City Council approves interim San Fernando Valley transit JPA after debate over cost, governance and equity

The Los Angeles City Council on Jan. 11 approved an interim joint powers authority (JPA) to study the feasibility of a San Fernando Valley transit zone, voting 11 in favor and 3 opposed.

Council member Padilla described the measure as the next step toward “improv[ing] and expand[ing] the bus service in and around the San Fernando Valley,” and asked colleagues to support formation of an interim JPA to complete final studies and the application to the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). “I don't believe a valley transit zone would work without, maintaining the quality of life that, those workers currently have,” Padilla said, arguing improvements should not come at the expense of existing transit workers.

The measure won backing from Council member Laura Chick and several others who said a careful study could produce recommendations that either support a separate zone or produce alternatives useful across the city. Chick said the process could also put pressure on the MTA to improve its performance.

Opponents and cautious supporters raised multiple concerns during an extended debate. Council member Hernandez supported funding the study but warned that creating separate systems risks unequal service and raised constitutional and civil‑rights questions about “separate not being equal.” Council member Bernsen cited a potential cost discrepancy presented repeatedly in the discussion — that some figures under consideration would budget operating costs for a Valley consortium at about $60 per hour while the MTA operates near $108 per hour — saying the difference could expose the city to a potential $70 million annual cost if not resolved.

Several speakers focused on governance. Jerry Miller of the City Administrative Office (CLA) told the council the action was limited to approving an interim JPA for planning and would not transfer operational responsibility. Tim McCosker of the City Attorney’s Office said the agreement was for an interim, planning-only period and that the city would have a defense against operational-liability claims because partners’ operations would not be assumed under the interim agreement.

Other council members warned of reviving earlier, fragmented zone arrangements that in the past increased costs for riders and complicated schedules. Council members argued the study should prioritize transit riders, ensure financial feasibility, and preserve service quality for transit-dependent populations.

The council first approved an amending motion by roll call (11 ayes, 3 no). The council then voted on item 8 as amended and approved it 11-3.

What the council approved: creation of an interim JPA to perform studies and finalize an application to the MTA about a San Fernando Valley transit zone. The JPA is limited to planning and study during the interim period; it would not operate transit service under the agreement approved today.

Next steps: the interim JPA will complete studies and return recommendations; further governance, funding and labor issues will be negotiated with partner agencies and labor representatives before any operational transfer could occur.