Los Angeles City Council reviews living wage ordinance for hotel workers amid public concerns

The Los Angeles City Council meeting on May 16, 2025, focused on significant discussions surrounding labor rights, particularly the living wage ordinance affecting hotel workers and the needs of small business owners in the hospitality sector.

During the meeting, several speakers expressed gratitude for recent changes aimed at improving wages and working conditions for frontline workers, particularly those at the airport. They emphasized the importance of fair wages and better medical coverage, highlighting the critical role these workers play in the city's economy.

Ishmaan Baber, a social equity dispensary owner, criticized council members for not adequately addressing the concerns of the community, stating that the council should recognize the contributions of the people who elected them. His comments reflected a broader sentiment of frustration among constituents regarding their representation.

Kishan Hira, representing a family-run corporation planning to build a 77-unit hotel, urged the council to consider carving out limited service hotels from the living wage ordinance. He argued that the additional financial burdens imposed by the ordinance would make it impossible to maintain affordable pricing for budget-conscious travelers. Hira's plea was echoed by other speakers who advocated for similar exemptions, citing successful precedents in nearby Long Beach.

Armando Munoz and other speakers reiterated the need for support for small, immigrant-owned hotels, emphasizing that these establishments primarily serve local residents and budget travelers. They called on the council to recognize the unique challenges faced by these businesses and to consider their requests for exemptions from the new wage regulations.

The discussions highlighted a growing tension between the need for fair labor practices and the economic viability of small businesses in Los Angeles. As the council prepares to vote on the living wage ordinance, the outcomes of these discussions could significantly impact both workers and small business owners in the city.