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Last month, Los Angeles lost a remarkable leader with the passing of Umar Hakim-Dey. Umar grew up in Compton and struggled early on, but eventually embraced Islam and lived his faith through service. He mentored young people, supported the unhoused, and built coalitions across race and religion that strengthened our city.
I first met Umar a few years ago and knew immediately that he was someone I wanted to work with. He spoke with focus and intention, always grounding his words in compassion and purpose. He did not waste time on people’s differences, but zeroed in on what we could all accomplish together. I had the privilege of working alongside him and others on the Human Security Resolution, which passed at the City last year and affirmed four freedoms for all Angelenos: freedom from fear, freedom from want, freedom of expression, and freedom of worship. That resolution was a testament to his vision for a Los Angeles rooted in dignity, justice, and peace. Last Tuesday, we adjourned our Council meeting in his honor.
Two days later, Jews observed Yom Kippur, a day of self-reflection in the Jewish tradition. We take stock of past failings and recommit ourselves to living a more virtuous life in the year ahead. During that time of reflection, I found myself thinking about Umar’s example. His life reminds us that values are not abstract. They are made real in the way we treat each other, in the persistence we bring to the work of justice, and in the patience we show in building a more inclusive community across divides.
As I look ahead to this new year, I carry with me both the lessons of Yom Kippur and the example Umar set. They point toward the same truth: that each of us has a responsibility to live with intention, compassion, and persistence, and to turn away from the things that divide us and focus on what we can do together to build a city where dignity and justice guide the path forward.
All my best,
Katy
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Sidewalk Repair on National Boulevard and Rose Avenue
After years of advocacy on behalf of the disabled community, city crews are beginning long-overdue improvements at the intersection of National Boulevard and Rose Avenue. The project includes new curbs and gutters, ADA-accessible curb ramps, and freshly poured sidewalks, which will make it safer and easier for everyone to navigate the area. Construction is scheduled to take place from 7 AM to 3 PM between September 29 and October 28. |
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Temple Beth Am and Sinai Temple Yom Kippur Services
On Thursday, I joined Sinai Temple and Temple Beth Am for Yom Kippur, a day of Tefillah (Prayer), Teshuvah (Repentance), and a commitment to Tzedakah (Charity). I spent the day surrounded by the warmth of fellow congregants, friends, and family as we all reflected on how we could live better lives of higher ideals. There is a power and peace that comes from being part of a greater community. It reminds us that we are not alone and that if we join together, we can accomplish great things for our communities. We live in challenging times, and here in Los Angeles, we have had a tumultuous year, but I know that if all of our congregations, all of our communities, and all of our families join together in pursuit of higher ideals, we have the ability to do great things, and the brightest days for Los Angeles lie ahead. |
Urban Forestry Work in Pico-Robertson and Beyond
Last weekend, in partnership with the Department of Urban Forestry, city crews trimmed more than 100 trees across CD5’s neighborhoods. This work was made possible by overtime funding that I fought to preserve during the most recent budget negotiations, ensuring crews can continue providing these essential services despite staffing challenges. In total, 48 trees were trimmed along Shenandoah Street from Pico to Cashio, 45 trees on Veteran Avenue from Brookhaven to Exposition, and 12 trees on Burton Way between La Peer and Doheny. These efforts keep our streets safer, our sidewalks more accessible, and our neighborhoods healthier. |
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Honoring SAG-AFTRA President Jodi Long
On Friday, I led a Council presentation recognizing Jodi Long, the outgoing president of SAG-AFTRA’s Los Angeles Local. Jodi broke barriers as the first female Asian American Pacific Islander to serve in that role. She presided over the ratification of major contracts for SAG-AFTRA, advanced state tax credits to keep production in Los Angeles, and championed equity for underrepresented artists. I was proud to celebrate her leadership and career, which have strengthened both the entertainment industry and our city.
Improving the City’s Capital Planning Process
On Tuesday, Council approved my motion to strengthen how Los Angeles plans and delivers capital projects. Right now, the City does not have a comprehensive, multi-year plan for maintaining and developing infrastructure. Too often, projects are managed piecemeal across departments without a shared system for scoping, prioritization, or accountability. Our motion directs the Bureau of Engineering to report back with a reformed intake and scoring process, ensuring projects are consistent with City policy goals and planned with efficiency in mind.
Protecting Renters and Supporting Housing Stability
Council also approved a motion by Councilmember Jurado to allocate $947,326 in remaining federal Emergency Rental Assistance funds for tenant protections and housing support. Without this action, the money would have been returned to the state unused. Instead, the funds will go toward landlord-tenant education and direct rental assistance for households at imminent risk of eviction. This step ensures that vulnerable residents have access to resources that help keep them housed and stable. |
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Help Name the New D Line Stations — Submit Your Suggestions by October 31
Metro is asking community members to help choose the official station names for two new D Line stations: Westwood/UCLA and Westwood/VA Hospital. Share your feedback HERE and learn about Metro's Station Naming Policy HERE.
