Council confirms Julie Butcher to Quality and Productivity Commission after mixed debate, 11–2

The Los Angeles City Council confirmed Julie Butcher to the Quality and Productivity Commission on May 30 after a contested floor debate that ended with an 11–2 vote.

Councilmembers highlighted Butcher’s role in joint labor-management productivity efforts and debated whether her union ties created an appearance problem for the commission appointment. Supporters pointed to her work on labor-management committees and street‑resurfacing initiatives as reasons she would strengthen the commission. Opponents cited separate activities outside labor representation and said those led them to vote no.

The appointment was introduced as Item 19 on the agenda. Councilmember Chick moved approval of Butcher’s confirmation and the motion received floor debate. Councilmember Walters explained her opposition: “I will be voting no on your appointment today… my vote to you has nothing to do with labor or the people for whom you work.” Several members, including Councilmember Padilla and Councilmember Goldberg, spoke in support, citing joint labor-management successes and Butcher’s role in sanitation and curbside recycling labor‑management work.

After discussion the clerk called the roll. The council recorded 11 ayes and 2 noes and the President declared the confirmation carried. The clerk said, “Julie, you've been confirmed. Congratulations and thank you for serving the city.”

No ordinance or budgetary action was attached to the appointment. The confirmation places Butcher on the Quality and Productivity Commission, which advises the city on efficiency and productivity initiatives.

The council moved to the next agenda item after the confirmation vote.