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Join members of the East Los Angeles Residents Association and other East L.A. community leaders for a press conference and training on the upcoming US Census. This event will highlight the importance of our community's participation in the Census count, making sure that East L.A. receives all of the federal resources it deserves.
The press conference, followed by a training with MALDEF, will be on Saturday, December 12 from 10:00a to 12 :30p at the East Los Angeles Library in the Civic Center.
read more
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/2009-12-09_support_complete_census_count_east_la
Thank you to everyone who joined us last week at the Community Dinner! The event raised over $15,000, taking us closer to our goal of $134,000 to pay for our community's Comprehensive Fiscal Analysis. With a packed auditorium of more than 250 supporters, it's clear that East LA supports this study, and we have the momentum to reach our goal!
If you didn't make it out, we still need your support - make a donation at www.CityhoodForEastLA.org/donate.
See more pictures from the event at our Flickr page.
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
Thanks to Tamales Liliana's for sponsoring all of the dinner for our guests, and Upground for providing the lively entertainment! We extend a big thank you to our additional event sponsors: Senator Gloria Romero, Assemblyman Tony Mendoza, and Pan American Bank. Special guests of the evening included actor Enrique Castillo, Bel Hernandez of Latin Heat Magazine, and muralist Carlos Callejo. To see more contributors and event production thank yous, download our Community Dinner Program Book (PDF).
read more
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/2009-11-08_over_250_cityhood_supporters_come_together_community_dinner
You're invited to join the East Los Angeles Residents Association (ELARA) at a Community Dinner on Thursday, November 5th at the East Los Angeles Community Center.
Thanks to your continued support over the past months, we're nearly half-way towards our goal of $134,000 for East LA's Comprehensive Fiscal Analysis (CFA)!
This Community Dinner will be a time to celebrate the great steps we've taken so far, and continue to fundraise towards the amount needed for a CFA.
Visit our event page to purchase tickets, become a sponsor, or place a program ad:
http://www.CityhoodForEastLA.org/community_dinner
The community of East LA needs your support. Please become a sponsor and attend this important dinner. View the full invitation letter, sponsorship, program, and ticket package (PDF) and visit the Community Dinner event page to let us know you're coming.
Look forward to seeing you there!
The Board and Volunteers of the East Los Angeles Residents Association
read more
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/2009-10-05_youre_invited_community_dinner_november_5th
Dan Ortiz, Cityhood VolunteerAmerican Legion Post 804
By Dan Ortiz, Cityhood for East LA Volunteer
I've been volunteering to help bring Cityhood to East L.A. Will you make a $20 contribution to bring us closer to our goal?
I want to tell you a little bit about why I'm supporting Cityhood. My family has deep roots in East Los Angeles, and we've always been active in our community. My grandparents, Frank and Julieta Ortiz, came from Texas in the 1930s, and since their arrival they had their children, and those children have now gone on to have their own. My parents taught me to be active by example - for as long as I can recall they organized local Scouting activities, volunteered our home as a voting precinct, and much more. My mother worked as a teacher at Winter Gardens Elementary School and retired with 30+ years of service to education. I grew up proud to be from East LA, and my parents taught me to honor our community. Eventually I enlisted in the military but I came right back home. Since then I’ve been active with veterans organizations and now I'm helping to ensure we gain our Cityhood!
read more
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/2009-08-27_why_i_support_cityhood
By Ben Cárdenas, ELARA President
For three years, the residents of East L.A. have worked tirelessly to form a new city for a brighter future -- the City of East Los Angeles.
Every day we get closer to meeting our challenge of raising the $134,000 needed to fund the Comprehensive Fiscal Analysis for our community. Will you do your part and contribute today?
We’ve come such a long way! In 2007 we released an Initial Fiscal Analysis (IFA), which projected that East Los Angeles can be a viable and vibrant city. In June of 2008 we kicked off a petition gathering campaign amongst East L.A. residents to request a Comprehensive Fiscal Analysis, the first step towards Cityhood. And in December we turned in over 16,000 signatures! To accomplish all of this, the East Los Angeles Residents Association (ELARA) raised over $100,000 over the past three years.
read more
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/2009-08-20_weve_come_long_way_will_you_do_your_part
The Next Step - Cityhood for East L.A.
read more
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/2009-08-19_video_next_step_cityhood_east_la
Please remember to join us this Saturday morning! It's been nearly 6 months since we completed the petitioning phase of the Cityhood process, and we're inviting everyone to join us for a full Cityhood process update meeting, look towards the next steps, and discuss how to get more involved.
Here are the meeting details:
WHAT: Cityhood Community Update
WHEN: Saturday, July 11, 9am-11am
WHERE: Chicana Service Action Center
3601 E 1st St, East Los Angeles, CA 90063
Hope to see you there!
read more
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/2009-07-06_join_us_saturday_important_update_cityhood
Presentations Open to Family and Community Members
Monday June 22, 2009. 8:30 – 10:30am at Stern MASS on the Cal State LA Campus (5151 State University Dr., Lot 2)
Join us to watch the twenty-two 9th grade students at the Marc and Eva Stern Math and Science School present their Annual Thesis Projects on how a healthy environment in their neighborhood requires community participation in local government. See the flyer (PDF).
Students will be presenting their projects on Cityhood for East L.A. in eight different taskforces, each focused on an aspect of city government or municipal service currently provided by Los Angeles County that will be run by the city if the current incorporation effort is successful.
read more
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/high_school_student_presentations_local_government_east_la
Read our full invitation letter here (PDF) and see our flyer (PDF). Funds raised from this tour will help East L.A. become a city.
Join us for a mural bus tour of East Los Angeles on Saturday, May 30. The murals of East LA represent a cultural legacy of struggle, resistance and creativity painted on the walls for the world to see. Motivated by the Chicana/o movement of the late 60’s and early 70’s, these artworks gave voice to a community that, when not ignored, was disempowered by mainstream media outlets, the educational system, and representative government. Artists provided large-scale mirrors that revealed a history dating back thousands of years, questioned balances of power, motivated political struggle and at the end of the day, established East Los Angeles as a cultural center. While these artworks are embraced the world over we are absent in our stewardship of this legacy. This tour is a step toward a more serious conversation about preservation of this history and enables young people to move it forward.
Special guests to include Muralists Wil Herron and Carlos Callejo
read more
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/2009-05-13_east_la_mural_tour_may_30
This Cinco de Mayo, enjoy a night of laughs while supporting the Cityhood effort. The Comedy Cantina is sure to sell to capacity, so reserve your tickets at http://www.wantickets.com/comedycantina. Tickets will be $15.00 Pre-Sale / $25.00 @ The Door. You can also pick up tickets at Cali-Mex Insurance Services
4519. Cesar Chavez Ave (Nearest cross street is Ford Blvd), (323) 268-0123.
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/2009-04-29_cinco-de-mayo-09-comedy-night-fundraiser
Thank you to everyone who came and supported the Cityhood for East L.A. effort on April 11th. Turnout was great, and so was the menudo! Nearly 300 people came through the Eugene Obregon American Legion Hall to support Cityhood.
Below are some pictures from last Saturday, with more on our Flickr page:
read more
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/2009-04-19_menudo_breakfast_fundraiser_success
Download the flyer (PDF).
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/2009-04-15_celebrate_earth_day_east_la_electronics_recycling_event
There's been so much to report on in the last month: the East Los Angeles Residents Association finalized their petition drive for a Comprehensive Fiscal Analysis of East LA, and proudly turned in 16,500 signatures to the Local Area Formation Commission. And the media has taken notice! Here are three recent articles on Cityhood:
At the intersection of sacred, civics in East L.A.
LA Times, December 15, 2008
East L.A., Latino heartland, revives its dream of cityhood
Christian Science Monitor, December 8, 2008
Firmas para independencia
La Opinión, December 8, 2008
Be sure to check out the News section for more press on the Cityhood effort.
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/december_news_roundup-2008-12-16
This morning the East Los Angeles Residents Association turned in thousands of petitions to begin the Comprehensive Fiscal Analysis of our community. With the support of over 16,500 residents our community is ready to move forward and take a big step towards Cityhood!
Read our letter to the Los Angeles County Local Area Formation Commission.
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/East_LA_Stands_and_Delivers_12-12-08
By Alberto Palacios
We have lots of good news to share with you! First and foremost, we are about to reach 6,000 signatures on our petition to conduct a Comprehensive Fiscal Analysis, the first step towards Cityhood. This week, Governor Schwarzenegger signed Senate Bill 301 (Romero), which will continue to provide increased state funding for newly incorporated cities. And most recently, the community has received lots of press coverage, with today’s Newsweek article profiling the Cityhood effort, and coverage in the LA Times and La Opinión.
We are contacting you today because we need your help. As a supporter, we’ve asked you to collect signatures, attend meetings, and talk to your friends about Cityhood. But we're going to do something we haven’t done before. To ensure our continued progress, we're asking you to make a contribution today.
Your donation will support our community organizing effort to promote Cityhood for East Los Angeles. Donations made through our website are fast and secure; your personal information will be kept confidential. Your contribution, of any amount, will be critical to the success of our campaign.
I’ve been a part of the East L.A. community for over 30 years, as a resident and as a social studies teacher at Garfield High School. I’ve raised a family here and want the best for them, like all other residents do. By making a contribution, I believe you can help build a stronger community for our families.
Alberto Palacios is a Board Member for the East Los Angeles Residents Association (ELARA).
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/we_need_your_help-make_a_contribution_today_09-30-08
The Cityhood effort is receiving national media attention! Newsweek and the Associated Press released this article about Cityhood:
http://www.newsweek.com/id/161658
East L.A seeks to become a city of its own
East L.A., the unofficial capital of Chicano culture, seeks to become a city of its own
By CHRISTINA HOAG Associated Press Writer | AP
Sep 30, 2008
East L.A. — birthplace of the lowrider, Los Lobos and Oscar de la Hoya — is to Mexican-Americans what Harlem is to the black community. Now it wants to become its own city. Commonly mistaken for a part of Los Angeles, East L.A. is actually an unincorporated section of Los Angeles County, with more than 130,000 people — 96 percent of them Latino — packed into 7.4 square miles.
Cityhood proponents complain that East L.A. is treated as an afterthought by the county Board of Supervisors, and they want the community to take charge of its own destiny.
"We're a nationally branded area," said Diana Tarango, vice president of the East Los Angeles Residents Association, the prime backer of the effort. "We should be making our own decisions about planting trees on the street or putting up light poles."
While outsiders often see the area as gang-plagued and poverty-ridden, East L.A. possesses cultural and political symbolism for Mexican-Americans.
Fernando Guerra, director of the Center for the Study of Los Angeles at Loyola Marymount University, pronounced East L.A. "the epicenter of Latino culture."
For decades, East L.A. has been a first stop for immigrants just over the border, though these days there are nearly as many Salvadoran pupuserias selling filled tortilla patties as Mexican taquerias selling tacos.
Neighborhoods seem plucked straight from Latin American villages: a backyard rooster can be heard crowing, or a man peddles the rice-based drink horchata from a shopping cart. Brilliantly colored murals of the Virgin of Guadalupe and Aztec chieftains decorate walls of housing projects and corner grocery stores.
In the 1960s and '70s, the community was the focus of the burgeoning Chicano civil-rights movement.
In 1970, police and thousands of Chicano anti-Vietnam war protesters battled in the street, and Los Angeles Times columnist Ruben Salazar was killed in the melee. A park in East L.A. is named for him. A boulevard nearby carries the name of Cesar Chavez, the migrant farmworker leader.
East L.A. is a fusion of cultures north and south of the border. Spanish is the predominant language, but it is a hybrid version, Spanglish, punctuated with Hispanicized English words: "breka" for break, "marqueta" for market, "cora" for quarter.
While nortena music booms from downtown stores, East L.A. has also produced artists such as Los Lobos, who have combined Mexican oompah sounds with American rock rhythms. Lowriders, often with customized Chicano-theme paint jobs, cruise the streets.
Among the community's famous sons are boxer De La Hoya and actor Edward James Olmos. Olmos came full circle when he starred in the 1988 movie "Stand and Deliver" as the real-life East L.A. teacher Jaime Escalante, who turned barrio kids into calculus champs.
Proponents of cityhood hope to draw on that cultural pride. The bid marks East L.A.'s fourth attempt at incorporation since 1961; the last one was in 1974. Tarango and others say the movement failed because of political infighting.
Rep. Grace Napolitano, D-Calif., who supports cityhood, said she is encouraged this time because residents are well-organized and informed.
"It has a great chance of passing," said the congresswoman, whose district includes East L.A. "But they will need to allay fears that incorporation will mean an increase in property taxes."
Voters probably won't get their say on cityhood for two years while the issue wends its way through the bureaucratic and political process.
The residents association must first submit a petition by December asking a county commission to conduct a study on whether a city of East L.A. would have an adequate tax base. So far, organizers have collected about half the 10,000 signatures needed, said Oscar Gonzales Jr., association president.
Gonzales said he expects the study will be favorable — a similar report ordered up by the residents association found the city would generate $51 million in revenue, well above an expected budget of $45 million.
If the bid for cityhood passes muster with the study commission and the county supervisors, the question will be put to the voters of East L.A. The supervisors are not taking a position until they see the study.
Some East L.A. residents fear cityhood will cost them more. They worry, for example, that mom-and-pop stores that now manage to operate without business licenses might be forced to obtain them.
"I think it's good as it is," said Jacob Salazar, owner of a sporting good store. "I don't see any reason to change it."
But supporters say a city council would be more responsive than the county supervisors.
Auto dealer Louis Herrera said local officials would be more motivated to attract businesses like the Starbucks that opened last year. That would boost the downtown shopping district, which is dotted with 99-cent stores, dusty windowfronts filled with gowns for first communions and "quinceaneras," or Latin sweet-16 parties, and signs advertising Western Union money transfers to Mexico.
"The county is huge. Each supervisor has 2.1 million people," said Herrera, who also heads the East Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce. "We're sort of like a lost child."
— — —
On the Net: http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/newsweek_10-01-08
We are pleased to announce that we now have the ability to accept donations via credit card online.
There are many ways you can help build the future City of East Los Angeles. One way is by making a donation today that will help us reach our goal of collecting signatures from 25% of the registered voters in East L.A.
This phase of gathering petition signatures is not only the first required step towards Cityhood -- it's a process of community building that's allowing us to start conversations in our neighborhoods, recognize specific issues around our neighborhood blocks, and starting to form local solutions to local problems. The residents of East L.A. are ready to move their community forward.
Donations are made to ELARA PAC, FPPC# 1305345. ELARA PAC is a committee formed to support the Cityhood for East Los Angeles campaign. There are no contribution limits, and contributions are not tax deductible.
You can also make a donation by mail. Please make checks out to ELARA PAC, and mail to:
Cityhood for East LA
PO Box 227395
East Los Angeles, CA 90022
Questions about making a donation? Please contact us at donate@cityhoodforeastla.org, or (323) 230-8562.
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/donate
Last month, we asked you to sign onto a letter (PDF) telling Governor Schwarzenegger he should sign SB 301, which would leave the door open for future cities, like East LA, who simply want a local government (Read more by EGP news).
Your letters and calls made a difference -- Governor Schwarzenegger signed SB 301!
See ELARA's press release below:
Governor Signs SB 301, Ensuring Funding for Future Cities
Community Leaders Favoring Cityhood for East Los Angeles Organize Support for Bill
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 28, 2008
CONTACT: Gustavo Camacho, 562-244-8973, Gustavo.Camacho@CityhoodForEastLA.org
(SACRAMENTO, CA) -- California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed Senate Bill 301, by Senate Majority Leader Romero (D - East Los Angeles), which will continue to provide increased state funding for newly incorporated cities. With this bill, a new city formed after July 2009 will continue to receive the same share of Vehicle License Fees in its early years that recently incorporated cities have received.
The measure had the backing of residents supporting Cityhood for East Los Angeles and dozens of other communities throughout California. "This bill goes a long way in ensuring the financial health of the future City of East L.A. Our community and political leaders provided admirable leadership in pushing for this bill, which will help soon-to-be cities across the state. Special thanks to Senate Majority Leader Gloria Romero for sponsoring this legislation." said Gustavo Camacho, Treasurer of the East Los Angeles Residents Association (ELARA). "This is a tremendous boost for our effort."
Diana Tarango, Vice-President of ELARA, and lifelong resident who organized for cityhood in 1974, adds: "East L.A. community leaders are behind our movement, and we're doing real grassroots organizing to achieve real self-governance."
Cityhood supporters in East Los Angeles are continuing to gather signatures to order a Comprehensive Fiscal Analysis for East L.A., the next step in the cityhood process. ELARA has outreached to other communities considering incorporation regarding SB 301 and other issues affecting future cities. East L.A. and these allied communities wrote letters to Sacramento, faxed petitions of support, and called the Governor's office to express their support for this legislation.
The East Los Angeles Residents Association (ELARA) is committed to improving the social, economic, educational, and structural resources of the East Los Angeles community. Through advocacy and civic engagement ELARA is working to incorporate their community and become the City of East Los Angeles.
###
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/Governor_Signs_SB_301_Ensuring_Funding_for_Future_Cities_08-28-2008
By Alberto Palacios
I wanted to give you all an update on our petition signature gathering effort. Volunteers have been going door-to-door, precinct-by-precinct, collecting signatures from registered voters to order a Comprehensive Fiscal Analysis of East L.A. - the first step towards Cityhood.
At last count we've collected over 5,000 signatures, more than half of the way there! We're on track to gather our goal of 10,000, but we'll only be able to keep up if we continue at this pace. That's why we need your help gathering signatures from your family, friends, and neighbors.
Want to volunteer? Want to join the effort to move East L.A. forward? Sign up to volunteer here, and one of our volunteer coordinators will be in touch with you within 48 hours.
I've been a part of the East L.A. community for over 30 years, as a resident and as a teacher at Garfield High School. I know that if we come together we can make our community the best place to learn and live. Be a part of this historic movement!
Alberto Palacios is a Board Member for the East Los Angeles Residents Association (ELARA).
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/Were_Making_Progress_5000_Signatures
Updated: Download MP3
Get the Google Audio Widget widget and many other great free widgets at Widgetbox!
Tonight ELARA Board Members Benjamin Cardenas and Oscar Gonzales will be doing a radio interview about the Cityhood for East L.A. campaign on KPFK 90.7 at 8pm. Make sure to catch the show, or download the interview later.
The Strategy Session with Antonio Gonzalez
KPFK Radio 90.7FM, 8PM
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/cityhood_on_kpfk
Updated: Use the following links to listen to or download the interview in MP3.
Play Inteview | Download MP3
Tonight ELARA Board Members Benjamin Cardenas and Oscar Gonzales will be doing a radio interview about the Cityhood for East L.A. campaign on KPFK 90.7 at 8pm. Make sure to catch the show, or download the interview later.
The Strategy Session with Antonio Gonzalez
KPFK Radio 90.7FM, 8PM
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/node/57
Here's an excerpt from an article that appeared in the Northeast Los Angeles Democratic Club newsletter, by ELARA President, Oscar Gonzales, recapping the Cityhood effort so far:
The talk of the presidential campaign is how to best restore hope in our federal government. For a group of East L.A. residents this fall, the talk is also about how to build a city…from the ground up.
