Los Angeles Charter Reform Commission Seeks Public Participation

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has announced that residents across the city can apply to join the newly formed Charter Reform Commission. The commission, established by Mayor Bass and the City Council last year, is tasked with reviewing and proposing amendments to the Los Angeles city charter. Some amendments were adopted by voters in November, but this commission aims to expedite further reforms to present to city leaders.

Commission Composition and Selection Process

The commission will consist of 13 members, selected as follows:

Mayor’s Appointments: The mayor will appoint four members.
City Council Appointments: The City Council president will appoint two members, and the vice president will appoint two members.
Remaining Members: The remaining five members will be selected by the eight appointed members through a separate application process.
Council Approval: All appointments must be approved by the City Council.

Key Reforms Under Consideration

One of the most notable aspects of this reform effort is the potential expansion of the mayor’s authority. Currently, the mayor’s powers are more limited compared to other major cities like New York and Chicago. Key areas under review include:

Improving City Services: Enhancing the delivery of city services.
Contract Procedures: Amending city contract processes.
Budget Formation: Revising the city’s budgeting approach.
Standardizing Appointment Procedures: Standardizing the process for filling vacant city positions.
Defining Censure and Suspension Procedures: Establishing clear procedures for censuring or suspending elected officials.
Council District Redistricting: Reviewing the boundaries of City Council districts.
Expanding Mayoral Administrative Authority: Strengthening the mayor’s control over the budget and administrative decisions.

Los Angeles operates under a strong City Council system, where the mayor’s budgetary authority is limited, and the Council leads major administrative decisions. Mayor Bass has emphasized the need for expanded mayoral authority to achieve more efficient city administration.

Public Participation and Future Plans

The commission’s work is expected to lead to significant changes in how the city government operates. If the mayor’s powers are expanded, it could alter the balance between the mayor’s office and the City Council, making this a critical issue for discussion.

Residents interested in joining the commission can submit applications through the official website until March 28 at 5 PM. Mayor Bass is working closely with City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson to ensure the commission is well-prepared and will hire an executive director once all members are selected. The commission aims to prepare reforms for the 2026 elections.

Statement from Mayor Bass

“This commission is a critical task for me, the City Council, and the citizens of Los Angeles who want government reform,” Mayor Bass stated. She emphasized the importance of carefully selecting the best candidates and beginning the application process to prepare for the commission’s activities.

Statement from Council President Harris-Dawson

“This charter reform commission is about change for Los Angeles. Through its work, proposals will be presented to voters in 2026 to make city government more transparent and accountable,” said Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson.