Los Angeles, California — Public Meeting Index

On May 14, 2025, the Los Angeles City Council held a regularly scheduled meeting. The primary focus was the debate and amendment of Item 5, an ordinance to increase wages and health benefits for tourism workers at LAX and hotels. After extensive public comment and multiple amendments, the council voted 12-3 to approve the ordinance as amended, with a second reading scheduled for May 23, 2025. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes from May 13, 2025. - Commendatory resolutions were approved. - Items 2-4 and 6 (public hearings held) were voted on and passed. - Items 7-20 (public hearings not held) were voted on and passed. - Item 21 (closed session) was noted but no public hearing was held. Public Comments & Testimony - Support for wage increase: Many workers from LAX and hotels, along with union representatives and community members, urged the council to pass the $30/hour wage ("Olympic wage") by 2028. Speakers highlighted the struggle to afford rent and healthcare, citing 40-45% unemployment among workers and the need for a living wage. Testimony included: - Maria Vasquez (LAX worker) stressed the need for wage increase to afford living in LA. - Jessica Durham (Tourism Workers Rising Coalition) noted that the policy would bring in over $15 million in tax revenue and cited past examples where industry predictions of doom did not materialize. - Esturado Mazariegos (former LAX worker) argued $30 is not enough given the cost of living. - Several workers described sacrifices and hardships, e.g., Esperanza Montes faced eviction. - Opposition to wage increase: Business representatives and some hotel workers warned of negative economic impacts. - Carlos Peña (LA Chamber of Commerce) called the ordinance reckless and harmful to small businesses. - Aaron Taxi (Hollywood Chamber of Commerce) cited potential job losses and reduced TOT revenue. - A speaker from limited service hotels urged an exemption, noting that 45% of income goes to salaries and a wage increase would raise that to 83%, forcing closures. - Diana De La Torre (former HR director at Mama Shelter) reported that the hotel closed due to unsustainable labor costs, losing 130 jobs. - General public comment: Several speakers also requested funding for day labor centers and immigrant support services. Discussion Items - Item 5 – Tourism Worker Wage Ordinance: The main agenda item. The council considered amendments to the proposed ordinance. - Amendment 5E (Padilla, McCosker, Yaroslavsky): Modified training and certification requirements to allow workers to retake exams without penalty. Passed 15-0. - Amendment 5D (Hutt, Price): Failed 2-13. - Amendment 5C (Lee, Rodriguez, Park): Sought to redefine "hotel worker" to exclude variable compensation workers and those working less than 5 hours/week for 4 weeks. After debate, the council referred this amendment to committee to avoid unintended wage cuts for restaurant workers. No vote. - Amendment 5B (Harris-Dawson, Raman, Yaroslavsky): Substitute motion by Council President Krekorian to delay the health benefit increase and reduce the first-year wage increase to $2.44/hour. Passed. - Amendment 5A (Lee): Sought to exempt limited service hotels with 150 rooms or fewer from the wage increase. Failed. - Amendment 5G (Nazarian, Blumenfield): Required that employees who opt out of employer health coverage (because they have other insurance) receive a cash-in-lieu payment ($100/month for full-time, $50/month for part-time). Initially passed but later reconsidered for a technical amendment reducing the health benefit from $8.35 to $7.65/hour. Final version passed 13-2. - Amendment 5F (Rodriguez, Padilla, Lee, Price, Yaroslavsky): Required the CLA to report back to committee six months before and after implementation of the wage and health benefit increases regarding impacts on tourism. Passed 15-0. - Presentation by LA Tourism CEO Adam Burke: During discussion of 5C, Burke presented sobering data: LA ranks second to last in tourism recovery from COVID, 21st in conventions, and faces a 15,000 job loss projection if the $30 wage is implemented. He noted that 12 hotels with 2,876 rooms are in final planning but may be canceled if the ordinance passes. - Enforcement discussion: Councilmember McCosker questioned the Bureau of Contract Administration (BCA) about enforcement capacity. BCA requested 5 new positions (compliance program manager, data analyst, 3 management analysts) to handle the new enforcement responsibilities. This request is tied to the upcoming budget. Key Outcomes - Item 5 approved as amended: The council voted 12-3 to approve the ordinance with amendments. The final ordinance includes: - A phased wage increase to $30/hour by 2028, with a $2.44/hour increase in the first year. - Delayed health benefit increase. - Cash-in-lieu payments for employees who opt out of employer health coverage. - A report-back requirement on tourism impacts. - A second reading is required on May 23, 2025, due to the non-unanimous vote. - Amendment 5C referred to committee: The redefinition of hotel worker will be studied further to avoid wage cuts. - Amendment 5A failed: No exemption for limited service hotels up to 150 rooms. - Closed session: No reportable actions. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned in honor of Dr. Leo Pandak, a community leader.

