Meeting Summary
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At a glance
Commercial Tenant Protections
- The Board approved a motion directing the Department of Economic Opportunity to design a Commercial Rental Property License system to track vacancies and identify pressure points.
- Staff proposed a 180-day report-back to study fair market rents and develop options for relocation assistance and incentives.
- Discussion centered on preventing small business displacement through rent increases and lease terminations, with stakeholders debating the balance between tenant protections and landlord costs.
- The motion passed, directing the county to engage stakeholders and define implementation details without capping commercial rents or blocking redevelopment.
Passed 3–0 · unanimous
El Niño Preparedness
- County departments presented mitigation strategies for the 2026-27 storm season, focusing on flood control, sheltering, and outreach to vulnerable populations.
- Public Works confirmed readiness of the regional flood control system, including 14 dams and 483 miles of channels, while prioritizing burn scar areas for debris flow risks.
- The Sheriff’s Department and Homeless Services detailed plans for law enforcement evacuations and proactive relocation of unsheltered individuals from high-risk zones.
- The Board received the presentation and filed the report, noting upcoming emergency drills and a virtual town hall to educate residents.
Fire Survivor Fraud Prevention
- The Board approved a motion to establish a specialized task force and expanded awareness campaign to protect Eaton and Palisades fire survivors from contractor scams.
- The motion includes a waiver for expedited execution of agreements related to paid media and legal service provider outreach.
- Departmental representatives highlighted common fraud tactics, such as unlicensed contracting and high-pressure sales, and committed to providing vetted contractor lists.
- Public commenters urged the Board to prevent the issuance of owner-builder permits to unlicensed individuals to reduce financial risks for homeowners.
Street Racing Strategy
- A panel reported a 33% decrease in street racing activity following the original action plan, though a recent 41% spike was noted in specific contract cities.
- Enforcement actions included 134 citations, 46 arrests, and 47 vehicle tows, alongside the installation of 15 intersection barriers by Public Works.
- The Sheriff’s Department highlighted a trend of burglaries occurring during street takeovers and discussed coordination with federal agencies for potential conspiracy charges.
- The Board received the report, with supervisors requesting data on participant residency to better target prevention efforts in affected communities.
Closed Session
- The Board entered closed session to address an audit by the California State Auditor’s Office, existing litigation, employee performance evaluations, and labor negotiations.
- Upon returning to open session, the Clerk reported that no reportable action was taken during the closed session.
Full summary
Meeting Overview
- The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors convened for its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, September 1, 2026. The Chair confirmed a quorum. The Executive Officer introduced a pilot public comment registration system, allowing members of the public to register via website or phone to speak on specific agenda items, with confirmation emails and text message reminders. The Clerk of the Board detailed the registration process, time limits for speakers (one minute for one item, up to two minutes for multiple items), and the availability of a constituent assistance team in the audience.
- The meeting proceeded with a land acknowledgement recognizing the Tongva, To Taviam, Serrano, Kizh, and Chumash peoples. An invocation was led by Pastor Will Vukovarich of Grace Long Beach, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Leo Hernandez, a former U.S. Army specialist. Supervisor Hahn presented a certificate of appreciation to Pastor Vukovarich. Supervisor Barger introduced Leo Hernandez and presented "Dog of the Week" features for two German Shepherds available for adoption at county animal care centers.
Agenda Review and Order of Business
- The Clerk of the Board called the agenda, noting the following holds, continuances, and recusals:
- Consent Calendar (Items 1–20): Item 19 was held by Supervisor Barger; Item 20 was held by Supervisor Mitchell. Both items included revisions per the supplemental agenda.
- Administrative Matters (Items 21–92): Item 21 was held by Supervisor Mitchell; Item 22 was held for report. Supervisor Horwath recused herself from Item 23 due to a conflict of interest under Government Code Section 84308. Supervisor Solis recused herself from Item 37 for the same reason. Supervisor Horwath also recused herself from the vote on Item 37. Item 38 was continued to September 29, 2026, at the request of Supervisor Barger. Item 62 was continued to September 15, 2026, at the request of Supervisor Mitchell. Revisions were noted for Items 44, 48, and 56.
