Los Angeles, California — Public Meeting Index

The Los Angeles City Council held its regularly scheduled meeting on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. The meeting focused on public hearings for items 1 through 5, with extensive public comment on the city budget (Item 1) and general municipal matters. Council members took procedural actions on several agenda items, including a vote on a lien item and continuances. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes from May 19, 2026, was moved by Councilmember Rodriguez and seconded. - Commendatory resolutions were moved by Councilmember Lee and seconded by Councilmember Price. Public Comments & Testimony Public comment was taken on Items 1 (budget), 4, and 5 (LADBS lien items), as well as general public comment. Over 60 speakers signed up; the Council extended comment by one hour to accommodate them. Key positions and statistics included: - Fashion/Garment Industry: Multiple speakers (e.g., Birma Santiago, Gloria, Maria, Sofia Bravo, Francisco Masilla) urged investment in Los Angeles’ garment and fashion industry, calling for a $1.7 million pilot program to support small businesses, workforce development, and ethical production. They noted the city has not made similar investments to New York’s $120 million preservation effort. - Animal Services: Jackie Navratil (Lux Pause) reported a 31% increase in dead animal pickup by sanitation, costing millions annually; 49,000+ animals entered city shelters last year; and animal-related liability payouts increased 65-fold to over $7 million. Lynn Chow documented shelter conditions and urged funding for Dogs Playing for Life (DPFL) and spay/neuter programs. Alana Klein (Community Animal Medicine Project) noted LA Animal Services’ budget is just 0.2% of the city’s total and called for full funding, including an increase in spay/neuter vouchers. Gabby Weiss (Bobby Street Cats) criticized the lack of transparency in the sterilization fund and called for upstream prevention. - Fire Department Staffing: Doug Coates and Rich Ramirez (United Firefighters of Los Angeles City Local 112) stated that LAFD response times have doubled to 8 minutes (vs. the 4.5-minute standard), the city has the same number of firefighters as in the 1960s, and staffing is 0.87 per 1,000 residents versus the recommended 1.8. They urged funding for additional drill towers and academies. - TGI Wellness & Equity Initiative: Many speakers (Chichi Any Permanent, Byron Jose, Chelsea Velez, B. Corriel, Jessica, Ayanna, Lucky Alexander, Pamela Moyeda, Alex Bass, and others) thanked Councilmembers Hernandez and Hutt for the $500,000 placeholder but stressed this falls short of the original $4 million ask. They requested full funding for housing, mental health, re-entry, and community-based services for transgender, gender diverse, and intersex Angelinos. - Public Bank Feasibility Study: Monica Ballesteros (Move LA), Hugh Brockington, Trinity Tran, Jake Hart, Javier Sarmiento, Beverly Roberts, and others urged the Council to fully fund the $325,000 remaining for a feasibility study. They argued that a public bank could recapture $1 billion annually in debt payments to Wall Street, generate a 10x multiplier through fractional reserve lending, and fund affordable housing, transit, and small business loans. They thanked the nine council members who already contributed discretionary funds. - Immigrant Legal Services (Rep LA): Godfrey Plata (LA Forward), Alexandra Morales, Lilith Melconian, Kerson Navidad, and others asked the Council to increase funding from the proposed $1.5 million to $3 million, noting that last year’s allocation left over 660 individuals on a waitlist at Chirlau alone and that current funding is insufficient to meet the rise in immigration enforcement. - Day Labor Centers: Nancy Suniga, Joshua, and others thanked the budget committee for increasing day labor center funding but asked for future growth to support case management, legal services, and infrastructure as centers have become community hubs during immigration raids and wildfire smoke events. - LAPD and Public Safety: Several speakers (including the speaker who identified himself as an organizer with Working Families Party and others) opposed the $3.6 billion proposed LAPD budget, calling for defunding and reinvestment in unarmed crisis response. Godfrey Plata celebrated the expansion of unarmed crisis response to 15 divisions by end of FY 2627. - Miscellaneous: One speaker (Joe Manzano) requested a meeting regarding neighborhood boundaries in CD14. Another speaker read the names of 322 trans homicide victims since 2017. A speaker criticized the lack of council file numbers on agendas for general public comment. One speaker (Herman) used profane and derogatory language and was repeatedly warned; the Council President apologized to the chamber. Discussion Items - Councilmember Nazarian moved to continue Items 2 and 3 for four weeks until June 17, 2026. The motion was approved. - Item 4 was held by Councilmember Padilla until after public comment. An amendment by Councilmember Rodriguez was later voted on. - Item 1 (budget) was held on the desk for a future vote. Key Outcomes - Item 4 (LADBS lien): The amending motion by Councilmember Diaz/Rodriguez passed with 13 votes in favor. - Items 2 and 3: Continued to June 17, 2026. - Item 1 (budget): Held on the desk; no vote taken during this meeting. - The meeting recessed at the conclusion of public comment and votes, to reconvene on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 10 a.m. for the conclusion of the May 20 meeting.

