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With Nury Martinez Out Of Office, Her San Fernando Valley District Gets A Caretaker Instead
Faith, labor, immigrant and community members rally outside City Hall to denounce racism and demand change on October 11, 2022 in Los Angeles, California.
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Frederic J. Brown
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AFP via Getty Images
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Acting Council President Mitch O’Farrell has appointed the city’s office of the chief legislative analyst, which is led by Sharon Tso, to be the temporary caretaker of District 6 in the San Fernando Valley after the resignation of Nury Martinez.
Here's what you need to know:
How's That Going To Work
The chief legislative analyst's office typically helps the city analyze budgets and policies. You’ll see their work in the general election with the fiscal impact analysis on local propositions. Now, as a caretaker for this district, they’ll keep the wheels turning at the council office.
More on City Hall Tape Scandal
Oct. 9: Tape becomes public
Oct. 10: Martinez steps back as Council President
Oct. 11: Martinez announces she's taking a leave
Oct 12: Martinez resigns and California Attorney General launches investigation
Oct. 13: Calls continue for Cedillo and de León to quit
Oct. 19: Kevin de León says he won't resign from office
Explaining What's Going On So Far
“[It] basically entails… ensuring that the constituents of CD 6 will continue to receive service,” said Tso. “Having this office serve as caretaker is not an unusual event. It’s happened many times over the decades.”
The office won’t have voting powers on the council, but they’ll make sure the bills are paid and that staff gets support to address residents’ concerns. Tso’s responsible for the daily needs of the office. If there’s anything that requires policy action in District 6, she’d have to work with the council president.
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Caretaker roles are not unprecedented. Heather Hutt was appointed caretaker of District 10 when Mark Ridley-Thomas was suspended after being charged in a federal corruption case. She was appointed as a council member last month.
Who Signed Off On This?
O’Farrell. He’s able to make the appointment as acting council president without a confirmation from the broader council body. The caretaker stays until another councilmember fills the seat or they’re dismissed.
What About A Special Election?
A special election is required under the city charter because Martinez was elected through 2024, so O’Farrell says this is already being looked into. But it will be months before people can vote. In the meantime, Tso’s office could stay until then or an interim council member could be appointed.
About District 6
District 6
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Courtesy City of L.A.
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- Neighborhoods: Arleta, Van Nuys, Sun Valley, North Hollywood, Lake Balboa, North Hills and Panorama City
- Population: 261,114
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