacey prevailed on behalf of Gaines & Stacey LLP client Mariposa Land Company in overturning a California Coastal Commission denial of a permit to place a protective rock revetment along 600′ of Malibu Creek.
SEPTEMBER 2012
Partner Lisa Weinberg obtained judgment at trial in favor of Gaines & Stacey LLP clients Realty Executives and Sara Fincher-Schmidt. The matter involved a dispute over a six-figure real estate broker’s commission. Partner Rebecca Thompson assisted in the representation.
OCTOBER 2012
Gaines & Stacey LLP client Lycee International de Los Angeles received unanimous Planning Board approval for a new secondary school campus in The Rancho Neighborhood of the City of Burbank. Managing Partner Fred Gaines and Associate Alicia Bartley represented the school.
NOVEMBER 2012
Gaines & Stacey LLP client the Jim Herrick Swim School received approval for a new ten year Conditional Use Permit. Associate Kimberly Rible represented the school and was successful in obtaining the unanimous support of the Valley Village Neighborhood Council.
DECEMBER 2012
Associate Alicia Bartley was chosen to Co-Chair the Urban Land Institute’s (ULI) Holiday Toy Drive. Toys were donated to the Little Tokyo Service Center, the Ocean Park Community Center and A Place Called Home.
JANUARY 2011
The San Fernando Valley Business Journal included Gaines & Stacey LLP on “The List” of the San Fernando Valley’s top law firms. Gaines & Stacey was the only firm listed which specializes in handling land use, zoning and environmental law matters.
FEBRUARY 2011
Gaines & Stacey LLP Managing Partner Fred Gaines was the featured speaker at a conference hosted by Coldwell Banker. Fred spoke on “California Coastal Commission Permitting and Enforcement.”
MARCH 2011
Gaines & Stacey LLP Managing Partner Fred Gaines was elected to a four year term on the Calabasas City Council. Fred finished first in the field of seven candidates. Fred was sworn into office by former California State Assembly Speaker Bob Hertzberg before an overflow crowd at Calabasas City Hall.
APRIL 2011
Gaines & Stacey LLP Partner Lisa Weinberg successfully negotiated the settlement of a long-standing dispute between several ocean front homeowners in Malibu. The case involved complicated issues of ocean erosion and accretion, and landowner liability.
MAY 2011
As a member of the Public Service Committee of the Urban Land Institute’s (“ULI”) Young Leaders Group, Gaines & Stacey LLP Associate Alicia Bartley helped organize the 22nd Annual Great L.A. River Clean Up. Over 5,000 volunteers participated along the 50 mile River course.
JUNE 2011
Gaines & Stacey LLP client Vons Supermarkerts won unanimous approval from the Los Angeles City Planning Commission for a new 60,000 square foot Pavilions market and retail center in Sherman Oaks. Managing Partner Fred Gaines and Associate Kim Rible represented Vons.
JULY 2011
Los Angeles Magazine once again named Gaines & Stacey LLP Associate Alicia Bartley as a Southern California “Rising Star Super Lawyer.” This was the fifth year in a row that Alicia had received this honor.
AUGUST 2011
After a week long Superior Court trial, Gaines & Stacey LLP Client Dean Isaacson was successful in obtaining a multiple six figure judgment in the complex real estate matter of Isaacson v. Pokal. The case was tried by Litigation Partner Lisa Weinberg and Associate Alicia Bartley.
SEPTEMBER 2011
Gaines & Stacey LLP Managing Partner Fred Gaines addressed California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) reform proposals as part of the Valley Industry and Commerce Association’s (“VICA”) annual Local Elected Officials Luncheon. Fred, a Past Chairman of VICA, participated in his new role as an elected Member of the Calabasas City Council.
OCTOBER 2011
Gaines & Stacey LLP client Mariposa Land Company won a judgment against the California Coastal Commission nullifying the Commission’s denial of a Coastal Development Permit for Mariposa’s Malibu property. Mariposa was represented at trial by Founding Partner Sherman Stacey and Associate Nanci Stacey.
NOVEMBER 2011
Gaines & Stacey LLP Associate Kimberly Rible was certified by the U.S. Green Building Council as a LEED Green Associate. The LEED Green Associate credential identifies professionals with proven expertise in green building design, construction and operations.
DECEMBER 2011
Gaines & Stacey LLP Managing Partner Fred Gaines was named one of the Valley’s Most Trusted Advisors by the San Fernando Valley Business Journal. He was one of ten attorneys chosen for the prestigious recognition. Fred was also the recipient of the SFVBJ’s Public and Community Leadership Award.