Council approves LAPD police administrator position after tense debate over messaging and costs
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Summary
After extended questioning about communications, candidate vetting and messaging on immigration enforcement, the City Council voted 10–5 to authorize a Police Administrator position focused on internal communications and unified messaging for LAPD.
The Los Angeles City Council on Tuesday approved a civilian Police Administrator position intended to centralize internal communications for the Los Angeles Police Department, after sharp questions from councilmembers about costs, candidate vetting and the department's public messaging.
Deputy Chief John Pinto of LAPD's Human Resources Bureau described the role as responsible for "developing and executing comprehensive integrated communication plans" and acting as an executive advisor to the chief (Deputy Chief John Pinto, SEG 2085–2093). Pinto said the request was intended to create an internal communications advisor distinct from an outward‑facing PIO.
Several councilmembers pressed LAPD about recent public statements by the chief on immigration enforcement and whether the new role would address inconsistent messaging. Councilmember Sotto Martinez said she wanted the department to "say, we are against excessive use of force" and urged stronger public leadership; Councilmember Rodriguez and others expressed concerns about approving a high‑paid civilian role while some civilian positions face furlough or cuts.
Councilmembers also asked whether an identified candidate was being vetted and for a precise cost estimate; LAPD staff said a candidate was under review and that salary/benefit totals would be provided later. The transcript includes an unclear salary update provided in chamber (an administrative figure was read aloud during the meeting), and CAO/HR staff said they would follow up with full cost details.
The item passed 10 ayes, 5 noes (recorded in the roll). Supporters said the position will help ensure consistent messages to both employees and the public; critics said the council needed clearer cost information and stronger accountability on public messaging before approving the post.
Next step: LAPD and HR will return with detailed salary and cost information and any recommended reporting requirements or hiring timeline requested by council members.