Thanks to all of you who attended the first in the series of publichearings on DWP reform that I am leading. Video and audio of the meeting will be posted here soon for you to review and comment on.
I was impressed by the turnout and by the quality and thoughtfulness of the comments. These hearings are being held to shape an agenda of real DWP reform to increase transparency and accountability and ensure DWP customers are the agency's top priority.
More than 100 people joined me and Councilmembers Smith, Perry and Wesson in Northridge on Wednesday to hear about the DWP watchdog and budget reform amendments to the City Charter that I am putting on the March 2011 ballot, in addition to other proposals. Dozens of people offered their informed thoughts on how those amendments should bedrafted. Much of the input centered on what the DWP watchdog'sjurisdiction would be, how it would fit within the city's leadership, and what it should be looking out for.
The next hearing is in Mar Vista on September 16th. Stay tuned for more information and updates, and please post your thoughts on DWP reform. I called for these hearings to gather official public comment-- on-the-record -- to help shape the actual drafting of these ballot measures. True reform can only be accomplished by making sure the people of Los Angeles have a seat at the table, so I welcome you to join us.