The special meeting of the Budget and Finance Committee took place on September 9, 2025, focusing on a significant city project with implications for future funding and resource allocation. The meeting began with a discussion led by a committee member who emphasized the importance of transparency regarding the financial impacts of the project. They noted that every dollar invested in this initiative could potentially divert funds from essential services such as police and street repairs.

The committee then heard from representatives of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP), including Matzebol and engineer Kerilly Moore. Matzebol outlined the complexities of the project and the need for clear direction moving forward. The discussion highlighted a proposal from APCLA, which included cost estimates and timelines for the project.

Key concerns were raised about the project's readiness for the upcoming 2028 Olympics, with emphasis on construction challenges and the overall benefits of proceeding with the initiative. The project is expected to expand facilities significantly, adding approximately 190,000 square feet of space and creating over 3,300 construction jobs during the expansion phase. Furthermore, it is projected to generate an additional 21,000 jobs post-expansion and increase visitor spending within the city.

The meeting concluded with a call for further analysis and a commitment to address the outlined concerns, ensuring that the project aligns with the city’s financial capabilities and service commitments. The committee plans to reconvene to discuss the findings and next steps in the coming weeks.