News Summary
The Congress of Neighborhoods in Los Angeles saw limited participation from elected officials, disappointing attendees who voiced the need for better communication and engagement. While Mayor Karen Bass made a brief appearance, many community leaders felt overlooked. Discussions at the event focused on pressing city issues and the desire for a stronger connection between neighborhood councils and local governance.
Los Angeles, CA – The Congress of Neighborhoods held its largest annual gathering on September 27, bringing together Neighborhood Council members from across the city for workshops, networking opportunities, and policy discussions. However, many attendees expressed their disappointment over the limited presence of elected officials, particularly following a year filled with contentious budget debates and citywide concerns.
Despite anticipation for engagement from city leaders, only Mayor Karen Bass made a brief appearance at the event, but she did not deliver any opening remarks. Instead, a pre-recorded video was presented. Councilmember Tim McOsker was the only City Council member to actively participate in a workshop, where discussions centered around charter reform. The absence of other city officials led attendees to voice frustrations about feeling neglected and overlooked.
Attendees highlighted the need for greater engagement from local elected officials. Moy Valdez from the Olivia Mitchell L.A. City Youth Council underscored the necessity of community representation, indicating that local leaders’ presence is crucial for connecting with residents. In response to the concerns, Mayor Bass’s office indicated that she supports Neighborhood Councils and plans to enhance collaboration for upcoming international events.
The Congress of Neighborhoods, now in its 15th year, is the largest citywide event for Los Angeles’ 99 Neighborhood Councils, this year attracting approximately 500 participants. Sessions during the Congress included discussions on critical issues such as the city budget, homelessness policy, community safety, and proposed charter reforms. Meanwhile, City Controller Kenneth Mejia recognized the dedication of Neighborhood Council members in his keynote speech to attendees.
A significant concern raised was the perceived disconnect between Neighborhood Councils and city leadership. Many participants articulated a necessity for better communication and responsiveness from elected officials. Some City Council offices attributed their absences to scheduling conflicts or a lack of invitations. An office representative from Councilmember Monica Rodriguez noted they did not receive an invite, while other officials attended different events taking place in their districts.
Event organizers clarified that formal speaking invitations were selectively extended to specific officials due to constraints in space and time, only inviting Mayor Bass, Controller Mejia, and other select officials. The chair of the planning committee emphasized that elected officials are always welcome at the event, despite not being invited to speak formally.
There is a continuing debate regarding the role and authority of Neighborhood Councils, many of which reportedly feel their influence has become largely symbolic. Attendees advocated for a proposed “Neighborhood Council Bill of Rights” during a charter reform workshop to strengthen their authority. Funding for Neighborhood Councils has substantially decreased over time, which has affected their operational effectiveness.
Neighborhood Councils were originally established to afford Angelenos a greater voice in local governance in response to calls for secession from the San Fernando Valley. Despite the challenges and feelings of disempowerment, many council members remain dedicated to their roles, emphasizing the enduring importance of community engagement. Structural inequities in city governance and the influence of special interest groups were frequently discussed points among attendees.
The planning committee expressed the desire for improved communication between Neighborhood Councils and elected officials before the next Congress event, hoping to bridge the gap between city leadership and the communities they serve.
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Additional Resources
- Daily News: L.A.’s Neighborhood Council Members Decry Lack of City Hall Support
- LAist: Neighborhood Council Election Turnout
- Boyle Heights Beat: Boyle Heights Neighborhood Council City Hall Meetings
- Google Search: Los Angeles Neighborhood Councils
- CityWatch LA: A Report on the L.A. Neighborhood Council Congress
Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
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