California was built by thriving communities and residents who understood the importance of hard work and sacrifice. East L.A. has contributed more than its fair share toward strengthening our region. Today, we have a major influence on California's cultural, social, economic and political scene. We believe East L.A. can provide leadership on some of the pressing challenges facing our region.
The Process
On July 4, 2008, ELARA announced its signature gathering drive. The goal of the drive is to collect signatures from 25% of the registered voters in East L.A. by the second week of December. These signatures will allow the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) to conduct a Comprehensive Fiscal Analysis (CFA) that would in part determine exactly much East L.A. pays in taxes and how much we receive in services. After the study is completed, the question of Cityhood could be placed before the voters of East L.A.
Prior to our signature gathering effort, ELARA took the preliminary step of commissioning an Initial Fiscal Analysis (IFA) of East Los Angeles, which is a recommendation set forth by the Governor's Office of Planning and Research. This report can be found on our campaign website, www.CityhoodForEastLA.org. The results show that a future City of East Los Angeles would be economically viable, giving us the boost we need to move forward with the process.
The Cityhood process embraces the spirit of one of the most basic principles of democracy -- that the people should decide what is best for them. Our democracy functions best when the electorate is well-informed of the issues that affect them. Once the more than 9,000 signatures have been collected, East L.A. residents will finally have access to basic information about their community that residents of any surrounding area can simply ask of their respective City Halls.
Local Inspiration
There are many East LA residents who have devoted themselves to the incorporation effort, and I wish I could name them all, but two in particular have collective experiences indicative of the dedication from our community, and diversity of volunteers. Their experiences tell the stories of East L.A. community commitment, and pride.
A Community Activist
Diana Tarango was born in East Los Angeles in 1935 and has never moved. One night, while splitting up a list of voters to collect signatures from, Diana told me a story about how she had recently been asked by someone if she still lives in East Los Angeles. Asking this question of a well-accomplished East L.A. community activist was clearly meant to imply that she should have moved to a different neighborhood by now. Proud of her decision to always remain in East L.A., and her steadfast commitment to her community, she confidently responded, "Yes, I still live in East Los Angeles, and my motto is: 'Don't move – Improve!'"
Diana's history of activism in East L.A. runs long and deep. In 1980 she found herself very displeased with the conditions at Safeway supermarket in her community. She led United Neighborhood Organization (UNO), a community organization in East L.A. at the time, to address this disparity. More recently, she was a member of the Committee to Save Belvedere Park and organized residents to help create the Evergreen Jogging Path. She is also a member of the Community Advisory Committee for the Sheriff's Department (CAC) and is the Chairpseron for both the Review Advisory Committee (RAC) Gold Line into East Los Angeles, and the Building and Safety Commission for the County of Los Angeles.
Diana remembers organizing and campaigning for Cityhood in 1974, and barely missing it – and that's how she knows that this time is different. In her own words, "East LA community leaders are behind our movement, and we're doing real grassroots organizing to achieve real self-governance."
A Student
Come rain or shine, Miguel Haro, Jr. can be found knocking on his neighbors' doors and collecting signatures whenever he can. Miguel has been a resident of East L.A. his whole life. He's a student at East Los Angeles College, works with Southern California Edison, and is an enthusiastic Obama supporter and volunteer. On top of all that, he's dedicated many hours to the Cityhood movement.
As a favorite memory, he recounts playing football for Garfield High School during "The East Los Angeles Classic" homecoming game against Roosevelt High School, which turns out hundreds upon hundreds of loyal supporters each year. The rivalry goes on from generation to generation, and is the kind of community and pride building tradition that East LA is known for.
If you ask Miguel why he's involved with Cityhood, he'll explain: "The reason I have chosen to volunteer for this effort is because I am very proud to be from East Los Angeles. This is my community and it deserves to be treated better than it has for many years now. It is time for a change. For many years representatives have made decisions of what is best for the county rather than what is best for East Los Angeles. This is why I seek representation at a local level… I want to volunteer my time to give back to a great community who has given me a lot."
It's Simple
The great State of California was built on the ability of its residents to create a governance structure that would give them a voice. Imagine if a century ago the door was closed on residents who wanted a local government that could meet their needs. After so long, the residents of East L.A. are ready for self-governance, ready to chart a path for their community's future. When it comes down to it, the principle is simple -- let East Los Angeles decide.
What Can You Do?
Get involved! You can help by making sure your family members and friends who live in unincorporated East Los Angeles know about the effort and have signed the petition to order a Comprehensive Fiscal Analysis (CFA). Also check out the volunteer opportunities on our website: www.CityhoodForEastLA.org.
Sign onto an important letter: Senate Bill 301 (Romero) was approved by the legislature and is headed to the governor's desk – this bill affects communities all across California wishing to officially incorporate after 2009 by ensuring that portion of Vehicle Licensing Fees are given to newly established cities. ELARA is sending a letter to Governor Schwarzenegger, urging him to sign this bill. Each additional signature on this letter will send the message to Governor Schwarzenegger asking that he needs to leave the door open for future cities and a community that simply wants a local government. Adding your name to this letter as a supporter of SB 301 will strengthen the future City of East Los Angeles' financial viability. Visit our website to add your name to the letter.
Oscar Gonzales
President, ELARA
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/nedc_newsletter_article_08_10_08
As a lifelong East LA resident, I'm dedicated to improving our community, and I want to thank everyone who has supported Cityhood so far. I remember campaigning for Cityhood in 1974, and barely missing it -- that's why I know that this time is different. East LA community leaders are behind our movement, and we're doing real grassroots organizing to achieve real self-governance.
Today there is a bill that has just passed the California State Legislature which will strengthen the future City of East Los Angeles' financial viability. Senate Bill 301, which has passed through both the Assembly and the Senate, would continue to provide a portion of Vehicle License Fees to newly established cities. The East Los Angeles Residents Association is writing a letter to the Governor asking him to sign this bill into law. We're asking supporters of Cityhood to add their name to the letter. You can add your name by clicking here.
As I left the State Capitol earlier this year after being recognized as Woman of Year from the 24th Senate District, I was mindful that SB 301 would benefit East Los Angeles and other unincorporated communities across California. Each additional signature on this letter will send the message to Governor Schwarzenegger asking that he needs to leave the door open for future cities and a community that simply wants a local government.
Please sign onto the East Los Angeles Residents Association's letter to the Governor asking him to sign this bill.
Diana Tarango is a Vice-President of the East Los Angeles Residents Association (ELARA)
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/sign_our_letter_for_sb_301
Yesterday the LA Times published this article highlighting a report on the economic state of communities like East L.A. This report confirms what we've been saying all along - the financial viability of communities like East Los Angeles has been underestimated. For this reason, we need a Comprehensive Fiscal Analysis (CFA) to get an accurate accounting of our community's finances.
