Board of Supervisors - Regular Meeting
The Board of Supervisors proclaimed July 15, 2026, as "Wallace Annenberg Day" in Los Angeles County, honoring her philanthropic contributions. The Board also discussed and approved a motion to create LGBTQ+ "third spaces" across the county to provide safe and affirming environments for youth and older adults.
About this meeting
- Government Body
- Board of Supervisors
- Meeting Type
- Board Of Supervisors
- Location
- Los Angeles County, CA
- Meeting Date
- July 14, 2026
Transcript
147 sections
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Good morning, everyone. I'd like to welcome you all to our regularly scheduled meeting of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. Today is Tuesday, July 14th, 2026. We take note that a quorum of the board is present. The chief executive officer, county council, executive officer, and the sergeant at arms are all here to assist. We will now start the county's land acknowledgement. The County of Los Angeles recognizes that we occupy land originally and still inhabited and cared for by the Tongva, Tataviam, Serrano, Quiche, and Chumash peoples. We honor and pay respect to their elders and descendants, past, present, and emerging, as they continue their stewardship of these lands and waters. We acknowledge that settler colonization resulted in land seizure, disease, subjugation, slavery, relocation, broken promises, genocide, and multi-generational trauma. This acknowledgement demonstrates our responsibility and commitment to truth, healing, and reconciliation, and to elevating the stories, culture, and community of the original inhabitants of Los Angeles County. We are grateful to have the opportunity to live and work on these ancestral lands. We are dedicated to growing and sustaining relationships with native peoples and local tribal governments, including in no particular order. Fernandeño Tataviam, Band of Mission Indians. Gabrielino Tongva, Indians of California Tribal Council. Gabrieleno Tongva, San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians. Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians, Quiche Nation. Yahaviatam of San Manuel Nation, San Fernando Band of Mission Indians, Coastal Band of Chumash Nation, Gabrielino Tongva Nation, Gabrielino Tongva Tribe. To learn more about the First Peoples of Los Angeles County, please visit the Los Angeles City-County Native American Indian Commission website at lanais.lacounty.gov. Thank you. The invocation this morning will be led by Pastor David Newman from the Neighborhood Life Church from the 4th District, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, which will be led by Albert Rodriguez, former United States Marine Corps Staff Sergeant from the 5th District. If you are able, please join us and stand. Thank you.
Good morning. On September 7th, 1774, as the First Continental Congress convened in Philadelphia, delegates including George Washington, John Adams, Patrick Henry, they began their work not with a debate, but with a prayer. Reverend Jacob Deshaies, rector of Christ Church, was invited to offer the opening invocation. Now despite their many differences, these leaders paused together with humility, recognizing that the weight of leadership and governing, oh, it went beyond themselves. I believe that prayer continues to serve that same purpose today. It reminds us that no matter how experienced, no matter how accomplished, no matter how capable we are as leaders, true wisdom, it comes from God. Furthermore, we are also reminded as clergy that clergy are not partisans. We are not adversaries of the government, but neighbors who share a common desire to seek the well-being of the communities that we all serve. Let us pray. Heavenly Father, we come today acknowledging that you are the creator of all people and the one who grants wisdom, justice, and mercy. Thank you for the opportunity to gather for the important work of serving the residents of Los Angeles County. Today, we especially lift up Supervisor Janice Hahn and her colleagues on the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. Grant them wisdom as they make decisions that affect millions of people. Give them the discernment to pursue what is right, courage to do what is just, and humility to listen well. We pray for the people of Los Angeles County, for our children, the family, the seniors, the veterans, first responders, healthcare workers, educators, and those that struggle with homelessness, addiction, mental illness, and loneliness. Finally, reminding each of us that true leadership is found in serving others. May we seek not only what is expedient, but what is honorable, compassionate, and right. We ask these things in the name of our Heavenly Father. Amen. Good morning.
Good morning. Face the flag with your right hand over your heart. And if you're a veteran, please render a hand salute and join me in the Pledge of Allegiance. I pledge allegiance to the flag of United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Thank you.
Supervisor Hahn.
Yes, Pastor Dave.
Thank you, Madam Chair. It is my pleasure to welcome and thank, you can come stand next to me, Pastor Dave Newman, who just delivered a beautiful invocation as well as a beautiful message. We want to thank you for that and welcome you here to the LA County Board of Supervisors. Pastor Dave has dedicated his life to serving others through faith, compassion, and community leadership. He began preaching at just 18 years old and became a pastor at the age of 20, launching a ministry that has taken him from Compton to communities across Los Angeles County. Throughout his career, he has served with the Salvation Army, the Union Rescue Mission in downtown Los Angeles, and has devoted himself to supporting individuals and families experiencing hardship. Six years ago, Pastor Dave answered a calling to establish Neighborhood Life Church in La Mirada, where he continues to serve as lead pastor, building a welcoming congregation rooted in service, hope, and community. He holds a master's degree in Christian ministry and leadership from Talbot Theological Seminary and is currently pursuing his doctorate in educational ministry at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Beyond his ministry, Pastor Dave enjoys spending time with his wife, Bree, hiking, barbecuing, and continuing his lifelong love of learning. Thank you, Pastor Dave, and my grandson, Luke, Hand me the certificate. On behalf of my colleagues today and the entire county of Los Angeles, we want to give you this token of our appreciation for leading us this morning in such a beautiful invitation. Thank you.
Come on, Luke.
Thank you so much. It was beautiful. Great way to start it out. Thank you. God bless you. Thank you. Supervisor Barger.
Supervisor Barger, yes.
Thank you, Madam Chair. Please join me in thanking Staff Sergeant Albert Rodriguez for leading us in the Pledge of Allegiance this morning. Staff Sergeant Rodriguez served in the United States Marine Corps from 1992 to 2004 with the 2nd Battalion, 23rd Marines, participating in Operation Iraq, Iraqi Freedom, where he took part in multiple key battles. During his service, he received numerous commendations, including the Navy and Marine Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with the V Valor Device, Navy and Marine Corps Overseas Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal with Service Star, the Combat Action Ribbon, the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Navy Unit Commendation, the Meritorious Unit Commendation, the Humanitarian Service Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, the Presidential Unit Citation Medal. Whew. Staff Sergeant Rodriguez is a proud resident of Valencia where he lives with his wife, Stephanie, and their four-year-old son, Logan. And when I got up here, he asked me if I recognized him. And he reminded me that because Santa is so busy during the holidays, he volunteered to come to our Magic Mountain foster care event and sit in for Santa Claus. So no, I did not recognize you. You were a little heavier, and you had a little hair on your face. But you volunteer helping us each and every year with our foster youth that get to come to Magic Mountain and spend the day being kids. He currently works in real estate with Equity Union Real Estate of Valencia. In his free time, he enjoys overnight hiking going to the shooting range and supporting fellow veterans through the Santa Clarita Valley Veterans Services Collaborative. We thank you for your service, we thank you for leading us in the pledge today, and we thank you for representing Santa Claus each Christmas. With that, let's give him a round of applause. Thank you, sir. Real pleasure. I'll see you. Thank you. See you at Magic Mountain.
Go right ahead. Yes.
And now, Madam Chair, I want to introduce you to Java. Java is an incredible mix of, they say German Shepherd, but I think it's got a little bit of Doberman in her. She loves other dogs and even earned the title of playground helper, joyfully welcoming new friends into the playground. She is social, fun-loving, and adores people and pets alike and cannot wait to meet you. I had the pleasure of spending some time with her upstairs. And she sits, she lays down, and she just loves people. So if you want to put a little pep in your step this morning, adopt Java. You can adopt her by calling the Agora Care Center at 818-991-0071 to start every day with Java. I know, she's very, very, very sweet. And she's been at the Agora for a while. Again, she was surrendered to our Castaic Animal Care Shelter. But I can attest to the fact that she is just a very, very sweet dog. And now, please join me and look to the screen for our pet from Palmdale. Meet Lucky Ducky. He's a two-year-old German Shepherd and Rottweiler mix who has a big personality and a lot of energy, similar to Java. He can come on strong with other dogs when trying to play, but he has an incredibly good heart. Lucky Duck. is awaiting his lucky day when he can find a home that embraces the energetic spirit. Call the Palmdale Care Center at 661-575-2888 to make him yours. And then we have the Dog Days of Summer promotion that's still going on through July 31st, where adoption fees are waived for all dogs at all of our seven care centers. You can visit animalcare.lacounty.gov to find The one for you. Thank you, Madam Chair.
Thank you. And with that, Executive Officer, please call the agenda for today.
