Budget Update
For the past few weeks I've been reporting on our City budget process, and I am pleased to say that the City Council approved our revised budget, just yesterday. Though the official budget resolution will be approved next week, I wanted to share some thoughts on the process and the outcomes for our district and the City.
This year's budget for me was about getting back to basics and improving on the delivery of the services. I was very pleased to see essential, core services prioritized in this budget. We are maintaining 800 miles of streets, fixing sidewalks for the first time in several budget cycles, doubling graffiti removal and tree trimming while meeting our capital infrastructure goals and maintaining a healthy Reserve Fund.
We have also added back Library hours and Recreation and Park programs - including extending the times our pools will be open in the summer.
We have also funded our Budget Stabilization Fund at over $60 million. Deposits to this fund are made during growth economies and can be drawn upon during economic downturns like the one we're currently emerging from.
We are restoring vital public safety services - adding firefighters after a long hiring freeze. We have added fire trucks and ambulances, updating our dispatch and technology with full funding for my FireStatLA program to improve response times and guide resource deployment.
This is coupled with a modernization of our Police and Fire fleets and data systems. We are consolidating departments to focus on efficient service provision - like my proposal to create a Planning and Development Services Department from our current Planning and Building and Safety Departments. Combined with elements of our Department of Transportation and Engineering Departments, this new entity will create a streamlined and holistic process for reviewing, permitting and inspecting development projects.
I have prioritized the use of technology to improve and diversify the ways that residents can communicate with us about their needs and how we can best service them.
We will see the expansion of our Customer Relationship Management systems to better track service requests and follow up after work has been completed, or provide timelines, if necessary. It is a large component of what I believe is basic customer service - essential for any service provision agency.
I have also fought for the next phases of my Priority Based Budgeting program that will provide a mechanism for citywide strategic planning, and help to create measurements that will definitively show how best to use your taxpayer dollars for the services and programs that are most important to you.
I'd like to thank everyone who has shared their comments and thoughts with me by contacting my office, or speaking with me at community events. Your input has guided my work on the Budget and Finance committee and I believe we have produced a budget that protects and enhances our community by funding our shared priorities.
Emergency Medical Services Week
This week, I was honored to join the Los Angeles Fire Department in declaring the Week of May 19-25, as "Emergency Medical Services Week" throughout the City of Los Angeles. Emergency medical services (EMS) is a vital public service and a core mission of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
The theme for National EMS Week is "EMS: One Mission. One Team."Access to quality emergency care dramatically improves the survival and recovery rate of those who experience sudden illness or injury. Los Angeles Fire Department’s first responders, emergency medical technicians and paramedics stand ready to provide compassionate, lifesaving care to those in need 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Emergency medical responders are supported by: emergency medical dispatchers, firefighters, law enforcement officers, educators, administrators, researchers, emergency nurses, emergency physicians and many others. Members of the LAFD engage in thousands of hours of specialized training and continuing education to enhance their lifesaving skills.You can visit the website http://www.emsweekideas.org for ideas and information on preparing you and your family for emergencies and starting a career as an EMS personnel.
For more information on EMS Week please visit www.acep.org/emsweek.
Helping First Responders in Oklahoma
We have all been saddened by the devastating tornadoes in Moore, Oklahoma this week. While our thoughts and prayers go out to the people of Oklahoma, we can also take action here to help the first responders who are helping the victims of this tragedy. Operation Gratitude is preparing care packages and pallets of materials to send out by early next week.
Here is a list of the most needed items:
- Nonperishable food: Baby Formula, Bottled Water, PowerBars, KIND Bars, energy bars or any other nutritious item that is both non-perishable and easily stored.
- Clothing: Any type of new clothing: Men, Women and Children.
- Entertainment items: Playing cards, books or any other entertainment that does not require electricity.
- Morale lifts: Letters to put in care packages.
- Hygiene Items: Hand sanitizer, toothpaste/toothbrushes, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, body wash and mouthwash.
- Gift Cards: Gift Cards to national stores or stores located in Oklahoma.
- Miscellaneous: Sunscreen, diapers, boots, work gloves, batteries of all kinds, flash lights and baby wipes.
Donations can be shipped or dropped off at:
Operation Gratitude/CA National Guard
Attn: Disaster Relief Supplies
17330 Victory Boulevard
Van Nuys, CA 91406Financial donations can be mailed to:
Operation Gratitude
16444 Refugio Road
Encino, CA 91436
S.O.L.I.D. Pancake Breakfast
As an LAPD Reserve Officer, I was proud to join the Police Officers of Devonshire Division and help serve up delicious hot pancakes, sausage and coffee at the annual SOLID Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, May 18.
This great annual community event at Devonshire Community Police Station in Northridge raises funds to benefit SOLID (Supporters of Law Enforcement in Devonshire), which provides non-City supplied materials and equipment needed by the Police Officers at Devonshire Division.For more information, visithttp://soliddevonshire.org.