- Miscellaneous Additions (Items 98–90F): Posted more than 72 hours in advance.
- Separate Matters (Items 93–94): The Board agreed to take separate votes on these items. A correction was noted for Item 93.
- Special District Agendas: Included agendas for Sanitation District Number 27, New Hall Ranch Sanitation District, Los Angeles County Development Authority, and Regional Park and Open Space District. An addition was noted for Item 1P.
- Closed Session (Items CS1–CS10): Items CS2–CS5, CS7 (one case), and CS9 were continued to September 15, 2026, at the request of the Chief Probation Officer. A correction was noted for Item CS7.
- The Board approved the order of business: public comment on non-held items (including closed session matters), followed by Items 20 and 22, then Items 19 and 21, general public comment, and closed session. The Code of Conduct was read to the public.
No decision 0–0
Public Comment: Non-Held Items
- Public comment was taken on all items not held for discussion, including closed session matters. Speakers addressed various agenda items:
- Item 41 (Hollywood Bowl Season Pass Tickets): Multiple speakers expressed support for the reduced-price program for low-income Angelenos. Some speakers requested the Board establish a countywide reduced-pricing program for all cultural institutions. One speaker noted the affordability of tickets for community groups.
- Item 62 (Electronic Monitoring): One speaker expressed opposition, arguing that electronic monitoring extends the criminal legal system and should not replace housing, mental health care, or re-entry support. The Clerk noted that Item 62 had been continued.
- Item 56 (Lifeguards): A speaker representing the Los Angeles County Lifeguard Association supported the item, highlighting the role of lifeguards in protecting 72 miles of coastline.
- Other Items: Speakers addressed Items 32, 35, 36, and 38 regarding AI models, family visitation, medical upgrades, and local health emergencies. One speaker opposed the New Hall Ranch Sanitation District ban on water softeners. Another speaker requested accessibility considerations for people with disabilities in commercial corridor projects.
Consent Calendar Vote
- The Board moved to approve the Consent Calendar items (Items 1–18, 23, 24–36, 37, 39–61, 63–89, 90A–90F, SD1, 1D, and 1P), with the noted exceptions and recusals.
- Motion: Moved by Supervisor Horvath, seconded by Supervisor Hahn.
- Outcome: The motion carried.
Separate Matters Vote
- The Board voted separately on Items 93 and 94.
- Item 93: Moved by Supervisor Barger, seconded by Supervisor Mitchell. The motion carried.
- Item 94: Moved by Supervisor Mitchell, seconded by Supervisor Horvath. The motion carried.
Agenda Item 20: Implementing Commercial Tenant Protections
- Supervisor Mitchell held Item 20 for discussion. The item proposes implementing commercial tenant protections to prevent small business displacement and deliver on thriving commercial corridors.
Discussion
- Supervisor Mitchell: Stated that small businesses are disappearing due to rent increases (up to 400%), lease terminations, and redevelopment displacement. She cited the state’s Senate Bill 1103, which requires advance notice for rent increases over 10% and lease terminations. She described the County’s Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) investments, including over $83 million in direct cash relief to 9,700 businesses and $33 million in technical assistance. She proposed a Commercial Rental Property License (CRPL) to identify pressure points, track vacancies, and facilitate outreach. The motion would direct DEO to design a licensing system, study fair rent, and return with options for relocation assistance and incentives. She clarified that the motion does not cap commercial rent, require lease sharing, or block redevelopment. She noted that stakeholder feedback led to changes, including a cap on relocation expenses and clearer definitions of redevelopment projects.
- Supervisor Hahn: Expressed support, thanking Supervisor Mitchell for co-authoring the issue. She highlighted the impact of recent crises (lineage crisis, oil spill, ICE raids) on small businesses in East LA and the San Gabriel Valley. She emphasized the need for stabilization and support for entrepreneurs and micro-enterprises.
