L.A. City Council President Krekorian Visits Chamber
The L.A. Area Chamber was pleased to welcome Los Angeles City Council President Paul Krekorian as a special guest during its recent Board meeting. Krekorian acknowledged the transformative moment happening in Los Angeles and encouraged the business community to be engaged with policymakers to help spur innovation, efficiencies and partnership. City Council President Krekorian was also awarded a certificate of appreciation for his years of service and dedication to the region.
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Exposition Park GM Ambriz Provides Briefing on Olympics Preparation
Exposition Park General Manager Andrea Ambriz joined the Chamber for a special presentation on the numerous projects happening at the park, including the California Science Center, the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, the Lucas Museum and the Natural History Museum as these venues prepare for the 2028 Olympics. Over $1 billion dollars has already been invested into the property, with several additional major infrastructure projects still planned to support the management of park services, increased operational capacity, and parking.
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Chamber to Testify Regarding Climate Action Plan
Next Tuesday, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors will consider the 2045 Climate Action Plan (CAP). The Chamber has met with county planning staff to share our concerns regarding the potential impacts on housing, jobs, and infrastructure in addition to the lack of clarity regarding which elements of the CAP are aspirational or mandatory. The Chamber will provide public comment at the Board of Supervisors meeting and encourages Chamber members to also share their concerns regarding the CAP.
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Chamber Advocates for County Tax Modernization
The Chamber provided public testimony supporting Supervisor Barger's motion, Streamlining Assessment Appeals and Property Tax Corrections, at the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors meeting. Over the last two years, the Chamber has led the Property Tax Modernization Working Group. Due to its expertise and leadership, the working group has worked diligently to open the lines of communication with the County Assessor, County Auditor-Controller, County Treasurer-Tax Collector, and the Assessment Appeals Board. Supervisor Barger’s motion will contribute to significant progress forward.
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L.A. Area Chamber Shares Feedback on AI Policy
On April 10, the Chamber attended an informational meeting on Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy in California. The meeting provided a platform for business owners and other regional leaders to discuss AI and how policy will impact businesses who use it. The Chamber looks forward to monitoring and informing the business community on the ever-evolving AI landscape.
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Fair Work Week Cure Period
The Chamber joined the County Board of Supervisors meeting this week to express concern over the new Fair Work Week ordinance, particularly with regards to the lack of a two week cure period to allow businesses to correct scheduling issues before receiving a penalty. The Fair Work Week ordinance went into effect in April and requires employers to provide employees with a "good faith estimate" of their work schedule upon hiring. It also requires employers to pay employees who work a shift that begins less than 10 hours from the previous shift, one-and-a-half times the current pay rate.
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Don't Miss World Trade Week!
Don't miss the World Trade Week Kickoff Conference happening on May 1, in Long Beach. The event will feature an informative panel discussion on how to future ready global trade. The discussion will be moderated by Port of Long Beach COO and World Trade Week Chair Dr. Noel Hacegaba, and feature Amy Grat, Stephanie Hughes, Vince Iacopella with Alba Wheels Up and Dr. Nick Vyas with USC. Register here.
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Small Business Council
Join us for our next Small Business Council meeting on April 17 from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. for an exciting webinar with the California Department of General Services (DGS). This informative session will cover a variety of topics, including certification benefits and eligibility, understanding commercially useful functions and providing insights into the SB/DVBE Program. Register here.
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CalOSBA: Made in California Program Grant
The "Made in California Program," administered by the California Office of the Small Business Advocate, is currently open for applications. This grant aims to bolster the state's economy by promoting locally manufactured products. Eligible applicants have until April 22, 2024, to submit their proposals. An estimated award of $1,500,000 is anticipated. California residents are encouraged to apply and contribute to the growth of the local economy. For more details, please visit the California Grants Portal.
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Yard Transformation Rebates
Introducing the Yard Transformation Rebate to enhance your yard's sustainability, with an added bonus of rebates. Visit SaveOurWater.com now to see if you qualify and to learn more about transformation rebates. For more information in English, Spanish, Mandarin, or Korean, visit here.
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City of Los Angeles Makes Tax Filing Resources Available Ahead of IRS Deadline
Through a partnership with the White House, many California residents can use Direct File to file taxes online, for free, directly with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Angelenos who are income-eligible can also schedule free tax appointments at local libraries to get help preparing their tax returns. Visit directfile.irs.gov to check eligibility and start filing today. For more information, read the full release.
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COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
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Transportation & Goods Movement Council
Tuesday, April 23, 9:00 a.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT
Please join the Transportation and Goods Movement Council to hear from Kiana Valentine, Executive Director, Transportation California, on the Road Charge Program.
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Government & Fiscal Affairs Council
Tuesday, April 23, 10:00 a.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT
Join the Government & Fiscal Affairs Council to hear about upcoming ballot measures in the November election that may affect the broader business community.
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Land Use, Construction, & Housing Council and Transportation & Goods Movement Council Joint Briefing
Wednesday, April 24, 10:00 a.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT
Join the Land Use, Construction, and Housing Council for a joint session with the Transportation & Goods Movement Council to learn about the new Los Angeles SkyRail Express (SkyRail). SkyRail is a proposed monorail system and represents an approach to reducing traffic congestion and enhancing urban mobility. Special guests will include Mark Waier, Michael Hoghooghi and Girair Kotchian from SkyRail.
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Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
350 S. Bixel Street
Los Angeles, CA 90017
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