Good morning, Madam Chair, members of the board. Today's agenda will begin on page two, Consent Calendar, Board of Supervisors, items one through four. On item two, Supervisor Horfath requests that this item be held. On item three, Supervisor Solis requests that this item be held. Also, this includes a revision as indicated on the supplemental agenda. On page seven, Administrative Matters, items five through 36. On item 11, Supervisor Barger requests that this item be continued to August 4th, 2026. On item 18, this includes a revision as indicated on the supplemental agenda. On page 23, this includes miscellaneous additions to the agenda, which were posted more than 72 hours in advance of the meeting, as indicated on the supplemental agenda. Items 34A and 34B. On item 34A, Supervisor Mitchell would like to abstain from the vote. On item 34B, the board will take a separate vote on this matter. On page 24, special district agenda, this is the agenda for the meeting of the Los Angeles County Development Authority, item 1D. On page 25, notices of closed session items CS1 through CS5. On item CS1, County Council requests that this item be continued one week to July 21st, 2026. On item CS5, the Chief Executive Officer requests that this item be continued one week to July 21st, 2026. The request for continuances through CS5 are before you. That completes the reading of the agenda, Madam Chair.
Thank you. Moved by Supervisor Horvath, seconded by Supervisor Han. To approve these items, that will be the order. Executive Officer, please play the code of conduct.
Ladies and gentlemen, may I please have your attention. The meeting of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors is about to commence. A code of conduct will now be read and we request that you comply with it to ensure the efficient administration of the meeting. Members of the public, it is your right to participate in today's board hearing and the board encourages such participation. However, the right of the public to address the board must be balanced with the need to ensure that public comment does not interfere with the orderly course of the board's business. All are reminded to abide by the following rules. Speakers must cease speaking immediately when their time has ended. Public comment on agenda items must relate to the subject matter of that item. General public comment is limited to subjects within the jurisdiction of the board. Public comment does not include the right to engage in a dialogue with board members or staff. Please remain respectful of the forum and refrain from uttering, writing, or displaying profane, personal, threatening, derogatory, demeaning, or other abusive statements toward the Board, any member thereof, staff, or any other person. Members of the audience should be respectful of the views expressed by speakers, staff, and board members and may not clap, cheer, whistle, or otherwise disrupt the orderly conduct of the meeting. Any person engaging in conduct that disrupts the meeting is subject to being removed from the board meeting. And finally, if you witness conduct or behavior by other members of the public that disrupts your ability to remain engaged or participate in this meeting, please notify the sergeant at arms or other county staff. Thank you for your cooperation.
Thank you today's meeting order will be the following public comment on items not held for discussion by the board, including the closed session matters, followed by item two and three, then general public comment and finishing up with closed session. Before we begin executive officer, please read the call in information and explain the speaking rules.
Good morning, members of the public. If you wish to participate in public comment, you may do so in person or remotely. To participate remotely, please visit our website at www.bos.lacounty.gov to register and join the meeting, or you may call 213-306-3065 and use access code 25340680226 and meeting password 2672026. You will have the opportunity to address the board throughout the meeting. For items not held by the board, you will receive one minute for one item and up to two minutes for two or more items. For items held by supervisors, you will have one minute to address the board, one minute for the public hearing item, and one minute to address the board on general public comment. Please clearly state your name and indicate the agenda item numbers you will be addressing. Please note, once your time has expired, we will immediately move to the next speaker. When it is your turn to speak, if registered on a computer or device, you will hear a beep and your name will be called. Or, if joining by telephone, you will hear your line is unmuted, your area code, and the last two digits of your phone number will be called. To ensure we hear from both in-person and remote speakers, we will alternate between the two speaking cues. Members of the public who are in attendance, when you hear or see your name displayed on the screen, please come down to the front of the boardroom and staff will assist you. Please do not approach the podium until directed to do so. ALSO, FOR MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC IN ATTENDANCE, PLEASE NOTE THAT WE HAVE A CONSTITUENT ASSISTANCE TEAM THAT INCLUDES REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH, PUBLIC SOCIAL SERVICES, CHILDREN AND FAMILY SERVICES, L.A. HOMELESS SERVICES AUTHORITY, AND PARKS AND RECREATION IN THE AUDIENCE, SHOULD YOU NEED ASSISTANCE FROM THEM. AT THIS TIME, WE WILL HEAR FROM MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WISHING TO ADDRESS THE BOARD ON ALL ITEMS NOT HELD FOR DISCUSSION BY SUPERVISORS, INCLUDING CLOSED SESSION MATTERS. THE CONSENT ITEMS WILL BE ACTED UPON WITH ONE MOTION. For members of the public joining us remotely, to comment on these items, please use the raise hand feature if you are online or press star three if on a telephone. Please indicate the agenda item numbers that you wish to address in the beginning of your comment for us to allocate the appropriate amount of time.
Madam Chair, there are no in-person speakers that have signed up for these items. We will go to remote speakers. This will be for all items not held by the board for discussion in closed session items. Crystal, your line is unmuted. Please state the items you are speaking on.
Hi, my name's Crystal. I'm with Cancel the Contract. I'm speaking on agenda item number 18. The current school resource deputy contact being voted on does not give resource deputies clear directions to prevent school-based racial bias and other negative outcomes. LESD's limited data shows that arrests and citations are the main outcome when a student has contact with a resource deputy. Diversion recommendations are rare. The contract must be limited to a year to give LASD time to develop clear language to protect our most marginalized students and prevent them from entering the school-to-prison pipeline. Thank you.
Thank you. Raquel Derfler, your line is unmuted. Please state the agenda items you're speaking on.
Good morning. This is Raquel Durfler with Cancel the Contract. I'm speaking on item number 18, the board's upcoming vote on the 2026-2027 School Law Enforcement Services Agreement. We are thankful that the full board supported the August 6, 2024 motion that amended these contracts, because until that time there had been little oversight of the school resource deputy program. the minimum protective language and data collection required in that motion is very important to our students in the antelope valley the antelope valley is an important stakeholder in the 2025-2026 school year despite representing only 16 of the total school districts that contract for school resource deputy services we actually accounted for 47 percent of total revenue earned by these contracts. So we are asking that the contracts be limited to a year to give the board more time to receive the data that they are asking for.
Thank you. Sophia Durr, your line is unmuted. Please state the agenda items you're speaking on.
Good morning, I'm Sophia with cancel the contract. I will also be speaking on agenda item 18 Studies conducted by various LA County Commission's and agencies have found evidence of bias and criminalization of black students as a result of their contact with school resource deputies in certain schools Because the Sheriff's Department has not provided the Board of Supervisors with complete data around student contacts with resource deputies, there is no way to know if the newer language in the school resource deputies contract has reduced the over-policing of Black students in school. The contract should be limited to a year until LASD shares the needed data with the Board of Supervisors.
Thank you. Thank you. Roy Humphries, your line is unmuted. Please state the agenda items you're speaking on.
This is item 18, and I do appreciate the skepticism by many people because the Sheriff's Department has been remiss in many angles over the years with some misconduct. But this idea, kind of stop the race cards stuff, you know? We got the Mexican or Latinos, and it is what it is. And stop trying to protect bad conduct and bad parenting. Time to wait. up and get real. Thank you.
Thank you. That concludes our time for public comment on these items.
Madam Chair, members of the board, the following items are before you. 1 and 4, 5 through 10, 12 through 33, 34A with Supervisor Mitchell abstaining from the vote, 1D, and please note we will take a separate vote on item 34B. These items are before you.
Moved by Supervisor Mitchell, seconded by Supervisor Barger to approve these items with the exceptions noted by the Executive Officer. Executive Officer, please call the roll.
Supervisor Mitchell? Aye. Supervisor Mitchell, aye. Supervisor Horvath?
Aye.
Supervisor Horvath, aye. Supervisor Hahn?
Aye.
Supervisor Hahn, aye. Supervisor Barger? Aye. Supervisor Barger, aye. Supervisor Solis?
Aye.
Supervisor Solis, aye. Motion carries. Madam Chair, we will now vote on a separate matter item, which is item 34B, is before you.
MOVED BY SUPERVISOR HON, SECONDED BY SUPERVISOR HORVATH. TO APPROVE THIS ITEM, EXECUTIVE OFFICER, PLEASE CALL THE ROLL.
SUPERVISOR MITCHELL. AYE. SUPERVISOR MITCHELL. AYE. SUPERVISOR HORVATH.
AYE.
SUPERVISOR HORVATH. AYE. SUPERVISOR HON. AYE. SUPERVISOR HON. AYE. SUPERVISOR BARGER. AYE. SUPERVISOR BARGER. AYE. SUPERVISOR SOLIS.
Aye.
Supervisor Solis, aye. Motion carries. We will now move on to item two, motion to proclaim July 15th, 2026 as Wallace Annenberg Day throughout Los Angeles County, which was held by Supervisor Horfath. For members of the public joining us remotely to comment on this item, please use the raise hand feature if you have online or press star three if on the telephone.
Thank you. Supervisor Horvath, you were recognized.