- Supervisor Barger: Asked questions regarding the efficacy of the 2022 County Anti-Harassment Ordinance, noting a lack of data on complaints filed or outcomes. She questioned whether the ordinance has "teeth" and why data is not being collected. She asked about state financial incentives that might encourage landlords to leave businesses empty. She sought clarification on the definition of a "commercial landlord" for the motion. She expressed concern about creating additional bureaucracy and cost, noting that LA County is perceived as unfriendly to businesses. She stated she would abstain from the vote, emphasizing the need for transparency and data to ensure the program delivers results for both tenants and landlords.
- DEO Director Kelly LoBianco: Responded that the Anti-Harassment Ordinance creates a private right of action but lacks a central custodian for case data. She stated that the licensing program would help track complaints and provide infrastructure for education and legal support. She acknowledged the need to define "commercial landlord" clearly in the report-back. She confirmed that the report-back would engage the business community and address implementation questions, including whether the program aligns with the Business License Commission.
- County Counsel: Noted that the ordinance was intended to be self-enforced and that data collection would require infrastructure investment.
- Additional Discussion: Several supervisors expressed support, citing the importance of small businesses to the local economy and the need to protect legacy businesses from displacement, harassment, and economic pressures such as inflation and competition from online retailers. One supervisor noted that while the county has existing programs (e.g., business interruption funds, facade improvement programs), additional tools are needed. Emphasis was placed on the need for broad stakeholder engagement, including tenants, landlords, and business organizations, and for the report-back to include strong privacy and data minimization standards. Other supervisors raised concerns regarding the cost of implementation, staffing requirements, and enforcement mechanisms. Questions were posed about whether landlords would bear the costs of tenant protections and how the county would fund the necessary departmental staff. One supervisor noted that the Anti-Harassment Ordinance currently relies on private right of action, which may be insufficient without governmental administrative oversight.
- Staff Response: County staff indicated they would estimate the cost of infrastructure and implementation in the report-back. Staff clarified that the motion includes varying timeframes for different components, including 180 days for the main report-back and 120 days for the commercial rent study. Staff also noted that the existing small business licensing program staff (18 positions) would need to move if the program is transferred from the Transportation Commission to another department.
Public Comment
- Public comment was opened for 50 minutes. Speakers included representatives from commercial real estate associations, chambers of commerce, community organizations, and individual small business owners.
- Opposition: Representatives from CRETA SoCal, the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA), the Central City Association, and the San Gabriel Valley Economic Partnership opposed the motion or expressed concerns. They argued that the proposed licensing, reporting, and rent restrictions were too broad, could discourage investment, and would increase costs for property owners. They requested that protections be limited to qualified small and legacy businesses and that the county distinguish between unlawful harassment and lawful redevelopment. Some speakers noted they had not been included in prior stakeholder processes.
- Support: Numerous speakers, including representatives from the LA Conservancy, Public Counsel, Little Tokyo Service Center, the LA Tenants Union, and various small business owners, supported the motion. They cited specific instances of displacement, harassment, and rent increases. They argued that transparency, relocation assistance, and fair market rent studies are necessary to protect small businesses and community stability. Several speakers highlighted the specific case of "Carlitos Tires" in the Florence-Firestone community as an example of a legacy business facing lease expiration and uncertainty.
Motion and Vote
- Motion: Supervisor Mitchell moved to approve the item.
- Second: The motion was seconded.
- Vote Outcome: The motion passed.
Agenda Item 22: El Niño Preparedness Presentation
- The Board heard a verbal presentation on potential impacts and mitigation strategies for El Niño during the 2026-27 storm season.
Discussion and Presentations
- Supervisor Remarks: A supervisor thanked the county departments for their preparation efforts. They highlighted concerns about intense flooding and landslides in wildfire burn scar areas (e.g., Santa Monica Mountains, Altadena) and coastal infrastructure vulnerabilities. The supervisor mentioned upcoming county-led emergency drills and a virtual town hall to educate residents.