The Los Angeles City Council held its regularly scheduled meeting on May 19, 2026, beginning at 9:00 AM (Pacific). The meeting included roll call (15 members present, a quorum), approval of minutes, and a series of agenda items covering wage ordinances, homeless encampment restrictions, economic development, and other matters. Public comment was dominated by airport and hotel workers advocating for immediate implementation of a $30/hour wage and by opponents of expanding the 41.18 ordinance (anti-camping law) in the San Fernando Valley. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of May 15, 2026 (unanimous). - Approved commendatory resolutions (unanimous). - Noted and filed lien payment (Item 2) – motion by Blumenfield, seconded by McOsker, passed unanimously. - Waived amount owed on a lien (Item 6A) – motion by Hut and Herado, passed unanimously. - Granted a pending certificate of need (PCN) (Item 8) – motion by Yaroslavsky and Rodriguez, passed unanimously. - Adopted Items 10 (unanimous), 11 (13 ayes, 2 noes), and a batch of items (1, 7, 13, 15, 17–23, 25) all passed 15 ayes. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 26 (Airport/Hotel Worker Wage): Dozens of workers and union representatives (e.g., Unite Here Local 11, SEIU USWW) spoke in support of maintaining a $30/hour wage for LAX and hotel workers, originally scheduled to take effect before the 2028 Olympics. They argued that the wage increase is needed to keep pace with rising rents, food costs, and inflation, and opposed any delay or reduction. Multiple speakers noted that the wage was already delayed to 2030 and called for immediate implementation. A few business representatives (e.g., from Central City Association) urged a balanced approach that includes business input. - Item 16 (41.18 Expansion in San Fernando Valley): Some speakers opposed the expansion, calling it cruel and ineffective, arguing it criminalizes homelessness without providing shelter. Others supported the proposal as a tool to address drug sales and public safety concerns. - General Public Comment: Included calls for better wages, criticism of council members, and allegations of civil rights violations. Discussion Items - Item 9 – Whiteman Airport Crash Cost Recovery: Councilmember Rodriguez introduced a motion to recover city expenses from the April 20 plane crash near Whiteman Airport. She noted 93 businesses and residences lost power, and cited 16 aviation accidents at the airport since 2009. The motion passed 15 ayes. - Item 12 – Economic and Workforce Development Department Consolidation: Councilmember Rodriguez opposed folding the standalone department into a larger bureaucracy, arguing it would weaken business retention and job creation. The item passed 12 ayes, 3 noes (Rodriguez, Soto‑Martinez, and one other). - Item 16 – Ordinance Adding 41.18 Zones in San Fernando Valley: Councilmember Padilla’s proposal to add 26 new zones where sitting, lying, or sleeping is banned was called for a separate vote. It passed 11 ayes, 4 noes. - Item 24 – City Engineer Interim Extension: Councilmember Hernandez continued the item to Friday (May 22) because representatives from the personnel department were not present to answer questions about the hiring process and the 18‑month interim tenure. - Item 26 – Revised Airport/Hotel Worker Wage Ordinance: An amendment (26A) was introduced and passed 11 ayes, 4 noes. The full revised ordinance, which delays the $30 wage to 2030 and includes other concessions, was then adopted 11 ayes, 4 noes. Council President noted extensive negotiations among labor, business, and council members. The ordinance will have a second reading on May 26, 2026. - Special Introduction: Councilmember Park recognized the student organization Another Bounce, which recycles tennis and pickleballs. Student athlete Ford Cassidy requested the council place tennis/pickleball recycling on a future agenda. Key Outcomes - Wage Ordinance (Item 26): Adopted as amended (11–4); final vote scheduled for May 26, 2026. The amendment delays the $30/hour wage for airport and hotel workers from 2028 to 2030. - 41.18 Zoning (Item 16): Approved 11–4 to add 26 new zones in the San Fernando Valley where sitting, lying, or sleeping is prohibited. - Economic Development Consolidation (Item 12): Approved 12–3 to fold the Department of Economic and Workforce Development into a larger department. - Whiteman Airport Cost Recovery (Item 9): Approved 15–0 to direct the CAO to report on costs and pursue reimbursement from the county and insurance. - City Engineer Extension (Item 24): Continued to May 22, 2026 for personnel department to answer questions. - Lien Waivers and Approvals: Several items passed unanimously, including waiving a lien and approving minutes. - Meeting Adjournment: Adjourned in memory of three victims of the May 18 attack at the Islamic Center of San Diego (motion by Raman, joined by all members).

