In a light drizzle and speaking before news cameras and reporters, Stephen Box, candidate for City Council representing the 4th District, was joined by about 50 community advocates, neighborhood activists and community watch group members in assailing LA's Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) process, the stashing of nearly 1 billion dollars in public funds, and cited incumbent City Councilmember Tom LaBonge's special relationship with out-of-town developers and political cronies with deep ties to City Hall.
"LA is in a massive budget crisis, facing shortfalls for vital services - police, fire, street and road repair - while the CRA hides $930 million in redevelopment funds in plain view, money which could be used to meet these vital needs," Box said.
"We join Governor Brown in challenging the wisdom and judgment of the City Hall politicians, including the incumbent, Mr. LaBonge, who either don't recognize this fundamental absurdity in fiduciary responsibility," Box continued, "or simply don't care about the sacrifices and hardship the CRA imposes on the people of LA by hiding money during this budget crisis."
"The dozens of people here today represent thousands of fourth district residents and organizations citywide who join me in demanding an end to this financial shell game."
The press event was held at the corner of Garfield Place and Hollywood Boulevard, in front of a 1.8 acre vacant lot wrapped in chain link fencing. Local residents have fought for years to turn the site into a city park for so long that the land is commonly referred to as "Garfield Park." Council Member LaBonge, who has held his seat for a decade, has consistently sided with developers who wish to use the public's money to build commercial development instead of a community park there.
Box is running for LA's City Council, representing District 4, which includes North Hollywood, Toluca Lake, the Hollywood Hills, Mid-City, the Miracle Mile, Hancock Park, Larchmont Village, Los Feliz, Silver Lake, and North Atwater Village.
For more information,
Contact: Claudia Vazquez
Campaign Field Director
Office: (323) 739-4269
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