Council approves Echo Park building lease for community program despite parking objections, 12-1

The Los Angeles City Council voted 12 to 1 to approve item 29, a request tied to a proposed Echo Park community/youth center, moving the matter forthwith to the mayor. The approval followed a lengthy public hearing in which business owners, church representatives and neighborhood groups pressed the council to protect parking that they say is vital to local commerce.

Property owner Richard Gray and several business representatives told the council the parking lot behind Sunset Boulevard is essential. Gray said the lot and its alley access provide circulation and parking that help customers reach the business district; he said potential tenants have declined to lease because of the proposed closure. Jeff Brighouse, who previously served on a citizens advisory committee for the Echo Park–Silver Lake community plan, said taking the parking…