The Los Angeles City Council held a regular meeting on Friday, May 15, 2026, with 11 members present, establishing a quorum. The meeting opened with roll call, approval of the May 13, 2026 minutes, and commendatory resolutions. The council then moved through a lengthy series of presentations honoring community achievements, cultural heritage, and public service, followed by general public comment and adjournment. Consent Calendar - Items 1 through 3, for which public hearings had been held and committee reports circulated, were approved without objection and sent forthwith. Public Comments & Testimony - General public comment was taken. Multiple speakers addressed topics including charter reform conflicts of interest, LAPD collaboration with ICE, hate speech, and budget priorities. Several speakers used racial slurs or profanity, received warnings under Council Rule 7, and were escorted out after repeated violations. Presentations and Recognitions - Jewish American Heritage Month – Councilmembers Bob Blumenfield and Katy Yaroslavsky honored the 10th annual JAHM LA with a focus on “Playing It Forward: Jewish Values Through Sport.” Honorees included the Maccabee LA soccer club (represented by Eli Marmor, Eric Braeden, and others), fencer Carl Borak (via written statement), hockey player Chelsea Goldberg, and gymnast Mitch Gaylord. A video message from Olympic gymnast Aly Raisman was played. Councilmembers Rodriguez, Hutt, Park, Lee, Price, and others offered remarks. - UCLA Women’s Basketball National Champions – Councilmember Yaroslavsky recognized the 2026 NCAA champions, who defeated South Carolina 79–51 for UCLA’s 126th national title. Head coach Cori Close and player Tameia Gardner spoke. The team’s five first-round WNBA draft picks and historic senior class were highlighted. - Hapa Day – Councilmembers Nithya Raman, John Lee, and Imelda Herado celebrated mixed Asian/Pacific Islander heritage with proclamations and performances. Honorees: LAPD Captain Rachel Rodriguez (first Korean American captain), CSUN volleyball player Jordan Lucas, and Hapa Global founder Tia. A video from model Chanel Iman and a musical performance were included. - Proyecto Pastoral 40th Anniversary – Councilmember Herado honored the Boyle Heights community organization founded in 1986. Speakers included executive director Raquel Roman, founding community leaders Margarita Hernandez and Leticia Galvan, and youth advocate Joe Diaz. - Meta World Peace Day – Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martinez declared May 15, 2026 as Meta World Peace Day. Former NBA star Meta World Peace (formerly Ron Artest) spoke about his mental health advocacy, his Artest Foundation, and plans for a university. Supporters Roger Aleya Bernstein, Haseeb Emran, Victor Dominguez (YMCA), and poet Jim Zukin also addressed the council. - AAPI Female Leaders – Councilmember Heather Hutt recognized four Korean American women: Alexandra Suh (KIWA), Ray Jin (YMCA), Vivian Kim (Hanmi Bank), and Youn Huh (Korean Sports Association). Each spoke briefly about their work. Key Outcomes - Items 1–3 (committee reports) were approved and sent forthwith. - A budget hearing originally scheduled for later in the morning was postponed to 2:00 PM. - Multiple proclamations and certificates were presented to the honorees. - The council adjourned with no further business.

