The Los Angeles City Council approved a $14-billion budget for 2025-26 that notably reduced funding for public safety initiatives proposed by Mayor Karen Bass, aiming to prevent layoffs of 1,000 city workers due to a nearly $1-billion budget deficit. The council's allocation allows hiring of only 240 LAPD officers and 58 fire department employees, significantly lower than Bass’ recommendations. Council members voiced concern about the implications of these cuts on public safety, particularly in the wake of recent emergencies, while debate arose around the funding of Bass's costly Inside Safe program aimed at homelessness.
"I just can't in good conscience vote for a budget that makes our city less safe, less physically sound and even less responsive to our constituents," said Park.
Rodriguez offered a similar message, saying the council should have shifted more money out of Inside Safe, Bass' signature program to address homelessness.
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