This week we learned that LA is facing a billion-dollar deficit, which inevitably will have major impacts on City staffing and services. As we head into budget season, some very hard decisions lie ahead. I'll do some deep dives into the budget process in future newsletters, so keep following along here.
We also swore in our new Interim Fire Chief, Ronnie Villanueva, who returns to the LAFD after 41 years of service. And, in Council, we honored Professor Fernando Guerra for his 40 years of service at Loyola Marymount University. His work has shaped how we understand L.A.’s civic landscape, and we’re lucky to have LMU – right here in CD11 – leading groundbreaking research to improve our City.
It definitely feels like spring, so come by Venice Love Fest this weekend and say hi! Check out @thevenicefest on Instagram for more info, and I'll see you out there.
Here are this week's community updates!
Encampment Interventions - This week, we removed vehicles that were creating a public nuisance in West LA, and we surged sanitation resources to Del Rey to clean up the mess from an RV that went up in flames. We also conducted cleanups at Expo and Barrington, and in Venice, thanks to the work done by our Coastal CARE+ team. Please report encampments and problematic vehicles to my team or at MYLA 311.
Debris Removal On Castellammare Drive – Emergency crews began debris removal on Castellammare Drive after the hillside collapse that blocked Stretto Way. We want to thank the community for their patience as we coordinated across jurisdictions to get this critical work underway.
Tree Trimming In Venice – CD11 sponsored enhanced tree trimming services across the District this week! We did a project along Main Street between Windward Circle and Abbot Kinney Boulevard where our Urban Forestry crews trimmed nearly 30 street trees, adding to the more than 150 trees we trimmed last weekend. This work strengthens our urban canopy which is essential to a healthier, cleaner environment.
Fixed Street Lighting In Playa Vista –Also this week, we partnered with the Bureau of Street Lighting to repair nearly 50 street lights in Playa Vista - a critical part of making our streets safer.
Hagerty Consultants Visit Palisades –Touring the Pacific Palisades burn scar with Hagerty revealed stark contrasts in fire impact, from the untouched Rustic Canyon to the near-total destruction in areas like the Alphabet Streets, Castellammare, and Marquez Knolls. Each stop highlighted a different challenge that will shape recovery efforts. We also visited the concrete and metal recycling operations on Temescal Canyon. Additionally, we stopped by Fire Station 69 to discuss the critical role first responders played in the disaster and the role they must play in planning our future.
Santa Rosa Visits Palisades – This week, we hosted a delegation from Santa Rosa, which was devastated by wildfires in 2017 and 2020, but where things have progressed faster than in some other places. Their insight and hands-on experience is invaluable as we think about our own plans for rebuilding in LA.
Verified Contractors For Wildfire Recovery – The City has a verified list of contractors and architects to help rebuild homes, public spaces, and more –Review the full list here.
Last Chance To Apply For FEMA Wildfire Assistance – If you were affected by the January wildfires in Los Angeles County, there’s still time to get the help you need – but the deadline is Monday, March 31. Apply today at DisasterAssistance.gov or visit a local Disaster Recovery Center for in-person help.
New SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center – The Center offers assistance to homeowners, renters, nonprofits (including faith-based), and businesses. Located at Ronald Reagan Palisades Post 283, 15247 La Cruz Drive, the center is open Monday through Saturday from 8:30 AM to 5 PM. No appointment is required.
Lost DME During Fires? – The Disability Community Resource Center (DCRC) launched the Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Wildfire Recovery Grant, funded by The Albertsons Companies Foundation, to replace essential mobility and medical devices lost in Palisades and Eaton fires. To apply, please call (310) 390-3611.
Disaster Recovery Center Hours – Your local Disaster Recovery Centers are still open Monday through Saturday from 9 AM to 7 PM for in-person support.
Honored By BizFed – On Friday, I was honored to receive BizFed’s 2024 Business Leader Award, a recognition of ongoing efforts to support local businesses and strengthen communities during a pivotal time for Los Angeles. As we prepare for major events like the Olympic and Paralympic Games, ensuring equitable opportunities and strong public safety remains a top priority.
Apply to Represent CD11 On The Pedestrian Advisory Committee!
Representative for the Pedestrian Advisory Committee (PAC). This volunteer role offers the chance to advocate for safer, more walkable neighborhoods, provide input on City policies, and collaborate with local leaders. The PAC meets every other month on the third Wednesday from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM at the Little Tokyo Library.
How to Apply:
Applications are due April 11, 2025, with interviews taking place throughout May. A selection will be made shortly after – Sign Up Today!