Here's a clip from the article:
The report by Social Compact, a Washington-based nonprofit organization, says that annual income in Watts, Boyle Heights and seven other neighborhoods in South and East Los Angeles is about $1.9 billion more than the U.S. census has estimated and that 82,000 more people live there than the census has counted.
What do you think of the article?
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/economic_state_of_east_la_undestimated-07-24-08
This is the first installment of "Spotlight on Supporters," a series showcasing the talented and dedicated Cityhood supporters who make up East LA.
Miguel Haro Jr. was born and raised in East LA. He's a student at East Los Angeles College, works with Southern California Edison, and is an enthusiastic Obama supporter and volunteer. On top of all that, he's dedicated many hours to the Cityhood movement. Check out below how and why Miguel is involved.
Q. Can you tell us a little bit about what East Los Angeles means to you?
A. I have been a resident of East Los Angeles my whole life. I grew up enjoying many of the great traditions and culture our community has to offer. From dancing in the Cinco de Mayo celebrations as a kid, enjoying the yearly parades, or just simply having a Carne Asada with friends and family every time Oscar De La Hoya fights. One of my most favorite memories was having the honor to play football for Garfield High School during "The East Los Angeles Classic" homecoming game against Roosevelt High School. This rivalry goes on from generation to generation but what is most important is how much pride everyone has for their community and how we come together during that week.
Q. How did you hear about Cityhood and what attracted you to it?
A. The first time I heard about the Cityhood effort was in the news when the City of Los Angeles announced a plan to try to make East Los Angeles one of their districts. I was furious by the news because becoming part of Los Angeles would have been a huge setback. After that segment they also announced that a group of residents have banned together to try to make East Los Angeles a city. One of my friends knew a volunteer and gave them my information. They contacted me and I asked them, "Where Do I sign up?". Ever since I have been in contact with the volunteers and check the website for updates regularly.
Q. Why do you support Cityhood and why have chosen to volunteer for the effort?
A. The reason I have chosen to volunteer for this effort is because I am very proud to be from East Los Angeles. This is my community and it deserves to be treated better than it has for many years now. It is time for a change. For many years representatives have made decisions of what is best for the county rather than what is best for East Los Angeles. This is why I seek representation at a local level. With a local government we will not be neglected anymore because if we are, we will have the power to put in new leadership in the form of electing a new Mayor and City Council. This process is not only what is best for us, but what is best for the future residents of this great area. I want to volunteer my time to give back to a great community who has given me a lot.
Q. What volunteer event did you enjoy the most?
A. From all the many great events I really enjoyed the petition launching press conference the most. On the 4th of July we the residents declared our own independence from the county and took the next big step towards becoming a city. There was a huge amount of anticipation for this day, the day we finally got the petition in our hands. We gathered the first of many signatures under the East Los Angeles Arch. History was being made and I was just happy to be part of it. Then came my favorite moment were under the "Signature of Resident" box in the petition, I proudly signed, Miguel Haro Jr.
Q. What would you tell somebody who is on the fence or disagrees with the of Cityhood?
A. If someone is unsure or disagrees with the of Cityhood their different points of views are welcomed and encouraged. That is the whole purpose of this effort, for the residents of East Los Angeles to decide what is best for us. To become a city or not is the first decision we will make together. Having the power to decide will give all the residents a taste of political freedom, a taste that we will want more of. Once we become a city I encourage people who are skeptical about the process to show up to the City Council meetings to ask questions and voice their opinions. With everyone's concerns we can all work towards our common goal which is to make the future City of East Los Angeles a better place.
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/spotlight_on_supporters_miguel_haro
One year after we announced the beginning of the campaign to incorporate East LA as a city, the time is finally here for the next big step: this Independence Day, we are launching the petitions to order a Comprehensive Fiscal Analysis of East Los Angeles, the next step towards Cityhood. By signing the petition, residents are saying they want to know where and how East LA's tax dollars are being spent. If 25% of registered East LA voters sign, we'll see the first comprehensive look at East LA's finances in over 30 years!
After turning in our signatures, LAFCO, the government agency that oversees incorporation efforts, will commission a Comprehensive Fiscal Analysis (CFA). If it shows that East LA can sustain itself as a city, the question will be placed on the ballot for registered voters in East LA to decide. Remember that things are already looking good for East LA - the Initial Fiscal Analysis (IFA) completed in October 2007 showed that the City of East LA would be economically viable.
To kick our signature gathering drive off right, we are having a press conference to announce this exciting new phase. Can you join us on July 4th for the official launch of our signature gathering drive? Please RSVP below.
What
Press conference announcing the official launch of the signature drive
When
11:30am, July 4th
Where
Whittier Blvd & S Arizona Ave, East Los Angeles, CA 90022 (map)
We hope you can join us as we embark on this exciting next step towards Cityhood!
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/?q=were_launching_the_petitions
Photo by Joe L. Sandoval.
One year after we announced the beginning of the campaign to incorporate East LA as a city, the time is finally here for the next big step: this Independence Day, we are launching the petitions to order a Comprehensive Fiscal Analysis of East Los Angeles, the next step towards Cityhood.
By signing the petition, residents are saying they want to know where and how East LA's tax dollars are being spent. If 25% of registered East LA voters sign, we'll see the first comprehensive look at East LA's finances in over 30 years!
After turning in our signatures, LAFCO, the government agency that oversees incorporation efforts, will commission a Comprehensive Fiscal Analysis (CFA). If it shows that East LA can sustain itself as a city, the question will be placed on the ballot for registered voters in East LA to decide. Remember that things are already looking good for East LA - the Initial Fiscal Analysis (IFA) completed in October 2007 showed that the City of East LA would be economically viable.
To kick our signature gathering drive off right, we are having a press conference to announce this exciting new phase. Can you join us on July 4th for the official launch of our signature gathering drive? Please RSVP below.
What
Press conference announcing the official launch of the signature drive
When
11:30am, July 4th
Where
Whittier Blvd & S Arizona Ave, East Los Angeles, CA 90022 (map)
We hope you can join us as we embark on this exciting next step towards Cityhood!
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/were_circulating_the_petitions-2008_06_26
There are many steps to becoming a city, and this timeline page describes the steps and shows how ELARA is moving forward with the process. Check out the interactive version of the timeline, and the same timeline information in list form below it. Descriptions of each step are adopted from the East LA IFA.