- Office of Emergency Management (OEM): Kevin McGowan, Director of the Office of Emergency Management, introduced the panel. He outlined the presentation structure, which included an overview of El Niño by the National Weather Service, followed by preparedness updates from Countywide Communications, Public Works, the Sheriff’s Department, Fire Department, Homeless Services and Housing, Beaches & Harbors, and Public Social Services. OEM presented on the countywide preparedness effort, which includes hazard and operational assessments, coordination with cities and partners, and the development of plans for emergency operations center activations, evacuations, and sheltering. OEM highlighted specific planning for areas affected by recent wildfires (Eaton and Palisades burn scars) and the integration of needs for individuals with access and functional needs. OEM noted that a tabletop exercise facilitated by the Naval Postgraduate School is scheduled for September 30.
- National Weather Service: Dr. Ariel Cohen, Meteorologist in Charge for the NWS Los Angeles-Oxnard Forecast Office, explained that El Niño increases the statistical likelihood of a wetter-than-normal winter but does not guarantee specific storm tracks or disasters. He emphasized that high-impact threats (e.g., debris flows) cannot be reliably forecast months in advance and require short-term, high-resolution modeling. Dr. Cohen warned against "warning fatigue" by overstating long-range risks, noting that the NWS focuses on actionable, near-term forecasts and maintains regular briefing rhythms with county partners.
- Countywide Communications: Reported on collaborative efforts to ensure "one voice" messaging. Activities included a joint training exercise for communicators in July, weekly meetings with departments, and media outreach resulting in numerous stories. The department announced the launch of a weekly El Niño Preparedness Newsletter and directed residents to `ready.lacounty.gov/rain` for resources.
- Public Works / Flood Control District: Outlined the risk-based approach to flood management, noting that NOAA reports a greater than 90% probability of a very strong El Niño. The department detailed the readiness of the regional flood control system, including 14 dams, 178 debris basins, and 483 miles of channels. Public Works stated it will formally assume the role of issuing evacuation warnings based on technical assessments, while the Sheriff’s Department will conduct law enforcement evacuations. The department emphasized prioritizing resources for vulnerable communities and burn scar areas, such as Altadena and the Santa Monica Mountains.
- Sheriff’s Department: Described pre-storm planning, including resource positioning and monitoring forecasts. The department detailed its role in conducting law enforcement evacuations, using a citizen evacuation tracker for situational awareness, and conducting outreach to the unhoused population in high-risk areas (riverbeds, washes) prior to storms. The Sheriff emphasized the importance of public compliance with mandatory evacuation orders and road closure signs.
- Fire Department: Briefly stated its participation in interagency training for mud/debris flows and swift water incidents, monitoring forecasts, and amplifying public safety messaging.
- Homeless Services and Housing (HSH): Reported on operational readiness, including identifying accessible emergency interim housing sites and finalizing standard operating procedures for unsheltered response. HSH described efforts to educate unsheltered individuals about risks, distribute emergency supplies, and create pathways for additional interim housing capacity (e.g., motel vouchers, existing vacancies). The department highlighted the role of the Emergency Centralized Response Center (ECRC) in training, case conferencing, and coordinating referrals.
- Beaches & Harbors: Outlined seasonal preparations for 23 miles of coastline and Marina del Rey, including the construction and maintenance of seasonal berms (approx. 15 feet high) to prevent wave overtopping, deployment of sandbags, and relocation of lifeguard towers. The department noted its long-term Coastal Resilience Initiative, which includes living shoreline and beach nourishment projects.
- Department of Public Social Services (DPSS): Described its dual role in ensuring benefit continuity for over 4 million clients and leading the county’s Mass Care and Shelter operations. DPSS reported pre-identifying shelter sites with partners (American Red Cross, Parks and Rec), pre-staging equipment, and training approximately 1,000 county employees in shelter services. The department noted it would pursue disaster CalFresh if appropriate and emphasized coordination with HSH for appropriate shelter placement.
Q&A Session
- Board members asked questions regarding specific risks and operational details:
- Tropical Systems and Coastal Safety: A Board member inquired about the potential impact of a hurricane. The National Weather Service representative stated that direct impacts from lower-latitude tropical systems are extremely unlikely. The primary concerns identified were significant southerly swells, strong rip currents, coastal erosion, and coastal flooding, particularly during the holiday weekend.