The Los Angeles City Council met on May 13, 2026, starting late at approximately 9:40 AM local time. The meeting included roll call with 11 members present initially, later 15. The council approved minutes, commendatory resolutions, and a consent calendar. Major discussions centered on the Olympic wage for tourism workers (Item 20) and the repeal of the business gross receipts tax (Item 19). Public comment was extensive, with over 50 speakers on both sides. Consent Calendar - Items 1–3, 6–7, and 9–18 were approved in a single vote with no recorded dissent. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 20 (Olympic Wage): Numerous workers, union members, and advocates urged the council to reject any reduction or delay, arguing the wage was fought for and won. Speakers from Unite Here Local 11, ACE, and others described the impact on their families. Business representatives and some residents supported adjustments, citing job losses and operational challenges. Reverend Rosa Manriquez and others invoked moral and religious arguments. - Item 19 (Business Tax Repeal): Several speakers opposed the repeal, warning of severe cuts to city services. One speaker criticized the process and corporate influence. - General Public Comment: Topics included tree trimming, domestic violence funding, and opposition to the repeal of the business tax. One speaker delivered an extended critique of council members. Discussion Items - Item 5: Councilmember Rodriguez introduced amending motions (5A and 5B) regarding barbecuing on red flag days, arguing it unfairly targets certain communities. The council voted on the item; the outcome was not recorded in the transcript. - Item 19: Chief Administrative Officer Matt Zable presented a fiscal impact analysis of the gross receipts tax repeal, calling it an "economic apocalypse" that would require massive cuts to public safety, homelessness response, and Olympics preparedness. The council voted 15–0 to place the measure on the November 3, 2026, ballot. - Item 20: The council considered a substitute motion (20A) to adjust the wage schedule and health benefit provisions of the Olympic wage ordinance. After debates and amendments (including striking Section F regarding cash waivers), the motion passed 10–5. A separate amendment (20B) to exempt hotel restaurant workers failed 5–10. Councilmember Soto Martinez expressed strong opposition, while Councilmember Rodriguez argued for business viability. Key Outcomes - Item 8 continued to Friday, June 12, 2026. - Item 19: The council voted 15–0 to place the business tax repeal initiative on the November 3, 2026, general municipal election ballot. - Item 20: Substitute motion 20A (placeholder for continued negotiations) passed 10–5. The council instructed the city attorney to draft amendments based on further negotiations expected to return by Tuesday, May 19. - Item 20B: Amendment to exclude hotel restaurant workers from the hotel minimum wage failed 5–10. - The meeting was adjourned in memory of Socorro Norma Gallegos. Note: Vote tallies for Items 4 and 5 were not explicitly recorded in the transcript.

The Los Angeles City Council held its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. The meeting included approval of routine items, public testimony, consideration of several agenda items, and a closed session. Key actions included unanimous passage of a motion to restrict the sale of nitrous oxide and other routine items. Consent Calendar - Items 1 through 13 and 16 through 23 were approved unanimously (14-0). These included routine approvals, commendatory resolutions, and items for which public hearings had been held or not held. Specific items noted in the transcript include item 5 (street lighting) and item 16 (related to a fire station repurposing request). Public Comments & Testimony - Numerous speakers addressed the council, with the majority speaking on Item 14 (restriction of nitrous oxide sales). Students from San Fernando Valley schools, community members, and representatives from the San Fernando Valley Partnership, LA Unified School District, and State Senator Caroline Menjivar’s office urged the council to ban the sale of nitrous oxide in smoke shops and cannabis retailers. Speakers cited health risks (brain damage, oxygen deprivation, death), increasing emergency department visits (from 76 in 2018 to 263 in 2023 per California Department of Public Health), and the prevalence of canisters near schools. One speaker noted that 73% of LA schools are within 1,000 feet of a smoke shop. - A few speakers offered general public comment on other topics: working conditions at McDonald’s (extreme heat, lack of AC), the need for improved street lighting, and a request to support converting a historic fire station into a fitness center for municipal bus drivers. - One disruptive speaker used offensive language and was warned; he endorsed a mayoral candidate and criticized various council members. Another speaker called out Councilmember Raman for skipping mayoral debates. - A speaker also raised concerns about a clergy council member’s past conduct. Discussion Items - Item 14 (called special by Councilmember Padilla): A motion to restrict the retail sale and distribution of nitrous oxide products at tobacco and cannabis retailers in Los Angeles, with exemptions for legitimate uses (e.g., medical, industrial). Councilmember Padilla offered a technical amendment, which was adopted. - Item 15 (called special by Councilmember Hernandez): A motion with a technical amendment for Councilmember Price, also adopted. - The council then moved into closed session for Item 24 (an item scheduled for closed session). No report was issued after closed session. Key Outcomes - All items before the council passed unanimously (14-0). - The council adopted amendments to Items 14 and 15 and approved the amended motions. - The council went into closed session for Item 24; no reportable actions resulted. - The meeting adjourned in memory of Richard Allen Pinnard, a 92-year-old Army veteran and Venice resident who died after being struck by a vehicle while riding an e-scooter. - The next quorum was confirmed with 14 members present.

