Neighborhood Council Funding

The news that the City is considering reducing Neighborhood Council budgets to $11,200 from $50,000, a reduction of 78% has been shocking for neighborhood council volunteers throughout the City. $11,200 would not be enough for Neighborhood Councils to conduct meetings or outreach much less any neighborhood improvements. There are a number of opportunities for you to get involved in this urgent issue issue that could drastically effect the future of the STNC and all neighborhood councils throughout the City and the partnership we have with our City Council. Remember, we are the "certified neighborhood councils in the City of Los Angeles". Write to express your concerns or see other options below. This is the time for Neighborhood Councils to educate and advise the community at large, and the City Council, as to the importance of the NC funding program as they move through their deliberations.

The City's Budget and Finance Committee will convene on Tuesday, May 12, 2009 at 1 p.m. at City Hall to finalize their complete recommendations to send forward to the City Council. You are encouraged to attend this committee meeting. It is being held in the main City Council room as a large crowd is expected. Bring copies for your letters and neighbor's letters.

Neighborhood Council presidents will hold a press conference at 9 a.m. on Friday, May 15 on the steps of City Hall and then speak during public comments at the City Council meeting that starts at 10 a.m. This will be a first in the history of NCs!

The full City Council will then begin holding special meetings to consider the Committee's budget recommendations starting on Monday, May 18, 2009 and you are encouraged to attend those meetings as you can.

Please encourage your neighbors to also write, comment and contribute to this very important issue. We are partners with the City in our efforts to improve the quality of life in Sunland-Tujunga and the entire City.