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City Council refers proposed digital-kiosk program to Public Works after mixed public comment
Summary
The Los Angeles City Council on June 18 voted to refer item 33 — a proposed citywide digital kiosk program — to the Public Works Committee after extended public comment that included both support for the revenue and accessibility the kiosks could provide and criticism over privacy, sidewalk access and lack of financial and environmental review.
The Los Angeles City Council on June 18 referred a proposal to install digital kiosks on city sidewalks (agenda item 33) to the Public Works Committee for further review after a series of public comments both supporting and opposing the program.
The referral was made without objection. Council President Marco Isjarres Dosson announced the referral at the close of the public-comment period and the council clerk recorded the action as sent to Public Works (agenda item 33).
Supporters told the council the kiosks could generate revenue for the city at no general-fund cost and provide public services such as transit directions, 311 alerts and directories for residents without smartphones. Erwin Texas, speaking on behalf of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, said the program could help local merchants and generate “contracts” and tourists-related revenue tied to upcoming large events. An artist and nonprofit representative said kiosks would improve accessibility for low-income residents and people experiencing homelessness who may not have smartphones.
Opponents raised privacy, equity and process concerns. A commenter identified as Jane told the council she opposed the program because a single private company appeared to control the proposal and because of “privacy and ethical” concerns about collecting mobile-phone data. Multiple neighborhood groups, including a speaker representing the Westside Neighborhood Council, asked the council to send the item to Public Works, saying the kiosks could conflict with a 2002 ordinance governing sidewalks and street furnishings and that the city lacks a transparent financial and environmental analysis.
Speakers also urged specific follow-up if the council advances the program: a fresh financial cost-benefit study, an environmental review the city attorney’s office was asked to consider in October 2022, a determination of compatibility with the city’s existing SAP (streetscape/parklet) commitments, and clearer community engagement about sidewalk occupation and Americans with Disabilities Act effects.
The council’s referral stops short of approving procurement or a contract. Next steps are a Public Works Committee analysis of the technical, financial and legal questions raised by commenters and staff; committee hearings would precede any action authorizing a contract or vendor selection.
Supporters and opponents appeared at the hearing in person; the record includes submitted community impact statements and written comments the council clerk made available. The council’s formal referral preserves committee review and gives Public Works the lead role in vetting procurement, environmental review and ordinances before the council would be asked to adopt any final agreement.