The Los Angeles City Council met on Friday, April 11, 2025, to consider several agenda items including the appointment of a new General Manager of Personnel, a contract for hazardous waste management services, a solid waste rate increase, and the extension of a local emergency declaration for wildfire response. The meeting also included public testimony on rent stabilization and worker compensation, and adjournments in memory of community members. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (April 9, 2025): Moved by Councilmember Yaroslavsky, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez. Unanimously approved. - Items 3 and 6: Approved unanimously (11 ayes). Item 6 ordinance was held over for second consideration on April 22, 2025, unless 12 members were present. - Item 2 – Appointment of General Manager of Personnel: The council confirmed Mayor Bass's appointment of Ms. Billups as General Manager of Personnel after a recommendation from the Personnel and Hiring Committee. Following remarks from councilmembers praising her qualifications and vision, the appointment was approved with 11 ayes. Ms. Billups pledged to focus on culture-building, improving civil service hiring processes, and navigating fiscal challenges with fairness and transparency. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 4 (Solid Waste Rate Increase) – General Public Comment: Multiple speakers, including Charles Leon (SEIU 721), Ivan Duarte (Refuse Collection Truck Operator), Randolph Neville (SEIU 721 steward), Eric Creighton (Refuse Collection Truck Operator), and Michael Martinez (LA Compost), voiced strong support for the rate increase, emphasizing the need to fund services, address inflation, and support workers who have not seen a rate adjustment since 2008. Some speakers also highlighted the critical role sanitation plays in homeless encampment cleanup and public health. - Rent Stabilization (LARSO): Several members of the community, including Wendy Lopez, Sophia Mendoza, Victoria Enriquez, Sylvia Marroquin, and others, urged the council to cap rent increases at 0–3% via LARSO, stating that current increases (up to 10%) are unaffordable and drive homelessness. They requested the item be agendized and voted on promptly. - Item 7 – Local Emergency Declaration: A few speakers criticized the city’s response to wildfire recovery, citing delays in permits, insurance denials, and lack of vouchers for displaced residents. Others called for more accountability and criticized the council for limiting public comment access. - General Public Comment: Additional speakers addressed various topics including sex worker rights, tariff impacts, and housing provider concerns. One speaker (Mr. Spindler) was removed after repeated disruptions. Discussion Items - Item 4 – Solid Waste Rate Increase: LA Sanitation Director Barbara Romero presented a proposal to adjust the Solid Resources Fee (last changed in 2008) because the program has been subsidized by the general fund, which reached $217 million in the current fiscal year (nearly 40% of costs). The proposed rate of $55.95 per month (starting January 1, 2026) includes expanded low-income assistance (30% discount for all low-income households, removing the previous dual-eligibility cap). After debate, the council approved the rate increase 10-1 (Councilmember Nazarian dissenting). Councilmember Hernandez emphasized equity and the need to reduce reliance on the general fund. Councilmember Nazarian argued the rate disproportionately impacts lower-income households in multi-unit buildings and called for better data collection for future reviews. - Item 5 – Hazardous Waste Management Contract (Clean Harbors): The Public Safety Committee had recommended disapproval of a $3.5 million, five-year contract with Clean Harbors for LAFD facilities due to lack of information on labor practices and subcontracting. Councilmember McOscar initially proposed an amendment to approve a one-year contract to avoid service interruption (Clean Harbors had been operating without a contract for 10 months). However, after the City Attorney clarified the council could only approve or reject the full contract, McOscar withdrew his motion. The council then voted unanimously (11-0) to adopt the committee report, disapproving the contract and directing the CAO and LAFD to report back with detailed information on Clean Harbors' safety record, subcontracting, and labor compliance. - Item 7 – Local Emergency Declaration Extension: The council voted 11-0 to extend the local emergency declaration related to wildfires, allowing for continued federal funding and expedited decision-making. No further discussion was recorded. Key Outcomes - Appointment Confirmed: Ms. Billups confirmed as General Manager of Personnel (11-0). - Solid Waste Rate Increase Approved: The council authorized LA Sanitation to proceed with the Proposition 218 process for a new rate structure, including an increase to $55.95/month for standard service, effective July 1, 2026, with annual adjustments, and expanded low-income assistance. Vote: 10-1 (Nazarian no). The rate increase is expected to reduce the general fund subsidy by approximately $20 million per month if accelerated. - Clean Harbors Contract Rejected: The contract for hazardous waste management services was disapproved (11-0). The LAFD and CAO must report back with requested information before a new contract can be considered. - Local Emergency Extended: The declaration for wildfire response was extended (11-0). - Adjournments: The council adjourned in memory of Santos Gutierrez (community leader), Senior Lead Officer Paul Jordan (LAPD, 29 years of service), and Hal Frederick (Venice restaurateur and community builder).

