Topline:
L.A. Mayor Karen Bass delivered her State of the City. The speech was scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. Bass began speaking at about 6:15 p.m. and concluded her remarks about 45 minutes later.
Why now: The mayor addresses the city each year to discuss the overall state of finances and strategy.
Why it matters: Her speech comes just days after a new report from the city administrator found that raises negotiated between the mayor and city employee unions will add $1 billion to the city's yearly budget by 2028 if approved by the city council.
How to watchdog local government
The best way to keep tabs on your own local government is by attending public meetings for your city council or local boards. Here are a few tips to get you started.
- Find meeting schedules and agendas: City councils usually meet at least twice a month, although larger ones may meet weekly. Committees and boards tend to meet less often, typically once a month. You can find the schedule and meeting agenda on your local government’s website, or posted physically at your local city hall. Find more tips here.