Thank you, Madam Chair. And I want to thank my colleagues who joined us this morning as we honor the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Wallace Annenberg by proclaiming July 15th as Wallace Annenberg Day in Los Angeles County. I want to thank the Annenberg family, the foundation staff and members of the board of directors who are here with us today and continuing to keep her legacy alive through their work. wallace deeply believed in this county and in the people who call it home she dedicated her life to opening doors to expanding opportunity and to making los angeles more connected more compassionate and more vibrant if you live work or spend time just about anywhere in los angeles county chances are you've experienced the impact of wallace annenberg's vision From the Annenberg Community Beach House in Santa Monica to the Wallace Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, Genspace, the Wallace Annenberg Wildlife Crossing, and Annenberg Pet Space, just to name a few, her investments transformed the places where Angelenos gather, learn, create, and connect. Her legacy stretches across every corner of our county, from the Wilson Park Annenberg Treehouse in Torrance, the first universally accessible public treehouse in California, to AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles, the Annenberg School of Communication and Journalism at USC, the UCLA women's soccer field, and so many other investments that continue to enrich lives each and every day. And whenever Los Angeles has faced moments of need, the Annenberg Foundation has been there, responding with generosity, partnership, and a relentless commitment to all of our communities. Wallace's life and legacy remind us that philanthropy is about believing in people, investing in possibility, and building a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. I'm grateful that this work continues through the leadership of the current board of directors, Lauren Bond, Gregory Annenberg-Weingarten, and Charles Annenberg-Weingarten. Thank you. for carrying forward a family tradition of generosity and public service that has shaped Los Angeles for generations to come. I know the foundation's next chapter will continue reflecting the values Wallace championed throughout her life. And just anecdotally, I know that when we recognize so many sheroes in our culture, we often refer to them by their first name. And I think in Los Angeles, Wallace says it all. Today, we remember an extraordinary Angeleno whose generosity forever changed our county and whose legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. it's truly my honor to recognize wallace's birthday july 15th as wallace annenberg day in los angeles county and we are grateful for all of the work that you have done the partnership that you have offered and the indelible mark that you have left throughout our county thank you thank you supervisor hahn
Thank you, Madam Chair, and thank you, Supervisor Horvath, for giving us all the opportunity to honor and proclaim July 15th as Wallace Annenberg Day. It's always great to be able to celebrate those who have come before us and have really paved the way for such incredible investments in our county. Wallace Annenberg's generosity transformed Los Angeles County in ways that will be felt for generations. She believed philanthropy should make people's lives better, not just through grand institutions, but by investing in communities, in children, in parks, in wildlife, the arts and public spaces that bring people together. I have my grandson with me today, Luke. And when he was, he's following along on the agenda and he wants to know what we're talking about. And when he heard the wildlife crossing, he perked up. I said, oh, have you heard of that? He said, absolutely. It's famous. It's the first in the country that allows for the safe crossing of wildlife over many lanes of traffic and freeways. Thank you. Her generosity touched nearly every corner of LA County. I know Supervisor Horvath, you already mentioned them, but in my district, the Annenberg Foundation's landmark $25 million gift to AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles helped turn an old port warehouse into a hub for ocean technology. And in Wilson Park in Torrance, she was the funder behind the Annenberg Treehouse. This enormous 2,500 square foot structure is recognized as the first treehouse in a public space designed to be fully accessible to everyone, regardless of ability. It gets thousands of visitors every year and makes Wilson Park in Torrance an inclusive environment that families can enjoy. Los Angeles County is a kinder, healthier, and more hopeful place because of Wallace Annenberg's vision and her giving. It is only fitting that we honor her legacy by proclaiming Wallace Annenberg Day in Los Angeles County, and I am proud to support this motion. Thank you, Madam Chair. Thank you.
Supervisor Mitchell.
Thank you very much, Madam Chair. And again, Supervisor Horvath, thank you for creating the opportunity for us to say very publicly thank you. In the reception just a little while ago, we were talking about kind of the role of philanthropy and the role of government. And I commented that now, in particular, government isn't in a position to do to move alone, to do things by ourselves. But I also am a firm believer in the role of philanthropy in terms of pushing government. Government doesn't innovate. We tend to react. And sometimes we react very slowly. So the role of philanthropy and the partnership with philanthropy and government really can be powerful because it can encourage us to invest public dollars and be more creative and forward thinking and innovative in our approach. And so when I think about the Wallace Annenberg investments in the second district, in addition to what we just heard from these other districts, it's just that. To know the role she played in completely revamping a really tired old armory at the California Science Center into what is now the Wallace Annenberg Building for Science and Learning. where world-class tuition-free STEM education to our youngest Angelenos takes place, to helping to replace an old brick facade into the transparent glass gateway of the new Natural History Museum Commons, also an expo park. You know, that original facade really was perceived as a barrier. It felt like limiting access to everyone's museum. And so that has changed with the new commons and that beautiful glass facade. Two investments in the Watts Towers, as I just learned. Two investments in Debbie Allen Dance Academy. Two investments when COVID hit South LA, the investment in the MLK Community Hospital Emergency Fund. Her family seeded that fund, which provided immediate resources to protect the medical staff who were working tirelessly to keep patients alive. Those are but a few examples of what, as we heard this morning, what one woman can lead who decides that she loves a place. Not a place where she was born, but a place that she adopted as her own as an adult and truly fell in love with. And so I'm really glad that we had this opportunity to acknowledge her birthday and to again elevate these amazing investments that every Angeleno has the opportunity to benefit from. So happy birthday. Thank you to her family, her children who are with us today and the foundation for the continuing work you have committed to do to reflect your love of Los Angeles. So we thank you. Thank you, Madam Chair. And thank you, Supervisor Horvath.
Thank you. Thank you, Catherine Barger.
Thank you. Thank you chair. And thank you. I, as I said upstairs, thank you supervisor Horvath for bringing forward this motion, um, recognizing the amazing, amazing stewardship of Wallace Annenberg. I mean, it's a name that when you say it, I think one of my colleagues said, when you just need to say the word Wallace and everyone knows who you're talking about, um, declaring July 11th as Wallace Annenberg day recognizes her role. as a visionary philanthropic leader who strengthened Los Angeles County in our cultural, civic, and our educational affairs. And having been able to meet her children today, the apple does not fall far from the tree. There is no question that you all are gonna take this and continue with a vision that's gonna make this county and arguably the state and generations better. Your mom was a true icon who support who support fostered the growth of world-class institutions and programs that enrich communities across all of our respective districts. And you've heard it, whether it be the Watts Tower. In my district, I am personally grateful for everything that the Annenberg Foundation did to step up during the devastating 2025 wildfires, organizing fire aid, and contributing to fire recovery efforts, something that continues to be a priority for me, and I know that it's the work of organizations like Annenberg Foundation that are gonna make sure we bring this across the finish line. The county's collaboration with the Annenberg Foundation exemplifies what is possible, what is possible, when public leadership and philanthropic vision align. We need more, and we are grateful for the work that you all do each and every day. Thank you, and thank you, Supervisor Horvath.
I also want to join in and thank you, Supervisor Horvath, for bringing the motion forward today. The Wallace Annenberg, as we know, understood that a stronger Los Angeles County begins with investments that expand opportunity and strengthen the institutions that serve our neighbors and our communities. She believed in education and the arts, which we know are essential to make our communities thrive. Through the Annenberg Foundation, she supported efforts that advanced learning, creativity, and civic engagement. She recognized that education extends beyond the classroom, and her support for educational initiatives, including work connected to USC, helped advance research, innovation, and new approaches to learning. She also understood the power of the arts, to bring people together and tell stories that define who we are. Her support for institutions like the Music Center helped ensure that culture and creativity remain accessible to all Angelenos across this great county. What made Wallace Annenberg's leadership so impactful was her ability to bring together philanthropy, nonprofits, and civic partners around ideas that improved people's lives. She invested in Los Angeles County not only through resources, but through a belief in the potential of our communities and the people who call this region their home. We are grateful for the many ways she enriched Los Angeles County and the lives of countless Angelenos. And I'm proud to join my colleagues in honoring Wallace Annenberg's remarkable life, her leadership, and lasting contributions to the region. Thank you. And with that, seeing no other colleagues wanting to speak again, then we can go to public comment.
Madam Chair, there are no in-person speakers that have signed up for this item. We will go to remote speakers. Caller with phone number starting with 6269, ending in 73. Your line is unmuted. Please state your name and begin. Caller, please begin.
Hello?
Hello?
Go ahead.
Yes, can you hear me okay?
Yes, we can.
