Legal disputes are brewing over the fate of Marilyn Monroe’s former $8.3 million Brentwood residence, which could face demolition in the near future due to ongoing conflicts between residents and the Los Angeles City Council.
This week, the council decided to postpone a vote regarding the demolition of the iconic residence owned by Brinah Milstein and Roy Bank. The couple, who acquired the property for $8.35 million last summer, aims to demolish it to expand their adjacent home.
Councilwoman Traci Park initiated a proposal in September to preserve the Spanish colonial-style home, backed by approvals from the Cultural Heritage Commission and the city council’s Planning and Land Use Committee. However, due to legal challenges from the property owners, Park requested a delay in the voting process.
The Brentwood house holds historical significance as the former residence of Marilyn Monroe, who lived there briefly before her passing in 1962. Recent court decisions and ongoing litigation prompted Park to seek a postponement, citing the need for further discussions between the City Attorney’s Office and the owners.
A tentative ruling by Los Angeles Superior Court Judge James Chalfant favored the city’s stance, leading to a lawsuit from Milstein and Bank against Los Angeles, alleging collusion and violation of codes in the landmarking process. The lawsuit challenges the classification of the house as a ‘Historic Cultural Monument,’ arguing that it does not meet the criteria.
Milstein has expressed concerns about Monroe’s fans visiting the area and disrupting the neighborhood’s peace. The potential landmark status of the house raises fears among residents of increased tourism.
While the city has recognized the property as ‘potentially historic’ since 2013, debates over its preservation and demolition continue, highlighting the complex legal and historical considerations at play.
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