- Burn Scar Areas: A Board member asked what residents in burn scar areas should look for. Public Works stated it is assessing properties in areas with fires less than five years old and will contact property owners in vulnerable locations by October 15. Residents were advised to inspect their properties for burned hillside slopes and contact Public Works directly if concerns exist.
- Routine Flooding Areas: A Board member asked about preventative measures in areas with historical flooding ("skeletons"). Public Works explained that these areas do not meet the 100-year protection standard and that the department pre-deploys pumps and other devices to manage drainage in these known problem areas. This service is available countywide within the Flood Control District boundaries (85 of 88 cities, south of Avenue S, excluding Catalina Island).
- Landfills: A Board member asked about preparations for landfill impacts (odors, fires). Public Works stated it has contacted all landfills to ensure wet weather plans are updated and that facilities are prepared. Specific preparations at Sunshine Canyon Landfill include improvements to drainage and erosion control.
- Stormwater Capture: A Board member asked about water capture opportunities. Public Works stated that capturing rainwater is a dual mission, with 27 spreading grounds prepared for inflow. However, public safety in flood control is the primary priority, with water conservation as the secondary priority.
- Unhoused Population and Shelters: A Board member asked about shelter identification and 2-1-1 capacity. HSH stated its primary strategy is to reduce demand on 2-1-1 by proactively moving vulnerable people out of high-risk areas and utilizing existing interim housing capacity. DPSS added that it works with the American Red Cross to update lists of approximately 75 county-documented shelters and several hundred Red Cross shelters, ensuring they are located outside of impact zones. DPSS noted that cities lead shelter operations in incorporated areas, while the county leads in unincorporated areas, with the county assisting cities if capacity issues arise.
- Public Perception and Climate Change: A Board member asked about changes in public perception regarding rain and climate change. The National Weather Service representative noted that perceptions may be influenced by social media and past dry El Niño events, leading to potential desensitization. The department emphasized the need for unified, factual messaging. Public Works acknowledged that climate change has led to less frequent but higher-intensity rainfall events.
- CERT and Swift Water Rescue: A Board member inquired about Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training and swift water rescue capabilities. The Sheriff’s Department and Fire Department confirmed their involvement in CERT training and swift water response capabilities, respectively.
- Forecasting and Communication: Dr. Ariel Cohen (Meteorologist) explained that while seasonal models indicate a higher probability of above-normal precipitation, specific storm forecasts are only reliable approximately one to one-and-a-half weeks in advance. He emphasized the balance between issuing warnings and avoiding "false alarm" desensitization. Supervisor Hahn raised concerns about the effectiveness of the Emergency Alert System (EAS), noting that messages are often too broad and vague. Sheriff McGowan explained that the county uses a federal system (IPAWS) and that the Sheriff’s Department and OEM jointly manage alerts. He noted that the county maximizes the system's capabilities but acknowledged its limitations. Andrew Viest (Countywide Communications) stated that the county has the capacity to activate alert banners on all county websites and departmental sites during extreme weather events.
- Vulnerable Populations: Supervisor Hahn inquired about outreach to seniors and individuals with disabilities, noting that digital-only communication may exclude those with limited internet literacy. The Director of Aging and Disabilities stated that the department is prioritizing emergency preparedness for these groups, focusing on community-based approaches, credible messengers, and utilizing the over 200 senior and community centers countywide for training and outreach.
- Infrastructure and Drainage: Supervisor Hahn asked for confirmation that all major storm drains, channels, and catch basins have been inspected and cleared. Michael Sylvester (Public Works) confirmed that maintenance regimes are 95–98% complete, with the goal of 100% readiness by October 15. He noted that specific vulnerable areas, such as the Altadena region, are being prioritized. Sylvester emphasized the importance of public education regarding "know your drainage" and advised residents to avoid driving in heavy rain where possible.
- Specific Geographic Risks:
- Palos Verdes Peninsula: Supervisor Hahn raised concerns about land movement accelerated by rain. Sylvester reported that the county is working with peninsula cities on groundwater pumping and temporary surface drainage systems. Sheriff McGowan noted that a peninsula preparedness expo is scheduled for October.
