Council confirms Rebecca Avila to Police Commission amid calls for independence

The Los Angeles City Council confirmed Rebecca Avila to the Board of Police Commissioners after members sought public assurances that she would exercise independent judgment if appointed.

Council members pressed Avila during the March 20 meeting on whether she would act independently of the mayor. "I had a very brief conversation with the mayor. He simply asked me to work hard," Avila said, adding that she "intends to work very hard and give it my best." She also said she was prepared "to lose the job" if necessary to maintain independence.

The confirmation drew both caution and praise from council members. Councilman Joel Feuer told Avila that, given the recent removal of the former police commission chair, "it is extremely important ... that you have the opportunity to publicly describe your ability to and the role you intend to play." Councilwoman Cindy Walters said she shared concerns about mayoral influence, telling the council that she was "still upset that the mayor chose to... remove the former chair of the police commission" and called the mayor's conduct "disgraceful." Councilman Holden and others voiced confidence in Avila's integrity and experience.

Avila previously served on the City Ethics Commission; several council members cited that experience during the confirmation debate. A Public Safety Committee hearing had recommended endorsement, and the roll call for the appointment registered 12 ayes.

The confirmation was completed promptly after discussion. No amendments or conditions on the appointment were recorded.

Avila will join the commission as the city continues to debate police oversight and reform. Council remarks tied her confirmation to broader expectations that the police commission act independently of the appointing authority while carrying out its duties under the city charter.