ENCINO HILLS : Vote on Jewish School Is Delayed

A scheduled hearing to determine whether the Stephen S. Wise Temple will be permitted to build a proposed Reform Jewish high school has been postponed after two members of the Board of Zoning Appeals excused themselves because of potential conflicts of interest.

Two of the four board members said Tuesday that they have connections to the temple that could appear to prejudice their vote, said Chief Zoning Administrator Bob Janovici. Board member Peter Weil has connections to a law firm that once represented the temple, and board member Marlene Grossman belongs to the temple, Stephen S. Wise officials said.

The Stephen S. Wise High School has been proposed for a 10-acre parcel off Mulholland Drive west of the San Diego Freeway. The school would eventually include a three-story classroom building, track athletic field and auditorium. In its first phase, it would enroll 165 students. A conditional use permit has already been granted for the project, but it is being appealed by some residents of Bel-Air and Encino Hills who live near the site. The neighbors oppose the project, saying it will cause traffic problems.

Reached by phone at home Tuesday, Rabbi Isaiah Zeldin, exuberant about the accord between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization, seemed unconcerned about the delay. “So be it,” he said. “It gives me a chance to concentrate on my High Holy Day sermon.”