LA advocates push to preserve funding for aging, childcare, and violence prevention programs

The Los Angeles City Council held budget hearings on April 25, 2025, addressing critical funding issues affecting various community services. The meeting featured a range of speakers, including community members, city employees, and advocates, who expressed concerns about proposed budget cuts and their potential impacts on vulnerable populations.

The first speaker, representing an organization focused on Alzheimer's and dementia care, raised alarms about the consolidation of the Department of Aging into a larger social services department. They argued that this move could dilute essential services for older adults, who are a rapidly growing demographic in Los Angeles. The speaker emphasized the importance of maintaining robust funding for the family caregiver support program, which provides crucial respite for caregivers.

Jonathan Feeney, an environmental compliance inspector, highlighted the risks associated with proposed layoffs in his department. He detailed the hazardous waste issues he encounters during public right-of-way cleanups and warned that eliminating his position would jeopardize public health and safety.

Anna Griffin, a concerned parent, voiced strong opposition to potential cuts to the recreation and parks budget, particularly regarding the privatization of licensed childcare centers. She argued that these centers, funded by public dollars, are vital community assets that should remain publicly operated to ensure access and quality for underserved families.

Nicole Brown from the Urban Peace Institute urged the council to fully fund community-based safety efforts, specifically the GRID program, which has shown success in reducing gang-related violence. She presented data indicating that increased investment in community violence intervention has led to significant drops in crime rates.

Gwen, a Boyle Heights resident, echoed concerns about the sustainability of city-run childcare centers, advocating for long-term funding solutions rather than budget cuts that would disrupt services for families.

Several speakers, including Amy Nguyen from the Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking, called for full funding of survivor services programs, emphasizing the detrimental effects of proposed cuts on survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking.

Bruno, representing the California Immigrant Policy Center, shared his personal experience with immigration issues and urged the council to allocate funds for the Represent LA program, which provides legal support to immigrant families facing deportation.

The meeting concluded with a strong call from various community members for the city council to prioritize funding for essential services, particularly those that support vulnerable populations, including children, caregivers, and immigrants. The discussions underscored the urgent need for a budget that reflects the city's commitment to equity and community well-being.