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Serving the San Fernando Valley cities of Los Angeles, Burbank, Glendale, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, San Fernando, and Santa Clarita
Valley Industry & Commerce Association || vica.com
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- VICA Hosts After Dark with LA Sanitation Director-GM Barbara Romero
- VICA's Week of Advocacy
- VICA Celebrates Signed Legislation
- VICA Takes on November Ballot Measures
- Tell Us Your Legislative Priorities
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"In these policy discussions, the business perspective is really important - not just what people don't like, but what would work and be feasible. That kind of input validates our actions or helps us look at things from a different angle."
L.A. Sanitation and Environment Director and General Manager Barbara Romero
Statement Made During After Dark Event
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VICA Hosts After Dark with L.A. Sanitation Director-General Manager Barbara Romero | |
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On Thursday, VICA hosted its After Dark event at the Anheuser-Busch brewery, featuring L.A. Sanitation and Environment Director and General Manager Barbara Romero. During the event, Romero provided an overview of the department’s evolution, explaining how it has expanded from traditional waste management to addressing broader environmental and city issues, with a focus on resource management and sustainability.
Romero also discussed future programs related to wastewater management, including a new fee program requested by the City Council that is expected to be introduced next year. She highlighted the challenges of managing organic waste in L.A. and the department’s ongoing efforts to reduce costs while maintaining leadership in organic resource creation.
Additionally, Romero emphasized the importance of engaging the business community in policy discussions, noting that business input helps improve city operations and validate the city’s actions. She also addressed the department’s work on homelessness-related issues, including homeless encampment cleanups and addressing illegal dumping.
VICA would like to thank our host and presenting sponsor, Anheuser-Busch, and our presenting sponsor, Theodore Payne Foundation for their support.
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VICA Advocates at the Local Level | |
This week, VICA participated in key advocacy efforts at the local and state levels, addressing issues that impact businesses in Los Angeles. | |
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LA City: Special Meeting at Trade, Travel, and Tourism Cancelled
VICA has been actively notifying members and the business community of the LA City Trade, Travel, and Tourism committee's proposed motion to increase hotel and tourism wage increases. With overwhelming input from the business community and VICA, the meeting was canceled at the last minute, giving the business community a small victory in delaying the proposal.
VICA continues to oppose this drastic wage hike, as it threatens to cripple small and family-owned hotels that are still struggling post-pandemic. The proposed 66% wage increase and additional mandates would result in significant job losses and negatively impact the broader tourism economy.
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LA County: VICA Voices Support for Proposition 36
On Tuesday, VICA actively supported Proposition 36 at the LA County Board of Supervisors meeting, where the board ultimately voted to oppose the measure.
Proposition 36, which aims to enhance public safety by addressing drug addiction and organized theft, is crucial for businesses impacted by repeat offenders and organized theft groups.
VICA supports this initiative as it restores harsher penalties for repeat offenders and invests in rehabilitation programs, benefiting both public safety and the business community.
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VICA Advocates During CA Legislature Special Session
Ahead of the first vote of the special session on the Assembly’s proposal to regulate the oil industry, VICA submitted a letter opposing ABX2-1 (Hart), which would authorize the state to mandate minimum fuel inventories for oil refiners.
VICA firmly opposes ABX2-1, citing the potential for fuel shortages and increased consumer costs, which could negatively impact California's economy. With floor votes set for October 1st, VICA will continue to advocate against the bill, working to protect businesses and consumers from these potential risks.
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VICA will continue to advocate on behalf of businesses, ensuring their interests are represented in ongoing policy discussions. Stay informed as we work on solutions that benefit the broader business environment. | |
VICA Secures Legislative Wins with Governor's Signature | |
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VICA is pleased to report that Governor Gavin Newsom has signed several of our supported legislation.
AB 1820 (Schiavo): Housing Development Projects: Applications: Fees and Exactions
AB 1820 addresses the fees and exactions imposed on housing development projects, aiming to streamline the application process and reduce unnecessary financial burdens on developers. This measure promotes housing production by ensuring fair and transparent fee structures.
