DISTRICT 4 Newsletters

VOTING ENDS TOMORROW!  

Dear friend,

The November election is *TOMORROW* and there are many critical races on the ballot both nationally and here in Los Angeles. With that in mind, if you haven’t cast your ballot yet, we want to make sure you have all the tools at your disposal to make voting simple! 

Follow this quick checklist we’ve put together to make sure you have a voting plan in place before or on Tuesday, November 5th.

  • If you are a registered voter:
    • Vote By Mail – Ballots have been mailed to all registered voters in LA County. Simply fill your ballot out, sign and date the return envelope, and drop it in the mail or any ballot drop box. 
    • Ballot Drop Box – Over 400 Official Ballot Drop Boxes are located across LA County. Simply fill out your mail-in-ballot, sign and date the return envelope, and drop it in any ballot drop box, no matter your mailing address. Click HERE to find your closest Ballot Drop Box. 
    • Vote Center – Local Vote Centers are open across LA County. You can visit *any* location to cast your ballot in person, or to return your completed mail-in-ballot. Click HERE to find your closest Vote Center and check estimated wait times.
  • If you are an unregistered, eligible voter: 
    • In Los Angeles County, you can register to vote at any Voting Center before or on Election Day. 
    • To check your registration status, visit lavote.gov/vrstatus, and visit lavote.gov for more information. 
  • For a map of Vote Centers located in Council District 4, click HERE! 

The LA County Registrar has also put together an easy-to-use toolkit to help you navigate through all the ways you can securely cast your ballot. 

Voting is the cornerstone of our democracy and the easiest way to make your voice heard. I urge you to use *your* voice to vote for the leaders and policies that will shape the city – and the country – you want to see. 

With hope, 

I. Updates From City Hall — Strengthening The City’s Just Cause Ordinance, Advocating For An Update To The City’s Rent Stabilization Ordinance

II. In The District —Talking Civics With Louis Armstrong Middle School, Commemorating The Music Box Steps With A New Sign, Welcoming Nine New Citizens To The United States, Supporting Healthcare Workers In Their Fight For A Fair Contract, Getting In The Halloween Spirit In Encino

III. Upcoming Events — Compost Your Halloween Pumpkins, Bark At Griffith Park!

IV. Resources & Forums — Al Fresco Outdoor Dining Application Clinics, LA’s Organics Compliance Incentive Program, Empower LA Youth Conference, LA Perks Pass

V. Construction & Closures — Martel Avenue Resurfacing, Poinsettia Place Resurfacing

VI. Other Helpful Links 

STRENGTHENING THE CITY’S JUST CAUSE ORDINANCE

Last week, Council voted to support legislation to amend the City’s Just Cause Ordinance (JCO) to remove the “substantial remodel” clause. Often referred to as the “renoviction loophole,” the City’s JCO qualifies a “substantial remodel” as a “no-fault” eviction – meaning that a tenant in good standing can be evicted if the unit requires permitted work and the building owner self-certifies that the work will require 30 days or more to complete. The unintended consequence is that landlords can use this clause to evict tenants, complete a remodel, and rent out the unit at a higher price, something we have seen happen regularly here in Los Angeles. 

As it stands in the City of LA, tenants living in RSO buildings – or rent stabilized buildings – are protected from eviction during a substantial remodel through the Tenant Habitability Plan. However, tenants who do not reside in RSO buildings are not afforded the same protections. Although substantial remodels are sometimes necessary, it should not be a reason to evict a tenant from their home, and tenants should have the right to return and maintain their tenancy.

The new ordinance will protect tenants’ rights to remain in their homes during substantial renovations – no matter what type of building they live in – aligning it with the protections provided under the Tenant Habitability Plan for RSO units. 

ADVOCATING FOR AN UPDATE TO THE CITY’S RENT STABILIZATION ORDINANCE

Last week, alongside the Keep LA Housed Coalition, Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martinez, and Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez, we gathered on the steps of City Hall to advocate for the tenant protections that our city desperately needs.

Coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve seen the price of rent, gas, and even groceries skyrocket while wages have remained stagnant. This dichotomy has resulted in far too many people falling into homelessness or being forced to leave the City due to non-competitive wages and high rents. This is a huge loss for Los Angeles, as losing renters means losing the huge and talented workforce that is the very cornerstone of our city. 