The Los Angeles City Council held its regularly scheduled meeting on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at approximately 9:29 AM. The meeting addressed a range of items including approval of minutes, resolutions, closed session settlements, and several public hearings. The major item of the day was the proposed modernization and expansion of the Los Angeles Convention Center (Item 13), which resulted in extensive public comment and council debate before approval with amendments. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from April 8, 2025, and resolutions for approval (items 3-8, 10, 11) passed unanimously with 13 ayes. - Closed session settlements (items 16-19, 21-25) approved with 15 ayes: Cory Wynne et al. ($250,000), David Angeles Guzman ($275,000), Livia Rodriguez Martinez ($295,000), Maria Buscio ($440,000), Laura Beltran Martinez et al. ($964,736), Jane Does ($160,000), Cassandra Terheen ($110,000). Settlements rejected in Bruce Swatts et al. and William Faulkner cases. Item 20 (Time Warner Cable) held for questions but later approved with $1,043,209.53 settlement. - Item 9 (LAPD vehicle storage at a metro-owned lot in CD9) approved after questions and amendment. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 13 (Convention Center): Dozens of speakers voiced strong support, primarily from labor unions (IATSE, IBEW, Teamsters, Carpenters) and downtown resident associations. Key points: The project will create over 8,000 construction jobs with a 50% local hire requirement; 90% of apprentices placed are Black or Brown, 34% formerly incarcerated, 20% women; the current convention center ranks 21st in the nation, behind Fresno; expansion will allow LA to compete for major conventions and generate $137 million annual revenue. Some residents (Cassie Horton, Teresa Y. Hillary) urged the council to resolve signage issues to maximize revenue. A few speakers opposed the project, citing the city's $1 billion budget deficit and need for other services. One speaker (Mr. Spindler) gave lengthy opposition to multiple items, criticizing the council's spending. - Items 1,2 (Tourism districts): Mixed comments; some opposed citing budget deficit. - Item 14 (Charter bus for Councilmember Lee): Several speakers opposed, calling it wasteful. Discussion Items - Convention Center Expansion (Item 13): The council considered the Economic Development and Jobs Committee report recommending proceeding with a phased delivery option. Councilmembers Price, Park, Jurado, and others argued for the project, emphasizing its potential to be revenue-neutral (projected $137 million revenue vs. $136 million annual debt service), create union jobs, and attract global events during the 2028 Olympics and beyond. Councilmembers Rodriguez and Blumenfield raised concerns: the $2.2 billion total cost, the additional $27.7 million needed to continue negotiations, risks from tariffs, signage approval uncertainty, and the city's budget crisis that may require layoffs. CAO Matt Zaber and CLA Sharon Tso answered questions: the project would not have an immediate General Fund impact; debt service begins in FY 2028-29; cost estimates are non-binding until a firm fixed price is negotiated by July 2025; risk allocation for relief events (force majeure, owner-directed changes) is under negotiation. Several amendments were proposed: 13E (Yaroslavsky et al.) requiring value engineering, near cost neutrality, and report-back; 13C (Jurado et al.); 13B (Rodriguez/Padilla) defeated 13-0; 13A (Park/Price) passed; 13D (Blumenfield) withdrawn after the CAO stated it would end negotiations. After debate, the council voted to adopt the committee report as amended. Key Outcomes - Item 13 adopted as amended (14 ayes, 1 no). The council authorized extending the early works agreement with APCLA for an additional $27.7 million (to be financed), instructed the CAO and CLA to negotiate a final project agreement with a firm fixed price, value-engineer the project to minimize General Fund impact, seek near cost neutrality, and resolve signage issues. A final approval vote is expected in July 2025. - Items 1,2,14,15 approved (creation of tourism districts, charter bus funding for Councilmember Lee, supplemental funding). - Item 9 approved (LAPD vehicle storage facility). - Closed session settlements approved as listed above.

