Over Thanksgiving weekend, many residents reached out to my office expressing fear and uncertainty about the targeted acts of hate, vandalism, and anti-Semitic flyers that occurred in Brentwood. That's why this week, I convened a special forum at the Kehillat Israel Synagogue in Pacific Palisades to address community concerns.
This gathering brought together Jewish leaders, elected officials, and our public safety partners to provide an update on the measures being taken to prevent and address hate incidents. No family in Los Angeles should ever feel unsafe or targeted, period.
I am thankful to our City leaders, including Councilmembers Bob Blumenfield and Katy Yaroslavsky, and LAPD Chief Michel Moore, as well as representatives from the Mayor's office, City Attorney's office, LA Sheriff’s Department Hate Crimes Unit, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Anti-Defamation League, American Jewish Committee, and the Jewish Federation, for their attendance. We are all united in keeping our community safe.
Supporting Families Of Israeli Hostages
This week I spent time with some of my Council colleagues meeting with Israeli families whose loved ones were murdered and taken hostage during the October 7 terrorist attack. Their bravery in the face of such unimaginable fear and loss is truly inspiring. We will not rest until every hostage has been returned safely.
Legislative Update: Independent Redistricting, Council Expansion, And Saving Marine Wildlife
Protecting Critical Infrastructure
Following recent fires that have threatened and damaged our critical infrastructure, it is more urgent than ever that we take proactive steps to protect our City's assets. I'm proud to report that my motion seeking to restrict encampments around our critical infrastructure, very high fire severity zones, and environmentally sensitive habitat areas passed in our Public Safety Committee. The motion will now move to the full City Council for consideration next Tuesday. Make your voice heard here.
In CD11, we are already doing this work. Earlier this year, we cleared the massive RV encampment along Jefferson Boulevard adjacent to the Playa del Rey gas storage facility. And, we recently cleared the decade-old encampment under the 405 freeway at Venice Boulevard. This week, we began clearing vehicles from under the 90 freeway at Culver Boulevard. We've been working closely with CalTrans to schedule critical work to ensure our transportation infrastructure is safe; and with our City partners, who also provide housing and services, to ensure the area will remain safe, accessible, and well-equipped for the community's needs in the future.
A #Better11 Holiday Celebration!
We are excited to see you on December 9, 2023 for our first annual #Better11 Holiday Celebration. Come enjoy a special BBQ with our friends from LAFD, a charitable toy drive, a visit from Santa, and an open house at the Westchester Field Office. This is a great chance to mingle with your CD11 team as we wrap up an exciting and successful first year in office!
Come Learn About The Potrero Canyon Bridge!
Join us via Zoom on Tuesday, December 5th from 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm to discuss the Potrero Canyon Bridge Project. This bridge will safeguard pedestrians and bicyclists crossing from Potrero Canyon Park to Will Rogers State Beach across PCH. Join us to learn more and share your input! Click here to attend.
Our December 7 Veterans Resource Fair Is Almost Here!
My office will proudly host a Veterans Resource Fair on Thursday, December 7th from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm at the New Directions for Veterans building on the VA campus. This event is open to all veterans and will feature giveaways and access to information and resources for those in need. For more information or any questions, please email Michael Amster at michael.amster@lacity.org.
LAFLA to Host Small Business Legal Academy
Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles is offering a free Small Business Legal Academy event on Thursday, December 7, 2023 from 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm at the Ron Olson Justice Center. Small Business owners will be given the opportunity have one-on-one consultations with legal professionals and learn what rights are available to them when it comes to topics pertaining to commercial leasing, contracts, intellectual property, and more. Register online via LAFLA's event page.
Park's Pick
Benny's Tacos is a weekly go-to spot for me and my staff! This gem in Westchester has not only become our favorite lunchtime haven, but has served the local community for decades. Recipes were developed from years of travel and experimenting with fresh ingredients and the results speak for themselves! Benny's Tacos also distinguishes itself as a community leader, regularly sponsoring fundraisers and actively participating in local events. Stop by and say hello to owner Benny Borsakian!
Adopt-A-Pet
It's time to meet Charlie, a sweet senior who is 7-years-old and weighs 72 pounds. This snuggly, friendly boy is affectionate, gentle, engaging, and easy on the leash. You can find Charlie at the Harbor Animal Center. Stop by any of the six LA Animal Services Centers and find out how you can take the next step in filling your home with the love of a furry companion this season. For more information about LA Animal Services, visit: laanimalservices.com.
Let's Stay Connected!
TRACI PARK
Councilwoman, 11th District
Log onto our #Better11 District Website for the latest information on upcoming meetings and community resources!
