Los Angeles council discusses Van Nuys Airport master plan amid LAX expansion concerns

The Los Angeles City Council convened on March 21, 2025, to address several pressing issues, primarily focusing on airport management and community relations. The meeting began with a discussion on the master plans for both Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Van Nuys Airport. Councilmember Zine emphasized the importance of not allowing the Van Nuys Airport master plan to be overshadowed by the larger LAX project. He urged the council to ensure that the Van Nuys plan, which has yet to be adopted, receives adequate attention and aligns with community needs.

The conversation shifted to the appointment of new airport commissioners, with Councilmember Reyes raising concerns about the lack of briefing materials on affirmative action policies provided to nominees. He stressed the importance of maintaining awareness of these policies to avoid future complications.

Councilmember Holden inquired about the nominees' previous experiences and their ability to carry out the mandates of the mayors they served under. He highlighted the need for commissioners to work collaboratively with the community and the current mayor, emphasizing the importance of adhering to fair labor practices and addressing community concerns regarding airport operations.

Councilmember Galanter expressed her satisfaction with the council's focus on regional expansion rather than solely on LAX growth. She noted the potential for a new partnership with federal representatives, which could facilitate better cooperation between local communities and government entities.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued collaboration among council members, airport commissioners, and community stakeholders to ensure that the needs of both the airports and the surrounding neighborhoods are met. The council's commitment to addressing these issues reflects a broader effort to balance airport expansion with community interests.