ONE BIG THING: BREAKING DOWN THE BUDGET
What Happened?
Mayor Bass released her proposed city budget for the upcoming fiscal year — and it comes at a moment when local governments are under attack from the Trump administration and we’re dealing with a massive budget deficit.
Why it Matters
This is by far the most important item at City Council all year. The budget determines how LA allocates billions in public funds — everything from paramedics to housing inspectors, bus drivers, homelessness services, youth sports, and more.
Key Takeaways
➡️The budget proposes 1,647 layoffs of current city employees.
💰If the state of California can provide support for the city’s finances, some or all layoffs could be avoided. It would take nearly $200 million in funding to avoid all layoffs.
💡City Council can also still find new innovative and efficient solutions to deliver more services and conserve public funds.
📈 The department with the biggest proposed increase is the Fire Department, with a proposed increase of $104 million. (12.7%)
👮The LAPD, which is by far the city’s largest department, is proposed to increase by $6.5 million to $1.99 billion.
Some of the most negatively affected departments include:
- Planning – 21.3% cut, including losing one-third of their staff.
- Transportation – Set to lose 406 employees – 25% of their workforce.
- Street Services – $39 million cut – or 20% of the department.
- Civil Rights – 26% cut, including 30% of their staff
Stay tuned next week for a deeper dive into the budget details.
What’s Next?
The Budget Committee will discuss and make changes to the budget through May 21, and a full City Council vote is expected by May 23. The process moves very quickly, so it’s important to make your voice heard now so we can fight for a budget that reflects the values of our communities.
Click here to give public comment online, and get involved THIS TUESDAY with these opportunities:
Only Remaining Opportunity to Give Public Comment to the Budget Committee
🗓️ Tuesday, April 29
🕓 4PM–8PM
📍 City Hall
Budget 101 with Councilmember Soto-Martinez
🗓️ Tuesday, April 29
🕓 7PM–8:30PM
📍 Bresee Foundation, 181 Bimini Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90004
Two More Quick Hits!
- Budget 101 Meetings Throughout the Budget Process
If you can’t make this Monday’s Budget 101 event, we’ll be holding another meeting Thursday, May 8 at 6pm at the Children’s Institute, and a virtual meeting the following week.
Click here to sign up to be notified about the upcoming Budget 101 meetings to fight for a budget that reflects the values of our community.
- Planting New Trees in Atwater Village
During January’s powerful windstorms, a large tree fell on Larga Avenue in Atwater Village — one of thousands lost across the city to extreme wind, not to mention the fires.
When our incredible local Urban Forestry Division Chief Alex responded to the scene, he saw an opportunity: not only to replace the fallen tree, but to plant new ones along the entire block, since the street already sits on an active tree-watering route.
This week, with the help of local neighbors, the Board of Public Works, the Mayor’s Office, and our amazing Urban Forestry team, we planted 12 beautiful new trees that will bring shade and greenery to the neighborhood for years to come!
CD13 Pet of the Week
Meet Marley, our Pet of the Week!
Marley is a stunning German Shepherd with perked-up ears, soulful hazel eyes and a whole lot of charm!
If you are ready to give your heart to this beautiful girl, please email ani.foster@lacity.org –
It could be Marley & You 😉