Yes, I just want to say I'm really thankful for the Wallace Annenberg Foundation. It is just ironic. I believe if I have the dates right. And she was born on the 15th of July when that's my wonderful wife's birthday. And I'm on the 20th. This is during the period of the launching of the Apollo moon craft. I got to the moon on the 20th, which is my birthday coming up. And I have an association with three of the supervisors there of Barger. I'm in Altadena with the wildfires. We were talking about that. Also with Mitchell, I have a home on Dalton Avenue by USC. And also more particularly, Janet Hahn. We go back to the Late 60s early 70s where she lived on 78th place on the corner. And I lived on 77th and 10th Avenue on the corners. And if she knows the Williams very well. I just want to say about the Annenberg Foundation I'm starting a foundation myself which is called Propulsion 54. DIRECTOR RIVERA- Thank you.
Madam Chair and members of the board that concludes public comment on this item.
DIRECTOR DEWOLF. Madam Chair item 2 is before you. yes moved by supervisor horvath i will second to approve the item executive officer please call the roll supervisor mitchell aye supervisor mitchell aye supervisor horvath aye supervisor horfath aye supervisor hahn aye supervisor hahn aye supervisor barger aye supervisor barker aye supervisor solis aye supervisor solis aye motion carries five to zero great and with that we're going to take a moment and take a photo with the family right here in We will now move on to item three, Care with Pride, creating LGBTQ plus third spaces across Los Angeles County, which was held by Supervisor Solis. For members of the public joining us remotely to comment on this item, please use the raise hand feature if you're online or press star three if on the telephone.
Thank you. I want to start by thanking Supervisor Hahn for co-authoring the motion along with me. But I also want to take this opportunity to thank the LGBTQ Plus Commission Executive Director Sunitha Menon, CEO RD, RD and DYD, the Department of Aging and Disabilities, DCFS, DPH, DMH, and all other stakeholders whose valuable feedback helped to strengthen this motion. I'm truly grateful for their dedication and for their vital role they played in carrying out this important work. The motion creates more LGBTQ plus third spaces in Los Angeles County because LGBTQ plus third spaces save lives. Gay bars, community centers, cultural venues, these are places where people who have nowhere else to go to find community themselves and each other. And they are disappearing nationally in Los Angeles and in Los Angeles County. And that loss is happening at exactly the wrong moment. Just two weeks ago, the Supreme Court ruled that states can ban transgender youth from participating in school sports. The federal government and states nationwide continue to introduce anti LGBTQ plus legislation and policies. The LGBTQ plus community is under attack and the places they used to turn to for refuge are disappearing. And data demonstrates the detrimental impact such policies can have on our LGBTQ plus communities. Nearly 40% of LGBTQ plus young people and nearly half of transgender and non-binary youth seriously considered suicide in the past year. That same research shows that young people with access to affirming spaces attempt suicide at nearly a third the rate compared to those without. And it's not just among youth. who can, I believe, also benefit from these spaces, but nearly half of LGBTQ plus older adults already feel socially isolated. And among transgender and non-binary elders, that number climbs to about 63%. These are people who survived the AIDS crisis, who lived through discrimination and criminalization, and who built the LGBTQ plus community. As many of these places close, LGBTQ plus older adults are aging without the social networks that they need to thrive. This motion directs the county to address these issues by directing our CEO and Artie to create a working group with other departments, such as the Department of Youth Development and Aging and Disabilities, to build a countywide network of affirming third spaces and programming for LGBTQ plus youth and elders. The motion directs the working group to create a programming framework that is affirming, accessible, and trauma-informed and multilingual. A plan for partnering with CBOs that already have the trust of the communities. The plan also needs to include intentional programming for both youth and elders, including intergenerational spaces that bring them together. And these spaces will continue to foster care with pride to ensure that LGBTQ plus residents throughout the county of Los Angeles have safe and supportive spaces, regardless of age, zip code or immigration status. And now more than ever, we need to ensure that LGBTQ plus residents know that they belong and are essential components to our social fabric here in Los Angeles County. So colleagues, I hope you would join me today in voting aye. And with that, I'd like to turn it over to my co-author, Janice Hahn.
Thank you, Chair Solis. And thank you for inviting me to co author this. You know, I didn't really know what third spaces were until last year, there was a book called third space. And I began to understand what it means and the importance of it in our communities in our society. It's not It's not your home, it's not your school, it's not necessarily your workplace. It's another space, a third space, where you can get the resources and feel safe in that place. So I really appreciate that we're leaning into that idea today, specifically for LGBTQ+. And ensuring that the LGBTQ plus people in Los Angeles have that place where they feel safe is critical. When I think of intentional LGBTQ plus third spaces, I think about our Whittier LGBTQ Center. Didn't think about it as a third space, but now that I'm understanding what a third space is, it is a third space. It hosts activities like open mic night, yoga classes, movie nights, dance and art classes, gardening, makeup and beauty classes, and so much more. And it's the first of its type in that region of LA County that we have that safe space. for our LGBTQ plus population. And these activities help to bring together people with shared identities to make them feel a sense of belonging. I'm also reminded of Alcove Beach Cities, which I learned about several years ago before our redistricting. And I think Supervisor Mitchell, you mentioned them again and expanded them. And we were talking about the resources and funding them. And what a great other example of a third space is. And I had the opportunity to go and tour it. And I toured it with some of my elected officials from Maywood, because they would like to create a third space, a teen center in Maywood. And I thought something like Alcove is a better use. And it's already an infrastructure and a model. That really works. And so to be there that afternoon and to see all the young people just flow in and out of the alcove in your district was really I could really witness firsthand what that kind of a third space meant to two teams. And let's not forget that our libraries are really another great infrastructural and model for safe spaces. I was just recently at the Black and White Ball in Long Beach a few weeks ago when an older gay gentleman, I'm saying older, he was probably my age, And he spent his most of his young life as a closeted gay man. And he wanted to come up to me and tell me a story that meant so much to him. And he said, I'll never forget when my dad opened the county library in the Florence Firestone area and he. found his safe space and he could go to that library and feel um you know welcome and safe and it was a good reminder of me that you know our libraries are that already but i think being more intentional about how we're creating these third spaces um with programming to bring people together and build community, the more we help tackle issues like isolation and loneliness. Providing people with a space where they can truly be themselves and giving them the ability to connect through shared experiences without pressures from home or work makes a world of difference to those who truly need it. So I look forward to seeing how this is all going to happen, and I will be supporting this throughout its existence. Thanks.
Thank you, Supervisor Horvath.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I want to thank you and Supervisor Hahn, most importantly, for the spirit and intention behind this motion, which is enhancing and investing in the social and emotional well-being of our LGBTQ plus community. This motion references a reality that West Hollywood faced during the COVID era and truly that the entire region did. The closure of very critical spaces during that difficult time was especially painful for me as mayor of the city during that time. And while I know that it was not unique to West Hollywood, the entire region faced many of these closures, it has been incredible to see the way that West Hollywood and the entire community bounced back now with new LGBTQ plus businesses, And with both an exclusive lesbian bar as well as a truly unique karaoke bar, there's so many more spaces that are being tailored even more thoughtfully to different parts of the community to gather in unique ways. So we're very happy to see that happening. That's in addition, of course, to the West Hollywood Park, the library, aquatic and recreation center, and the surrounding Rainbow District. and just outside the city's boundary but definitely serving the entire region there's the connie norman transgender empowerment center i know in our district we also have the somos familia valles serving our valley community members and of course the lalgbt center in hollywood and so many other spaces throughout our third district i also remember at that time proudly showing up in support as a council member to the Whittier Council meeting as a council member in support of the LGBT Center because every corner of Los Angeles County deserves to have these spaces since every corner of the county has a duty to welcome all community members and that includes especially our LGBTQ plus community and family members. I know the Trans Latina Coalition has embarked on bringing to life a truly transformational space that I know is gonna be in the first district, though I know our district looks forward to strong partnership as well. So we know that the creation of community spaces from the top down is not easy, but that successful energy filled third spaces often develop organically from the ground up and with the vision of community members themselves. So even though this motion understandably bypassed the cluster process, I hope that there will be opportunities for our LGBTQ plus community members to voice their feedback and also to include our LGBTQ plus commission in this work. We know that younger people, older adults, those in park-poor neighborhoods, and a whole plethora of our communities seek more public gathering spaces. So I'm looking forward to the contents of this report back, and I would encourage ARTI to continue its community engagement work with all members of our LGBTQ plus community, especially our TGI members, to ensure that this work is driven by the community members we intend to serve. and to best understand their needs and desires for a more supportive and caring Los Angeles. Thank you, Madam Chair.
Thank you so much. Supervisor Mitchell?
