CommentsCITYWATCH TODAY—Back at the turn of the century, when they were being organized, neighborhood councils promised to change the way government does business. They have. Neighborhood councils are now a part of the City fabric. Whether the ‘change’ has lived up to expectations and promise or not remains fodder for passionate debate. That neighborhood councils have become entrenched in the political system, provide a system for neighborhood voices to be heard, have inspired increased engagement in and awareness of Los Angeles government is not debatable.
The month approaching provides an important marker in LA’s neighborhood council history. December 2001, the City certified Los Angeles’ first NC … Wilmington Neighborhood Council. Next month, CityWatch, the City and its Neighborhood Councils will launch a lengthy 15th anniversary celebration: ’15 Candles—96 Points of Light.’
We’ll take a look at how neighborhood councils happened, what NCs have … and have not … accomplished and what the neighborhood council future looks like. We’ll let you inside LA’s NCs. We’ll hear from NC voices. Come on along. Join the fun. Provide some memories. Let us know what you think. Help us blow out the candles.
In the meantime, Dr. Dan Wiseman takes issue with Bob Gelfand on the subject of neighborhood councils. Dr. Dan thinks Bob is wrong … and knows better … regarding who stakeholders are and what the City Charter intended. All … in Today’s CityWatch. Check it out. Let us know what you think.
Ken Draper-Editor, CityWatch