The biggest challenge we’re facing right now is that the Los Angeles Rent Stabilization Ordinance (LARSO), which regulates how much rents can go up for nearly 75% of the City’s housing stock every year, hasn’t been updated in nearly 40 years. While we’ve taken considerable action to protect tenants by passing some of the strongest tenant protections since LARSO went into effect – including universal just cause, requiring landlords to file reasons to evict tenants with the City, protection for tenants with pets & unauthorized occupants, and enacting the Tenant Anti-Harassment Ordinance to name a few! – LA has changed dramatically in the past 40 years and we need an updated ordinance that reflects the current landscape. 

What we need now is a permanent common sense formula that works for LA’s market – both tenants and landlords – to keep people housed and our economy thriving! Two years ago we asked the Housing Department to conduct an economic study on allowable rent increases for RSO units, but they have yet to issue their report with sound recommendations based on an insightful economic analysis – far too long! It’s time for us to call on the Housing Department to provide us with this study before the end of the year so that Council can finally take a necessary step toward voting on an updated LARSO.

Equipped with this well-considered analysis, we will finally be able take a big leap forward toward ensuring our tenants stay housed and our communities remain stable.

TALKING CIVICS WITH LOUIS ARMSTRONG MIDDLE SCHOOL 

With election season upon us, it is critical that we use our voice (and our vote!) to create a better world for our next generation. However, it’s clear that the next generation isn’t leaving it to chance! 

Earlier this month, I had the honor of speaking to seventh and eighth graders at Louis Armstrong Middle School SAGE & Performing Arts Magnet Program about the importance of civic engagement. We discussed the causes that were important to them and ways they can get involved in their communities, even diving into the topic of affordable housing! I was so impressed by their questions and reflections, and was inspired by their overall curiosity and compassion — we have a lot to learn from them.

While these students are too young to vote this election cycle, YOU can! Be sure to check out our voting resources above! 

COMMEMORATING ‘THE MUSIC BOX’ STEPS WITH A NEW SIGN

Last month, my team joined Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martinez, the Silver Lake Improvement Association, Silver Lake Neighborhood Council, and the Society of Camera Operators for the 30th annual Music Box Steps Day!

This yearly family festival celebrates the iconic Music Box Steps where comedy duo Laurel and Hardy filmed the iconic short “The Music Box,” in 1932. Featuring Laurel and Hardy attempting to deliver a piano to a house at the top of the lengthy staircase, “The Music Box” is a hijinks-filled depiction of moving furniture in hilly Silver Lake. 

This year’s celebration was especially momentous because we also unveiled a new sign designating the intersection of Vendome and Del Monte Dr and Silver Lake, as “1932 Site of the ‘The Music Box’ starring Laurel & Hardy.” While Los Angeles is home to many historical film sites, it is always a treat to see the community band together to honor our city’s rich film history.

Thank you to the community members, neighbors, film enthusiasts, and Laurel and Hardy impersonators who joined us! This celebration and recognition would not have been possible without the hard work of the Silver Lake Improvement Association, Silver Lake Neighborhood Council, Council District 13, and Society of Camera Operators.

I invite you all to pay a visit to the Music Box Steps yourself – just watch out for any flying pianos!

WELCOMING NINE NEW CITIZENS TO THE UNITED STATES

On a wildly sunny and perfect October morning, we welcomed nine new citizens to the United States with a naturalization ceremony at the Griffith Park observatory! 

As the only naturalized citizen who serves on the Los Angeles City Council, I know how deeply meaningful this ceremony is. My staff and I worked in partnership with the Department of Rec & Parks to host this momentous occasion right here in Council District 4, surrounded by sweeping views of the city only Hollywood could produce. 

I became a citizen when I was 22 and I cherish the memory of taking the oath of citizenship at Faneuil Hall in Boston, in a room filled with hundreds of people. When the ceremony concluded, those of us in my row who had stood up with our right hands over our hearts to take the oath all held hands and cried together. 

As naturalized citizens we love America in a way that only immigrants can truly understand, partly because we had to fight to be here and partly because we know so acutely what this country has given us, from access to education to job opportunities beyond our wildest dreams. Little did I know that I would one day be elected to serve the City of Los Angeles! But that’s just what this country offers you – the opportunity to achieve more than you ever thought possible. 

