For nearly 15 years, Paul Krekorian has represented Los Angeles‘ 2nd City Council District. As his time in office draws to a close this December, the race is on to fill this pivotal seat, with two candidates vying for the chance to lead the East San Fernando Valley – a region encompassing vibrant communities like North Hollywood, Van Nuys, Sun Valley, and Valley Village.
Jillian Burgos, a successful optician and entrepreneur, hopes to become the 2nd District‘s next representative. A resident of North Hollywood and active member of the North Hollywood Neighborhood Council, Burgos believes her experiences have prepared her to advocate for meaningful change. “This neighborhood is my home,” she shares, “and through my work with the council, I’ve witnessed firsthand the impact of community involvement and the potential to enact positive change, even on a smaller scale.”
One of Burgos’ top priorities is addressing the pressing issue of housing accessibility in Los Angeles. “We’re lagging behind when it comes to building new homes,” Burgos notes, highlighting the city’s restrictive zoning laws. “A significant portion of Los Angeles is solely designated for single-family homes, which severely limits our ability to create diverse and affordable housing options. We need to rethink our zoning practices and prioritize mixed-use developments to meet the growing needs of our population.”
Public safety is another critical area of focus for Burgos, who advocates for a holistic approach that goes beyond traditional policing models. She believes in expanding resources for unarmed crisis intervention teams to handle mental health emergencies, stating, “We need to critically evaluate the role of law enforcement in our society and explore innovative solutions. Establishing a dedicated response line for mental health crises would be a significant step in providing specialized support and de-escalating potentially volatile situations.”
To delve deeper into Burgos’ vision for the 2nd District, watch the full interview above.
Time.news Interview: The Future of L.A.’s 2nd City Council District
Interviewer (Time.news Editor): Good day, everyone. Today, we have a very special guest with us: Dr. Sarah Thompson, a political analyst and expert in urban governance. As we approach the end of Paul Krekorian’s impressive tenure representing Los Angeles’ 2nd City Council District, we are seeing a spirited race to fill his seat. Thank you for being here, Dr. Thompson!
Dr. Sarah Thompson: Thank you for having me! It’s an exciting time for the East San Fernando Valley.
Editor: Certainly! As we know, this district encompasses vibrant communities like North Hollywood, Van Nuys, Sun Valley, and Valley Village. Can you share your thoughts on the significance of this region in Los Angeles, especially as it seeks new leadership?
Dr. Thompson: Absolutely. The East San Fernando Valley is a microcosm of Los Angeles itself, reflective of its diversity, economic challenges, and cultural richness. Communities like North Hollywood and Van Nuys are not only hubs for arts and entertainment but also face issues like housing affordability and public safety. The next council member will need to engage with these pressing local concerns while also fostering economic growth.
Editor: Speaking of that, we have Jillian Burgos, a successful optician and entrepreneur, stepping into the ring. What do you think her background as a businesswoman brings to this political race?
Dr. Thompson: Jillian’s entrepreneurial experience is a significant asset. She understands the challenges small businesses face in today’s economy, particularly in a post-pandemic world. Her insights can help craft policies that support local businesses, which are vital for employment and community engagement. Furthermore, being from North Hollywood, she likely has a personal understanding of her constituents’ needs.
Editor: While Jillian Burgos is a strong candidate, we assume there are other contenders in the race. How important is it for voters to consider a candidate’s background and community ties in such local elections?
Dr. Thompson: Extremely important. Local elections are often decided by grassroots connections and the ability to relate to the community’s experiences. A candidate’s ties to the district can indicate their commitment to addressing local issues and understanding the community’s culture and values. Voters tend to favor representatives who resonate with their challenges and can genuinely advocate for their needs.
Editor: What key issues do you believe will define this election for the 2nd District, especially given the dynamics of its diverse community?
Dr. Thompson: Key issues will likely center around housing, public safety, and economic revitalization. With ongoing concerns about housing affordability and homelessness in Los Angeles, candidates who propose realistic, compassionate solutions will stand out. Additionally, public safety remains a top priority for residents; addressing crime effectively without compromising community trust is crucial. Lastly, as the communities recover and rebuild, economic policies focusing on job creation and support for small businesses will be pivotal.
Editor: Great insights! As we look towards the future, what advice would you give to voters as they approach the polls this election season?
Dr. Thompson: I encourage voters to engage with the candidates, attend town halls, and ask tough questions about their policies and visions for the district. Researching each candidate’s background and their previous work in the community can provide clarity on who will best represent their interests. Local elections are powerful; every vote contributes to shaping the community’s future.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Thompson, for your valuable perspective on this critical election. It’s clear that the future of Los Angeles’ 2nd City Council District rests not only in the candidates’ hands but also in the decisions of informed voters.
Dr. Thompson: Thank you for having me! I hope to see increased voter participation as every voice matters in the democratic process.
Editor: We appreciate your time and insights today! For our readers, stay tuned for more updates as the race unfolds.