This week, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass proposed a budget filled with what she called "difficult choices" due to the city's projected billion-dollar deficit.
Layoffs and other worst-case scenarios are on track to be part of L.A.'s future, and during the first budget hearing since Bass' State of the City Address, the public gave the committee an earful, urging programs near and dear to their hearts and livelihoods not to be cut.
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"The mayor's proposed budget threatens my, my colleagues' livelihoods and the very services that make the city the economic engine of California," one woman said.
"Budget equals services," another speaker said. "You don't have budget, you don't have services. People need to pay attention," he added.
Others used their time to advocate for endeavors such as animal services and the Mayor's flagship homelessness program, InsideSafe, emphasizing their value to the community.
More public statements are scheduled for Monday, and the Los Angeles City Council is taking a unique approach to public input.
They have passed a motion establishing what is described as an advisory group to the city's budget committee, comprised of 5 people from the community.
Those selected will be required to possess what is described as specific and relevant expertise in budget matters to aid the city in navigating a budget crisis.
Two of the five appointees will be chosen by the city's budget chair, Councilmember Katy Yaroslavsky; two will come from Council President Marqueece Harris Dawson, and one from President Pro Tempore Bob Blumenfield.
Mayor Bass' proposed budget includes potentially more than 1,600 layoffs of civilian city employees.
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