The Work Ahead Belongs to All of Us

by Maria S. Salinas

A few weeks ago, I encouraged Angelenos to get out and vote. You showed up. 

Voters across Los Angeles made their voices heard about who they want leading our city, state, and nation. They also weighed in on issues that will shape how we live, work, and do business. That is democracy at work: people showing up and having a say in the future of their communities.

Now comes the part that matters just as much: governing. 

Elections are about choices. Governing is about getting things done. 

With new leadership comes a fresh opportunity for Los Angeles. I congratulate Mayor-elect Nithya Raman on her election as Mayor of Los Angeles. We stand ready to work with her as she prepares to take office. As an organization with a nearly 140-year history in this city, we also look forward to working with newly elected and returning leaders at every level of government to build a stronger and more prosperous Los Angeles.

For the Chamber, Election Day marks the end of the campaign, but it is also the beginning of the work ahead. Several measures approved by voters give us a strong foundation to build on. 

Voters backed a City of Los Angeles measure that will give homeowners who lost property in the January 2025 fires a temporary exemption from the Measure ULA transfer tax as they recover and rebuild. Removing unnecessary costs for families rebuilding after disaster is simply the right thing to do.

Voters also supported a City of Los Angeles Charter Amendment to streamline parts of the city planning process. A more efficient planning process helps Los Angeles build the housing and development our growing region needs.

At the state level, voters supported a proposition to strengthen California’s rainy-day fund. That kind of fiscal discipline matters to businesses and families alike. 

These measures are important steps forward and demonstrate how public policy can make a meaningful difference for our residents, businesses, and economy. The Chamber will continue to advocate for policies that create opportunities, protect jobs, support small businesses, and build a stronger, more resilient economy for Los Angeles.  

Election Day may be behind us, but the work of governing is just beginning. We are ready to roll up our sleeves and get to work.