LOS ANGELES—The Los Angeles City Council reorganized itself into new committees last month, with Councilmember Paul Krekorian taking the helm as chairman of the Budget and Finance Committee. In response, he released the following statement:
“During a time that our City faces unprecedented budget challenges, I accept the responsibility of chairing the Budget & Finance Committee with full awareness that there will be no simple fixes or easy solutions. But with every great challenge there is great opportunity, and we must seize this chance to create a municipal government that effectively and efficiently provides the services our residents need and deserve. How we respond to this time of crisis will define Los Angeles for years to come, and the work we do now can and must create a firm foundation upon which to build a strong future for our city.
“For eight years, Councilmember Bernard Parks has led this committee with dedication, skill and vision. His fiscal discipline has helped keep the City afloat in incredibly stormy seas. All Angelenos are in debt to Bernard Parks for his service as Budget Chair.
“I am very proud of the record of achievement that we established during my chairmanship of the Education and Neighborhoods Committee, and I am confident that the path forward for neighborhood councils is now bright. While I will no longer chair that committee, I will continue my commitment to a stronger neighborhood empowerment movement in this city.”
