L.A. City Council Approves $15 Billion Budget, Plans to Hire 510 Police Officers
The Los Angeles City Council has approved a $15 billion budget for the fiscal year 2026-27, which includes a plan to hire 510 new police officers. This decision aims to address the reduction in the Los Angeles Police Department's workforce, which is expected to decrease to 8,555 officers by June 2027, down from approximately 10,000 in 2020. The budget, proposed by Mayor Karen Bass, was passed with a 12 to 1 vote, with Councilmember Traci Park opposing due to concerns about underfunding the fire department and reducing homeless encampment cleanups. The budget also allocates funds for sidewalk repairs, tree trimming, and unarmed crisis response teams, while setting aside money for potential emergencies. Additionally, the council plans to revisit firefighter staffing after a sales tax increase proposal is voted on in November.