Climate action is one of the many areas where national policy is likely to take a u-turn in the coming months, and so our work at the local level will take on increased significance. Our buildings are one significant source of greenhouse gas emissions that are often overlooked.  Emissions from buildings make up nearly 40% of Los Angeles’ total greenhouse gas emissions. From the energy used for lighting and appliances to heating and cooling systems, buildings play a significant role in driving climate change. What’s more, gas from appliances contributes to unhealthy indoor air quality and drives increases in childhood asthma and other illnesses. 

This week, the Energy and Environment Committee took an important step forward to address these challenges by advancing a plan to reduce emissions from the city’s largest buildings. We’ve asked the Department of Building and Safety to develop flexible new rules that help meet our climate goals while providing building owners and managers maximal flexibility in implementation and helping to identify funding opportunities to support property owners in making these changes. Over time, these efficiencies save building owners money through reduced electricity and gas bills.

This plan builds on the city’s Existing Buildings Energy and Water Efficiency program, which already tracks energy and water use in large buildings. The next phase will introduce clear performance-based targets to cut emissions and energy use over time, avoiding strict regulatory mandates and keeping equity at the forefront of the process. This includes providing time extensions, exemptions, and other flexible options for affordable housing, rent-stabilized buildings, and properties facing financial challenges.

Looking ahead, we’re drawing on lessons from cities like New York and Boston, where similar programs have reduced emissions, cut energy bills, and supported sustainability. By focusing on compliance flexibility, collaboration, and community needs, we can create a path for Los Angeles that prioritizes environmental progress and economic fairness. Together, we’re building a more sustainable Los Angeles—one that’s prepared to meet the challenges of a changing climate.

All my best,
Katy

Last week, I joined Mayor Bass and the Pink family to celebrate 85 years of Pink’s Hot Dogs—a true L.A. institution. Pink’s has been a part of so many Angelenos’ lives, and it was so much fun celebrating this milestone with the Mayor, the Pink family and the entire Pink's team. Here’s to many more years of hot dogs on La Brea and Melrose!

Yesterday, I joined Labor Community Services in partnership with the LA County Federation of Labor for their food distribution event in Palms, where we served hundreds of local families. For over 60 years, LCS has been a vital resource for union families, providing groceries, disaster relief, and financial literacy support. Too many families working full-time still face impossible choices between paying rent, buying food, or affording healthcare. I’m grateful to stand alongside them in supporting our city’s working families and offering help where it’s needed most.

This week, I participated in the quarterly Inyo County/Los Angeles Standing Committee meeting up in Independence, CA as the City of Los Angeles’ voting member to discuss how we can better work together with Owens Valley leadership to manage water and the land responsibly. The Chair of the City’s Energy and Environment (E&E) Committee traditionally also serves on this committee, and so as Chair of E&E, I also sit on this body. About half of L.A.’s water comes from the Owens Valley and Mono Basin, over 150 miles north of Los Angeles, so this partnership is crucial for balancing L.A.’s needs with caring for the communities and environment in the Inyo and Mono region. As the largest landowner in the Owens Valley, the City of LA’s active participation is critical.

Join AARP Los Angeles and Streets for All for the Westwood Mobility Popup event on Sunday, November 17, from 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM. This community event invites residents to share thoughts on mobility improvements in Westwood Village. Enjoy refreshments, free discounted AARP Pointz memberships, and participate in a community walk and bike ride! E-bikes will be provided by Wombi. 

Location: 10920 Lindbrook Dr., Room 204 ABCD, Los Angeles, CA 90024

RSVP: bit.ly/sfa-aarp

The Los Angeles Police Department's West Los Angeles Division is offering a unique opportunity for community members to participate in the Community Police Academy. This eleven-week program provides an inside look into police concepts and operations, helping participants build a lasting partnership with the LAPD and gain a better understanding of the department’s role in the community.

Time: Wednesdays at 6 PM
Location: West Los Angeles Roll Call Room, 1663 Butler Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90025

For more information or to apply, contact your Community Relations Office:
Operations-West Bureau: (310) 473-0277
Wilshire Area: (213) 473-0200
Pacific Area: (310) 482-6397
Hollywood Area: (323) 871-4068
Olympic Area: (213) 382-9130
West Los Angeles Area: (310) 444-0732

The Pet Food Pantry provides cat and dog food to low-income residents of Los Angeles whose pets are spayed/neutered and licensed. Once your enrollment is approved, you will receive instructions on how you will be able to pick up your pet food each Sunday. To learn more, click here.

On November 1, Metro launched the first phase of its bus lane enforcement pilot program, a partnership between Metro and the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) to improve bus service by detecting parking violations on bus lanes and at bus stops. To learn more, click here.