Altadena Town Hall: Filming in Altadena

The Altadena Filming Committee convened a Town Hall Meeting this past week at the Altadena Community Center. Over hundred Altadeneans turned out to ask questions and express concerns to expert panel about filming in the community.

The panel included a location manager and an experienced filming host as well as spokespersons from LA County services including FilmLA, LA County Sheriff, California Highway Patrol and the Department of the Public works. The meeting was also attended by representatives from Supervisor Barger's office.

The Altadena Filming Committee Chairwoman, Anne Chomyn, convened the meeting. Each panelist then made a brief presentation describing their role in on-location film shoots. The panel presentations were followed by audience questions and an open-floor discussion. Some attendees expressed supportive views about the benefits of filming. Others raised concerns, some very challenging, about a number of topics including permit enforcement, parking, traffic control and overuse. The panelists did their best to field these questions and concerns. On occasion the panel's answers did not satisfy some in the audience and the exchange of ideas became heated. As a result, the better part of the meeting was devoted to concerns. It's likely that a number of views supportive of filming were not expressed.

On balance the meeting was constructive.  Several panelist made it clear that they had a better idea of concerns that Altadeneans have about filming in the community. The also encouraged anyone with a question or issue to contact them. The method for providing that contact information was not discussed.

At the close of the meeting Chairwoman Chomyn, said the Altadena Filming Committee had obtained new information and that the committee will be discussing next steps.

You can reach the Altadena Filming Committee at altadenafilmingcommittee@gmail.com