Governor Newsom Announces ‘LA Rises’ Initiative to Rebuild L.A.
Governor Gavin Newsom issued an Executive Order and announced the launch of LA Rises, a unified initiative which brings together private sector leaders to support rebuilding efforts to aid the Los Angeles region in its recovery. The executive order supports small business owners and workers impacted by the recent wildfires by deferring annual licensure fees and waiving other recovery barriers. Business leaders Mark Walter, Earvin “Magic” Johnson, and Casey Wasserman were selected to lead the effort.
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City of L.A. Moves to Expedite Permit Process
The City of Los Angeles Planning, Land Use, and Management Committee approved a motion to explore the feasibility of establishing a self-certification program to expedite permits for residential, commercial, and mixed-use development. The Chamber will continue to monitor this initiative, as it could streamline timelines for development projects and regional wildfire recovery efforts.
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L.A. County Announces Wildfire Recovery Fund Legislation
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved the creation of a Fire Recovery Fund to provide direct cash aid to wildfire victims. The fund launches with a $32.2 million transfer from the American Rescue Plan Act to support recovery efforts, with the L.A. County CEO tasked with securing additional funding sources.
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Chamber Welcomes New Chief of Policy, Carlos A. Singer
The L.A. Area Chamber proudly welcomes Carlos A. Singer as Chief Policy Officer. With extensive experience in policy and law, Singer will oversee development of the Chamber’s wide-ranging advocacy for members’ interests before local, state, and federal government agencies. Singer arrives at the Chamber with a wealth of professional experience aligned with the organization's mission. He served in senior positions in the City of Los Angeles, including Chief Legal Counsel for former Mayor Eric Garcetti and Deputy Legal Counsel for former Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. He also served as Deputy Legal Affairs Secretary for Governor Gavin Newsom. Singer will play a key role in shaping the Chamber's advocacy efforts.
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L.A. Area Chamber Provides Public Comment on City Council Eviction Motion
The Chamber provided public comment this week opposing a motion before the L.A. City Council which proposes a one-year rent freeze and eviction ban for residents unable to pay rent due to recent wildfires. The Chamber stated that the measure could discourage investment in Los Angeles at a critical time for rebuilding. The Chamber urged the L.A. City Council to explore alternative rent assistance methods that would avoid unintended economic consequences.
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Port of Los Angeles Now Accepting Applications for Grant Program
The Port of Los Angeles is now accepting applications for its FY 2025/26 Community Investment Grant Program, supporting local nonprofits and projects. Since 2014, the program has awarded nearly $12 million to 374 organizations. A virtual informational workshop will be held on Feb. 19 at 6:00 p.m. Applications are due by March 24. Visit the Port of Los Angeles website for more details.
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Together for L.A.: Wildfire Recovery Assistance
Calling all small businesses impacted by the January 2025 L.A. Fires. Join the weekly Together for L.A. webinar to learn about the latest resources available for recovery. Discover tools, funding opportunities, and support designed to help your business rebuild and thrive in the aftermath of this devastating disaster. Register here.
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L.A. County Offers Resources for Fire Recovery
Resources for those impacted by the recent fires are available at the L.A. County Recovery Resource Center. Access vital support, including financial assistance, housing help, and recovery programs to help rebuild. Visit the recovery website for the tools and support you need.
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VSEDC Pitch Competition
Applications are now open for VSEDC's Black History Month and Women's History Month Pitch Competitions. These exclusive events are packed with resources, insights, and networking opportunities designed to help you grow your business. Gain access to industry-leading tools and strategies while connecting with fellow entrepreneurs and experts. Learn more here.
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Welcome to our New Board Members
The L.A. Area Chamber is proud to welcome six new executives to its Board of Governors. Joining over 130 current members, these leaders bring valuable expertise to support the Chamber’s mission of strengthening the region’s economy.
- Roman Alberto, Interim Chancellor, L.A. Community College District
- Rick Bechtel, EVP & Head of Mortgage & Residential Lending, City National Bank
- Steve Hennessey, President & CEO, Pacific Maritime Association
- Ayla Kalani, Los Angeles Market Leader, Northern Trust
- Everett K. Sands, CEO, Lendistry
- Dulce Vasquez, Assistant VP, Office of University Affairs, Arizona State University
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Congratulations to our 2025 Inaugural Reception Honorees
The Chamber will honor Lendistry with the Corporate Leadership Award and Terry Feit, Los Angeles Managing Partner at Deloitte, as the Distinguished Business Leader at the 2025 Inaugural Reception on Wednesday, February 5. The Corporate Leadership Award recognizes businesses which integrate community impact into their core values, while the Distinguished Business Leader Award honors an individual for exceptional success and commitment to the community.
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COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
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Transportation & Goods Movement Council
Tuesday, February 4, 8:30 a.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT
Please join the Transportation & Goods Movement Policy Council for the first meeting of the year. We will be joined by Marlon Regisford, Deputy District Director for Planning and Local Assistance, District 7 for Caltrans.
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Don't Miss the 2025 Inaugural Reception
With the devastation our community is facing following the wildfires, we come together as a united business community to stand strong for Los Angeles. Join us at the Chamber's annual Inaugural Reception on Wednesday, February 5, 2025 to make a meaningful impact together. For more information, contact Chris Luna here.
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ACCESS D.C.
March 11 - 13, 2025
Join the L.A. Area Chamber in Washington D.C. to promote policies that will drive job creation and cultivate a thriving regional economy. Take advantage of the early-bird registration rate until Friday, February 14.
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Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
350 S. Bixel Street
Los Angeles, CA 90017
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