Dear friends,
Last Friday, the City Council voted 11-2 to approve a proposal to expand the Los Angeles Convention Center – a project now expected to cost at least $2.6 billion. While I believe deeply in investing in downtown LA, I voted against moving forward with this project at this moment of uncertainty for our city.
The modernization of the Los Angeles Convention Center is much needed and long overdue, but the proposal before us was expensive and risky, much more so than previous versions of the project. After accounting for all expected revenues, the new proposal commits the City to at least $90 million in annual debt service payments from our general fund and puts us on the hook to pay for many cost overruns related to the project. If the project doesn’t meet its tight timeline, planned Olympics events will have to be moved, for which LA will also have to bear the costs.
We made this commitment at a time of deep fiscal uncertainty and crumbling city services. Thanks to large liability payouts, the impacts of new labor agreements, the January fires, and softer-than-expected revenues, we declared a fiscal emergency in June and the City only narrowly avoided more than a thousand layoffs. As a result, the City’s ability to provide basic services is getting worse: fixing a streetlight now takes an average of 9 months, and sidewalk repairs take years. To cope with the shortfalls, we’ve slowed hiring for police officers and sanitation workers. With tourism and local economic activity falling thanks to federal policies around visas, tariffs and immigration enforcement, and planned ballot measures that may cut $800 million of general fund revenue, next year’s budget is likely to be even worse.
For me, as the Chair of the Housing and Homelessness Committee, I am also seeing the impact of staggering cuts to federal funding for health-care, homeless services, housing construction, even Section 8 vouchers. After two years of finally reducing homelessness, we are going to have to find tens of millions of dollars of additional local funding just to keep thousands of formerly homeless people in their housing.
I believe in big, bold investments in Los Angeles. I’ve championed union-built affordable housing, transformative transit, and the kind of city-building that dreams big for LA’s future. But I also believe that fiscal responsibility means making sure we can meet our most urgent obligations first: making sure basic city services work, keeping our neighborhoods safe, and keeping people housed.
While I did not support this proposal, now that it has passed, I will work hard alongside my colleagues to make sure it succeeds. And I will continue to be honest with you about the situation ahead. Angelenos deserve a city that delivers on its most basic responsibilities, and it will take all of us working together to make sure that we can make that happen.
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Wishing everyone who celebrates a Happy New Year,
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Updates From City Hall — Reducing 911 Call Wait Times, Recognizing Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
- In The District — Closing Out The Griffith Park Free Shakespeare Festival’s Summer Season, Meeting Residents For A Backyard Chat In The Hollywood Hills, Celebrating One Hundred Years Of Our Mother Of Good Counsel, Hiking With TreePeople in Coldwater Canyon
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Upcoming Events — Virtual Know Your Rights Training, Autry Museum Annual Block Party, Fall Concerts In The Park
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Resources & Forums — Council District 4 Arts Grant, LA City Park Needs Assessment Public Comment & Community Meetings
- Construction & Closures — Beachwood Canyon Mainline Water Pipe Installation
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Other Helpful Links
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REDUCING 911 CALL WAIT TIMES
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Earlier this year, I introduced a motion to reform the City’s 911 emergency response system, housed in LAPD’s Communications Division, and I am pleased to report that Council adopted this motion last week. Both emergency and non-emergency calls are not being answered quickly enough, including reports of non-emergency callers waiting for more than an hour!
My motion outlines several potential options for reducing 911 call wait times, including assessing the feasibility of establishing dedicated non-emergency operators within LAPD, and exploring the creation of a separate, dedicated non-emergency line. This could be housed within the City or externally contracted and would be tasked with dispatching unarmed crisis response teams, filing reports, and providing other non-emergency assistance.
Long wait times for 911 calls must be addressed: they may not only lead to worse responses to emergencies, but they can also lead to residents feeling alone and unsafe during times of need.
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RECOGNIZING OVARIAN CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
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Every year for nine years running, we have taken time to pause and recognize Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month in Council, shedding light on a disease that too often goes undetected. Ovarian cancer has been called the “silent killer” because its symptoms are subtle, and for too many women, they go unnoticed until it’s too late.
Women’s health is often treated as a second-rate problem, but the Ovarian Cancer Circle, led by the inimitable Paulinda Babbini, reminds us that we cannot and must not put ourselves last. Inspired by the story of her daughter Robin Babbini, who passed all too young because of this disease, the Ovarian Cancer Circle has become one of the leading organizations in the country advocating for a cure and keeping up the drumbeat so this issue is not forgotten. Paulinda took her own tragedy and transformed it into something much larger than herself.
We also took a moment to uplift the researchers and scientists who have dedicated their lives to finding a cure, including Dr. Sanaz Memarzadeh. A surgeon-scientist and professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Dr. Memarzadeh has been fighting to advance treatment for women diagnosed with gynecologic cancers.
I hope that recognizing Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month serves both as a tribute and a call to action, and I encourage everyone to learn more about the symptoms and support available at theovariancancercircle.org.