Decking Removal Begins at Westwood/UCLA Station on October 17
Decking removals at the Westwood/UCLA Station will begin Friday, October 17, at 11 PM. Work is anticipated to end at 6 AM on Monday, October 20. This work will require the closure of westbound Wilshire Boulevard, between Veteran Avenue and Westwood Boulevard as well as the reduction of eastbound Wilshire Boulevard to two lanes between Veteran Avenue and Westwood Boulevard. Decking removal is anticipated to require up to twelve weekends of work. Metro bus stops may be relocated, or lines could be impacted. For more information on changes to Metro service, please call 323.GO.METRO, or visit metro.net/tripplanner
Caltrans Announces I-405 Reduced to Three Lanes in Each Direction Through the Sepulveda Pass: October 17-20
Caltrans announced extended weekend lane reductions along Interstate 405 (I-405) through the Sepulveda Pass. The freeway will be reduced to three lanes in each direction, and motorists are strongly encouraged to seek alternate routes and explore public transportation options to reach their destinations. The work will start as early as 10 PM Friday, Oct. 17, through as late as 5 AM Monday, October 20. For more information on the project, visit the project webpage. |
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Neighborhood Cleanups in Country Club Heights and Wilshire Park
Together with LA Sanitation and LAPD’s Olympic Division, our team coordinated cleanups in the Country Club Heights and Wilshire Park neighborhoods. These efforts keep public spaces safe and accessible for everyone, while also responding to concerns from residents about health and safety conditions. We will continue to monitor these areas closely and schedule cleanups as needed.
Olympic Boulevard & St Andrews Place |
Crenshaw Boulevard & Olympic Boulevard |
Victoria & Olympic Boulevard |
Olympic Boulevard & Bronson Avenue |
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The Great Pumpkin Bash
Bring your old jack-o’-lanterns to the Great Pumpkin Bash with Councilwoman Katy Yaroslavsky’s Office and help turn them into compost instead of sending them to landfills. This family-friendly event features a Pumpkin Smash Zone, costume parade, and fun giveaways like compost bins, rain barrels, and shade trees. Enjoy hands-on workshops, live music, and tasty bites from local favorites. Learn how to reduce waste while celebrating the season with your neighbors. Join us for a day of pumpkin-smashing fun and community spirit that supports a greener Los Angeles. Sign up here.
Saturday, November 1, 2025 | 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Pan Pacific Park
Council District Five Internship Opportunities
Our office is now accepting applications for college or graduate school-level interns to join our District Office team for the Spring and Summer semesters. Interns will gain hands-on experience in city government, working directly with staff on community engagement, constituent services, and policy research. This is a great opportunity for students interested in public service to contribute to meaningful work while learning how local government operates. Learn more about the role here. Applications due by October 20, 2025.
Temporary Street Closure of Fairfax Avenue from Wilshire Boulevard to 6th Street for Academy Museum Gala
On Saturday, October 18, Fairfax Avenue (from Wilshire Boulevard to 6th Street) will be closed to vehicular traffic northbound and southbound.
Closure Hours: 12:00 PM – 11:59 PM
Event Hours: 5:30 PM – 11:00 PM
The Academy Museum thanks you for your patience. If you would like to report any concerns regarding this closure, please contact (323) 930-3000 (press 0 to speak with a live representative) or email academymuseum@oscars.org.
Let’s Keep Pico-Robertson Clean and Beautiful l October 19th
Join us for the Second Annual Pico-Robertson Neighborhood Clean-Up on Sunday, October 19, from 1:00 to 4:30 PM, a community effort to keep our streets welcoming and safe. This year, we are proud to partner with JFEDLA, Chosen Links by Boaz Hepner, the Los Angeles Sanitation Department, the Los Angeles Office of Community Beautification, and LAPD to make this event possible. Volunteers will come together to clear trash, beautify our neighborhoods, and build stronger community connections. Register here to participate: Neighborhood Clean-Up Sign-Up.
Westwood Greenway Now Open
We’re excited to announce that the Westwood Greenway is now open! Beginning Thursday, September 25, the north side gates will be open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM. Visitors can walk the path, explore restored native habitat, and enjoy this new green space in the heart of CD5. Guided tours are available by request, and community volunteer days provide opportunities to help care for this special biodiversity site. We invite you to join us in celebrating the soft opening of this long-awaited project. Click here for all upcoming events.
Relaxed Parking for the Upcoming Jewish Holidays
The Department of Transportation, Parking Enforcement and Traffic Control Division will relax enforcement of street cleaning, time limit, and preferential parking restrictions as requested during the dates and times listed below.
PLEASE NOTE: Meters, tow-away zones, and other safety violations will be enforced.
Upcoming Holiday Parking Schedule
Sukkot:
Monday, October 6, 12:00 PM to Tuesday, October 14, 5:00 PM
Shemini Atzeret & Simchat Torah:
Monday, October 13, 12:00 PM to Thursday, October 16, 5:00 PM
COVID-19 VACCINES
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health remains firmly committed to ensuring that all Los Angeles County residents have ongoing access to safe, effective vaccines grounded in credible, transparent, and science-based evidence. Vaccines are safe, effective, and reduce the risk of serious illness, including hospitalization and death. Staying up to date on vaccines is especially important heading into the fall and winter seasons, as indicators of COVID-19 typically increase in Los Angeles County during the fall and winter months. To schedule a vaccine appointment, contact your healthcare provider, local pharmacy, or visit myturn.ca.gov. |
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If you have any need pertaining to the City of Los Angeles, please reach out:
City Hall Office
200 N. Spring Street, Suite 440
Los Angeles, CA 90012
(213) 473-7005
(323) 866-1828
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Councilwoman Katy Yaroslavsky 200 N. Spring St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 Unsubscribe |
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