More than anything, this country has a commitment to becoming better, to moving towards justice, to moving towards equality, and it does that every day. To our nine newest citizens, you are now a part of that journey. You get to call this beautiful country – with all of its flaws and all of its awe-inspiring greatness – yours. This is your country too, welcome! 

SUPPORTING HEALTHCARE WORKERS IN THEIR FIGHT FOR A FAIR CONTRACT

Over 2,000 mental healthcare providers hit the picket line across Southern California two weeks ago to demand a fair contract. I joined striking workers in Hollywood seeking better pay and more time to properly care for patients to let them know that this city supports them. 

Our mental health therapists, psychologists, social workers and psychiatric nurses have been at the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic, bringing essential services, care, and critically needed support during some of our toughest times. Many of them see between 70 to 80 patients a week with little time between visits to plan proper future care, or to even take a break. Now, these caregivers are fighting for the staffing and support they need for their mental health.

The National Union of Healthcare Workers represents 19,000 healthcare workers across California and Hawaii, including 4,700 mental health workers. These workers have long been calling for changes, tools, and resources necessary to ensure safe and equitable working conditions, including an increase in salaries, restored pensions, and increased staffing. Until those needs are met, we will continue to stand with them and the many other picketing workers across the state.

We know who cared for Angelenos through the pandemic. We know who picked up the phone when patients were struggling. They had our backs, and now it’s time we have theirs. 

GETTING IN THE HALLOWEEN SPIRIT IN ENCINO

This week, we got in on the Halloween spirit at the 2nd Annual Encino Village Halloween Block Party and costume contest!

From EERIE decor to SPOOKILY impressive costumes, the entire block was brimming with joy. I was particularly taken by the imaginative pet costumes and the creative family costumes— A League of their Own, can you even?!

This costume contest has quickly become a new favorite yearly TREAT. It was so lovely to connect with old neighbors and meet new ones, especially when dressed in their Halloween finest. Thank you to all who joined us for this HAUNTING celebration, especially President of the Encino Neighborhood Council Josh Sautter and his wife, and Roger Strull.

I hope everyone had a safe and Happy Halloween!

COMPOST YOUR HALLOWEEN PUMPKINS | NOV 10 | MORE INFO

LA Compost invites you, your family and friends to their annual Pumpkin Smash event, where they turn the end of the pumpkin season into a smashing good time that’s great for the environment! Their smashing station will provide all the tools you need to turn your pumpkins into compost-worthy pieces.

*Make sure your pumpkins are free of paint, candle wax, glitter, or other non-biodegradable decorations.

  • DATE: Saturday, November 10
  • TIME: 2PM – 4PM
  • LOCATION: Griffith Park Compost Hub

BARK AT GRIFFITH PARK! | NOVEMBER 16 | MORE INFO

Calling all animal lovers and prospective pet owners! Join us in Griffith Park as we bring together LA City departments, animal service providers, and organizations from across the region for a pet adoption event — free and open to all! Services will include free dog adoptions, free microchipping, medical appointment signups, access to pet service providers, and more. 

We’re also accepting donations of extra pet food! Drop it off at our Pet Food Donation Drive to help feed our furry friends in shelters.

  • DATE: Saturday, November 16
  • TIME: 10AM – 2PM
  • LOCATION: Shane’s Inspiration Griffith Park, 4800 Crystal Springs Dr., LA, CA 90027

AL FRESCO OUTDOOR DINING APPLICATION CLINICS | NOV 12 & DEC 10 | MORE INFO

The Mayor’s Office of Business and Economic Development is pleased to invite you to attend an in-person application clinic to apply for the permanent Al Fresco Outdoor Dining program. These in-person events will allow existing and prospective Al Fresco outdoor dining operators the opportunity to consult with City staff in real-time on any questions and inquiries, troubleshoot any technical issues with their applications, and to discuss any remaining steps to obtain a permanent Al Fresco Outdoor Dining permit. Spanish translation services will be available for Van Nuys.

