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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 Business Forecast Conference
- VICA Speaks at City Council Committee
- VICA Board Endorses Ballot Measures
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"We believe that the economic benefits and goodwill will come back to the community through small businesses and buying locally. All of those things I think are really important for us as we think about how we can build and deliver the Games for the nation and the world."
Reynold Hoover, CEO LA28
BFC Keynote Speech
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VICA Hosts 36th Annual Business Forecast Conference | |
BFC Photo Credit: Photography by Zarek | |
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On October 18, VICA hosted its Annual Business Forecast Conference, bringing together leaders from business, government, and the community to explore key issues impacting Southern California’s economy. The success of this event was made possible by the support of our sponsors, including our Presenting Sponsor Wells Fargo and our Co-Sponsors The Garland and the Los Angeles Daily News.
Throughout the day, attendees participated in a series of engaging panel discussions covering a wide range of topics, including energy and transportation, housing and healthcare, sports and tourism, AI and workforce development, elections, and taxation. Industry experts and policymakers shared insights on emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities that will shape the future of the region.
The event provided an invaluable platform for dialogue and collaboration, offering participants the chance to connect, share ideas, and explore solutions to the most pressing economic issues. The conference concluded with a keynote address that highlighted the importance of community engagement and the potential for Los Angeles to thrive as a hub for innovation and growth.
VICA extends its gratitude to all participants, panelists, and sponsors for contributing to the success of this year’s conference and looks forward to continuing these important conversations in the future.
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Thank you to our Luncheon Sponsors! | |
From left to right: VICA Chairman Lupita Sanchez Cornejo (AT&T), Reynold Hoover (LA28), Maria Ventura (SoCalGas), Lisa Pitney (The Walt Disney Company), Olivia Lee (Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling), Judy Johnson (Jacobs), and Lizabeth Da Broy (US Bank) | |
VICA Advocates for Business in $30 per hour Wage Debate | |
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On Wednesday, VICA spoke before the LA City Council Economic Community Development and Jobs Committee to express opposition to the proposal of advancing the CLA's recommendations on the Hospitality and Tourism Minimum Wage Ordinance. VICA stressed the need for greater community input and the inclusion of carve-outs to protect small businesses and hotel operators. Unfortunately, the room was heavily filled with union supporters, and the business community did not have a strong enough presence at the meeting. As a result, the motion saw a near-unanimous approval.
Councilmember Imelda Padilla did request a separate vote on several items she opposed. However, her concerns were outweighed by the four other committee members, who voted in favor. Ultimately, all five council members supported the remaining provisions in the CLA report, allowing the recommendations to move forward to the full City Council for consideration.
VICA will continue to monitor and engage on this issue, as it is crucial to protect the interests of the hospitality and tourism sectors, especially with major upcoming events that will significantly impact the region. We remain committed to advocating for a balanced approach that considers the needs of small businesses.
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VICA's November 2024 Voter Guide | |
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The VICA Board of Directors has taken the following positions for the
November 5 Ballot Measures
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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 | | |
LA City: Measure HH: City Appointments, Elections, and Governance Charter Amendment | | |
LAUSD: Measure LL: Independent Redistricting Commission for LAUSD | | |
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) | | |
The VICA PAC Committee has made the following endorsements: | |
LA City Council, District 2 |
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To access VICA's 2024 Voter Guide, click the link below. | |
Stay informed and empowered with VICA’s Government Handbook, proudly sponsored by Clay Lacy Aviation and The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. This essential resource provides key insights into legislative processes at all levels, helping businesses, advocates, and community members navigate the complexities of government. With the latest updates and tools, it’s your guide to making an impact in the San Fernando Valley and beyond. | |
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John Ackerman
Chief Executive Officer
Los Angeles World Airport
October 30
5:30 to 7:30 PM
at the Airtel Plaza Hotel
7277 Valjean Avenue
Van Nuys, CA
John Ackerman is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) and has oversight of Los Angeles International (LAX) and Van Nuys (VNY) airports.
Ackerman has over 30 years of experience in the aviation industry. He most recently served as Executive Vice President of Global Strategy and Development for Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), where he was part of the team that expanded the organization’s global footprint by driving the first-ever cargo strategy — a multi-year program focused on Asia-Latin America trade flows. His team also designed and launched the first online parking system with dynamic pricing offered at a U.S. airport and grew the business to be DFW’s largest source of earnings.
Thank you to our presenting and host sponsor Airtel Plaza Hotel, presenting sponsors Clay Lacy Aviation, The Garland, Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield, Suffolk Construction, and ZGF, and our co-sponsors Kinkisharyo, LA Rams, and Van Nuys Airport.
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LA City Council Candidate Says 'F- the Police' in Leaked Audio
Los Angeles City Council candidate Ysabel Jurado faces backlash after saying "F- the police" during a meeting at Cal State L.A. Her opponent, Kevin de León, criticized her remarks, emphasizing public safety. Jurado defended her words as a reference to systemic injustice, while police advisory board members plan to demand a formal apology. The controversy emerges amid tensions surrounding the Nov. 5 election. Read more.
California Gas Prices Could Rise Under a New Policy Change
California's Air Resources Board will vote on November 8 to update the state’s low carbon fuel standard, aiming to improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions by promoting alternative fuels like electricity and renewable diesel. However, Assemblyman James Gallagher warns the policy could raise gas prices by up to 50 cents per gallon. While the board clarified it doesn’t control pump prices, Gallagher criticized the lack of transparency on the impact this change could have on consumers. Read more.
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US Home Sales Fall to Slowest Pace Since Great Recession’s Crash
Sales of previously occupied U.S. homes fell 1% in September, reaching a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.84 million — the slowest pace since October 2010. Sales are down 3.5% from last year and missed economists' expectations of 3.9 million. Despite slowing sales, home prices rose for the 15th consecutive month, with the median price hitting $404,500. Rising mortgage rates and increased inventory are impacting the market, with unsold homes up 23% from last year. Read more.
Phillips 66 Closing Its LA Harbor-Area Refinery; More Than 600 Jobs at Risk
Phillips 66 will close its Los Angeles-area refinery in late 2025, affecting 600 employees and 300 contractors. The refinery, spanning Wilmington and Carson, faces uncertainty due to low profitability and shifting market dynamics. Phillips 66 plans to explore redevelopment options with local firms. While officials aim to assist displaced workers, community members express mixed feelings about the closure, balancing nostalgia with hopes for new economic opportunities. Environmental advocates raised concerns about future uses of the site. Read more.
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VICA Thanks Our New and Renewing Members | | |
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Gold Member:
Renewing Members:
New Members:
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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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