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CLOSING OUT THE GRIFFITH PARK FREE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL’S
SUMMER SEASON
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After 45 incredible performances for over 25,000 audience members, the Independent Shakespeare Co. brought the house down to close out the 2025 season of the Griffith Park Free Shakespeare Festival!
For two decades, the Independent Shakespeare Co. has been putting on free theater performances in the City of Los Angeles— providing many Angelenos their first taste of Shakespeare. Co-Founded by Melissa Chalsma and David Melville (who played the titular role of one of this season’s shows!), Indie Shakes’s annual Griffith Park festival brings community, connection, and drama to the masses.
My staff had the pleasure of attending one of their shows– a chilling performance of Marlowe’s “Doctor Faustus.” While not-quite a Shakespeare performance, this play had audience members laughing, gasping, and sitting on the edge of their picnic blanket. Friends and neighbors gathered under sycamore trees near the Old Zoo in Griffith Park on one of LA’s last warm summer nights.
Now more than ever, Los Angeles needs this connection to the arts, and connection to community. Thank you to the cast of Indie Shakes for another unforgettable season and for a summer filled with drama and joy.
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MEETING RESIDENTS FOR A BACKYARD CHAT IN THE HOLLYWOOD HILLS
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I joined the Hollywood Knolls Community Club (HKCC) and Cahuenga Pass Property Owners Association (CPPOA) for a sunny backyard chat to hear from residents about the issues they’re facing and how we can address them together, including ensuring this area – the gateway to some of the City’s most iconic landmarks – is revitalized ahead of the World Cup and Olympic and Paralympic Games.
I also shared the significant progress we’ve made to address homelessness and create a more accountable system through the Homeless Oversight Bureau, as well as my push to expand the unarmed crisis response program city-wide to ensure LAPD officers are able to serve where they are needed most. It was encouraging to hear that these initiatives are having a tangible, positive impact on the community.
I want to thank Charles Malki, President of HKCC for spearheading this conversation, and Krista Michaels, Judy Marlin, Sherice Recke, and Paul Wieselmann for sharing their breadth of knowledge as long time community members. I also want to extend a special thank you to Brad and Sana Fickes for welcoming us into their gorgeous backyard and treating us to homemade Moroccan tea and sweets!
Connecting with constituents is the true joy of my work, and I am always grateful for the opportunity to meet with residents to discuss our shared priorities!
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CELEBRATING ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF OUR MOTHER OF GOOD COUNSEL
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For 100 years, the church of Our Mother of Good Counsel has been faithfully serving the Los Feliz community, welcoming people of all cultures, backgrounds, and walks of life into their parish. We joined them on a recent Saturday for their centennial celebration of their enduring commitment to enriching the spiritual, cultural, and civic life of Los Angeles.
Since 1933, the parish’s elementary school, founded by the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, has educated generations of Los Angeles youth, instilling both academic excellence and deep community values. Rooted in the Augustinian tradition and inspired by the same spirit that now guides Pope Leo, the parish has consistently welcomed all who seek fellowship, service, and faith. Today, it continues to reimagine the future of the Catholic Church as an inclusive home where every person belongs.
Even now, Our Mother of Good Counsel has been a beacon for a diverse, multilingual community — one that proudly participates in ministries of worship and service, including longstanding programs for those who are poor and in need.
Congratulations to everyone at Our Mother of Good Counsel who has made the celebrated institution the cultural lighthouse that it is today. Here’s to another century of service and care!
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HIKING WITH TREEPEOPLE IN COLDWATER CANYON
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Last week, we hosted our second community hike of the summer, this time in beautiful Coldwater Canyon. In partnership with TreePeople – an organization dedicated to environmental preservation and which we are lucky to house right here in Council District 4 – we hit the trail on a gorgeous Friday evening, learning about our surrounding nature along the way. We were joined by over 50 members of the community from across the district, and I hope you all had the opportunity to connect with someone new!
We host these events to foster authentic, accessible, and creative ways to connect with all of you. To learn more about our upcoming events, including this October’s Concerts in the Park series, I encourage you to visit our website HERE!
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AUTRY ANNUAL BLOCK PARTY | SEPTEMBER 27 | MORE INFO
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Honoring first responders and the entire Los Angeles community, the Autry invites you to enjoy a carnival on the lawn, activities for the whole family, special museum tours and access, and more!
Join the Autry at this year’s Block Party on Saturday, September 27, to celebrate local heroes and community members who came to the aid of those in need during the fires and continue to support the community to this day. Now more than ever, the Autry is committed to supporting our community during this and future rebuilding phases, serving as a place of respite and celebration for the arts, history, and culture of our beloved city and region.
DATE: Saturday, September 27
TIME: 10AM – 5PM
LOCATION: Autry Museum, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Click HERE for more information and to purchase tickets!