Thank you very much, Madam chair. I echo the comments made by all my colleagues and most in particular, uh, supervisor Horvath last comment. I think the difference between a third space and, you know, perhaps a government created space is that it has to be driven by not just in terms of vision, but how it's operationalized to every aspect from the construction to programming the community it intends to serve. Supervisor Hahn talked about the alcohol. That's what makes it unique. It was designed by the youth it serves. And so I too look forward to the report back to make sure that the LGBTQ community is at the forefront of helping the county define what a third space looks like and feels like. As I listened to Supervisor Hahn kind of tick through her examples, I was reminded of a place that folks may not consider a third space, but Jewel's Catch One. In 1973, Jewel understood that black gay people were not safe. Not much different today. Black trans people were not and are not safe not much different today And so the catch was opened as the first safe space for people to dance and feel safe emphasis on safety But Jules vision was beyond simply a club the catch always provided resources and services and certainly through the beginning of the HIV AIDS epidemic, the catch was a place where black gay women and the gay community could certainly go for resources and be seen when so many felt unseen during the beginning of that epidemic. And so even a club can be a third space. And so it depends on the vision and what services we bring to it. I believe government has a responsibility to take government to people, to meet people where they are. And I think that's the basic definition of a third space. So I too look forward to the report back and hoping that it will include a clear focus of moving from community vision into implementation, bottom up, not top down. Thank you, Madam Chair.
Thank you very much to all my colleagues. With that, Executive Officer, will you call the members of the public who've signed up to speak on this item?
Will the following individuals please come forward and staff will assist you. Alex Bass, Pamela Moeda, Francisco Cicero, Chi Chi Navarro, Vicky Goto, Liliana Simpson Castaneda, Shannon Axe, Sophia Alvarez, Trinidad Plasencia, Adriana Arjarno, Elia A. Sontha Menon, your line is unmuted, please begin.
We're gonna go to in person first. Okay. Okay. So if your name was called, please come on down.
Good morning. Good morning, Representatives. My name is Alex Bass. I'm a proud trans non-binary resident of District 3 and the Policy Associate for Trans Latina Coalition. I'm here in support of Item 3. Affirming community spaces for LGBTQ people is a need. These safe spaces provide a place where people can be seen and understood, because when you are understood in community, it validates your core identity, fosters genuine connection, and develops a sense of belonging. As the facilitator for a trans peer support group, I have witnessed these spaces provide a place where members felt safe to come as their authentic selves with no fear of discrimination. Youth and elders would share their story and build understanding for each other, giving the chance for intergenerational relationships to be fostered. Unfortunately, the group recently ended due to lack of availability to this third space. My hope is to continue this group in the future when another LGBTQ plus third space becomes available. I urge you all to see the long term benefits of these spaces and be a part of the solution in L.A. Thank you.
Thank you. Next speaker, please.
Hello, my name is Francisco Salcido. I'm here on item number three. I belong to the LGBT community and here I support by asking you to have us in mind. We need a third space initiative. We know that our Community at this time is going forward. Looks like there's no progress inside. It seems like people are giving us a pass to hate us more and all the achievements we are dissipating. We need your help for a safe space so we can be comfortable and progress and be able to express ourselves without being judged. The LBT community youth is for 13 plus years old, elderly program for 60 plus, an integration program unit that belongs youth and elders together. People, please have us in mind. Thank you.
Thank you. Next speaker, please.
Good morning, board. My name is Elliot and I'm with the Trans Latina Coalition. Third spaces give us something that humans have relied on for generations, a safe space to gather shared stories, pass down knowledge and build community. LGBTQ plus people experience isolation at a disproportionately high rate, and that isolation is linked to poor mental health and other negative outcomes. When inclusive third spaces are created, we foster opportunities for connection, collaboration and belonging. Those benefits extend beyond the LGBTQ plus community. Third Spaces help people build nonprofits, launch small businesses, organize volunteer efforts, and create networks of support that strengthen neighborhoods. They encourage civic engagement and local spending and entrepreneurship while helping residents feel more connected to their communities. Investing in LA and its Third Spaces is an investment of LA's overall success. Healthier communities and a city where people have a chance to belong allow the city to thrive. Thank you.
Thank you. Next speaker, please. Hello, board. My name is Shannon Axe, speaking on item three. I'm 26 years old and came out as transgender when I was seven years old. I have been out for 19 years. I am here today to ask you to pass item three. Protecting transgender youth is so important and protecting trans kids is doing the work of God. Transgender children are children of God and they are smart, strong, wise, and beautiful souls. Right now, Trump and the world is demonizing and committing genocide against transgender kids and the transgender community. And the city of Los Angeles must do everything in its power to protect transgender youth. This initiative helps to create programming for LGBT youth 13 to 26 years old, and this program will save lives. The city of Los Angeles has to do more for protecting transgender youth, protect transgender kids, and protect trans women. Thank you.
Thank you. Next speaker, please.
Unidad Placencia, pronouns they, we, president of Trans Queer Institute, an academy for social justice scholars. An undeniable truth about trans and queer people is that we exist in every race, class, culture across the world and in every family lineage. And currently we are fighting to exist in public life and we need our hands on deck. Gracias, Supervisor Solis and Han, for proposing that we bring great minds together to discuss and ensure that trans and queer people find a place and purpose in Los Angeles County, especially for queer youth who are looking for belonging and TGI populations who are seeking safety. Last week, the board collectively affirmed TGI lives, and this week we value how it is being followed by tangible steps to advance collective solutions. Trans Queer Institute is actively creating third spaces in the San Gabriel Valley, our regional headquarters, and as an LGBTQ commissioner, we welcome partnering to advance third spaces across LA County. Gracias.
Thank you. Next speaker, please. Good morning. My name is Liliana Simpson Castaneda, and I'm a youth representative on the SGV LGBTQ Youth Action Coalition, as well as I just finished my freshman year at UCLA. Having lived my whole life in the San Gabriel Valley and LA County, I've seen the way that these spaces can change lives. Their spaces ensure that LGBTQ youth have access to places where they feel safe, seen, and heard, not afraid or silenced. I've seen the way that my city legislators and school district have failed to support and protect LGBTQ youth with the dissolution of a committee committed to protecting LGBTQ youth, as well as pride flags being torn down at my high school while I was there and the dissolution of our GSA. So I know that these third spaces away from the school or home can really protect LGBTQ youth. Therefore, I urge the board to vote yes on this motion. Thank you.
Thank you. Next speaker, please. Good morning, board. My name is Sophia Alvarez, and I'm with the San Gabriel Valley LGBTQ Plus Youth Advocacy Coalition. I'm speaking in support of item number three, Supervisor Solis' and Hans' Care with Pride LGBTQ Plus Third Spaces motion. As a Gen Z person, it is alarming to see that these spaces are disappearing exactly the moment our community needs them most. When LGBTQ plus people feel... are facing mounting political and legal attacks across the country, these third spaces are life-saving. Research shows that access to affirming spaces dramatically reduces the risk of suicide for LGBTQ plus young people. This motion is about making sure that every LGBTQ plus resident in LA County has a space in their community where they are seen safe and welcome regardless of that public space and where it is derived from. That is why I urge the board to vote yes on this measure and on this motion. Thank you. Thank you. Next speaker, please.
Good morning. My name is Vicky Goto. I use she, her pronouns, and I'm the board co-president of PFLAG San Gabriel Valley Asian Pacific Islander Chapter. I'm here to express our support for Supervisor Solis and Supervisor Hahn's Care with Pride LGBTQ Plus Third Spaces motion. As an intergenerational group that serves members from their 20s through their 80s, we greatly appreciate this effort to address the social isolation and mental wellness of our LGBTQ plus youth and elders. In a time when LGBTQ plus folks and especially our TGI loved ones are under attack and subjected to discrimination, erasure and demonization, Something as basic as having affirming third spaces where they can build community, develop social connections, and feel safe to be their authentic selves will literally save lives. We urge the board to pass this motion and we thank you for your bold leadership.
Thank you. Next speaker, please.
Buenos dias, Supervisores. Mi nombre es Adriana.
Good morning supervisors, my name is Adriana and I'm here this morning to ask that you would create safer spaces for us as the LGBTQ plus community. I am a transgender woman, and I say that with honor because I'm someone who is very firm in terms of my gender identity.
And I am asking for a safe space because I spent 20 years living on the street, sadly, and I went through so much discrimination and continue to go through that. In addition, I have had problems with people not because of my gender, but because I am a human being.
And moreover, I've had difficulties with others, not just because of my gender, but just by being a human being.
We need to have secure spaces such as parks, movie theaters, restaurants, different places that are safe. I know that we are not welcome in many places because they do not see us as human beings. They see us as animals. Thank you. Thank you. Next speaker, please.
Good morning, Board of Supervisors. My name is Pamela Molleda. I'm speaking about identity. I have very difficult experience in my life. I have survived violence, and I have been attacked because of my identity. Hate crimes have affected my life deeply. We need more third space, like Trans Latina Coalition, LGBT centers, to be safe. Why is it almost every LGBTQ plus person struggles to socialize and be accepted by the society, both at the beginning and the end of their lives? This should never happen. The item number three could help my LGBTQ plus to get better environment and quality life to them. Supervisors, please consider my LGBTQ plus to get better quality life.