The Los Angeles City Council convened its regular meeting on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, with 13 members present. The meeting included approval of minutes, routine items, public comment, and significant discussion on homelessness funding and oversight. Key actions included approval of several spending items, a settlement package, and a motion directing a report on the city's response to the county's withdrawal of Measure A funds from the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LHASA). Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of April 4, 2025, and commendatory resolutions. - Adopted items 1, 3‑6, and 15‑19 (routine public hearing items) by a 13‑0 vote. - Approved items 20‑26 (closed session settlements from the Budget and Finance Committee) by a 13‑0 vote, with settlements ranging from $150,000 to $700,000. - Item 8 (with Councilmember Price recused) passed 12‑0. - Item 11 (an ordinance) passed 12‑0. - Item 2 was continued to April 22 without objection. Public Comments & Testimony - Andrew Gravener (speaking on multiple items) criticized vague descriptions for community services (Item 16) and supplemental security services (Item 18), suggesting they might be used to harass unhoused people. He also called for investigations into LAPD officers involved in child exploitation (Item 19). - Shelley Muskievich (speaking on Items 15‑19 and general) supported the South Los Angeles Wetlands Improvement Project (Item 15) and emphasized ecosystem balance. She criticized Item 16 for its lack of specificity and called for better tracking of funds. On Item 17 (seniors), she noted that seniors are the fastest-growing unhoused demographic and urged stronger rent protections. On Item 19 (child exploitation), she advocated for ending child labor in Hollywood. - MD Media (speaking on Items 15, 16, 19, general) supported Item 15, arguing South LA parks have become crime sites. He supported Item 16 as community services, including drug and prostitution services, and opposed Item 19, advocating for children's right to choose prostitution. - Francisco Aguirre (general comment) urged the council to schedule an Olympic wage living wage measure. - Maria Santos Gonzalez (general comment) requested the Olympic wage, noting she earns $20.73/hour, pays $2,600 rent, and cares for a grandchild. - Maria Romero (general comment) supported the Olympic wage, citing her 18 years at LAX and caregiving burdens. - Yasmin Kirino (general comment) also demanded the Olympic wage due to rising costs. - Renata Mason (general comment) from the SBA reminded residents affected by the Eaton and Palisades fires of the May 30 deadline for disaster loans at low interest rates. - Several other speakers gave general comments, including complaints about city flags and procedural issues. Discussion Items - Item 7 – Response to County’s Withdrawal from LHASA: Councilmembers Rodriguez, Blumenfield, Hudado, Park, Raman, and McCosker debated the implications of the county removing Measure A funding from LHASA. Rodriguez emphasized the need for transparency and centralization of homeless services. Blumenfield noted the historic origin of LHASA as a settlement and urged clarity on city/county roles. Raman highlighted the importance of performance management and financial controls, cautioning against cutting administrative costs while demanding better tracking. An amendment by Councilmember Park (seconded by Rodriguez) to require the report in 30 days was accepted as friendly. The motion (as amended by 7A and 7B) passed 15‑0. - Councilmember McCosker’s announcement on LA28 Olympics: He introduced a motion to analyze the LA28 budget and revenue increases, noting that LA28 will present its venue plan to the IOC on April 9, and he expects sailing to be moved to San Pedro per the council’s conditional approval. Key Outcomes - Votes: Routine items, settlements, and ordinances passed unanimously (13‑0 or 12‑0 where applicable). - Item 7 Amendment and Passage: Councilmembers Rodriguez, Blumenfield, Park, Raman, and others spoke in favor. The motion requires the City Administrative Officer and Chief Legislative Analyst to report within 30 days on how the city will centralize homelessness efforts and respond to the county’s withdrawal from LHASA. Passed 15‑0. - Item 2 Continued to April 22, 2025. - Public Comment Process: Speakers criticized the removal of call-in comment and the lack of specificity in agenda items. - LA Recovery Update (announced earlier in broadcast): 279 properties cleared, phase two of debris removal underway, $14 million spent from wildfire response fund, and a tax relief program for businesses with an April 14 deadline. - HACLA Grant: $85 million from HUD Continuum of Care funds awarded to support homeless services.

