LOS ANGELES : Proposal for More Council Control of CRA Advances

The Los Angeles City Council would increase its control of the Community Redevelopment Agency under a proposal tentatively approved Monday.

Two council panels recommended greater oversight as part of a plan to create a commission that will oversee both the CRA and a proposed agency to handle most of the city’s economic development functions.

Currently, the council has limited oversight over the CRA, which is responsible for revitalizing blighted neighborhoods, building low-income housing and funding services for the homeless.

“The council (would have) total oversight over the commission,” said Councilman Mike Hernandez. “They do not have the ability to make a firm decision where the council can’t overrule it.”

Pending council approval, the proposed Community Development Commission would replace the existing CRA board.

And the Economic Development Department would assume functions now shared by the CRA, the Community Development Department and the mayor’s office.

Two committees--Housing and Community Redevelopment and Community and Economic Development--must approve the ordinance before the council will vote on the consolidation.

The two panels have been working for two years on drafting a comprehensive policy to improve the city’s competitiveness in attracting and retaining employers and helping businesses expand.