Interactive Timeline
Timeline List
Signature gathering drive
Jun 2008 to Nov 2008
ELARA collects signatures from 25 percent or more of East LA registered voters. There are up to 180 days to complete this process.
Signature verification
Dec 2008
Within 30 days of receiving the petition, the LAFCO executive officer will have it examined by the county elections official who determines the number of qualified signers.
Submit application
Jan 2009
ELARA submit the petitions, proposal, map and legal description to LAFCO.
Comprehensive Fiscal Analysis conducted
Jan 2009 to Sep 2009
A Comprehensive Fiscal Analysis (CFA) is prepared. LAFCO issues a request for proposals from consultants. Preparing a CFA requires data collection, substantial analysis and report preparation.
Negotiations, review, report
Oct 2009 to Feb 2010
After a preliminary draft of the CFA has been prepared, the incorporation proponents and the County negotiate fiscal terms and conditions. LAFCO executive officer’s report makes recommendations on the application, and the election resolution is drafted.
Election resolution adopted
Mar 2010
LAFCO may adopt a resolution to place the question of incorporation on East LA's ballot. At a public hearing, LAFCO’s Commission hears the staff report and testimony of interested parties both supporting and opposing the incorporation.
Election
Jun 2010
The question of incorporation is placed on the ballot for East LA residents to vote on.
Once the election results are certified, typically there is at least a two to three-month period during which the elected council members hire an interim city manager and attorney, and the attorney prepares legal documents for the Council to adopt at its first official meeting.
Transition into city
Jun 2010 to Jun 2011
The County is required to provide services during the first partial fiscal year after incorporation, and the new city reimburses the net expense over a five year period.
First day as the City of East Los Angeles
Jul 2011
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/Timeline_Towards_Cityhood-2008-06-20
There are many steps to becoming a city, and this timeline page describes the steps and shows how ELARA is moving forward with the process. Check out the interactive version of the timeline, and the same timeline information in list form below it. Descriptions of each step are adopted from the East LA IFA.
You can also find an accompanying presentation in our Reports & Resources section.
Interactive Timeline
Timeline List
Signature gathering drive
Jun 2008 to Nov 2008
ELARA collects signatures from 25 percent or more of East LA registered voters. There is up to 180 days to complete this process.
Signature verification
Dec 2008
Within 30 days of receiving the petition, the LAFCO executive officer will have it examined by the county elections official who determines the number of qualified signers.
Submit application
Jan 2009
ELARA submit the petitions, proposal, map and legal description to LAFCO.
Comprehensive Fiscal Analysis conducted
Jan 2009 to Sep 2009
A Comprehensive Fiscal Analysis (CFA) is prepared. LAFCO issues a request for proposals from consultants. Preparing a CFA requires data collection, substantial analysis and report preparation.
Negotiations, review, report
Oct 2009 to Feb 2010
After a preliminary draft of the CFA has been prepared, the incorporation proponents and the County negotiate fiscal terms and conditions. LAFCO executive officer’s report makes recommendations on the application, and the election resolution is drafted.
Election resolution adopted
Mar 2010
LAFCO may adopt a resolution to place the question of incorporation on East LA's ballot. At a public hearing, LAFCO’s Commission hears the staff report and testimony of interested parties both supporting and opposing the incorporation.
Election
Jun 2010
The question of incorporation is placed on the ballot for East LA residents to vote on.
Once the election results are certified, typically there is at least a two to three-month period during which the elected council members hire an interim city manager and attorney, and the attorney prepares legal documents for the Council to adopt at its first official meeting.
Transition into city
Jun 2010 to Jun 2011
The County is required to provide services during the first partial fiscal year after incorporation, and the new city reimburses the net expense over a five year period.
First day as the City of East Los Angeles
Jul 2011
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/?q=timeline
Join the growing list of residents, business and community leaders, and elected officials who have shown their public support for Cityhood. The following elected officials and organizations want you to know that they're ready for the future City of East LA.
Congresswoman Grace Napolitano, 38th CD (East LA)
Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard, 34th CD (East LA)
Judy Chu, Chair - CA Board of Equalization, 4th District (East LA)
Senate Majority Leader Gloria Romero, 24th SD (East LA)
Senator Ron Calderon, 30th SD (East LA)
Senator Dean Florez, 16th SD
Assemblymember Charles Calderon, 58th AD (East LA)
Assemblymember Tony Mendoza, 56th AD
League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC)
Greater East Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce
Whittier Boulevard Merchants Association of East Los Angeles
East Los Angeles Residents Association (ELARA)
National Latino Congreso
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/?q=endorsements
Join the growing list of residents, business and community leaders, and elected officials who have shown their public support for Cityhood. The following elected officials and organizations want you to know that they're ready for the future City of East LA.
Congresswoman Grace Napolitano, 38th CD (East LA)
Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard, 34th CD (East LA)
John Chiang, CA State Controller
Judy Chu, Chair - CA Board of Equalization, 4th District (East LA)
Senate Majority Leader Gloria Romero, 24th SD (East LA)
Senator Ron Calderon, 30th SD (East LA)
Senator Dean Florez, 16th SD
Assemblymember Charles Calderon, 58th AD (East LA)
Assemblymember Tony Mendoza, 56th AD
League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC)
Greater East Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce
Whittier Boulevard Merchants Association of East Los Angeles
East Los Angeles Residents Association (ELARA)
National Latino Congreso
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/endorsements
Yesterday both the Eastside Sun and HOY published articles on Cityhood for East LA. The Eastside Sun looked closely at last Friday's hearing and the contents of the Initial Fiscal Analysis.
http://www.egpnews.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=browse&id=3&pageid=6947
East L.A Cityhood Explored at Local Hearing
Irantzu Pujadas
EGP News Service
[...] Unincorporated East Los Angeles, now under Los Angeles County governance, could sustain itself if incorporated, according to the analysis prepared by the Burr Consulting Firm.
Beverly Burr, the reports author, presented the report’s findings during the hearing hosted by state Senate Majority Leader Gloria Romero and attended by Congresswoman Grace Napolitano (CA-38), both have expressed support for exploring the possibility of East Los Angeles becoming a city.
The Spanish-language daily HOY focused on the volunteer efforts that will make Cityhood possible.
http://www.hoyinternet.com/noticias/localidades/losangeles/hoy-0215petic...
Residentes del Este se alistan para independizarse
Por Selene Rivera Colaboradora diario HOY
15 de febrero, 2008
Este de Los Ángeles -- Partidarios de la campaña para convertir el Este de Los Ángeles en ciudad estarán tocando las puertas de esta comunidad para pedirle a los residentes que firmen una petición para avanzar el esfuerzo de independencia.