Thank you. Next speaker, please.
Good morning, supervisors. This is Chi Chi, NE Pronouns with the Trans Latina Coalition. At TLC, we understand that safe space is safe lives because we are a third space in our community. We provide daily meals, case management, mental health services, and essential community groups where TGI people can gather in a safe and welcoming environment that isn't just a bar or club. Although shout out to our lesbian TGI, black and brown owned and operated bars and nightclubs, This board, aside from Supervisor Barger, recently voted to restore Measure J, the county's groundbreaking commitment to care first. Measure J, alongside this motion, would strengthen public infrastructure and help provide lifelines, and our orgs can provide that invaluable support. I want to uplift the intentional focus on youth, older adults, and our TGEI2S Plus and immigrant communities who are most at risk. Mandating trauma-informed care and partnering with trusted, culturally competent organizations like the South Latina Coalition already doing the work in the community could help ensure that these spaces succeed. So I urge you, please vote yes. Thank you.
Thank you. Madam Chair, there are no other in-person speakers that have signed up for this item. We will go to remote speakers. As a final reminder for more participants to be placed in the speaking queue to address item three. If you have not already done so, use the raise hand feature on your device or press star three on your telephone now. Caller with phone number starting in 6264, ending in 05. Your line is unmuted. Please begin. Good morning.
My name is Good morning my name is Christian Porte and I have the privilege of serving as the President of the San Gabriel Valley LGBTQ Centre. We represent over 125,000 LGBTQ residents across the San Gabriel Valley and we are actively working on building safe and third spaces across our region and desperately need your support. On behalf of our board staff volunteers and our youth advocacy coalition, I want to thank Madam Chair Solis and Supervisor Hahn for their leadership in bringing forward this important motion. Over the past year, through our first-ever community needs assessment of the San Gabriel Valley community, we have heard a clear and consistent message. Our community needs more safe, affirming spaces close to home where people can connect across generations, support one another, and thrive. This motion directly reflects what our community has asked for. By investing in these third spaces, LA County is strengthening connection, reducing social isolation, and building healthier, more resilient— Thank you.
Byron Jose, your line is unmuted. Please begin.
Good morning. This is Byron Jose with Trans Latina Coalition. Thank you, Chair Solis, for this motion. If it would have been a cluster, we would have been able to update our members, but thank you, Supervisor Hahn, for also co-authoring this motion. Thank you, Supervisor Forbath and Mitchell, for uplifting the need to ensure that some of these initiatives and implementation are community-led, specifically looking at our aging populations and youth. As we move forward with private care and other work, we want to make sure that we're looking at tangible investments in third space and other well-being for our communities, such as the Terra Latinas TGI Housing Initiative. And as we move forward, we want to work with Supervisor Solis as one of her legacy projects on her last term to ensure that we're investing in our new center, which will be in SD1. So thank you, everyone, for all your work, and Supervisor Barger for also supporting previous private care and TGI community investments. Thank you.
Thank you. Roy Humphreys, your line is unmuted. Please begin.
Thank you. Your obsequiescence is immeasurable, and as is your budget funds. But for the voting bloc, this item would not exist. Groups create their own third spaces, i.e., Latino, Black, Asian, and Armenian gangs. In the interest of DEI, I demand a third space for the Irish, like moi. Check third space in Men's Central Jail. Prejudice is, has been, and will be part of the human condition in perpetuity.
Thank you.
Thank you. Danny Gonzalez, your line is unmuted. Please begin.
Good morning, supervisors. My name is Danny Gonzalez, and I'm speaking on behalf of the Los Angeles LGBT Center in strong support of the Care with Pride motion by Supervisor Soli Sinhan. LGBTQ plus people of all ages deserve welcoming places where they can build community, reduce isolation, and access support close to home. This initiative recognizes that affirming third spaces are a public health investment especially for LGBT youth, older adults, transgender and gender expansive people. This also will be able to uplift immigrants, people with disabilities and communities underserved by existing resources. We truly applaud this thoughtful countywide approach and urge your support to create sustainable, accessible and inclusive spaces where every LGBTQ plus resident can belong and thrive. Thank you very much.
Thank you. Caller with phone number starting in 6264, ending in 56. Your line is unmuted. Please state your name and begin.
Good morning. My name is Bling Bling Lau and I'm here today to support item three. Safe spaces for LGBTQ plus community members are about something simple. Ensuring that everyone has a place where they feel respected, supported, and able to be themselves. For many young people, these spaces provide trusted mentors, access to resources, and a sense of belonging that helps them stay connected to their schools and community. Los Angeles has always been a city that celebrates diversity. By supporting safe spaces, we're reaffirming our commitment to treating every resident with dignity and ensuring that no one feels left behind because of who they are. When people feel safe, they're more likely to engage with their community, build meaningful relationships, and contribute in positive ways. Creating inclusive spaces doesn't take away from anyone else. It just strengthens community for everyone. Thank you.
Thank you caller with phone number starting 6263 ending in 35. Your line is unmuted. Please state your name and begin.
Caller please begin.
Yeah, sorry. Hi, my name is Silver DeLeon, a youth advocate for the San Gabriel Valley LGBTQ Youth Advocacy Coalition and a queer student at a local high school. Across the SGV, I've seen the limitations schools have when it comes to addressing the struggles, discrimination and hate queer individuals and especially queer youth experience. Worse, most students are forced to solely rely on these limited resources, leaving them to face many of these life-shattering struggles alone. At a time where support is needed now more than ever, queer youth need a place to turn to where they can gain help, aid, and a general community that can help queer individuals not just live as themselves, but as human beings with a space to belong. That's why I urge the board to approve item three.
Thank you. Madam Chair, there are no other remote speakers to address the board. That concludes public comment on this item.
Madam Chair, item three is before you.
Thank you before I begin, I want to thank all members of the public who came forward to speak really want to thank you and I want to thank again all those that stakeholders that had input in putting this motion forward and I also want to thank my staff as well and supervisor on and and all of my colleagues here. And especially those is called in from the SGV because I think that's an area that we're finally starting to see some movement. with respect to the LGBTQ plus community. So thank all of you. So with that executive officer, I'll move seconded by Supervisor Hahn to approve the item. Executive officer, please call the roll.
Supervisor Mitchell.
Supervisor Mitchell. Aye. Supervisor Horfath.
Supervisor Horfath. Aye. Supervisor Hahn.
Supervisor Hahn. Aye. Supervisor Barger. Aye. Supervisor Barger. Aye. Supervisor Solis.
Supervisor Solis. Aye. Motion carries. Madam Chair, I believe we are we're now moving on to specials. I believe Supervisor Horvath has a motion.
Yes, Supervisor Horvath. Thank you, Madam Chair. On July 13th, 2026, 12 states, including California, sued in federal court to block the merger of Paramount and Warner Brothers on antitrust grounds. The merger was approved by the U.S. Department of Justice's Antitrust Division on June 12th, 2026. As described in the lawsuit, the merger would combine two of the nation's five major film distributors, leaving the remaining four distributors in control of 85% of all wide release theatrical films in the United States. It would also combine two of the five major owners of basic cable channels such that the only two would control 59% of all basic cable in the United States. In the state's view, the merger will end competition in key ways and result in higher prices, lower quality, and less film content. On the same day, the Attorney General also filed a motion for a temporary restraining order asserting that if the merger is not stopped in three separate markets, market concentration will rise to presumptively illegal and anti-competitive levels. Los Angeles County is the global capital of the creative economy and employs over 312,000 Angelenos, 171,155 in entertainment specifically. The film and television industry is one of the largest and most vital economic sectors of our regional economy, supporting jobs through direct, indirect, and induced jobs. The production of movies and television not only generates jobs such as actors, set designers, grips, and makeup artists, but also supports local businesses such as caterers, equipment rental companies, and prop houses. The entertainment industry is core to our identity as Angelenos, and people and families count on it as the bedrock of our local economy. Despite best intentions, prior studio mergers have resulted in less entertainment output. In fact, when Skydance purchased Paramount for $8 billion in August 2025, layoffs followed. On March 24, 2026, this board directed the Department of Economic Opportunity, in collaboration with other departments, with a report back on the economic impact of the proposed purchase. among other things the report back notes that nearly 2 500 jobs in the greater los angeles area are at risk as a result of the merger given the central importance of the creative economy to los angeles we cannot stand by in the face of potential antitrust violations los angeles county must stand in support of our family members our friends and our neighbors and all angelinos who depend on the creative economy to stand up for fairness and against potentially anti-competitive and illegal conduct i therefore move that the board of supervisors authorized county council in collaboration with the director of the economic development department to participate in or support the california attorney general's lawsuit challenging the paramount warner brothers merger including by filing an amicus brief or by providing supporting declarations or other appropriate means and to direct county council to share with the california attorney general and other attorneys general challenging the merger the los angeles county department of economic opportunities report back prepared by CVL economics regarding the potential impacts of the merger on the Los Angeles County economy, including the effects on industry employment, as noted in the California Attorney General's complaint. Thank you.
