un4la news, july 2020

A monthly newsletter published by United Neighborhoods for Los Angeles.

UN4LA's mission is to bring communities together to plan for a sustainable future.  Growth must be shaped by community engagement, not developer dollars.

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CITY OF L.A.'S CORRUPTION SCANDAL KEEPS UNFOLDING

On June 23 LA City Councilmember Jose Huizar, who represents CD 14, was arrested by the Department of Justice (DOJ).  He's charged with participating in a long-standing and widespread conspiracy that involved shaking down developers in return for project approvals.  Huizar's arrest follows four guilty pleas from four individuals who have already admitted wrongdoing, including a former Councilmember, a former member of the City Planning Commission, a former CD 14 staff member, and a development consultant.  The news comes as no surprise to many Angelenos.  For years many citizens who follow the planning process have voiced concerns that the system was rigged.  The LA Times offers details on Huizar's arrest.

L.A. City Councilman Jose Huizar Charged in Federal Corruption Probe

One of the most infuriating aspects of this situation is that court documents show that in at least one case a developer was able to reduce the amount of affordable housing required in their project by donating tens of thousands of dollars to political committees tied to Huizar. 

Tower Project Shows Toll of Bribery in Huizar Case: Less Affordable Housing

Even though it should be clear by now that corruption is rampant at LA City Hall, for the most part the City Council's response has been limited to belated expressions of outrage.  But David Ryu and Paul Koretz have put forward two motions aimed at taking on corruption.  UN4LA believes their proposal for an independent office to investigate wrongdoing is a good start.

It's Time to Take a Stand against Corruption at L.A. City Hall


INGLEWOOD TREASURER SILENCED AT CITY COUNCIL MEETING

The City of LA isn't the only place where elected officials are suspected of violating the law.  A storm has been brewing in Inglewood over Treasurer Wanda Brown's accusations of wrongdoing by the City's leadership.  Mayor James Butts' refusal to allow Brown to speak at a City Council meeting does not seem like a good sign.  Is the Mayor trying to hide something? 

Inglewood Mayor Refuses to Allow Treasurer to Give Remarks at City Council Meeting


CULVER CITY CONSIDERS RENT CONTROL

California voters will get a chance to weigh in on rent control in the November elections, but in the meantime, some cities in LA County are considering passing their own local ordinances.  On June 25, the City Council of Culver City considered their options regarding rent control.  Apparently the meeting was long and contentious.

Culver City Council Explores Options for Rent Control