“El Este de Los Ángeles está en camino de decidir si quiere ser una ciudad o no”, dijo a HOY Óscar Gonzales, presidente de la Asociación de Residentes del Este de Los Ángeles (ELARA), entidad que encabeza el movimiento. “La campaña de petición de 180 días puede empezar en cualquier momento, o a mas tardar a mediados de marzo”, señaló.
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/Cityhood_Public_Hearing_In_The_News-2008-02-15
Yesterday both the Eastside Sun and HOY published articles on Cityhood for East LA. The Eastside Sun looked closely at last Friday's hearing and the contents of the Initial Fiscal Analysis.
http://www.egpnews.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=browse&id=3&pageid=6947
East L.A Cityhood Explored at Local Hearing
Irantzu Pujadas
EGP News Service
[...] Unincorporated East Los Angeles, now under Los Angeles County governance, could sustain itself if incorporated, according to the analysis prepared by the Burr Consulting Firm.
Beverly Burr, the reports author, presented the report’s findings during the hearing hosted by state Senate Majority Leader Gloria Romero and attended by Congresswoman Grace Napolitano (CA-38), both have expressed support for exploring the possibility of East Los Angeles becoming a city.
The Spanish-language daily HOY focused on the volunteer efforts that will make Cityhood possible.
http://www.hoyinternet.com/noticias/localidades/losangeles/hoy-0215petic...
Residentes del Este se alistan para independizarse
Por Selene Rivera Colaboradora diario HOY
15 de febrero, 2008
Este de Los Ángeles -- Partidarios de la campaña para convertir el Este de Los Ángeles en ciudad estarán tocando las puertas de esta comunidad para pedirle a los residentes que firmen una petición para avanzar el esfuerzo de independencia.
“El Este de Los Ángeles está en camino de decidir si quiere ser una ciudad o no”, dijo a HOY Óscar Gonzales, presidente de la Asociación de Residentes del Este de Los Ángeles (ELARA), entidad que encabeza el movimiento. “La campaña de petición de 180 días puede empezar en cualquier momento, o a mas tardar a mediados de marzo”, señaló.
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/?q=2-15-08_news
Our effort is now moving to the next phase, as we prepare to circulate petitions throughout East L.A. Our goal is to have 25% of the all East L.A. voters sign our petition -- a huge task! That's why we're asking all people who are interested in volunteering to attend a crucial event next Saturday, February 23rd at the Tacos Mexico Banquet Hall from 9:00a to 12:00 noon.
Take part in the education and petition signing effort to make Cityhood a reality! Come meet other Cityhood volunteers and strategize on how to best reach out to your friends and neighbors. Walk away with the training and tools to get your neighbors excited about the City of East Los Angeles! Coffee and pan dulce in the morning, and free lunch in the afternoon provided by Tacos Mexico.
What
Cityhood Volunteer & Neighborhood Leader Training
When
Saturday, February 23rd, 9:00a - 12:00 noon
Where
Tacos Mexico Banquet Hall, 5120 E Olympic Blvd, East Los Angeles, 90022(map)
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/Calling_All_Volunteers_Please_attend_our_Cityhood_Volunteer_and_Neighborhood_Leader_Training-2008-02-13
Last Friday many of you joined us for a Public Hearing on Cityhood for East LA, hosted by State Senator Gloria Romero. It was a great event where the authors of the Initial Fiscal Analysis explained their findings, community members asked questions about Cityhood, and people expressed support and eagerness to get involved. ELARA would like to extend its appreciation to Congresswoman Grace Napolitano, State Senator Gloria Romero, State Senator Dean Florez, and all the attendees and volunteers for helping spread the word about Cityhood within our community.
Here are some photos:
View more photos at our Cityhood Flickr page.
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/Public_Hearing_on_IFA_a_Success-2008-02-13
Our effort is now moving to the next phase, as we prepare to circulate petitions throughout East L.A. Our goal is to have 25% of the all East L.A. voters sign our petition -- a huge task! That's why we're asking all people who are interested in volunteering to attend a crucial event next Saturday, February 23rd at the Tacos Mexico Banquet Hall from 9:00a to 12:00 noon.
Take part in the education and petition signing effort to make Cityhood a reality! Come meet other Cityhood volunteers and strategize on how to best reach out to your friends and neighbors. Walk away with the training and tools to get your neighbors excited about the City of East Los Angeles! Coffee and pan dulce in the morning, and free lunch in the afternoon provided by Tacos Mexico.
What
Cityhood Volunteer & Neighborhood Leader Training
When
Saturday, February 23rd, 9:00a - 12:00 noon
Where
Tacos Mexico Banquet Hall, 5120 E Olympic Blvd, East Los Angeles, 90022(map)
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/?q=cityhood_volunteer_and_neighborhood_leader_training
Last Friday many of you joined us for a Public Hearing on Cityhood for East LA, hosted by State Senator Gloria Romero. It was a great event where the authors of the Initial Fiscal Analysis explained their findings, community members asked questions about Cityhood, and people expressed support and eagerness to get involved. ELARA would like to extend its appreciation to Congresswoman Grace Napolitano, State Senator Gloria Romero, State Senator Dean Florez, and all the attendees and volunteers for helping spread the word about Cityhood within our community.
Here are some photos:
View more photos at our Cityhood Flickr page.
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/?q=public_hearing_a_success
Last week saw news of national political candidates recognizing the importance of East LA to the broader Latino community. Read full stories below.
East L.A. News
Local Clinton, Obama Groups Begin Tele-Campaigning, KNBC, January 27, 2008
Latinas con Hillary Clinton en el Este de Los Ángeles, La Opinión, January 27, 2008
Did we miss something? Email news@cityhoodforeastla.org with a tip.
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/?q=1-29-08_weekly_news
Last week saw news of national political candidates recognizing the importance of East LA to the broader Latino community. Read full stories below.
East L.A. News
Local Clinton, Obama Groups Begin Tele-Campaigning, KNBC, January 27, 2008
Latinas con Hillary Clinton en el Este de Los Ángeles, La Opinión, January 27, 2008
Did we miss something? Email news@cityhoodforeastla.org with a tip.
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/Weekly_East_LA_News_Round-Up-2008-01-29
East L.A.'s Cityhood effort has got people talking, but it's just picking up. Senator Gloria Romero will soon hold a public hearing on Cityhood here in East LA, and we're hoping that you can all join us! Can you be there?
Public Hearing on Cityhood
Back in October we were pleased to announce the release of the Initial Fiscal Analysis (IFA), the first report to assess East L.A.'s local economy in decades. This report was independently conducted by Burr Consulting.