Chair, members of the board, this item will be placed on next week's agenda. We will now move on to general public comment. At this time, we will hear from members of the public wishing to address the board on general public comment. This is an opportunity for the public to address the board on subject matters within the board's jurisdiction, but not on items on the meeting agenda. For members of the public joining us remotely, please use the raise hand feature if you're online or press star three if on the telephone.
We will now call in-person speakers. And while they're coming forward, we will take remote speakers. Chichi Navarro, Nora Sainz, Maria Elena Yepes. Madam Chair, we do not have any remote speakers. We will go to in-person.
My name is Nora Saenz, and I'm a Bell resident and a longtime CELA activist. Tomorrow marks four weeks since the lineage toxic fire, and to give lineage an additional 45 days to clean up is unacceptable and disgusting. Since my visits to Boyle Heights Ground Zero, I've experienced eye irritation, blurred vision, headaches, and nausea. The expectation that residents need to sustain those living conditions day in and day out is inhumane. A mandatory evacuation should have been put in place since day one, especially since we don't know the toxins that are in the air, and elected officials have lied to the public about the quality of air. We are told the air is safe, but our bodies are telling us otherwise. This is not a Boyle Heights or an East LA problem. This is a regional issue. Supervisor Janice Hahn. I am looking to you as my elected official to do the right thing and work with your colleagues to put in a mandatory evacuation in place, especially now since we are experiencing- Thank you. Next speaker, please.
Good morning. I'm Maria Elena Yepes, retired professor from East Los Angeles College and a resident of the San Gabriel Valley. I urge the Board of Supervisors to call for a mandatory evacuation in the areas that have been affected by the Lindsay Fire. And that includes both Heights, East LA, Southeast LA, and the West San Gabriel Valley, among others. People are getting sick. They have been sick. They need that respite. They also need to be able to access their home insurance, and through the mandatory evacuation, that can happen. I don't think we want another death like the one that happened in Washington State. I really feel that a month later, we're a month from the time that the fire started. I think we really need to push to make sure that the area is cleaned up, that it is sanitized. Thank you.
Madam Chair, there are no other in-person speakers to address the board. We do have one remote caller, Roy Humphries. Your line is unmuted. Please begin.
Yeah, thank you. And those two items, A1 through A8, I'll be brief on the situation. But this Los Padrinos makes me sick. That thing is the county's handling of that whole thing. That's a... a disaster and a criminal act in itself as to the homeless situation we are a national joke out here so you have to just look at the news every day in the dynamics and you can come out and see in roland heights how the transients have taken over bus stops and our sidewalks out here As to the immigration laws, we have Dr. Ben Carson. Maybe you've heard he was on the news most recently and notes that the actions of various state government agencies, et cetera, constitute, and I've used it before myself, treason. Just look up the legal definition and so forth. It might help you out. And that the Affordable Care Act is a Democrat minstrel show.
Thank you, Madam Chair and members of the board. That concludes our time for general public comment.
We will now proceed with adjournments.
Supervisor Horvath does not have any adjournments today. We'll begin with Supervisor Mitchell, then Supervisors Hahn, Barger, and I'll conclude.
Thank you very much, Madam Chair, colleagues. I move that when we adjourn today, we adjourn in the memory of a true icon of black Los Angeles, and that's Judge Billy G. Mills. Judge Mills was born on November 19th, 1926, in Waco, Texas, and passed away peacefully in his home in Leimert Park the 27th of June, surrounded by his family, at the age of 96. After moving to California, he earned an Associate of Arts degree from Compton College and a Bachelor of Arts degree from UCLA in 1951. While an undergraduate, he pledged Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity, and in 1954, he became the first African American to graduate from UCLA Law. He later served in the U.S. Army, performing legal duties in Japan. In 1953, he married his wife Ruby, and together they raised five children, building a life grounded in love, integrity, and service. Judge Mills dedicated his career to advancing civil rights and equitable treatment. Beginning in 1960, he practiced as a civil rights attorney advocating for communities long denied access to fair housing, economic opportunity, and political representation. In 1963, he became one of the first black members elected to the Los Angeles City Council representing District 8 during a period of time marked by redlining and systemic discrimination. He championed policies that challenge racial inequities and collaborated with the likes of Tom Bradley and Gil Lindsay to push for lasting change. In 1966, he continued this work as the first black chairman of the LA County Democratic Central Committee. After three terms on the Los Angeles City Council, Judge Mills was appointed to the LA Superior Court in 1974, where he served for more than two decades, remaining committed to fairness, education, and mentorship. He was honored by UCLA as Alumnus of the Year and as Judge of the Year by the Beverly Hills Bar Association. Upon retiring from the bench, Judge Mills and his wife established the Dr. Ruby and Judge Billy G. Mills Scholarship at UCLA to support students pursuing careers in political science and law, ensuring their commitment to equity and public service would continue through future generations. Judge Mills is survived by his twin daughters, Karen and Carol, his three sons, William, John, and James, nine grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. His legacy of integrity, service, and compassion lives on in all who knew him and in the countless community members and members of the LA bench and bar community whose lives he touched. Thank you, Madam Chair.
Supervisor Hahn.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I just want to add on as well for Judge Mills and just say that he was a trailblazer. He was a public servant who believed that people in his community deserved advocates that would look out for their best interests. And that's really what his legacy was. He was a civil rights attorney. He focused on ensuring people received fair treatment under our legal system. And as a council member in the city of Los Angeles representing South L.A., he succeeded my uncle Gordon Hahn in that eighth council district, and he pushed for neighborhood improvements. He was big on paving people's alleys, streetlights in underserved communities. And as you said, as a Superior Court judge, he served with that same quiet dignity and unwavering fairness that defined every other aspect of his life. He knew that the halls of justice were more than a place where disputes were settled. It was a place where the promises of the Constitution were made real for ordinary people. Billy built a life rooted in faith, education, public service, and an abiding belief that justice was not merely an ideal, but a responsibility. True service is not measured by titles, but by the lives that are uplifted, and we're grateful for Billy Mills' enduring example. I also move that when we adjourn today, we adjourn in the memory of Darryl Preston Jackson, who passed away at the age of 70 after a battle with lung cancer. Darryl's life was a Los Angeles native whose talent on the baseball field took him from Locke High School to Arizona State University, where he helped lead the Sun Devils to the 1977 NCAA National Championship. before fulfilling his dream of pitching in Major League Baseball with the Minnesota Twins. While his accomplishments in baseball were remarkable, it was his work after the game that truly defined his legacy. After overcoming significant personal challenges, Darryl devoted his life to mentoring young people and helping them realize their own potential. Through the 1020 Club, which he founded, and nearly three decades of service with the Downey Unified School District, he became a trusted mentor and advocate for thousands of students and families throughout Downey and southeast Los Angeles County. His work in gang prevention, youth intervention, and family support transformed lives and strengthened the fabric of the Downey community. Daryl believed every young person deserved someone who believed in them, and he dedicated his life to being that person. His compassion, his wisdom, and his willingness to share his own journey gave hope to countless young people facing difficult circumstances and inspired them to choose a brighter path. I extend my deepest condolences to Daryl's family, his friends, his colleagues, his former students, and the entire Downey community who have lost an extraordinary leader, a mentor, and a friend. His legacy will live on in the generations of young people whose lives were forever changed because he cared enough to invest in them. Darrell was preceded in death by his daughter, Selena, and is survived by his wife, Veronica, and his daughters, Yuko and Aiko. I also move that when we adjourn today, we adjourn in the memory of Lori Gillen. Lori served on the Paramount City Council from 2017 to 2022, and she just passed away on July 4th. Lori was a lifelong resident of Paramount, and graduated from Paramount High School in 1983. And before joining the City Council, she dedicated 30 years with the Los Angeles Police Department, working various assignments and earning the respect of her colleagues through her steadfast commitment to public safety. During her time on City Council, Lori helped advance the priorities of the region through her leadership, particularly in the areas of transportation and planning. Lori was an active volunteer who served and supported veterans and did advocacy work on behalf of those suffering from Parkinson's disease. In 2016, she founded the Paramount Community Coalition Against Toxics to support community health and fight against unhealthy levels of pollution, including industrial pollution. Those who knew Lori will remember her for her leadership, her passion, and her commitment to making The Paramount community, a better place to live. I remember working with her right after I became a supervisor. She was my biggest advocate as we worked to control the industrial pollution that was affecting so many in the Paramount community. So her legacy of environmental justice, public service will continue to inspire future leaders. She is survived by her family and her friends. I also move that when we adjourn today, we adjourn in the memory of Oswaldo Luis