Have a Happy and Safe Memorial Day Weekend
In observance of this Memorial Day, May 27, Councilmember Mitchell Englander and the District 12 staff offer our gratitude and support to all of the family and friends of members of the U.S. military who have lost their lives serving our country.
We also offer our gratitude and support to all U.S. Veterans as well as the men and women currently serving our country in the U.S. military.
This Memorial Day weekend, please enjoy the many picnics, BBQs and festivals and please celebrate responsibly so that we can keep the roads safe for all.
CD12 Photo Contest
As part of our “Year of Healthy Living,” Councilmember Englander is hosting a District 12 Photo Contest. We are seeking submissions of photographs depicting examples of healthy living. District 12 boasts the most public parks in Los Angeles, providing photographers a wide variety of opportunities to capture examples of a healthy lifestyle.
However, healthy living means more than just eating vegetables and exercising. It also means taking care of our community, our environment, our mental health and more. There is a lot of room for creativity in the “Year of Healthy Living” Photo Contest.
After an initial screening process, photos will be posted on our contest Facebook page. Finalists will be determined by how many “likes” your photo gets on the Facebook page and five winners will be chosen by Councilmember Englander.
The finalists and winners will have their work proudly displayed at Councilmember Englander’s Community Service Center in Chatsworth.
Click here to visit our CD12 Photo Contest Facebook page.For more information please contact Semee Park at (818) 882-1212 or email at semee.park@lacity.org.
Save the Date for the Valley Family Festival!
Get ready for three days of family-friendly fun in the park at the Valley Family Festival coming up Friday, May 31 to Sunday, June 2 at Northridge Park.
The AMAZING lineup includes carnival rides, games, live music, and dance acts, a health fair, community booths and great food! There will also be bouncers, arts and crafts activities for the kids!
More information in Upcoming Events!
St. John Eudes’ Summer Carnival
St. John Eudes Church’s Summer Carnival is coming up! The three day event runs from May 24 to 26. In addition to the carnival rides and games, there will be food, music, and entertainment reflecting the marvelous ethnic and cultural diversity of our community. And whether you like to ride the rides or just sit and relax under our big tent and enjoy the show – there’ll be fun and excitement for everyone!Friday, May 24
4:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Saturday, May 25
12:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Sunday, May 26
12:00 pm to 10:00 pm
St. John Eudes Church’s
9901 Mason Avenue
ChatsworthFor more information please visit www.sjecarnival.org.
40th Annual Valley Greek Festival
St. Nicholas Church and its 500 volunteers invite you to enjoy a cultural experience for the entire family with live music, dancing, gourmet food, homemade pastries, cooking demonstrations, children's activities, a Greek market, and a variety of shopping boutiques. Boasting a three-day average of 50,000 guests, the admission-free fundraiser is the largest festival of its kind in the area. So make the most of your Memorial Day weekend and immerse yourself in the cultural vision that is the 40th Annual Valley Greek Festival. Admission is free.
May 25, 26, 27
1:00 pm - 9:00 pm
St. Nicholas Orthodox Church
9501 Balboa Blvd.
NorthridgeFor more information email info@valleygreekfestival.com or visitwww.valleygreekfestival.com.
The Valley Family Festival!
Get ready for three days of family-friendly fun in the park at the Valley Family Festival coming up Friday, May 31 to Sunday, June 2 at Northridge Park.The AMAZING lineup includes carnival rides, games, live music, dance, a health fair with a blood mobile, community booths and gourmet food trucks!
There will also be bouncers, arts and crafts activities for the kids! The Young Masters Symphonic Concert Band, the Fab Girls, Into the Mixx, Sylmar Folklorico, and many more will be performing live.
What better way to kick off the summer than this awesome outdoor celebration of the San Fernando Valley? Please "like" the Facebook event page, share it on your Facebook page and invite your friends to attend!Friday, May 31 - Carnival Preview
6:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Saturday, June 1
12:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Sunday, June 2
12:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Northridge Park
10058 Reseda Blvd.
NorthridgeWe are proud to host this event in partnership with the Kiwanis Club of Northridge and the L.A. Department of Recreation and Parks.For additional sponsorship information please contact Colin Crews atcolin.crews@lacity.org or (818)882-1212.
New Horizons 6th Annual 5K Run/Walk
New Horizons, a North Hills based nonprofit organization whose mission is to empower individuals with special needs, will hold its 6th Annual 5K Run/Walk fundraiser on Saturday, June 1 with on-site registration and check-in beginning at7:00 AM at Woodley Park in Van Nuys.Saturday, June 1
7:00 am (Registration)
8:30 am (5K Run)
9:30 am (Walk)
Woodley Park
6350 Woodley Ave.
Van NuysNew Horizons “5K Run/Walk on the Horizon” fundraiser benefits programs and services provided for clients with special needs. Registration is $30 for adults; $10 for children and New Horizons clients. All registered participants will receive a commemorative t-shirt along with a “goodie bag.”For more information or to register or donate online, please visitwww.newhorizons-sfv.org/walk.