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FALL CONCERTS IN THE PARK | OCTOBER 12 & 26 | MORE INFO
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For the third year running, we’re getting the band back together for our FREE Concert in the Park series! Join us on Sunday, October 12 at the Van Nuys Sherman Oaks Rec Center for a front row seat to Adelaide Pilar performing Latin Top 40 Hits. And, on Sunday, October 26,
Taylor Swift tribute band New Romantics will grace us with a high energy show sure to keep everyone dancing their heart out. Bring your friends, neighbors, and a picnic blanket to sit on — this event is free and open to all!
Adelaide Pilar: Latin Top 40
DATE: Sunday, October 12
TIME: 3PM – 6PM
LOCATION: Van Nuys Sherman Oaks Park, 14201 Huston St., Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
RSVP HERE
New Romantics: Taylor Swift Tribute
DATE: Sunday, October 26
TIME: 3PM – 6PM
LOCATION: Van Nuys Sherman Oaks Park, 14201 Huston St., Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
RSVP HERE
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COUNCIL DISTRICT 4 ARTS GRANT | OCT 2 APPLICATION DEADLINE | MORE INFO
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From the iconic canyons of the Hollywood Hills to the bustling studios of the San Fernando Valley, Council District 4 is a community of artists. Since the pandemic, our artists and arts organizations have faced setback after setback – from disruptions in film and TV production to, most recently, the devastating fires in the Pacific Palisades and Altadena.
Our office has worked closely with movements like StayinLA to support our creators, and we are excited to announce a *new initiative* to provide direct funding to both individuals and non-profit organizations that have helped make our district a vibrant and unique place to live.
To continue supporting the ongoing recovery and stabilization of the arts sector, our office has partnered with the Department of Cultural Affairs to establish an Arts Restabilization and Emergency Response Preparedness Program (ARERPP).
The ARERPP is meant to provide financial support to those artists and arts organizations headquartered in Council District 4. Individual artists will be eligible for awards up to $4,000, and arts organizations will be eligible for awards up to $11,000.
🎨 All submissions must be completed through SlideRoom by 11:59pm on October 2, 2025, or until the first 150 applications have been received— whichever comes first.
Click HERE to learn more about eligibility and to apply!
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LA CITY PARK NEEDS ASSESSMENT PUBLIC COMMENT | MORE INFO
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The City of Los Angeles is entering the third phase of The Park Needs Assessment and wants to hear from you! This Assessment will be a roadmap to just and fair capital investment in parks and recreation and equitable connections to quality parks and recreation, to meet current and future needs of residents!
The Draft Park Needs Assessment (PNA) was released this month and the Department of Recreation & Parks (RAP) wants to hear from you! Your feedback will directly inform how LA addresses park needs, today and in the future.
To provide public comment, click on the “Submit a Comment on the PNA” at the bottom right the Park Needs Assessment page. While all of the draft PNA content is on this website, if you would prefer to comment on a PDF instead, click here.
For more information, visit the Park Needs Assessment website, download the presentation slides, or watch a virtual meeting recording.
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LADWP Mainline Water Pipe Installation
Date/Time: started July 17th lasting for 3-4 months
Location: Beachwood between Graciosa Dr. and Cheremoya Ave.
Details: LADWP has been working along Beachwood Dr. in recent months to install a new mainline water pipe in order to improve water system reliability. A new phase of work has now started along Beachwood between Graciosa Dr. and Cheremoya Ave. Work began on Thursday, July 17 and is expected to last for 3 to 4 months. Work hours will typically be 7:30am to 3:30pm Monday through Friday.
Because this portion of Beachwood Dr. is significantly narrower than the southern portion, traffic will be reduced to a single lane servicing both directions. Flaggers will be stationed at either end of the project to direct traffic. Street parking will be restricted; please observe all “No Parking/Tow Away” signs. Parking will be restored to normal after each work day. Delivered and emergency services will not be affected.
For more information, contact Michael Ventre, LADWP Community Affairs liaison, at michael.ventre@ladwp.com or at 213.367.1381
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Our Office:
Services + Resources
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Food Pantry Locator — Get connected to food resources near you.
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StayHoused LA — Workshops and resources to help renters stay in their homes.
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MyLA311 — Submit a request for services including graffiti removal, pothole repair, and bulky-item pickup.
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LA-HOP Homeless Outreach Portal — Assist or self-input an outreach request from the LA Homeless Services Authority to unhoused residents.
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LA City Sanitation — Submit a service request for metal/household appliance disposal.
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MyChildCarePlan — Free resource website for childcare providers and families listing every licensed provider in California.
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Adopt or Foster A Shelter Pet— Find pets for adoption and a list of local shelters.
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Gas Assistance Fund – The Gas Assistance Fund (GAF) offers a one-time grant to help customers pay their natural gas bills.
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Ready Your LA Business Workbook – City of LA’s FREE workbook to help business owners prepare their business for any emergency. Available in English and Spanish.
Alerts
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NotifyLA — Sign up to receive urgent notifications about local emergencies by phone, email, and/or text message.
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LAFD Alerts – Sign up for alerts on fires and evacuations in your area.
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LADWP Outage Info — Sign up for outage alerts in your area.
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StreetsLA Street Sweeping — Register for notifications about sweeping in your neighborhoods.
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