Paulino, who passed away July 9th, he was 79. I appointed Oswaldo to the Artesia Cemetery District, and he served for five years. Oswaldo was born in the Portuguese town of Sao Pedro, and in 1970, he made Artesia his home and became deeply involved in the Portuguese American community. Throughout his life, he dedicated himself to promoting Portuguese culture, heritage, and the accomplishments of the Portuguese immigrants through radio and television. Oswaldo launched several radio programs where he provided a voice for the Portuguese community and kept listeners connected to their heritage. Working alongside other community leaders, Oswaldo helped establish Radio Television Artesia, an accomplishment of which he was immensely proud. Later, he created and hosted the television program California Contacto, where he celebrated the achievements of Portuguese immigrants who had left their homeland in search of greater opportunities while remaining deeply connected to their roots. Oswaldo was known for his warmth, his kindness, and his genuine interest in people. Whether speaking with internationally known artists, local musicians, business owners, elected officials, or everyday members of the community, he treated everyone with the same courtesy, humility, and respect. His conversations were always thoughtful, his friendships sincere, and his dedicated to preserving Portuguese culture unwavering. His lifelong mission was simple yet profound, to share with the world the stories, the successes, and the enduring spirit of the Portuguese immigrant community. And through his voice, his camera, and his unwavering commitment, he left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come. Oswaldo will be deeply missed by his family, his friends, his colleagues, myself, and the countless people whose lives he touched through his decades of service to the Portuguese community. Oswaldo is survived by his devoted wife, Aurelia, his daughter, Cristina, and her husband, Aaron, and grandchildren, Christian and Sofia. And I also move, this is my last one, that we adjourn in the memory of Randolph Mantooth, who was 80 when he just passed away. Randolph Mantooth was best known for his portrayal of the paramedic John Gage on the groundbreaking television series, Emergency, which aired from 1972 to 1977. And the series introduced millions of Americans to the pioneering Los Angeles County paramedic program that my father helped to create. We just adjourned, was it last week or the week before, for Dr. Criley, who also was the doctor responsible for helping to create our groundbreaking paramedic program. So this TV show followed firefighter paramedics of fictional Squad 51 as they responded to emergencies and saved lives, bringing the revolutionary work of L.A. County's first responders into living rooms across the country. At the time, the concept of paramedicine was new. Los Angeles County had lost has had launched the nation's first paramedic program just a few years earlier, an emergency. showed Americans what these highly trained first responders could do. The show didn't just entertain, it inspired countless young people to become firefighters and paramedics. I've heard from so many members of our own LA County Fire Department who chose their careers because they grew up watching emergency. Randolph Mantus impact didn't end when the camera stopped rolling. He remained a devoted advocate for firefighters, paramedics, and EMTs throughout his life, speaking at EMS conferences, visiting fire stations, and using his platform to honor the men and women who dedicate their lives to saving others. We have a LA County Fire Museum in Bellflower and they have a lot of the memorabilia from the emergency television so and i believe they have the squad 51 truck in that museum it's well worth it if you have not visited the la county fire museum it's really fascinating randolph is survived by his wife kristen connors and his siblings donald and tanya mantooth thank you madam chair thank you supervisor barger
Thank you, Madam Chair. I move and will be adjourned today. We do so in memory of Gary Joseph Enderly, longtime San Dimas resident, veteran community leader and devoted family man who passed away on July 1st. He was a proud Vietnam veteran, and upon returning home, he established a successful business and dedicated countless hours to serving the San Dimas community. He played an essential role in numerous civic efforts and served as board president of the San Dimas Rodeo before becoming a trusted and respected leader within the city. In 2004, Gary co-founded San Dimas Heroes, which stands for helping establish a remembrance of every service person, a nonprofit committed to honoring veterans. Under his guidance, the organization created San Dimas Military Banner Program and established a veterans monument at Freedom Park, ensuring that the service and sacrifice of veterans would be recognized for generations to come. Gary was admired for his unwavering integrity, deep love of his country, and tireless dedication to supporting veterans, mentoring volunteers, and strengthening the community that he cherished. He remembered it as a selfless service for his selfless service, steadfast leadership, and the enduring legacy he leaves throughout the San Dimas and among the veterans whose stories he worked to uplift. Above all, Gary treasured his family, He survived by his brother Mel, his daughters Christy, Dina, and Jamie, and his beloved grandchildren Riley, Samantha, Justice, and Jackson. I also move that we adjourn in memory of J. Michael Fay, longtime Claremont resident who died peacefully at his home on June 20th at the age of 89 on his 62nd wedding anniversary. Born in 1937 in Pennsylvania, Michael's life began with hardship when his father died three days after his birth, leaving his mother to raise two children alone. After a misstep at Wilmington College and time in the Merchant Marine, where travel first captured his imagination, he returned to school at Ohio Northern University, determined to excel. He later served in the U.S. Army in Okinawa in intelligence work, learning Morse code. Michael met his wife, Emily, at the Los Angeles State College while earning his teaching credentials. He began his teaching career at Carver Junior High, becoming an advocate for students in low income communities. He earned his PhD in education at Claremont Graduate School. Michael spent 56 years in Claremont, serving 16 years on the Claremont Unified School District Board of Education. Shaped by scarcity, he devoted his life to creating opportunities and abundance for those around him. He helped develop Claremont's Youth and Family Master Plan, leading the creation of the Youth Activity Center and TRACS, which serves hundreds of teens daily. He volunteered widely, including at the California Botanic Garden Investment Committee, Shoes That Fit, and NAMI. Later in life, he was inspired by his mother's financial hardships. He became a certified financial planner and founded Claremont Financial Group, helping people understand retirement planning. Michael visited all seven continents with the Claremont Rotary Club, which was especially meaningful to pair adventure with service. supporting rural communities with livestock and clean water. He's survived by his wife, Emily, their two children, John and Marilyn, and a granddaughter, Rachel. Thank you, Madam Chair.
Thank you. I move that when we adjourn today, we do so in the memory of Maria Margarita Hernandez de Torres. Margarita was born in Ignacio Ramirez Durango, Mexico, and passed away peacefully at home on July 2nd, 2026 at the age of 75. In 1971, she immigrated to the United States with her three-year-old daughter to reunite with her husband, Miguel. Like so many immigrant families, they came seeking a better future for their children through hard work, sacrifice, and opportunity. She proudly called Boyle Heights in East Los Angeles home. Margarita spent her career in the garment industry, retiring in 2018. Though only four feet six inches tall, she was truly tiny but mighty, never shying away from the toughest jobs because she believed every sacrifice was worth it for her family. In 2007, after months of attending night classes and studying English at Roosevelt High School, she proudly became a United States citizen. Margarita and Miguel raised three children, Maria, Arturo, and Miguel, and she cherished her five grandchildren, Andrea, Samantha, Natalia, Lea, and Adrian. Diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2023, Margarita fought courageously for more than three years, enduring countless treatments with strength and determination. Many of us knew Margarita through her son, Miguel Torres, of LA Channel 36, who has covered many of us in countless county events over the years. He has often brought his mother along with him She became a familiar face. Through Miguel, she experienced places she had never been to or seen only on television, and she met the inspiring leader, including Dolores Huerta. Our hearts are with Miguel and his family. Today, we honor a woman whose life reflected perseverance, humility, and love. She worked hard, put her family first, and was proud to become an American citizen and live the values she believed in. May she rest in peace. We will take all these motions as seconded. If there is no objection to an anonymous vote, that will be the order. Executive Officer, please read us into closed session.
Members of the public, the Board will now be going into closed session. In accordance with Brown Act requirements, notice is hereby given that the Board of Supervisors will convene in closed session to discuss item number CS2, public employment, consideration of candidates for appointment to the position of interim director of the Department of Children and Family Services, and item number CS3 and CS4, public employee performance evaluations, as indicated on the posted agenda.
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We're now back in open session. Executive Officer, please read the report of action.
The following is the report of action taken in closed session on July 14, 2026. Item number CS2, public employment, consideration of candidates for appointment to the position of interim director of the Department of Children and Family Services. The board selected a final candidate for the position of interim director of Children and Family Services. The vote of the board was unanimous with all supervisors being present. Item number CS3 and CS4, public employee performance evaluation, no reportable action was taken.
That concludes today's board meeting. The next regular meeting of the board will be held on July 21st, 2026 at 9 30 AM. We are adjourned.
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This transcript was automatically generated from the official public meeting video and is presented unedited. It reflects remarks made on the public record by elected officials, staff, and public commenters. Transcript accuracy may vary; view the original recording for reference.