  • DATE: Tuesday, November 12
  • TIME: 9AM – 12:30PM
  • LOCATION: Van Nuys State Building, 6150 Van Nuys Blvd., Van Nuys, CA 91401 (Entrance is on Calvert St.) 
  • REGISTER: If you are interested in participating at the Van Nuys application clinic, you may pre-register for a time slot by using this Calendly link. While pre-registering is encouraged, walk-ins are also welcome

 

  • DATE: Tuesday, December 10
  • TIME: 2PM – 5PM
  • LOCATION: Central Public Library, 630 W. 5th St., Los Angeles, CA 90071
  • REGISTER: A pre-registration link and information for language assistance for the Downtown library Al Fresco Application support event will be released soon.

If you have any general questions about the Al Fresco program, would like to learn more information and find resources, please visit our website: https://buildla.lacity.org/alfresco.

LA’S ORGANICS COMPLIANCE INCENTIVE PROGRAM

City Council has approved LA’s Organics Compliance Incentive Program (OCIP) – opening the door for select businesses to go greener while bringing the City closer to its Zero Waste goal. The OCIP incentivizes recycLA customers to come into compliance with California law SB 1383, a short-lived climate pollutants regulation that went into effect January 1, 2022. This mandate tasks cities to reduce California’s landfilled organic waste by 75% by 2025. Under this new regulation, businesses are required to subscribe to an organics collection service and to separate all green waste, food scraps, and food-soiled paper (100% fiber based) into a green organics container. Businesses not currently subscribing to this service are out of compliance and subject to enforcement.

The Incentive Program provides eligible businesses with vouchers for the recycLA base-level organic waste service subscription. The incentive will cover the cost of weekly service for one 64-gallon organic waste green bin for up to 9 months. The Program is available to recycLA commercial customers who are not currently subscribed to an organic waste (green bin) service and whose business is either a stand-alone restaurant, or a multi-family property that is within a HUD Qualified Census Tract boundary with 85% residents classified as Low to Moderate Income.

The Organics Compliance Incentive Program began in June of 2024 but will end March 31, 2025. Those eligible to take advantage of OCIP were notified via mail throughout July and August of 2024. If you received a letter of eligibility and want to participate in the program, please click HERE.

For more information about the Organics Compliance Incentive Program, please call (213) 485-3900 or email san.recycla@lacity.org.

EMPOWER LA YOUTH CONFERENCE | MORE INFO

EmpowerLA is excited to announce that applications for the 2025 EmpowerLA Youth Conference are now open! 

On Saturday, February 22, 2025, from 8:00 am-4:00 pm, EmpowerLA will host 100 young people between the ages of 14-17 from across Los Angeles at Los Angeles City Hall to participate in a one-day event focused on civic engagement, leadership development, and local government. Conference attendees will dive into the role the Neighborhood Council system plays in grassroots local democracy, attend learning sessions on ways to be civically engaged in the community, network with like-minded young leaders, engage with City leaders, and so much more! 

Click HERE to apply! Applications close Friday, December 20th at 11:59 p.m.

LA PERKS PASS | MORE INFO

Elevate your Los Angeles experience! The LA Perks Pass is your gateway to an extraordinary journey through the heart of LA. Unlock special offers to savor dynamic dining at world-class restaurants, discover hidden gems while shopping in style, indulge in thrilling “only-in-LA” activities, and immerse yourself in the vibrant entertainment scene – all by showing your LA Perks Pass mobile passport. 

Click HERE to sign up! 

Our Office:

Services + Resources

  • Food Pantry Locator — Get connected to food resources near you. 
  • StayHoused LA — Workshops and resources to help renters stay in their homes. 
  • MyLA311 — Submit a request for services including graffiti removal, pothole repair, and bulky-item pickup.
  • LA-HOP Homeless Outreach Portal — Assist or self-input an outreach request from the LA Homeless Services Authority to unhoused residents.
  • LA City Sanitation — Submit a service request for metal/household appliance disposal.
  • MyChildCarePlan — Free resource website for childcare providers and families listing every licensed provider in California.
  • Adopt or Foster A Shelter Pet— Find pets for adoption and a list of local shelters.
  • Gas Assistance Fund – The Gas Assistance Fund (GAF) offers a one-time grant to help customers pay their natural gas bills.
  • 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

  • NotifyLA — Sign up to receive urgent notifications about local emergencies by phone, email, and/or text message. 
  • LAFD Alerts – Sign up for alerts on fires and evacuations in your area.
  • LADWP Outage Info — Sign up for outage alerts in your area.
  • StreetsLA Street Sweeping — Register for notifications about sweeping in your neighborhoods.