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It is with deep sorrow that we at CityWatch LA announce the passing of our longtime contributor, Eric Preven, who died suddenly on Saturday of an apparent heart attack. Eric was one of the original writers for CityWatchLA and his voice will be greatly missed. On behalf of all of us at CityWatchLA, we extend our deepest condolences to his brother Joshua and the entire Preven family.
About Eric Preven
Eric Preven was a longtime Los Angeles-based journalist, writer-producer, and civic activist whose work focused on transparency, accountability, and neighborhood empowerment. He was based in Studio City, California, where he lived for decades.
Before devoting himself to advocacy and journalism, Eric had a successful career in television writing and producing and was a member of the Writers Guild of America.
His writing appeared twice weekly in CityWatchLA, as well as numerous other outlets such as The Intercept, Los Angeles Daily News, and The New Republic.
Public-Interest Achievements
- In 2016, Eric was co-plaintiff with the ACLU in a landmark case forcing the County of Los Angeles to disclose legal bills paid to outside law firms.
- In 2019, he won a Brown Act case against the City of Los Angeles, establishing the right of the public to comment during “special meetings.”
- In recognition of his work, Eric was named a finalist in the 2024 SoCal Journalism Awards for his piece “An Orwellian Wonderland.”
His Focus & Legacy
Eric’s column, “Eric Preven’s Notebook”, blended grassroots activism with investigative insight. His writing scrutinized everything from local government spending and meeting transparency to homelessness policy and civic reform. He believed deeply in the power of engaged citizenship and held institutions to account with a sharp yet accessible style.
Outside his professional life, Eric was a University of Michigan alumnus, and a passionate advocate of architecture—he lived in a home designed by R. M. Schindler—and enjoyed cooking, swimming, and writing poetry.
Why We Mourn
Eric’s presence on the CityWatchLA roster was more than that of a contributor: he was a steadfast voice for greater transparency in Los Angeles, a respected local watchdog, and a tireless advocate for open government. He inspired both readers and fellow writers with his deep curiosity, unrelenting questioning of power, and belief that ordinary citizens can and should demand better.
His passing leaves a significant void in the Los Angeles civic and journalistic community. While we grieve his loss, we also honor his legacy by continuing the work he championed—ensuring that government remains accountable, that neighborhoods are empowered, and that truth matters.
Our Condolences
To Eric’s brother, Joshua Preven, and the entire Preven family: please know that Eric’s contributions have meant so much to so many. The CityWatchLA family stands with you in this time of grief, and we will forever remember Eric’s dedication, insight, and fearless voice.
May he rest in peace—and may his legacy continue to inspire.
(Jim Hampton, Editor and Publisher of CityWatchLA.com)
