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Oak Park MAC cuts crossing-guard and street-sweeping budgets amid CSA4 review
Summary
After a Public Works presentation on CSA4 finances, the Oak Park MAC voted to reduce the crossing-guard allocation to a $230,000 maximum and to cut street-sweeping services by half to $59,000 while members and residents weigh a potential special assessment through LAFCo.
The Oak Park Municipal Advisory Council voted March 26 to reduce next year’s crossing-guard budget and to cut street-sweeping services after a presentation on CSA4 finances.
Public Works Central Services Director Joan Araujo presented a 2025–26 spend-to-date and a 2026–27 priorities overview. Members discussed a range of expense reductions, including ending a VIP program (estimated savings $25,000) and reducing street sweeping frequency to lower operating costs.
Councilors debated whether to pursue a special assessment to shore up CSA4’s fund balance. Members and residents were told a LAFCo-administered property-assessment measure could not be placed on the November 2026 ballot; the earliest viable county election noted was March 2028, with an effect date of January 2029. Residents suggested per-household proposals (examples cited ranged from $50 to $59 annually).
On specific actions, the Council approved a motion to reduce the crossing-guard budget from $276,200 to a maximum of $230,000 (motion by Brianna Adams; second JL Diaz). The motion carried 3–2 (Adams, Chair Michelle Santucci and Diaz voting Yes; Jane Nye and Brian Trushinski voting No). The Council also approved a motion to cut street-sweeping services from $118,700 to $59,000 (50% reduction) (motion by Brian Trushinski; second Jane Nye); the motion carried unanimously.
Members asked staff for clearer financial scenarios (per-unit assessment amounts, amortization schedules) that LAFCo would require to analyze a future assessment. Public commenters urged clear numbers and coordinated outreach with service providers before pursuing an assessment.