The Los Angeles City Council convened on Friday, April 4, 2025, at 9:30 AM. The meeting featured a series of presentations honoring long-serving city staff, youth programs, a championship basketball team, and LAPD reserve officers who served at the Paris Olympics. The council also conducted routine approvals, heard public comments, and adjourned in memory of activist Father Richard Estrada. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The council approved the minutes from the April 2, 2025 meeting. (Motion by Councilmember Soto-Martinez, seconded by Councilmember Rodriguez) - Commendatory Resolutions: The council approved items for which public hearings had been held (Items 1 through 3) with a vote of 10 ayes. Public Comments & Testimony - Larissa Jordan: A formerly incarcerated resident from South Central LA complained about individuals displaying indecent exposure during the meeting, stating it traumatized children present. She also praised a local resident named Mr. Marcus for voluntarily cleaning streets and painting poles on Florence and Western, urging city support. - Mr. Marez: Supported the previous speaker, criticizing the council for failing to control disruptive individuals during the meeting, calling for leadership and action. - John Camara: Thanked Councilmember Bob Blumenfield and his staff for responding to concerns about restroom conditions at Rosita Park, expressing hope for improvements. - Mr. Herman: Shouted about a court case (case number CV 0906 731) and made profane remarks, subsequently being cut off. - Annette Davis Jackson: A Fairfax High School graduate and Spelman College alumna reported an emergency involving a man named Benjamin M. Mosa Menza who allegedly siphoned methamphetamines from the Netherlands and placed his name on property her family has owned for 50 years. She requested city help with quitclaim deed fraud. - Mr. Spindler: Made profanity-laced remarks challenging council members to break quorum and criticizing Councilmember Curren Price for not hiring Black attorneys in his legal defense. Discussion Items - Presentation: Olivia Mitchell (50-Year City Service): Councilmembers Rodriguez and Padilla honored Olivia Mitchell, a longtime youth advocate who began working in Mayor Tom Bradley's office in 1974. Mitchell created numerous youth programs including the Los Angeles Youth Council and the Student Day in Government program. The council recognized her with a 50-year service pin and noted the Olivia E. Mitchell Youth Council established in 2021. Mitchell gave remarks thanking colleagues and family. - Presentation: LA's Best After-School Program (35th Anniversary): Councilmember Hernandez, an alumna of LA's Best, introduced the program which serves 17,000 children daily at no cost. President and CEO Michelle Broadnax, Principal Dr. Lucy Hunt of Monta Vista Elementary, parent Maria Rios, and students Ruby Gonzalez and Sarae Torres testified about the program's impact on academics, nutrition, and safety. The council presented a resolution declaring April 9, 2025 as LA's Best Day. - Presentation: Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School Varsity Girls Basketball Championship: Councilmember Soto-Martinez and Councilmember Nazarian honored the team for winning the 2025 CIF Southern Section 4A championship—the school's first basketball title. Coach Amin Garibi and senior guard Narnar Shahanian spoke about community support and resilience amid wildfires. The council presented a signed basketball and certificates. - Presentation: Charlie Roush (47-Year Retirement): Councilmember Harris-Dawson recognized Charlie Roush, a zoning administrator who started with Councilman Joel Wax in 1976 and joined the Planning Department in 1984. Roush contributed to major projects including the Porter Ranch Specific Plan and Warner Ridge settlements. He noted his mentorship of future planning directors. The council presented a recognition for his service. - Presentation: LAPD Reserve Corps - Paris 2024 Olympics: Councilmember Lee honored reserve police officers who volunteered to serve at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Carla Amundsen (Reserve Foundation president) and Officer Bernard Khalili reported that 30 LAPD reserves were the largest non-EU foreign law enforcement contingent, all serving unpaid on their own vacation time. They highlighted insights for LA's 2028 Olympics and proposed allowing reserves to participate in the paid LAPD Coast program after completing volunteer hours. Key Outcomes - Votes: Items 1 through 3 (post-hearing items) were approved with a 10-0 vote. Item 2 was considered as amended by motion (Padilla/Rodriguez) and also passed. - Quorum Notice: Council President Lee noted the council had exactly 10 members present (bare quorum), warning that departures would end the meeting. - Adjourning Motion: Councilmember Rodriguez moved to adjourn in memory of Father Richard Estrada, a longtime activist who passed on March 31, 2025 at age 83. Father Estrada founded Hovnanian Inc. (now serving 700+ homeless youth yearly), marched with Cesar Chavez, and championed immigrant and worker rights. Councilmembers Soto-Martinez and Lee joined in honoring him. The council adjourned in his memory.

