The Long Beach City Council convened on September 9, 2025, to discuss critical budget allocations and community needs, with a focus on immigrant rights, housing stability, and public safety. The meeting featured a series of public comments advocating for increased funding for the Long Beach Justice Fund and related programs.

The session began with a representative from Orelle expressing gratitude for the Budget Oversight Committee's recommendation of an additional $130,000 for the Justice Fund. They emphasized the necessity of $2.2 million in structural funding to adequately support the community, highlighting that only $1 million of the proposed budget was new funding. The speaker pointed out that many funds were already allocated through existing contracts, underscoring the urgency for new financial support.

Celeste, representing the Long Beach Chamber, voiced support for the mayor's Back to Business Activation Plan, which is crucial as the city prepares for the upcoming Olympics. She also advocated for the reinstatement of micro-grants to support local neighborhoods.

Several speakers from immigrant communities shared personal stories and called for the allocation of $2.2 million to the Justice Fund, citing recent Supreme Court rulings that could exacerbate racial profiling and deportations. Jennifer, a representative of the Southeast Asian community, highlighted the fear and instability faced by families due to immigration enforcement actions.

The Right to Counsel program received significant support, with multiple speakers thanking the council for its funding and urging continued investment to prevent evictions. The importance of community land trusts was also emphasized, with calls for $400,000 to support affordable housing initiatives.

Concerns about potential water and sewage rate increases were raised by a resident, who questioned the justification for such hikes amid allegations of price gouging. This was followed by a discussion on the need for better fentanyl testing resources to address the ongoing crisis in the community.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from council members to engage further with community organizations and address the pressing needs highlighted during public comments. The council acknowledged the importance of continued dialogue and collaboration to ensure that the budget reflects the needs of all Long Beach residents.