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Libraries are some of the most important public spaces in our city—places where kids do their homework, seniors find community, and people of all backgrounds can access free resources and a quiet place to learn. They’re meant to be safe, welcoming spaces for everyone. But for months, the Westwood Library has faced serious safety challenges that put that mission at risk.
Staff and visitors have shared growing concerns about repeated incidents of harassment, vandalism, and disruptive behavior. My office has been in close contact with library leadership about these issues, pushing for security improvements to better protect patrons and staff. Then, earlier this week, another incident occurred—escalating the situation further and reinforcing that stronger action was needed.
After this latest incident, I spoke with and sent a formal letter to the City Librarian making it clear that the Westwood Library required additional security resources immediately to protect both staff and visitors. My team also attended last week’s Friends of the Westwood Library meeting to share our concerns and discuss the concrete steps the Library Department should take to improve safety.
I’m pleased to share that as of Friday, the Library Department added an extra security guard during all operating hours at Westwood Library and will install additional security cameras. LAPD will augment patrols around the library as well. These are critical first steps forward in ensuring that everyone who visits can do so safely, and I appreciate the Library Department’s and LAPD’s swift response in making this happen.
This is about more than one library. It’s about making sure that the spaces meant to serve our communities are actually safe and accessible to the people who rely upon them. My office will be taking further action in the coming weeks to make sure our public spaces—whether it’s our libraries, parks, or schools—remain safe, welcoming, and accessible to all.
All my best,
Katy |
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Midvale Interim Housing: Service Provider Announced & Construction Update
Earlier this week, the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) announced that Whittier First Day will serve as the service provider for the Midvale Interim Housing site, which nears completion and will open this Spring. Whittier First Day has a strong track record running interim housing programs, and we’re confident in their ability to support residents and ensure the facility operates smoothly.
Construction on the interim housing site is now about 97% complete, though recent fires have caused minor delays as DWP prioritizes recovery efforts. To ensure it benefits both future residents and the surrounding neighborhood, we’re implementing key measures, including a 1,000-foot no-camping zone, 24-hour on-site security, and increased LAPD patrols. We’re also forming a community advisory group to provide feedback and recommendations.
This project marks an important step forward in addressing homelessness in Council District 5, where we’ve historically had too few options to bring people indoors. CD5 is currently home to just 99 of the city’s 17,000 interim housing beds – less than 1% – making it difficult to resolve encampments and connect people to shelter. Despite these challenges, we’ve seen a 15% reduction in street homelessness in CD5—progress we can build on by ensuring more people have a safe, stable place to go. Midvale will help us accomplish that, creating real pathways off the streets and into permanent housing.
Meeting with One LA
This week, I joined One LA for a conversation about housing and how we can work together to increase the number of homes for people of all incomes in Los Angeles. One LA brings together religious and non-profit institutions to advocate for policies that create a more just society. Their engagement is invaluable, and I am so grateful for their commitment to making Los Angeles a more just and livable city.
L.A. Works PPE
During their MLK Day of Service, L.A. Works put together 100 PPE kits and dropped them off at our office to help distribute to the community. L.A. Works does incredible work year-round, connecting volunteers with hands-on projects that make a real impact. I’m grateful for their partnership and for everything they do to bring people together in service of our city. Those looking to volunteer for future events, sign up here. |
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Fire Recovery Protections for Renters
On Wednesday, the City Council considered a proposal to protect tenants impacted by the January fires from eviction and rent increases. I fully support making sure renters who lost their homes or jobs because of the fires aren’t at risk of displacement, and I appreciate the urgency behind this effort. At the same time, there are important details that Council must work through—like how economic hardship is defined, how the city would implement and enforce the policy, and how long protections would last. We need to make sure this approach is both effective and sustainable, and that we’re eliminating unintended consequences.
That’s why I urged my colleagues to send this proposal back to committee, where we can refine the details and ensure we’re providing real relief in a way that supports both tenants and a healthy housing market. There are also private relief funds and resources available that we must help to connect to Angelenos impacted by the fires. I believe we can craft a strong, targeted policy that protects renters in need while maintaining long-term stability in LA’s housing market. |
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February is Black History Month, and throughout the month, we’ll be highlighting Black leaders with deep ties to Council District 5 whose work has shaped our city, country, and the world.
