Los Angeles County Supervisor Representing Pasadena Criticizes Board Expansion Plan

Supervisor Kathryn Barger issued a statement Tuesday criticizing a plan to expand the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, shortly after her colleagues voted to place the measure on the November 2024 ballot.

“Bigger government doesn’t necessarily mean better government – but the matter will be in the public’s hands,” Barger said, responding to the Board’s vote to nearly double the Board’s size and create an elected County executive position.

Barger represents Pasadena and the 5th County Supervisorial district in the Board of Supervisors. She argued that the Board’s current issues stem from a lack of political will rather than its size. She cited the long-delayed closure of Men’s Central Jail as an example of bureaucratic gridlock.

“I believe we should concentrate on improving the transparency of our decision-making,” Barger stated. She said she plans to introduce a motion to create an ethics commission immediately, rather than waiting for the ballot measure.

The proposal, introduced by Supervisors Lindsey Horvath and Janice Hahn, would expand the Board from five to nine members following the 2030 census. Seven Supervisors would be elected in 2032, with two serving initial two-year terms, and full implementation by 2034.

The plan would also establish a directly elected County executive starting in 2028. This executive would have veto power over budget amendments made by the Board, subject to a potential override.

Under the plan, the County executive would assume most administrative powers currently held by the Board. This includes appointing department heads and preparing the annual budget, subject to Board approval.

The measure also proposes creating a County Legislative Analyst position and a Director of Budget and Management. It would require a 120-hour public posting period for non-urgency legislation before Board action.

Other proposed reforms include establishing an independent ethics commission and an Office of Ethics Compliance by 2026. The measure would require a two-year “revolving door” period before former officials can lobby the County and mandate public budget presentations by departments.

The proposal also includes authorizing suspension of elected County officers, including Board members, who are charged with felonies related to official duties. Additionally, it would establish a Charter Review Commission to meet at least once every ten years.

Proponents argue the changes will enhance representation and oversight in America’s most populous County. Critics, like Barger, question whether expanding the Board will address underlying governance issues.

The measure stipulates that implementation must use existing County funds without imposing new taxes. If approved by voters, a governance reform task force would oversee the transition, with full implementation targeted for late 2028.

Voters will have the final say on these significant changes to Los Angeles County’s structure when they go to the polls in November 2024.