Rotary Club Wine Tasting
The Rotary Club of Northridge/Chatsworth is hosting a wine tasting fundraiser. Come sample wines from around the world and delicious hors d’oeuvres. Space is limited to the first 120 guests.Saturday, June 8
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Ticket Prices $45 (online) $50 (at the door)
Mandel Residence
22560 La Quilla Drive
Chatsworth
2nd Annual Gospel Fest
The First United Methodist Church of Canoga Park presents its 2nd Annual Gospel Fest. The free event will feature gospel groups, choirs, soloists, comedians, dancers, food, vendors and lots of kid’s activities.Saturday, June 8
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
22700 Sherman Way
West HillsAll proceeds from the Gospel Fest go to West Valley Boys & Girls Club.
Santa Susana Trails Day
The Foundation for the Preservation of the Santa Susana Mountains invites you to join them for a day of discovery in your local state historic park. Grab your sunscreen, your hiking boots, a hat, some water and get out to Santa Susana Historic State Park.Saturday, June 8
9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Powerhouse Road/Larwin Trail Head
“Ride the COLT” Community Bike Rally
Councilmember Mitchell Englander, the Chatsworth Neighborhood Council, REI, Starbucks, and Cycle World present “Ride the COLT" (Chatsworth Orange Line Tour): Community Bike Rally onJune 9. Bring your bike and tour Chatsworth, Canoga Park, Reseda, Winnetka, Northridge, and Porter Ranch. “Ride the COLT” is an easy family friendly bike ride of 2 to 19 miles to explore the Orange Line and surrounding neighborhoods.Sunday, June 9
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Chatsworth Train Depot Parking Lot A
10040 Old Depot Road
Chatsworth“Ride the COLT” also offers free snacks, route sheet, parking, and raffle ticket. The raffle drawing will be held at 9:00 am.For more information visit www.ridethecolt.com.
Depot Art Show
The Chatsworth Fine Arts Council presents the Annual Depot Art Show on Sunday, June 9 at Chatsworth Metrolink Depot.
Since 1998, the Depot Art Show has hosted an interesting variety or original art work by Valley Artists, including: paintings, prints, watercolors, collage, sculpture, glass work, photography, jewelry, and fine crafts.Sunday, June 9
10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Free Admission
Metrolink Depot
10040 Old Depot Plaza Road
ChatsworthOn display inside the depot will be “People & Places,” a special themed exhibit and People’s Choice Art Competition. Live music will be provided by Michael Stine.For more information call (818) 772-1639 or email chatsworth-arts@att.net.
The Chatsworth/Porter Ranch Chamber of Commerce’s Business Academy
The Chatsworth/Porter Ranch Chamber of Commerce is launching a Business Academy. The Business Academy is a practical, educational program designed to strengthen the business acumen and skill set of small business owners.Course Work Dates:
Saturday, June 8
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday, June 14
9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Saturday, June 22
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday, June 28
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Tuition Fees:
$350.00 for Chamber Members
$550.00 for Non Chamber Members
The course work module covers the following topics: Marketing and Sales, Social Media, Customer Engagement, Strategic Partnerships, Business Modeling and Communications Styles. The second module consists of break out groups in which each member is given an opportunity to be the sole focus of the group for one meeting. The designated business owner will present their business model and challenges for group discussion and feedback.
For more information call (818) 341-2428 or visitwww.chatsworthchamber.com.
Census Data for Grant Writers Workshop
This free interactive workshop is offered to anyone interested in learning the basics of using census data in grant proposal writing. Workshop participants will learn where to locate census demographics to help build an effective case for project funding.Wednesday, June 12
10:00 am
CD12 Community Service Center
9207 Oakdale Ave.
ChatsworthWorkshop topics include: navigating the census website, census concepts and geography, understanding census data products, and presenting data in a grant proposal.For more information or to RSVP contact: Semee Park by calling
(818) 882-1212 or email Semee.Park@lacity.org.
Reports From Our Staff
Our Field Deputy, Jim Dellinger, reports that the Kiwanis Club of Northridge has been leading a patriotic community beautification project to attach American flags to lightpoles on the main streets in Northridge, Granada Hills and Chatsworth. The Northridge Kiwanis Club posts the flags in time for Memorial Day so that all community members would have an opportunity to see this patriotic display in observance of Memorial Day. The flags will remain in place through the Fourth of July.Following the Independence Day celebrations they launder the flags and maintain them in storage. It's a lot of work but for a good cause.We applaud this terrific patriotic beautification.If you would like to make a donation to support the Kiwanis Club of Northridge's flag project, call (818) 377-4566.
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