The Los Angeles City Council convened on April 2, 2025, with 11 members present, later rising to 15. The meeting addressed routine approvals, a motion to study single-stairway building codes, and a contentious expansion of the Fair Work Week ordinance for fast food workers. Public comment featured strong advocacy from workers and opposition from restaurant owners. Key votes included unanimous support for the single-stairway study and passage of the fast food worker ordinance after amendments. Consent Calendar - Items 22, 23, 25, 26, and 27 were approved unanimously (12-0). - Items 1–4, 7, 9, 10, 12–21, 29, and 31–39 were approved in a single vote following public comment. - Item 40 (settlement authorization) passed 13-0. - Item 8 and Item 11 were each approved to receive and file. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 17 (building condition): A California Bar member raised procedural and due process concerns regarding a demolition lien, urging a pause and further review. - Fast food worker ordinance (Item 28 and related general comment): Multiple workers (Vicenta Diaz, Rafael Sanchez, Anisha Williams, Julieta Garcia) urged passage, citing wage theft, lack of rights training, and abuse. Union representative Philippe Casares (SEIU 721) supported the ordinance. Restaurant owners and supervisors (Leon Wu, Juan Gotham, Manuel Ramirez, Amada Reyes) opposed it, arguing that prior minimum wage hikes had already forced price increases and hour cuts, and that additional costs would harm businesses and jobs. - Other speakers: A speaker highlighted outdated photos used in a Building and Safety Commission decision; another addressed human trafficking concerns at a train station. Discussion Items - Item 24 – Single Stairway Buildings Motion: Councilmember Yaroslavsky introduced a motion to study allowing single-exit stairwells in apartment buildings to enable larger, more affordable units with more green space, without changing zoning. He cited safety data from New York, Seattle, and the Netherlands. Councilmembers Raman, Jurado, and Hernandez supported the motion as a way to increase housing density and family-sized units. Councilmember Nazarian supported the study but cautioned about fire safety. The motion passed 14-0. - Item 28 – Fair Work Week Ordinance Expansion: The council considered two amendments after committee approval. 28B (Councilmember Blumenfield) would have required a comprehensive economic impact report. Councilmembers Soto Martinez and Price opposed it as a delay tactic; the CLA estimated 4–6 months minimum to complete such a study. 28B failed. 28A (Councilmember Rodriguez) sought report backs on protecting small businesses and exempting food deserts/JEDI zones. Councilmember Soto Martinez proposed a friendly amendment (28C) to change “will” to “could” in instruction 5 and strike instruction 6 (exemptions for food deserts). After debate—with Rodriguez arguing exemptions encourage investment in underserved areas, and President Martinez countering that low wages cause food deserts—28C passed 13-2. 28A, as amended, passed 15-0, and the main item 28 passed 15-0. - Other items: Item 17 was reconsidered and continued to May 6 at the request of Councilmember Soto Martinez. Item 20 was continued to May 6. Item 30 was passed with Councilmember McCosker recused (14-0). Key Outcomes - Motion to study single-stairway building codes adopted unanimously. - Fair Work Week ordinance for fast food workers approved with amendments (28A as amended). - Routine consent calendar items approved. - Item 17 and Item 20 continued to May 6, 2025. - Councilmember announced a motion requesting analysis of non-city Olympic venue agreements. - Adjournment in memory of Richard “Dick” Charles Bublitz.

The Los Angeles City Council convened on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at approximately 9:34 AM, with all 15 members present. The meeting covered a wide range of items including routine approvals, public comments, and substantive debates on homelessness programs, port charter amendments, a right-to-counsel ordinance, and budget scheduling. Key votes included adoption of the Right to Counsel ordinance, approval of Inside Safe funding with amendments, and charter changes for the Port of Los Angeles. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of March 28, 2025, and combined resolutions (unanimous). - Confirmed liens and routine items (items 1–25, 26–38) with multiple 14–0 votes. - Continued several items: Item 15 to April 8; items 5, 6, 12, 22 to various dates in May. Public Comments & Testimony - Homelessness & Inside Safe: Multiple speakers criticized the Inside Safe program for high per-bed costs ($3,300/month) and lack of data. Some urged withholding funds until accountability improved. Others (e.g., Adam from LA CAN) argued the program prioritizes shelter beds over permanent housing. - Right to Counsel (Item 45): Over 20 speakers (tenants, legal aid attorneys, community organizers) voiced strong support for the ordinance, citing that over 90% of tenants face eviction without legal representation. Testimony highlighted the life-threatening consequences and cost savings seen in other cities. - STEP Funds (Item 37): Several speakers opposed reallocating $1.5 million from an EV carshare program in South LA to a senior shuttle program, arguing it violated community promises and eliminated clean mobility options. - Port Charter Amendments (Items 34, 35): Support from Councilmember McOsker and community for requiring two local commissioners and institutionalizing the PAIP reinvestment program. - General