The Los Angeles City Council convened on May 8, 2026, for a meeting that featured multiple special presentations honoring cultural heritage and community contributions, followed by public comment and routine council business. The meeting included the approval of minutes, several consent items, a settlement, and referrals. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Minutes of the May 6, 2026 meeting were approved. - Items 1-5 (Public Hearings Held): Approved without objection. Item 3 was continued to Wednesday, May 13, 2026. - Motions for Posting and Referral: Approved without objection. Public Comments & Testimony - General Public Comment: - A speaker urged fairness in political races and decency among citizens. - A speaker thanked Councilmember Rahman for challenging the mayor and criticized candidate Virgosa for spreading what they called "mega lies." - Multiple speakers from Flying Food Group (workers and advocates) alleged systematic labor rights violations and called on the city to enforce human rights commitments for workers at the LAX facility. - A cannabis industry representative requested lowering taxes to 0.1% (from current 10%), arguing that high taxes undermine the legal market and social equity goals. - A speaker criticized the lack of police oversight and the omission of certain crime categories in police reports. - A speaker opposed a proposed business improvement district in an area near schools, recommending against adding smoke shops or liquor stores. - A speaker praised federal cleanup at MacArthur Park and called for further street improvements ahead of the Olympics. - A speaker complained about the Department of Water and Power's arrears program, stating that large payment demands threaten to make them homeless despite offering smaller monthly payments. - Item 6 (Ordinance): One speaker briefly commented on business improvement districts before moving to general comment. - Item 7 (Settlement): No public comment specifically on this item. Discussion Items - Cinco de Mayo Celebration (Councilmember Padilla): Councilmember Padilla presented a program reclaiming Cinco de Mayo as a celebration of Chicano and Mexican-American heritage. Honorees included: Marcos (owner of a chorizo business praised for authentic flavor); Daniel Duno Lopez (content creator and comedian); Esteban Oro (photographer and director); Dr. Amada Armenta and Dr. Jose Loya (UCLA professors from the Latino Policy and Politics Institute); and Rudy Vargas and Mariachi Raices de Mexico (30 years of mariachi service). Councilmembers Rodriguez and Padilla emphasized the importance of recognizing Latino contributions and countering negative stereotypes. - Latino Film Institute / La LALIFF 25th Anniversary (Councilmember Soto-Martinez): Recognized the 25th anniversary of the Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival (LALIFF). Edward James Olmos, founder of the Latino Film Institute, and staff highlighted the Youth Cinema Project, which teaches filmmaking to students from 5th grade through high school, and LALIFF’s new Academy Award qualifying status in short film categories. Councilmembers Roman, Rodriguez, and Hutt expressed support for the institute’s work in creating opportunities for Latino filmmakers and youth. - Croatian American Heritage Month (Councilmember McCosker): Declared May as Croatian American Heritage Month in Los Angeles. Recognized the large Croatian diaspora in San Pedro, including the Dalmatian American Club’s 100th anniversary and the Croatian American Club. Consul General Rene Peya noted the contributions of Croatian Americans, including a Nobel Prize winner in physics from San Pedro High School. The councilmember also announced that San Pedro will host an official FIFA fan zone for the World Cup and a Croatia House for the LA28 Olympics. - Europe Day (Councilmember McCosker): Recognized May 9 as Europe Day, commemorating the Schumann Declaration. The consuls general of multiple European nations were present, and City Hall was lit in yellow and blue in honor of the European Union flag. - K-Expo USA 2026 (Councilmember Lee): Recognized the first K-Expo USA, held in Los Angeles, showcasing Korean culture, content, food, beauty, and technology. Speakers included KOCA Acting President Yu Hyun Suk, LA Tourism CEO Adam Burke, Consul General Kim Young-wan, and Korean Cultural Center Director Lee Heedon. Councilmember Hutt welcomed the event to Koreatown and highlighted the importance of cultural diversity. Key Outcomes - Votes: - Items 1-3 and 5: Approved unanimously (11 ayes). - Item 6 (ordinance): Passed (10 ayes); held over to Friday, May 15, 2026, for second consideration. - Item 7 (settlement in Greg Akeeley et al. v. City of Los Angeles): Approved (10 ayes) to expend up to $287,626.44. - Referrals: Motions for posting and referral were approved without objection. - Proclamations: The council adopted certifications and resolutions for Cinco de Mayo, Latino Film Institute, Croatian American Heritage Month, Europe Day, and K-Expo USA 2026.