- Catalina Island: Sylvester stated that camps on Catalina are not authorized to be occupied during rain events. Sheriff McGowan noted that Southern California Edison (SCE) has made infrastructure investments and deployed backup power, which may influence evacuation decisions.
- Unincorporated Areas: Supervisor Horvath raised concerns about drainage in areas like City Terrace and the impact of a recent oil spill. Sylvester expressed confidence that the oil spill remediation will be complete before significant rain but noted that construction activities may need to be paused to prevent erosion. He also highlighted the risk of landslides and debris flows in steep topography.
- Homeless Population: Supervisor Horvath expressed concern about the placement of unhoused individuals during evacuations, noting that previous placements were often far from their original locations. She requested a report on how cities and Community Organizations (COGs) can provide incentives and vouchers to ensure local placement. Carter Hughley (Housing) stated that the county has strong relationships with COGs and cities for interim housing and voucher capacity, citing Hurricane Hillary as an example of successful partnership. He acknowledged that resource availability is the primary challenge. Supervisor Horvath requested a specific report on metrics and ratios for city/COG contributions to voucher funding.
Public Comment
- Paloma Bustos (Loyola Law School) urged the county to include human trafficking prevention in storm season planning, citing a previous board motion on the topic.
- Roy Hunker (Rollin Heights) commented on environmental risks, including sewage flows and data centers, and suggested county-wide homeless campsites.
- Mel Bailey asked about county efforts to assist multilingual citizens in learning English for safety purposes.
- Sean Patrick Patterson (The Next 5,000) proposed establishing a major emergency distribution and temporary shelter center in the Skid Row District.
- Colin Campbell (South Pasadena) discussed a pilot program involving quantum internet and AI for emergency communication.
- Luciano Haber (Southern California Wildfire Response) offered the services of his community fire department for initial attack and community involvement.
- Claudia Jerez (DPSS DWC) commented on the terminology used in weather maps and the need for preparation for all weather events.
Decision
- The Clerk of the Board stated that the report would be received and filed. Hearing no objections, the Chair confirmed this as the order.
Agenda Item 19: Protecting Eaton and Palisades Fire Survivors from Fraud, Predatory Practices, and Contractor Scams
- Supervisor Barger introduced a motion, co-authored by Supervisor Horvath, to protect fire survivors from contractor fraud and scams. The motion directs county departments to develop a coordinated plan of action, including a specialized task force, to address fraud. It also directs an expanded awareness campaign using online methods, in-person resources at one-stop centers, and community partners, with materials in multiple languages.
Amendment
- Supervisor Barger proposed a minor amendment to Directive 3 to waive the requirements of Board Policy Number 5.100 for agreements related to paid media (billboards, advertising) and legal service provider outreach, allowing for expedited execution. The amendment was read into the record.
Departmental Responses
- Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA): Director Rafael Carbajal identified common issues including unlicensed contracting, improper payment practices, misrepresentation, and high-pressure tactics. He stated that DCBA triages complaints, provides counseling, and collaborates with the DA, Attorney General, and County Council. He supported the motion to scale up outreach, including billboards and radio ads, to inform residents of their rights and resources.
- Public Works: Director Mark Pastrella confirmed coordination with multiple departments, including LACDA and the Contractor State Licensing Board, at one-stop centers. He noted an uptick in "owner-builder" applications, which can be risky for homeowners due to insurance and mortgage reimbursement complexities. He stated that Public Works provides vetted contractor lists and educates the public.
- Enforcement: Supervisor Horvath asked about additional enforcement tools. Carbajal noted that the County Council has authority under the 17200s to pursue unlawful business practices and that the county coordinates closely with them. He mentioned that price-gouging protections had expired.
Board Comments
- Supervisor Barger highlighted the vulnerability of survivors, citing examples of large down payments lost to unlicensed contractors and misunderstandings of contract terms.
- Supervisor Horvath emphasized the need for clear, consistent communication in multiple languages for seniors and those with limited English proficiency.
- The Chair supported the motion, noting similar predatory practices observed in other disaster contexts, such as the Lineage fire, including door-to-door sales of overpriced goods and aggressive legal solicitation.
