Proposal to Expand LA County Board One Step Closer to November Ballot

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted to advance proposed amendments to the County Charter, including expanding the board from five to nine members and creating an elected executive position. Supervisors Kathryn Barger and Holly Mitchell abstained, citing concerns about the rushed process and potential costs. The proposals, which also include establishing an ethics panel, need final approval in August before going before voters in the November general election. Guerra emphasized that adopting such a stance would streamline supervisors’ tasks and enhance efficiency. In response to criticisms from Barger and Mitchell, Horvath suggested that the main issue was a reluctance to embrace change. She stated, “The real challenge we face is whether to stick with the status quo out of familiarity or to explore a new direction.” Barger proposed the establishment of an independent ethics body irrespective of the reform package, noting that it wouldn’t eliminate the presence of corrupt politicians. She mentioned plans to introduce a motion for creating an ethics office soon to set a positive example. The reforms are slated to be rolled out gradually, with key positions like County Executive Director and Director of Budget Management to be filled by 2028, and new supervisors to be elected by 2032. An independent ethics commission is set to be formed in 2026, with a task force assigned to implement the reforms post voter approval.

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