The Los Angeles City Council met on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, with 11 members present. The meeting covered a range of issues including recognition of labor leader Gary Herrera, adoption of an interim control ordinance for smoke shops in Council District 15, approval of a street lighting assessment, and implementation of SB 79 for housing near transit. Multiple votes were taken with detailed debate. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes of March 13, 2026. - Commendatory resolutions. - Items 6-9, 11-12, 14-15, 17-25, 28-29, 31 were approved unanimously (15 ayes). - Item 8 (forthwith) approved. - Item 13 (Government Efficiency report) approved 15 ayes. - Item 62 (ordinance dated March 24, 2026) approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 30 (Street Lighting Assessment): Speaker from VICA urged amending to remove non-core items; others (Spectrum, LA Latino Chamber) opposed the broadband-related provisions and tax increase, urging focus on street lights. One speaker expressed support for the assessment as a public safety need. - Item 5 (Smoke Shops ICO): Alicia Baltazar (Wilmington resident) described negative impacts of smoke shops near schools, including a 10th grader reporting cheap vapes. Irma Lara Venegas also spoke in support of the ICO. - Item 3 (Speed Safety Cameras): Damien Kevitt (Streets Are For Everyone) urged faster implementation, noting LA's traffic fatalities. - Item 4 (SB 79 Implementation): Numerous speakers supported Option 3 (including Inner City Law Center, Act LA Coalition, Faith in Housing Coalition, Abundant Housing LA) for more equitable housing, while some supported Option 1 (LA Conservancy, Westside Neighborhood Council, Carthay Circle HPOZ) for preserving neighborhoods. Several speakers urged urgency in addressing housing crisis. - General Public Comment: Speakers addressed various topics including fast food workers' rights, Cesar Chavez, Scientology, LAPD misconduct, and other concerns. Discussion Items - Recognition of Gary Herrera: Councilmembers praised Herrera's service as ILWU Local 13 president, and introduced four motions related to worker impact frameworks at the Port of LA. - Item 5 - Smoke Shops Interim Control Ordinance (ICO): Councilmember McCosker introduced the ICO for CD 15, citing unregulated smoke shops selling to youth. An amendment was added to study citywide expansion. Approved 14 ayes. - Item 30 - Street Lighting Assessment: Councilmember Lee clarified that Bureau of Street Lighting does not intend to become an ISP. Councilmembers debated the tax burden vs. need for lighting. Approved 13 ayes, 1 no. - Item 4 - SB 79 Implementation: Multiple amendments were considered. Councilmember Blumenfield introduced 4A (Option C1), which exceeded minimum requirements. Councilmember Soto Martinez introduced 4E (Option C2) which failed (4-9). Other amendments 4D (mailing notices) and 4C (improving corridor transition program) were approved. Final 4A as amended passed 13 ayes. The motion also includes a future local alternative plan. - Item 26 - Economic Development Study: Councilmember Soto Martinez introduced a motion for a citywide economic development strategy. Approved 14 ayes. - Item 27 - Small Business Fast Pass for LA28: Pre-certification process for local businesses to compete for LA28 contracts. Approved 14 ayes. - Item 34 - Substitute Ordinance: Approved 14 ayes. - Item 51 - (Comments): Approved 14 ayes. - Item 10 - Councilmember Price recused, approved 13 ayes. Key Outcomes - Item 3 (Speed Safety Pilot Program): Adopted as amended (14 ayes). LA will implement speed safety cameras. - Item 5 (Smoke Shops ICO): Adopted (14 ayes) with a directive to study citywide ICO. - Item 30 (Street Lighting Assessment): Approved (13 ayes, 1 no). The assessment will fund street lighting maintenance and operations. - Item 4 (SB 79 Implementation): Approved (13 ayes). The council adopted Option C1 with amendments to improve the corridor transition program and to explore funding for public notices. The city will develop a local alternative plan by 2030. - Item 26 (Economic Development Study): Approved (14 ayes). City departments to report back on best practices. - Item 27 (Small Business Fast Pass for LA28): Approved (14 ayes). Pre-certification process for local businesses. - Item 34 (Substitute): Approved (14 ayes). - Item 62 (Ordinance): Approved (14 ayes). - Adjourning Motion: Meeting adjourned in memory of Tommy Amalfitano.

