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LA councilmembers score an even easier ride — and you voted for it
Los Angeles voters appear to have approved Measure EE, an initiative that lets city council members meet once a week instead of three times. The opinion piece argues that the change may reduce residents’ access to their representatives and make an already struggling council less accountable.
The measure also includes other changes, such as strengthening oversight of the police and fire departments. Council members will continue to earn about a quarter of a million dollars a year; the article says some may use the extra time to work with residents, while others may not. It suggests the vote reflects dissatisfaction with the council rather than confidence in it.
In short
- Measure EE lets LA council members meet once a week.
- Council members’ salaries remain about $250,000 a year.
- The article warns reduced meetings may weaken public accountability.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Reducing council meetings from three a week to one could give members more time to work directly with residents, prepare for decisions and handle constituency matters, while keeping formal meetings focused. Measure EE also strengthens oversight of the police and fire departments, so voters may have seen it as a broader governance reform rather than simply a perk for elected officials.
The case against
Fewer meetings could make it harder for residents to raise concerns and scrutinise decisions, especially if the council is already struggling to respond effectively. Given council members’ substantial salaries, voters may reasonably expect frequent public engagement; without clear safeguards or evidence that members will use the extra time for residents’ needs, the change could weaken accountability.