Public Comment: Speakers raised concerns about LAPD funding, airport worker wages, living wage ordinances, and the city’s fiscal crisis. Some comments were disruptive and included profanity. Discussion Items - Item 38 (HEA / Inside Safe Funding): Extended debate over releasing $46 million for Inside Safe operations. Councilmember Rodriguez strongly opposed, citing lack of data and no recalibration since the mayor’s state of the city address 351 days earlier. Councilmember Blumenfield and Raman introduced amendment 38E to hold back the Q3 advance ($14M) pending a demobilization plan and cost data. Councilmember Soto Martinez defended the program as effective in her district. The CAO clarified that the Q3 advance covered work already performed, but invoices were not yet submitted. After discussion, 38E passed 11–3, and the overall item passed 13–1. - Item 45 (Right to Counsel): Ordinance to codify a right to legal counsel for low-income tenants facing eviction (those at or below 80% AMI). Councilmember Lee and Soto Martinez introduced a friendly amendment specifying

The Los Angeles City Council met on Friday, March 28, 2025, at a regular meeting held in Van Nuys. The meeting featured a St. Patrick's Day presentation, public testimony on the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic venue plan, and a series of votes on amendments to the venue plan. Key decisions included approval of a relocation of sailing events from Long Beach to San Pedro and the addition of Sepulveda Basin for BMX and skateboarding. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the March 26, 2025 meeting. - Approved commendatory resolutions. - Continued item 5 to April 1, 2025. - Noted that items 1-22 had public hearings held; committee reports were available online. - Council President Harris-Dawson recused from items 19 and 20 due to a conflict of interest. Special Presentation: St. Patrick's Day Celebration - Councilmember Tim McOsker (15th District) hosted a St. Patrick's Day celebration, including recognition of Irish American Heritage Month. - Consul General of Ireland Marcella Smith addressed the council, highlighting the contributions of the Irish diaspora and Ireland's economic investment in Los Angeles. - The council recognized Irish Person of the Year awards, honoring Marcella Smith (Irish Woman of the Year) and Ken O'Malley (Irish Man of the Year). - A performance by the Lions Academy of Irish Dance was presented. Public Comments & Testimony Public comment was taken on item 18 (LA28 venue plan) and for general public comment. Speakers on the venue plan included: - Vanessa Santeto (EduCare Foundation): Expressed support, emphasizing opportunities for youth in the San Fernando Valley. - Juan Munoz (Unite Here Local 11): Opposed venue changes to Long Beach, alleging wage theft at the Long Beach Convention Center and demanding a state investigation. - Michaela Gibson (Valley Industry and Commerce Association): Voiced strong support for the venue plan, noting its historic inclusion of the San Fernando Valley and cost-saving measures. - Liam Arnold Colwell (Greater San Fernando Valley Chamber of Commerce): Supported the plan, highlighting economic and workforce development opportunities. - Yenshao Gong (Paralympic silver medalist): Expressed excitement about hosting the first Paralympic Games in the U.S. - Rachel Dawson (three-time Olympian, field hockey): Advocated for the games and their inspirational impact. - Janet Evans (five-time Olympic medalist): Spoke passionately about the transformative power of the Olympics for youth and thanked the council for its support. - Several other speakers, including community members from Lake Balboa, raised concerns about a new housing development near their homes and urged better communication from the city. - Some speakers criticized the council's handling of public participation and First Amendment issues. Discussion Items - LA28 Venue Plan: CEO Ronald Hoover presented the proposed amendments, which include adding Sepulveda Basin recreation area for BMX freestyle, BMX racing, and skateboarding, and relocating certain events to existing venues outside city boundaries to reduce costs. Hoover confirmed that a final venue plan would be presented to the IOC on April 9, 2025. - Sailing Amendment (18A): Councilmember McOsker introduced an amendment to relocate sailing events from Long Beach to San Pedro (Port of Los Angeles). He argued that San Pedro offers better wind conditions, spectator capacity (10,000 vs. zero), superior security (Port police), and existing infrastructure. He criticized the current plan for lacking spectator access and financial justification. - Economic Study Amendment (18B): Councilmember Blumenfield introduced an amendment requiring an economic study on security, transportation, and other costs to protect the city's financial interests. - Technical Amendment (18C): Councilmember Harris-Dawson offered a technical amendment to the report. Key Outcomes - Amendment 18C (technical) passed: 14 ayes, 0 noes. - Amendment 18B (economic study) passed: 14 ayes, 0 noes. - Amendment 18A (sailing relocation to San Pedro) passed: 12 ayes, 2 noes. - Item 18 as amended (LA28 venue plan) passed: 14 ayes, 0 noes. - Items 20 and 21 were sent forthwith (approved without objection). - Councilmember Hernandez announced that the unarmed crisis response ad hoc committee would begin at 1:15 p.m. - Councilmember McOsker commemorated the 127th anniversary of the U.S. v. Wong Kim Ark Supreme Court decision affirming birthright citizenship. The meeting adjourned shortly thereafter.