We were ecstatic to see that the IFA proved what we've known all along - that East L.A. can support itself financially as its own city, with no reduction in services. Please read the IFA if you haven't gotten a chance. On February 8th State Senator Gloria Romero will hold a public hearing on the IFA to look closely at the specifics.
This is an important opportunity for us as a community to better understand how Cityhood will move East L.A. forward, and how attainable our goal is.
See a map of the location.
What
Public Hearing on the Initial Fiscal Analysis of East Los Angeles
When
Friday, February 8th, 6:00p - 9:00p
Where
Ford Elementary School Auditorium, 1112 S. Ford Blvd, East Los Angeles, 90022 (map)
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/?q=is_cityhood_viable_public_forum
East L.A.'s Cityhood effort has got people talking, but it's just picking up. Senator Gloria Romero will soon hold a public hearing on Cityhood here in East LA, and we're hoping that you can all join us! Can you be there?
Public Hearing on Cityhood
Back in October we were pleased to announce the release of the Initial Fiscal Analysis (IFA), the first report to assess East L.A.'s local economy in decades. This report was independently conducted by Burr Consulting.
We were ecstatic to see that the IFA proved what we've known all along - that East L.A. can support itself financially as its own city, with no reduction in services. Please read the IFA if you haven't gotten a chance. On February 8th State Senator Gloria Romero will hold a public hearing on the IFA to look closely at the specifics.
This is an important opportunity for us as a community to better understand how Cityhood will move East L.A. forward, and how attainable our goal is.
See a map of the location.
What
Public Hearing on the Initial Fiscal Analysis of East Los Angeles
When
Friday, February 8th, 6:00p - 9:00p
Where
Ford Elementary School Auditorium, 1112 S. Ford Blvd, East Los Angeles, 90022 (map)
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/Is_Cityhood_Viable_A_Public_Hearing_on_the_Initial_Fiscal_Analysis-2008-01-22
2008 promises to be an important year for the Cityhood for East L.A. effort. The accomplishments of last year have moved us many steps closer to our goal of forming a city. We have just finished putting the final touches on the petition that will soon be circulated for signatures and continuing discussions about the benefits of Cityhood for unincorporated East Los Angeles.
We want to share with you how we plan to kick off the new year and let you know what to expect in the coming weeks.
Coming in February
During February, we plan on launching the signature gathering drive. As you know, the goal is to collect the signatures of at least 25% of all registered voters in East L.A. Although we will have 180 days to go door-to-door gathering signatures, we know that with everyone's hard work the job can be done quickly. Submitting enough signatures is a legal requirement in order to conduct a second study on East LA's financial viability, referred to as the Comprehensive Fiscal Analysis (CFA). The Initial Fiscal Analysis (IFA), the first study, was released in last October. Please
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/?q=gearing_up_for_a_great_year
Our effort to form a city in East L.A. is historic, and local media has taken notice of our community! This is why we'll be doing regular weekly round-up of news stories on East Los Angeles and neighboring areas. Check out the most recent news.
East L.A. News
Clinton woos labor, Latinos on California swing, L.A. Times, January 12, 2008
Vibrant in a fading East L.A. scene, L.A. Times, January 12, 2008
News From Our Neighbors
Towering ambitions for Boyle Heights, L.A. Times, January 11, 2008
Beautiful boulevard, Whittier Daily News, January 6, 2008
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/?q=1-14-08_weekly_news
We here at ELARA are excited to share with you the public draft of the Independent Fiscal Analysis (IFA) for the proposed incorporation of East Los Angeles, prepared by independent economic and policy consultant Burr Consulting. It’s a big step for the Cityhood effort, and we hope you'll share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
Here are some key points to get you started on the report:
1. Cityhood is economically viable without a tax increase.
"The IFA does not include new taxes. Proposition 218 requires that any proposals to increase taxes be approved by voters." (IFA, page 8)
2. Cityhood is economically viable without a reduction of services. Services such as law enforcement could be provided by existing agencies, such as the LA County Sheriff, while other services could be provided through a contract with LA County; or by the City of East Los Angeles. (IFA, page 16)
Please continue on to read the IFA below. You can also find an accompanying presentation in our Reports & Resources section.
View the IFA full screen.
document.write(''); Read this doc on Scribd: East Los Angeles Initial Fiscal Analysis (IFA), Burr Consulting var scribd_doc = new scribd.Document(2160907, 'key-ex9acbozlvyyplhymg9'); scribd_doc.write('embedded_flash_2160907_1aqfqz');View the above report full screen.
We are very happy with this report – it is the first economic profile of East LA in decades. These results encourage us to move on toward the next step on the road to Cityhood. Your comments and questions on the IFA, and the entire incorporation process, are very important, and we'd like to know what you think! Feel free to join the discussion by leaving a comment below or emailing us at info@CityhoodForEastLA.org.
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/?q=ifa_available
We've received amazing coverage in today's LA Times (excerpt below) and in the Eastside Sun, so make sure to check them out!
Here's a clip from the LA Times:
East L.A. is ready, financially, for independence
By Susannah Rosenblatt, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer
October 17, 2007
East Los Angeles could support itself as an independent city, according to a new report, boosting the latest effort to convert the unincorporated Mexican American cultural mecca into its own municipality.
Since 1961, supporters have tried three times to bring cityhood to the storied Latino community, and now the fourth movement seems to be gathering steam. This time, advocates say, the numbers prove a city of "East Los" could thrive.
The fiscal analysis, by an independent economic consultant, provides the most revealing financial picture to date of the area, according to cityhood organizers, who paid $25,000 for the report. A city of East Los Angeles could generate at least $48 million in projected annual revenue to support its own city council and such services as street upkeep, the study said.
Financial viability is crucial to a successful cityhood drive, which would transfer much of the decision-making authority from the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors to a locally elected council. [...]
Read the full article, or take a look through our News and Blogs section.
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/?q=report_shows_viable
The New York Times published an article recently that takes a look at the proposed MTA Gold Line Extension, currently under construction.
"[...] Boyle Heights, part of the City of Los Angeles, and East Los Angeles, an unincorporated area of Los Angeles County, have long been home to thousands of Latinos. Both communities are cut off geographically from the city’s beach districts and central business areas. The light-rail train, set to begin running in 2009, will allow passengers to get to areas throughout the county."
Photo by jimw.
The author goes on to tell a bit about the history of East Los Angeles and its recent development projects, and quotes the East Los Angeles Residents Association, the 501(c)4 that's organizing the Cityhood effort.
http://www.cityhoodforeastla.org/?q=ny_times_article
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