Rec and Parks faces $20M budget cuts and proposed layoffs in critical services

The Los Angeles City Budget Hearings held on May 2, 2025, revealed significant proposed cuts to the Recreation and Parks (RAP) budget, raising concerns about the future of essential services. The proposed budget includes the elimination of 192 full-time positions, resulting in a reduction of approximately $14.7 million in salary expenses. This move affects various program areas, including aquatics, recreation center operations, park maintenance, and the park ranger division. Notably, 11 of the positions slated for elimination are currently filled, which could lead to potential layoffs.

In addition to the job cuts, the budget proposal also seeks to reduce expense funding by about $5.8 million, impacting overtime, hiring hall, and supplies. Overall, the RAP budget faces a total reduction of around $20 million. To mitigate the impact of these cuts, RAP officials are requesting the restoration of some funding for overtime and staffing, suggesting that these costs could be offset by reducing part-time salaries by $9.2 million.

Another critical point raised during the hearings is the potential end of general fund subsidies for the RAP budget. If the proposed budget is adopted, it would mark the first time that the general fund would no longer support RAP, as the department would rely solely on its self-generated revenue. In light of this change, RAP officials are advocating for an exemption from the prioritized critical hiring process (PCH), similar to other proprietary departments, to help stabilize operations and maintain service levels.

Councilwoman Hutt expressed concern over the proposed position eliminations, emphasizing the challenges RAP would face in delivering core services such as park maintenance and youth programs. The discussions highlighted the urgent need for a strategic approach to budget management to ensure the continued provision of vital community services. The committee is expected to further evaluate these proposals and their implications in the coming weeks.