AB 761 (Friedman): Local Finance: Enhanced Infrastructure Financing Districts
AB 761 focuses on enhancing the financing mechanisms for local governments through Infrastructure Financing Districts (IFDs). This bill allows cities and counties to better fund public infrastructure projects, such as transportation and housing, without increasing taxes on residents.
SB 1420 (Caballero): Hydrogen Production Facilities: Certification and Environmental Review
SB 1420 establishes a framework for the certification and environmental review of hydrogen production facilities in California. By streamlining regulatory processes, SB 1420 helps accelerate the development of hydrogen as a clean energy source.
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We still need the Governor to Act on the following legislative measures.
Urge the Governor to Sign:
- AB1575 (Irwin): Public postsecondary education: students codes of conduct: advisers.
- SB1119 (Newman): Hospitals: seismic compliance.
- SB1447 (Durazo): Hospitals: seismic compliance: Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.
Urge the Governor to Veto:
- SB1103 (Menjivar): Tenancy of commercial real properties: agreements: building operating costs.
- AB2738 (L. Rivas): Labor Code: alternative enforcement: occupational safety.
- AB2286 (Aguiar-Curry): Vehicles: autonomous vehicles.
We will update you on our legislative efforts as the September 30 deadline for the Governor’s decisions approaches. Stay tuned for further updates.
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VICA Wants to Know Your Legislative Priorities | |
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It's always important to ask what the next legislative session's agenda might look like and how that affects your business and the greater San Fernando Valley-Los Angeles business community.
VICA will begin discussing next year's legislative priorities beginning in September through November, and we want to know the priorities important to you. Please click the "Voice Your Priorities" button below to communicate your ideas and priorities to our Legislative Affairs team!
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VICA Thanks Our Renewing & New Members | | |
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Bronze Members:
Renewing Members:
New Members:
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Vivian Campbell
Founder
Vivian Campbell Consulting
Vivian Campbell is a recognized leader in the hospitality industry with over 20 years of experience in hospitality management, hotel openings, and customer service training. As the founder of Vivian Campbell Consulting, established in 2009, she leverages her extensive background with some of the world’s leading hotel brands to deliver actionable insights that drive success for her clients.
Vivian’s expertise lies in team development, revenue generation, and elevating guest experiences. She has a proven track record of building dynamic teams, enhancing client satisfaction, and guiding organizations through successful hotel openings, including the W Hollywood and the LINE hotel.
As an experienced speaker and trainer, Vivian addresses key topics such as leadership, communication, teamwork, and mindset, equipping teams to perform at their highest levels. Her training programs focus on empowering individuals with the skills and mindset needed to drive success, while fostering strong, collaborative work environments.
Her client-focused approach is built on a deep understanding of the unique needs of every project, from investors to employees, making her consulting services highly adaptable and results-driven. Vivian is known for her ability to develop tailored solutions that prioritize both operational efficiency and superior service.
A Los Angeles native, Vivian is deeply involved in her community, having served in leadership roles with several organizations including the Los Angeles Junior Chamber of Commerce, the LA Area Chamber, and LA's Best Friends
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Land Use Committee Meeting
October 8 | 8:30AM to 10:30AM
The Garland
RSVPRSVP
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Aviation Committee Meeting
October 15 | Noon to 2:00PM
VICA Office
RSVP
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Government Affairs Committee Meeting
October 16 | Noon to 2:00PM
VICA Office
RSVP
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VICA's November 2024 Voter Guide | |
Proposition 2 (Authorizes Bond for Public School and Community College) | | |
Proposition 4 (Parks, Environment, Energy, and Water Bond) | | |
Proposition 34 (Restrictions on Spending of Prescription Drug Revenues) | | |
Proposition 35 (Permanent Funding for Medi-Cal Health Care Services, MCO Tax) | | |
Proposition 36 (Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act) | | |
LA City: Measure DD: Independent Redistricting Commission | | |
LAUSD: Measure LL: Independent Redistricting Commission | | |
LA County: Measure E: Consolidated Fire Protection District | | |
Burbank Unified School District: Measure ABC Bond | | |
Glendale Community College District: Measure GCC Bond | | |
LA County: Measure A (Housing and Homelessness Prevention Transaction and Use Tax) | | |
Proposition 5 (Lower Supermajority Requirement for Local Special Taxes to Fund Housing & Public Infrastructure) | | |
Proposition 32 (Minimum Wage Initiative) | | |
Proposition 33 (Prohibits State Limitations on Local Rent Control) | | |
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Our 36th Annual Business Forecast Conference continues to attract nationally recognized experts on our region's dynamic economy. This forecast will help our business leaders plan for our challenges in 2024.