The Los Angeles City Council convened on Friday, March 13, 2026, for a regular meeting and a subsequent special meeting. The regular meeting featured approvals of routine items, presentations recognizing cultural heritage and community leaders, public testimony on several agenda items, and a closed session. The special meeting included discussions and votes on the Time-Limited Subsidies (TLS) housing program and a major street lighting assessment. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from March 11, 2026. - Commendatory resolutions. - Adoption of agenda items 2 through 8 and 10 through 12 (all passed with 12 ayes). Public Comments & Testimony - On the Fast Food Fair Work Ordinance: Multiple fast‑food workers urged the Council to approve the ordinance without delay, citing wage theft and unsafe conditions. - On Olympics Leadership: A coalition of 100 organizations (unions, housing, immigration groups) demanded an inclusive process to select the leader of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. - On Charter Reform: Several speakers criticized the charter reform commission, calling for an elected commission and alleging ethical lapses. - On Street Lighting and Sidewalks: A speaker highlighted dangerous pedestrian infrastructure, especially missing sidewalks in District 2, and called for more investment. - On Homelessness and Housing: Testimony criticized homeless sweeps and the 4118 rule, with one speaker noting that arrests in one district increased five‑fold after a new councilmember took office. - On the Casey Wasserman / Epstein Issue: Multiple speakers expressed concern about Wasserman’s connections and urged the Council to take stronger action. - On the Street Lighting Assessment (Special Meeting): A representative of the Valley Industry and Commerce Association (VICA) argued that the proposed assessment would nearly triple property‑owner costs and that the city should fix existing lights before expanding the program. - On Homelessness Spending (Special Meeting): A speaker contended that the city should give unhoused residents housing unconditionally rather than funneling money through nonprofits with high administrative costs. Presentations & Recognitions - Bulgarian Cultural Heritage Month: Councilmember Park presented a resolution to Consul General Boyoko Ristov, designating March 2026 as Bulgarian Cultural Heritage Month. - St. Patrick’s Day Celebration: Councilmember McCosker hosted a celebration with the Irish Consul General and Verona Murphy, Speaker of the Irish Parliament. The Lions Academy of Irish Dance performed, and certificates were presented. - Senator Richard Polanco: Councilmember Hernandez led a tribute honoring former State Senator Richard Polanco, designating the intersection of Avenue 26 and North San Fernando Road as “Senator Richard Polanco Square.” Several former and current state and federal officials spoke about his role in building Latino political power and passing over 250 bills. - Reverend Zachary Hoover: Councilmember Jurado and Soto Martinez recognized the outgoing Executive Director of LA Voice for his decade of work on food access, housing, and faith‑based organizing. - Coach Dylan Smith: Councilmember Park honored Pali High football coach Dylan Smith as the 2025 AFC Don Shula High School Coach of the Year. A video recounted how his team overcame the Palisades fire to finish a perfect 10‑0 regular season. The coach, a student, and a parent spoke. - UTLA and SEIU Local 99: Councilmember Hernandez and Soto Martinez recognized the two unions, which are in contract negotiations with LAUSD. Speakers provided statistics: 21% of UTLA educators qualify for low‑income housing, 1 in 3 new teachers leave within five years, and the average SEIU 99 classified employee earns $35,000 per year, with 99% unable to afford a one‑bedroom apartment. The Council expressed solidarity with the unions, and a motion supporting their contract fight was introduced. Discussion Items - Time‑Limited Subsidies (TLS) Program (Item 17): Councilmember Rodriguez questioned staff on how participants are selected, their acuity levels, and case management. Staff explained that the program prioritizes long‑stay interim housing residents (12+ months), assigns them to one of three tracks, and provides intensive services. Councilmember Park expressed concern about placing high‑acuity individuals in private apartments, while Councilmember Raman noted that TLS has produced better outcomes than congregate shelters at lower cost. - Street Lighting Assessment (Item 19): Councilmembers Yaroslavsky and Rodriguez raised questions about an amendment to study a carve‑out for Pacific Palisades and the need for an updated operational plan. The City Attorney confirmed the amendment is a report‑back that does not delay the assessment. The Bureau of Street Lighting said the 2022 operational plan remains valid. After debate, the Council voted 11‑1 to adopt the assessment, with Councilmember Rodriguez dissenting; the ordinance is held for second reading on March 24. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar and commendatory resolutions adopted (12‑0). - All presentation resolutions approved. - Councilmembers introduced a motion of support for UTLA and SEIU 99. - Item 17 (TLS Program): Approved (12‑0). - Item 16 (Budget and Finance Committee report): Approved (11‑1, Rodriguez dissenting). - Item 19 (Street Lighting Assessment as amended): Approved (11‑1, Rodriguez dissenting). Ordinance held over for second reading. - Closed session held for Item 14 (no public action taken). - The meeting adjourned in memory of Juan Cuevas, a 26‑year‑old gun‑violence victim whose murder remains unsolved (the Council introduced a motion to extend a reward for information), and in memory of Alyssa “Pepper” Williams, a young woman who overcame homelessness and worked as a substance‑abuse counselor.

