Human Relations Commission Prompts Tanenbaum To Apologize For Forum

BEVERLY HILLS, CA — The Beverly Hills Human Relations Commission prompted former Mayor Bob Tanenbaum to apologize for his behavior at the March 27 City Council candidate forum.

At a candidate forum on March 27, moderator and former Mayor Bob Tanenbaum pressed Councilmember Lester Friedman for nearly 35 minutes about his handling of former Beverly Hills police chief Sandra Spagnoli's departure, his campaign leaflets and public safety efforts.

The audience responded to the line of questioning, at times laughing at and booing Tanenbaum's demeanor.

"We believe Mr. Tanenbaum owes a sincere apology to not only Mr. Friedman but to the other candidates whose time was wasted and to all of the community members who were embarrassed by this behavior," the commission said during the public comment section of Tuesday's council meeting.

The Beverly Hills Courier published the commission's statement earlier on Saturday.

The commission condemned Tanenbaum's behavior, calling his questioning of Friedman a "cross-examination."

"Our city fosters positive human relations in all aspects of community life. We urge all members of this community, including Mr. Tanenbaum, to support an environment where civility, respect and responsible actions prevail. We have fought against bullying in all of its forms and it is disheartening to see any member of our community display this type of conduct," the commission said.

Tanenbaum's decorum does not represent the residents in northwest Beverly Hills, resident Bennett Ross said during the public comment section. The Beverly Hills Northwest Homeowner's Association hosted the March 27 forum.

Patch reached out to Bob Tanenbaum for comment.