Action Delayed on Reform Panel Funds

The Los Angeles City Council on Friday delayed action on a motion by Councilman Nate Holden that would require the city to provide balanced funding for both the elected and appointed charter reform commissions.

Despite efforts by Holden to commit the city to supporting the 15-member elected commission, the council voted instead to refer the motion to two council committees on rules and financing for further review.

Last week, over objections from some members, the elected commission agreed to accept public money to finance its efforts to help rewrite the city’s governing charter. The council then established a trust fund to enable the commission to accept public and private donations.

In contrast, a 21-member appointed panel, called the city of Los Angeles Charter Reform Commission, has been working since November under a $1.4-million budget allocated by the council.

The two panels were created separately, both to overhaul the 72-year-old charter that acts as the city’s constitution and outlines the balance of power in City Hall.

On Friday, Holden said the city should act quickly to provide the elected commission, which began meeting in July, with the resources it needs to do its job.

“It’s important to have the public know that the commission they elected will have the same opportunity to study the charter and make recommendations” as the appointed panel, Holden said.

“We should give them assurance that at least $1.6 million will be set aside for the next two years,” Holden said, citing the figure used by the elected commission to estimate its budget needs.

The elected panel, known officially as the Elected Los Angeles Charter Reform Commission, would be required to reimburse the city with money that it raises through private donations, Holden said.

Carmel Sella, assistant chief deputy for Councilman Mike Feuer, said the council has an obligation to look closely at such a sizable allocation.

“Referring this motion to the committees wasn’t an indication of the council’s position,” Sella said. “It’s just a matter of being fiscally responsible.”