VICA thanks our Presenting Sponsors, Wells Fargo and The Garland.
See below for more information on two of this year's panels!
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Panel: Elections
Titled: "Changes" - David Bowie
What trends are defining the current political climate, and how will the upcoming elections influence California's future? How can voter engagement and participation be increased, particularly among underrepresented communities? What impact might the changing demographics have on California's political landscape in the coming years?
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Panelists
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Matthew Klink, Partner, California Strategies
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Rusty Hicks, Chair, California Democratic Party
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Will Swaim, President, California Policy Center
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Dr. Pooya Safarzadeh, Associate Professor in Political Science; California State University, Northridge
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Panel: Taxation
Titled: "Money" - Pink Floyd
What challenges and opportunities are presented by the current tax environment, and how will future legislation impact the state's economy? How can California balance its progressive tax policies with the need to retain businesses and high-income residents? What innovative tax strategies could help address income inequality while promoting economic growth?
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Panelists
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Jon Coupal, President, Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association
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Antonio Vazquez, Board Member, California State Board of Equalization
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Steve Bradford, California State Senator
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Jordan Barry, Vice Dean of Faculty, Professor of Law & Taxation, USC
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Harris-Dawson Takes Reins as L.A. City Council President
Marqueece Harris-Dawson was sworn in as the new Los Angeles City Council president on Sept. 20, succeeding Paul Krekorian. Harris-Dawson, representing the 8th District, emphasized tackling homelessness, affordable housing, and supporting law enforcement. He plans to audit homelessness programs for efficiency and scale unarmed responses for mental health crises. Harris-Dawson also highlighted preparing for the 2028 Olympics, aiming to showcase L.A.’s diversity. Mayor Karen Bass praised him as a strong advocate for social justice.
Read more here.
Cal State Campuses Brace for ‘Severe Consequences’ as Budget Gap Looms
California State University is bracing for state spending cuts of up to $400 million next year, which could severely impact enrollment, employee raises, and services that boost graduation rates. The cuts may result in layoffs, larger class sizes, and reduced student support services. Although CSU had tuition hikes and extra state support, the system still faces a budget gap. Campus officials stress that these cuts jeopardize educational quality and faculty retention. Read more here.
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Senate Sends Bill to Avert Government Shutdown to Biden’s Desk
The Senate passed a stopgap funding bill, avoiding a government shutdown and extending funding through mid-December. The bill advanced with bipartisan support after Speaker Mike Johnson’s original six-month proposal, which included a controversial voter ID provision, failed. While the bill averts an immediate shutdown, it excludes relief for recent natural disasters, drawing criticism. Lawmakers now face another funding battle during the holiday season, with differing views on long-term budget solutions. Read more here.
Newsom Signs Bills to Close Inglewood Oil Field and Increase Fines on Idle Wells
Governor Gavin Newsom signed bills aimed at phasing out the Inglewood Oil Field by 2030 and raising fees for cleaning up California's 40,000 idle oil wells. The legislation also strengthens local authority to regulate oil and gas operations. Critics argue the new laws will burden consumers, while environmental advocates applaud them as victories for public health and clean energy. Newsom emphasized the state's efforts to hold the fossil fuel industry accountable. Read more here.
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Get Your Message in VICA Weekly!
VICA members can promote their business, events and news in VICA Weekly. Member messages are available for $50 per week or $175 for four weeks. Messages are text-based and may not contain more than 70 words. A logo may be added for an additional $5 per week. For more information or to schedule your member message, contact yoko@vica.com or call (818) 817-0545.
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ABOUT VICA
Presenting the business perspective on behalf of employers in the
San Fernando Valley cities of Los Angeles, Burbank, Glendale, Calabasas,
Hidden Hills, San Fernando and Santa Clarita.
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