This week, we’re recognizing Ralph J. Bunche, a UCLA graduate and trailblazing diplomat who was the first Black person to win the Nobel Peace Prize. As a top official at the United Nations, he played a key role in peacekeeping, decolonization, and civil rights, later marching alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Selma.
Bunche graduated as valedictorian from UCLA’s Class of 1927 before earning his master’s and doctorate at Harvard. In 2003, UCLA renamed its Center for African American Studies in his honor, recognizing his legacy in diplomacy, academia, and the fight for justice. |
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The Disaster Recovery Center is open to assist residents affected by the wildfires. Located at 10850 Pico Blvd at the UCLA Research Park, this center – a joint operation of the City and County of Los Angeles and FEMA – operates daily from 9 AM to 8 PM, providing resources and support for individuals and families impacted by the Palisades Fire.
For more information on available services, please visit the city's official recovery website at emergency.lacity.gov/recovery. This site offers comprehensive details on assistance programs, safety guidelines, and steps for rebuilding. If you or someone you know has been affected, don't hesitate to utilize these resources to aid in the recovery process.
LA STRONG – Support Wildfire Relief Efforts
In the wake of the devastating Palisades Fire, LA STRONG is a new resource for Angelenos looking to help with recovery efforts. Whether you’re interested in volunteering your time or making a financial donation, LA STRONG connects you with trusted organizations and opportunities to support families and businesses impacted by the fire.
Visit LA STRONG to learn how you can make a difference in rebuilding our community. |
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Grand Opening of Descanso Restaurant in Miracle Mile
Descanso is a contemporary taqueria that blends traditional Mexican recipes with modern influence. Created by Rob Arellano, the concept draws inspiration from his Mexican heritage, offering a unique and nostalgic dining experience. You'll witness skilled chefs prepare authentic Mexican dishes at your table in a lively setting, immersing you in the ambiance of a bustling Mexican town. Led by Chef Jose Angulo, Descanso serves Central West Mexican street-inspired cuisine, featuring fresh bold flavors and seasonal ingredients. Valentines Day Special - multi-course menu will be available a day early, from Thursday, February 13 to the 16th, providing many opportunities to indulge in a romantic dining experience. The CD5 Team was on hand for their grand opening last weekend. |
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Tu B'Shevat Festival | TODAY Sunday, February 2
Celebrate Tu B'Shevat, the Jewish festival focused on tree planting and ecology, with a fun-for-all-ages festival hosted by The J Los Angeles. Enjoy family-friendly activities, great food, and interactive experiences that honor this special holiday’s focus on nature and renewal. Learn more and RSVP here.
Kids Are 1st Free Car Seat Inspection | Saturday, February 15
Ensure your child’s safety on the road with a free car seat inspection hosted by the LAPD Pacific Division. Bring your car, car seat(s), and children for expert guidance on proper installation and usage. Space is limited—book your appointment here.
Broxton Plaza Grand Opening l Saturday, February 22
Celebrate the official Grand Opening of Broxton Plaza, L.A.'s largest pedestrian plaza, on Saturday, Feb. 22, from 12 PM to 5 PM in the heart of Westwood Village!
Broxton Plaza
1036 Broxton Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Free Tax Event & Resource Fair at the Iman Cultural Center
Tax season is upon us, and the deadline to file your tax returns is quickly approaching. On Sunday, February 23, 2025, the City of Los Angeles will offer FREE tax filing services in your neighborhood from 11 A.M to 3 P.M. The deadline to file your personal federal tax return, pay any tax owed, or request an extension to file is Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
Sunday, February 23, 2025, 11 A.M to 3 P.M.
Iman Cultural Center
3376 Motor Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90034
Latino Theater Company Summer Youth Conservatory 2025
High school students in Los Angeles can now apply for the Latino Theater Company’s Summer Youth Conservatory! No experience is required, and all accepted students receive a full scholarship covering lunch, snacks, class materials, and tuition. This is a fantastic opportunity to develop acting, writing, and stage production skills in a supportive environment.
LADOT TRANSIT POSTPONES RESUMPTION OF DASH FARES
If you need more information, please call the LADOT Customer Service Center at (213/310/323/818) 808-2273 or visit our website at ladottransit.com. Stay safe. |
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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
District Office
6380 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 800
Los Angeles, CA 90048
(323) 866-1828
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Councilwoman Katy Yaroslavsky 200 N. Spring St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 Unsubscribe |
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