The Los Angeles City Council held its regularly scheduled meeting on Friday, March 6, 2026, at 10:00 AM (approximate start from presentations), presided over by Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson. Eleven members were present. The meeting featured multiple presentations recognizing community contributions, a retirement tribute, and public testimony on a range of city issues. The council voted on several agenda items, including amendments and nominations. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes from March 4, 2026, moved by Councilmember Park and seconded by Councilmember Hutt. - Commendatory resolutions for approval moved by Councilmember Price and seconded by Councilmember Hernandez. - Items 1 through 11 were listed as items for which public hearings had been held; items 12 and 13 had not yet had hearings. Public Comments & Testimony - LA28/Olympics Leadership: Multiple speakers called for greater transparency and the resignation of LA28 chair Casey Wasserman due to alleged associations with Jeffrey Epstein. Speakers from the Fair Games Coalition urged a transparent process for leadership selection and criticized the council for delaying a vote on a related resolution. - Artificial Turf: A speaker representing a coalition of over 60 organizations urged the council to oppose synthetic turf at the Obama Sports Complex and to prioritize natural grass for health and environmental reasons. - Charter Reform Commission: Several commenters criticized the Charter Reform Commission process as unresponsive to public input and called for an elected commission or cancellation of the current effort. One speaker supported nominee Keri Morrison for the commission. - Homelessness and Housing: Speakers addressed the ongoing homeless crisis and the need for more affordable housing. One speaker referenced the Small Lots, Big Impacts initiative (Item 1) and criticized the city's land disposition policies. - United to House LA (ULA): Multiple members of Community Power Collective and others defended Measure ULA, passed by voters, urging the council not to place it back on the ballot. They highlighted that ULA has generated over $1 billion for tenant legal representation and rental assistance. - Illegal Dumping: Residents from Harbor Gateway and surrounding areas asked for clarification on a rumored moratorium on prosecuting illegal dumping, stating the issue contributes to blight and safety concerns. - LAPD and ICE Collaboration: Speakers called for removing LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell and demanded the council take action to end police collaboration with ICE, citing insufficient reporting on interactions. - Barry Building Demolition: Speakers from the Los Angeles Conservancy and Angelinos for Historic Preservation supported an appeal to save the historic Barry Building, arguing the owner intentionally neglected the property to justify demolition. - Other: One speaker expressed frustration with the council's handling of public comment and alleged disrespect. Another raised concerns about wage theft among fast-food workers. - Disruptions occurred during public comment when a speaker (Mr. Herman) used profane language and was eventually ejected after multiple warnings. Discussion Items - Item 1 – Small Lots, Big Impacts (Amended): Councilmember Hutt called the item special for an amendment, which was circulated. Councilmembers Blumenfield and Raman also submitted amendments. The item was voted on after amendments. - Item 4 – Obama Sports Complex Artificial Turf: Councilmember Blumenfield called the item special to register concern about the lack of a citywide policy on artificial turf, citing health and environmental impacts. He noted his pending motion for a scientific analysis of artificial grass. - Item 13 – Nomination to Charter Reform Commission: The council considered a nomination by Councilmember Blumenfield to the Charter Reform Commission. It was among items without public hearing and was voted on. - Item 14 – Referral Back to PLUM: Councilmember Blumenfield requested that Item 14 be referred back to the Planning and Land Use Management Committee for the City Attorney's recommendation. The council approved this. Key Outcomes - Item 1 Passed: After amendments, the council voted on Item 1 (Small Lots, Big Impacts). The vote was taken and passed (tally not specified in transcript). - Item 4 Passed: The council voted on Item 4; it passed despite Councilmember Blumenfield's concerns about artificial turf policy. - Item 13 Passed: The council voted on the nomination to the Charter Reform Commission; it passed. - Item 2 Continued to March 13, 2026: Originally scheduled for vote, it was continued. - Item 14 Referred Back to PLUM. - Public Comment Period: Limited to 30 minutes initially, then extended by 10 minutes. After additional testimony, public comment was closed. - Retirement Honored: The council recognized Derek Tranel on his retirement after 28 years of service, including 21 years as director of the Victim Assistance Program at the City Attorney's Office. - Presentations Acknowledged: The council recognized the 50th anniversary of the Commission on the Status of Women and presented Women of Impact Awards to honorees from each district. Also honored were the 50th anniversary of AGBU Manugyan Demirjian School and the Lunar New Year celebration with the Chinese Chamber of Commerce and the 2026 Miss LA Chinatown court.