Public Comment
- Catherine Peoples (HPP Cares) reported on predatory activities, including a survivor losing $1 million to an unlicensed contractor. She urged the board to support the motion and specifically requested a change to prevent the issuance of owner-builder permits to unlicensed individuals, citing it as a key prevention measure.
- Speakers from Southern California Wildfire Response, HPP Cares, and DPSS-DWC addressed the board. Comments focused on thanking supervisors for addressing illegal contracting and fraudulent practices affecting fire victims, the need for continued education regarding building in burn zones, and the importance of emotional support and community engagement for survivors.
Motion and Vote
- Motion: Supervisor Barger moved, seconded by Supervisor Horvath, to approve Item 19 as amended.
- Vote Outcome: The motion carried.
Agenda Item 21: Report on the Strategic Plan to Curtail Street Racing in Los Angeles County
- A panel including representatives from the Chief Executive Office, Department of Public Works (DPW), Department of Youth Development, and the Sheriff’s Department presented data and strategies.
Data
- The panel reported a 33% decrease in street racing activity in the year following the implementation of the original action plan, which held for five quarters before a recent 41% spike. The spike was largely concentrated in contract cities within Supervisorial District 2, while unincorporated areas saw a smaller increase. Data indicated that DPW intersection installations in the Central Division correlated with a 28% drop in activity in that area.
Actions Taken
- Over 3,000 students and residents participated in prevention workshops; DPW installed 15 intersection barriers in the last quarter; LASD conducted eight solo operations, issuing 134 citations, making 46 arrests, and towing 47 vehicles; the DA diverted 31 individuals and collected $3,000 in restitution.
Passed 3–0 · unanimous
Future Strategies
- Partners committed to expanding school and community prevention programming, planning installations in the South Division, deploying additional enforcement resources, and increasing social media monitoring to remove posts promoting street takeovers.
Discussion
- Supervisor Mitchell acknowledged the alarming increase but recognized the collective work done. She asked for next steps and mitigation strategies for SD2 and the county, noting that specific communities are being targeted. She requested data on whether participants are local residents or outsiders to better target prevention efforts.
- Sheriff Robert Luna highlighted a disturbing trend of burglaries and looting occurring during street takeovers, citing an incident in Bellflower with estimated $30,000 in damage. He stated that LASD is increasing citations, vehicle seizures, and specialized unit deployments. He mentioned coordination with CHP and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for potential conspiracy charges against organizers. He noted that Pico Rivera is issuing administrative citations for spectators, though County Counsel clarified that such citations may violate federal constitutional rights regarding assembly and free speech.
- Supervisor Hahn expressed frustration with the increase, particularly in her district and SD2. She raised concerns about contributing factors such as sporting events, media promotions, and the decentralization of the LAPD street takeover task force. She asked how the task force is preparing for upcoming events like the Olympics and inquired about staffing levels at the Bellflower substation following the looting incident.
- Sheriff Luna addressed staffing, stating that hiring is up and applications are increasing, though he acknowledged ongoing negotiations and retention issues. He emphasized that deputies are deployed to meet minimum staffing standards and that rapid response relies on community reporting and air assets.
- Commander Terrence Bell noted that surveillance cameras with live feeds to sheriff stations are being deployed to help identify gathering vehicles and respond faster.
- Supervisor Mitchell clarified the legal status of administrative citations for spectators, noting that federal courts have deemed them unconstitutional, and stated that the board should not pursue such measures.
Public Comment
- Speakers from the Antelope Valley, DPSS-DWC, and other community members addressed the board. Comments included requests for attention to street racing in the Antelope Valley, the manipulation of youth, and the need for constructive alternatives and grief support.
Decision
- The report was received and filed.
General Public Comment
- Several members of the public addressed the board on various topics:
- A resident expressed disappointment regarding the status of skilled nursing facilities and requested a hearing for families to speak.
- A caller made statements regarding racial and political issues, referencing specific individuals and events.
- A caller criticized the board for focusing on unincorporated areas, noting that only 10% of the county population lives in unincorporated areas.
- A speaker promoted a play titled "Action T4" exploring the history of the Nazi euthanasia program.
