Los Angeles may be poised for a significant shift in its form of government, moving away from a system described as a “feudal system” controlled by Wall Street and towards a more democratic structure. The proposed reform, initially dubbed the “3/15/45 Plan,” has been renamed the “Everybody Gets a Say Plan” to better reflect its core goal: increasing the power and voice of residents in how the city is run.
A Shift in Power Dynamics
Currently, Los Angeles operates with fifteen council districts, each represented by a single councilmember. This structure, according to analysis, allows for a concentration of power where individual councilmembers can easily disregard constituents who disagree with their financial backers. The Everybody Gets a Say Plan proposes electing three councilpersons per district, each with a vote, to ensure broader representation.
With three elected officials representing each district, residents are more likely to find an advocate who will listen to their concerns. The plan aims to break the influence of Wall Street developers, who have been described as the primary decision-makers in the city. If implemented, the plan could lead to increased funding for essential services like the Fire Department, parks, and infrastructure.
Concerns Over Current System
The current system has been linked to a number of issues, including approximately three major water main breaks per week, alleged corruption within the Department of Water and Power (DWP), concerns about animal cruelty at LA No Kill Shelters, and the poor condition of city sidewalks. These problems, it is argued, stem from a system where financial interests outweigh the needs of residents.
The Charter Reform Commission has not yet provided a comprehensive analysis of the 3/15/45 Plan, now known as the Everybody Gets a Say Plan. Advocates believe that focusing on the plan’s core principle – providing more Angelenos a voice – will be key to its success.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Everybody Gets a Say Plan?
The Everybody Gets a Say Plan is a proposed reform to the Los Angeles City Council that would elect three councilpersons per district, each with a vote.
Why was the name changed from the 3/15/45 Plan?
The name was changed given that it was believed the original name did not reflect the plan’s core purpose: to increase the voices and power of residents.
What problems is the Everybody Gets a Say Plan intended to address?
The plan is intended to address issues stemming from a system where one councilperson per district has total power and can easily ignore constituents who displease their financial backers.
As Los Angeles considers this potential shift in governance, will residents prioritize a system that aims to amplify diverse voices and challenge the influence of established financial interests?
