‘Extreme Uncertainty’: Things Keep Getting Worse For LA’s Democratic Mayor
Story by Ireland Owens • 15h
After facing widespread criticism over her handling of the wildfires that ravaged southern California in January, Democratic Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is grappling with another crisis as her city faces a widening budget deficit.
The city’s administrative officer, Matt Szabo, warned during a March 19 city council meeting that Los Angeles is currently facing a budget deficit of nearly $1 billion dollars for fiscal year 2025-2026. The budget gap has largely been exacerbated by costly litigation, sizable pay raises for city employees and growing expenses related to wildfire relief.
Szabo said that Bass’ upcoming budget proposal, which will aim to save between $500 and $900 million, will close the deficit, but warned that it will require “extremely difficult cost-cutting decisions.” He added that the city’s growing budgetary problems may necessitate sweeping layoffs.
“We are not looking at dozens or even hundreds of layoffs, but thousands,” Szabo said. “While layoffs may be necessary, it cannot and will not be the only solution.”
“I can tell you that the mayor is absolutely committed to preserving as many jobs and city services as possible, as we face these economic headwinds,” Szabo added.
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