Council approves resolutions of necessity to begin eminent‑domain steps for LAX modernization project

Los Angeles City Council closed a public hearing and voted 14–0 on June 4, 2025, to adopt ordinances containing resolutions of necessity that authorize staff to begin eminent‑domain (condemnation) proceedings for properties identified in the agenda for the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) Terminal Modernization Project.

Mark Adams, director de asuntos gubernamentales para el aeropuerto de Los Ángeles, told the council the ordinances would start the legal steps to acquire the needed property rights when voluntary negotiations have not succeeded. “Estas ordenanzas no se dirigen a ningún desacuerdo en la cantidad de compensación... ni la adopción de las ordenanzas previenen que las propiedades continúen a negociar,” Adams said, noting the council’s adoption requires a two‑thirds vote.

Representatives for property owners spoke during the hearing. Dr. Lee Sada, executive (district representative) for Los Angeles Community College (LACC), said a partial taking would disrupt campus operations and revenue during construction and urged staff to pursue a full acquisition by agreement. A separate counsel, Alex Sigert, said his clients protested the resolution of necessity on the basis that alternatives had not been adequately examined and asked that negotiations continue.

Cynthia Alexander, representing the City Attorney’s office for the water/airport matters, described the properties as needed to improve traffic routes and reduce congestion around LAX. Council members asked clarifying questions about negotiations and compensation; city staff said negotiations are ongoing and that the resolution of necessity is a procedural step to allow the project to proceed on schedule should voluntary deals fail.

After public comment and responses from staff, the council closed the hearing and recorded a 14–0 vote to adopt the ordinances and resolutions of necessity as presented on the agenda. The adoption, as described by staff, authorizes employees to proceed with the next legal steps in acquisition processes; it does not set compensation amounts and does not prevent the parties from continuing to negotiate a voluntary sale.

The council’s action will be part of the official record for any later litigation or further negotiation; staff said any additional information submitted during the hearing will be added to the administrative record.