- Luciano Haber, from Southern California Wildfire Response, shared a personal story regarding a wildland firefighter friend and asked the board to help engage the community and open doors to agencies for wildfire response efforts.
- A resident of Hilda Solis Rose Court reported a second gas leak, requested an investigation into LA County Fire Department protocols, and asked for meetings with residents regarding hardships.
- Danny Gonzalez, representing the Los Angeles LGBT Center, urged the county to restore $24 million in funding for transition-age youth homeless services.
- Collin Campbell from District 5 requested assistance in sending information to Measure G LA Gov regarding ethics meetings with local churches and promoting ethical AI in healthcare.
- Claudia Jerez from DPSS-DWC spoke on the need to address fires, youth takeovers, and fraud with firmness and conviction.
Passed 5–0 · unanimous
Adjournments
- First District: Supervisor Mitchell moved to adjourn in memory of David Allgood, a friend and pioneer in environmental justice, who passed away. The motion was seconded and approved.
- Second District: Supervisor Mitchell moved to adjourn in memory of Samuel Paz, a civil rights litigator and ACLU board member, who passed away on August 14, 2026. The motion was seconded and approved.
- Second District: Supervisor Mitchell moved to adjourn in memory of Dr. Forrest Tennant Jr., former West Covina Mayor, physician, and philanthropist, who passed away on August 13, 2026. The motion was seconded and approved.
- Second District: Supervisor Mitchell moved to adjourn in memory of Charlena D. Price, a community leader and economic pioneer in Englewood, who passed away on August 10, 2026, at age 100. The motion was seconded and approved.
- Second District: Supervisor Mitchell moved to adjourn in memory of Joan Boyette, a champion for arts education and former Music Center executive, who passed away on August 4, 2026, at age 90. The motion was seconded and approved.
- Second District: Supervisor Mitchell moved to adjourn in memory of Tim Curry, actor and performer, who passed away on August 25, 2026, at age 80. The motion was seconded and approved.
- Second District: Supervisor Mitchell moved to adjourn in memory of Dolly Rebecca Parton, artist, songwriter, and philanthropist, who passed away on August 25, 2026, at age 80. The motion was seconded and approved.
- Additional Adjournments: Beth Cedic moved that the board adjourn in memory of Virginie Gevorkian, who passed away on July 21. The motion included a brief biographical statement noting her birth in Armenia, immigration to the United States, and residence in Burbank. Cedic also moved that the board adjourn in memory of six indigent veterans identified by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner and buried at Riverside National Cemetery. The individuals listed were Michael Claire Goodman (Air Force), Albert Huff (Marines), William Michael Venegas (Air Force), Charles Lee Logson Senior (Navy), Gregory Anthony Powell (Navy), Willie Frank Drummond (Army), Herbie Real Curtis (Marines), Willie James Townsend (Army), Bruce George Hetkemmer (Navy), Raymond Douglas Head (Marines), Louie Rios (Army), and Donald Seja Awokini (Army). Another member joined the sentiment regarding the adjournment for Dolly Parton, noting her business acumen, advocacy for children through her library foundation, and themes in her music regarding working women. A third speaker noted that California passed a bill to fund participation in the Imagination Library and expressed hope that local partners would make the program available in Los Angeles County. The Chair accepted the motions as seconded. There was no objection, resulting in a unanimous vote.
Closed Session
- The Clerk of the Board announced that the board would enter closed session in accordance with Brown Act requirements.
- Agenda Items for Closed Session:
- Item CS1: Audit by the California State Auditor’s Office.
- Item CS6: Conference with legal counsel regarding existing litigation.
- Item CS8: Public employee performance evaluation.
- Item CS10: Conference with labor negotiators.
Report of Action from Closed Session
- Upon returning to open session, the Clerk of the Board read the report of action taken during the closed session on September 1, 2026, for items CS1, CS6, CS8, and CS10. The report stated that no reportable action was taken.
Adjournment
- The Chair announced the next regular meeting would be held on September 15, 2026, at 9:30 AM, noting that the previously scheduled September 8 meeting was canceled due to Labor Day. The meeting was adjourned.