The Los Angeles City Council convened on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at 9:34 AM in the John Ferraro Council Chambers. The meeting began with roll call, approval of minutes from March 25, 2025, and commendatory resolutions. The council then heard presentations honoring the César Chavez Foundation and the Black Business Association, followed by public comment on multiple agenda items. The council voted on routine consent items, closed session settlements, and several motions, including immigration-related measures and funding for homelessness services. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of March 25, 2025 (moved by Councilmember Yaroslavsky, seconded by Hernandez). - Approved commendatory resolutions (moved by Padilla, seconded by Price). - Items 1 through 5 and 7 through 21 were approved in a single roll-call vote (10 eyes). Item 8 was held over to April 2, 2025 for final adoption. Item 7 was later reconsidered and amended (11 eyes). Public Comments & Testimony - Maria Vasquez (SEIU USW, LAX worker): Expressed support for a living wage ordinance for LAX workers, urging the council to "vote yes." - Yaritza Gonzalez (CARECEN): Urged the council to pass motions providing legal services and outreach for immigrant families, citing threats of mass deportation and the need to strengthen the LA Sanctuary City Ordinance. - Marisela Granados (former employee of The Pantry cafe): Requested support to reopen the historic Original Pantry Cafe after its closure by the Riordan Trust, leaving workers without severance or jobs. Invited council to a pancake event. - Nada Quintania and Ivana (community advocates): Opposed LADOT's plan to dismantle 40 Blue LA EV car share stations in South and East LA, urging the council to delay the vote, halt dismantling, and require LADOT to provide transparency and replacement funds. - Cid's Barrios (community advocate): Expressed anger over disruptive behavior by other public speakers and argued that LADOT has redlined South LA by removing clean mobility investments. - Armando Munoz (LAX security officer): Supported the living wage ordinance, noting that any raise would be spent on necessities and that workers "need a raise." - Lydia Grant (President, Sunland Tujunga Neighborhood Council): Thanked Councilmember Rodriguez for support and raised concerns about toxic soil dumping from wildfire debris in a residential area, noting that the county refuses to let the city test the soil and that tests are not checking for fungi or other hazardous materials. - Diana Garcia (former Original Pantry Cafe employee): Testified that she worked at the restaurant for 17 years, was left without severance or job, and urged council to support reopening the historic landmark. - Other speakers: Spoke on immigration enforcement, homelessness spending, Dodgers celebration reimbursement, reward programs for unsolved crimes, and free speech concerns. Discussion Items - Presentation on César Chavez Foundation and National Chavez Center (led by Councilmember Rodriguez): Recognized the organizations for preserving César Chavez's legacy through affordable housing, educational programs, media, and historic site stewardship. Manuel Bernal, CEO of the foundation, spoke about the ongoing work and the importance of the Delano Grape Strike's 90th anniversary. Councilmembers Rodriguez, Padilla, and the Council President expressed support. - Presentation on Black Business Association (BBA) Salute to Black Women (led by Councilmember Hutt): Honored eight women for their leadership, including Brigadier General Yvonne Cagle, Delphine Pruitt, and Tania Leckett. Sarah Harris, President of BBA, described the 22nd annual awards luncheon and symposium. Councilmember Price also commended the organization. - Item 6 and 7 – Immigration-related motions: Councilmember Rodriguez introduced amending motion 6A (Rodriguez/Padilla) and Councilmember Jurado introduced amending motion 7A (Jurado/Padilla). These motions aim to strengthen legal services and protections for immigrant communities. Councilmember Soto Martinez spoke in favor, stating the measures are crucial to counter federal immigration actions and to protect families. - Item 25 – Funding for Refresh Spot/Crisis Response Facility: A motion to extend a lease for a crisis response facility at a cost of $319,009.34, discussed during public comment. - Item 33 – Reimbursement for Dodgers celebration: The city will be reimbursed for costs incurred for hosting a celebration for the Dodgers. - Items 29 and 31 – Reward funds for unsolved crimes: Motions to increase reward amounts (e.g., $75,000 for a case). Some public commenters criticized these as ineffective. Key Outcomes - Voted to approve closed session settlements (Items 34-40): Up to $300,000 (Sarah Black), $350,000 (For Reshta Manchuri), $390,000 (Bridget Christian), $425,000 (Paulina Gorban), $500,000 (Giselle Ayar), $500,000 (Gabriela Sabakstash), and $750,000 (Onan Lopez Nelasco). All approved 11-0. - Voted to approve items 22-33 (roll-call, 12 eyes). - Voted to approve item 6 as amended (12 eyes). - Voted to approve item 7 as amended (12 eyes). - Items 2 and 3 sent forthwith without objection. - Item 8 held over to April 2, 2025 for second consideration. - Announcements: Councilmember Jurado announced the opening of the Corita Arts Center in the Arts District (free admission, Saturdays). The Council President announced a St. Patrick's Day celebration on Friday, March 28, 2025 at Van Nuys City Hall, led by Council District 15.