Outgoing Councilman Secures Nearly $1 Million for Staff Amid Transition
Following a swift and unanimous vote, the Los Angeles City Council has approved nearly $1 million to support the departing staff of Councilman Kevin de León. The $950,000 allocation, drawn from funds earmarked for redevelopment and community services in the Fourteenth District, will cover various staff expenses, including sick time, unused vacation time, overtime, and administrative costs.
Council members voted 12-0 in favor of the motion, with Nithya Raman, Traci Park, and John Lee absent for the vote. The councilman, who recently lost his bid for re-election, will be leaving office soon.
“Such a motion is ‘common practice,’ and other outgoing council members have done it in the past,” explained Pete Brown, de León’s spokesperson. The initial request was for $2.1 million, but de León amended his motion, seconded by Councilman Paul Krekorian, reducing the amount to $950,000. Brown emphasized that the money will assist 28 of de León’s staff members and cover outstanding bills.
Krekorian, who represents the Second District encompassing North Hollywood, Sun Valley, Studio City, and other San Fernando Valley neighborhoods, is also stepping down due to term limits. His office did not immediately respond to an inquiry about whether he would introduce a similar motion for his departing staff.
This decision highlights the discretionary spending power each of the 15 City Council members wields. Each member has access to funding accounts for their respective districts, which cover a range of needs. While some accounts are restricted to specific costs, others allow for broader use at the council member’s discretion. All spending requests require approval from the City Council.
L.A. City Controller Kenneth Mejia advocates for transparency in these expenditures, stressing the importance of constituents knowing how their council member allocates discretionary funds. This year, Mejia’s office established the first public platform showcasing how council members spend their money, accessible at ccspending.controller.lacity.gov/.
Is this allocation of funds the best use of limited resources, considering the pressing needs of the Fourteenth District?
## Interview with Councilmember Alex Reed Regarding Kevin de León Staff Funds
**News Editor:** Councilmember Alex Reed, thank you for joining us today. We’re discussing the recent $950,000 allocation approved by the Los Angeles City Council to cover expenses for outgoing Councilman Kevin de León’s staff. This money comes from redevelopment and community services funds originally designated for the Fourteenth District. Can you elaborate on the decision behind granting this substantial sum?
**Councilmember Alex Reed:** Certainly. While some may question the timing and amount, it’s important to remember that Councilman de León’s staff has dedicated themselves to serving the Fourteenth District. This allocation ensures they receive compensation for accumulated time off and other legitimate expenses, ensuring a smooth transition as new leadership takes over.
**News Editor:** Some residents have expressed concern about diverting funds intended for redevelopment and community services, especially given the ongoing challenges facing the district. How do you respond to those concerns?
**Councilmember Alex Reed:** I understand those concerns. It’s crucial to prioritize district needs. However, this allocation represents a responsible use of existing funds. It ensures that Councilman de León’s staff is treated fairly while minimizing disruption to district operations during this transitional period.
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**Newsote:** Councilmember de Leon has recently been the subject of controversy and protests following an altercation with an activist. [1](https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2022-12-09/video-los-angeles-councilmember-kevin-de-leon-fight-activist) Do you anticipate this incident impacting public perception of this expenditure?
**Councilmember Alex Reed:** The recent incident involving Councilman de León is a separate matter. While it has certainly generated public attention, it shouldn’t overshadow the need to ensure responsible treatment of departing staff, which is the focus of this allocation.
**News Editor:** Thank you, Councilmember Alex Reed, for your insights.
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