Last Friday we kicked off our community stakeholders and leaders meeting in the Northeast at the 20th Century Women’s Club with an amazing morning of discussion. Joined by several of the Northeast non-profits, community leaders and stakeholders I was happy to share information on what I have been doing in the City Council and throughout the area.Some of the issues covered:
Medical Marijuana
After meeting with several residents from the Northeast concerned over the growing number of marijuana dispensaries in the community, I introduced a motion to remove the hardship exemption clause that allowed these dispensaries to open using a loophole in the current law. I also requested that hardship exemption cases be heard immediately in the City’s Planning & Land Use Management Committee (PLUM). So far, we have denied three Eagle Rock hardship exemption applications in City Council and have recommended in PLUM that four others from Eagle Rock be denied. Those will be heard today in City Council.
Southwest Museum
I recently asked the Board of Referred Powers to link any lease agreement with the Autry National Center for their proposed Griffith Park expansion to a binding legal document, which would commit them to restore and reopen the Southwest Museum. I also asked that the Autry prepare a Master Plan and discuss exhibit space.
The Autry has made significant upgrades at the Southwest, about $7 million. They’ve been great stewards of the 250,000 artifacts under their care since merging with the Southwest. However, after six years, the Northeast community and the thousands of Los Angeles residents who love the Southwest deserve a firm commitment.
Northeast Surveillance Cameras
To aid with public safety concerns in our community, as well as provide assistance to LAPD, the Security Surveillance Cameras in Eagle Rock and Highland Park have been installed and are operable.
Wiota Circle – Welcoming Monument
Just a few weeks ago, the Eagle Rock Community celebrated the completion of the first Welcome to Eagle Rock Monument at Wiota Circle. It was my pleasure to join with Eagle Rock activists and community members for the unveiling of an Eagle Rock monument shaped like the famed “Eagle Rock” the town is named after.
AT&T Mural
Since, I took office many of you bought it to my attention, the need to restore the “History of Highland Park” Mural. My office has continued to work with AT&T officials. In January of this year, we received good news. AT&T has agreed to fund the entire restoration and pay for ongoing maintenance costs.
Los Angeles Facing $530 Million Budget Deficit
City Cutbacks
Good News: Despite heavy budget cuts, we were able to secure most of the funding for Neighborhood Councils, which I believe are great liaisons and first in making sure issues within communities are taken care of.
- 311 Services Update: 311 will remain a 24hour operation, a great tool for information on city services.
- Sidewalk repair will not install new speed bumps for the time being, and will repair streets with asphalt not concrete.
- City can no longer waive fees or cover the full costs for local community events and street closures. However we are looking to find ways to remedy the situation at the city level. CD14 staff will continue to assist in any way possible.
Thank you to everyone that attended, I look forward in working with you all in improving the services to the Northeast community! And I look forward to the upcoming El Sereno and Boyle Heights Community Leaders Breakfasts!
For more info please call Northeast office: 323-254-5295
For Northeast Breakfast Pictures, Click HERE
