History
For over a century, East LA—an unincorporated area in Los Angeles County with a large Latino population—has repeatedly sought greater local control and political representation, often through efforts to incorporate as its own city. Attempts in 1961, 1963, 1974, and again in 2012 sought to set up independent city governance. In each of these cases, studies or votes found that East LA did not have the fiscal base (in revenue versus cost of services) to support all the public services a city must provide without imposing onerous taxes or suffering service shortfalls. Alongside cityhood efforts, there has also been rising local demand for more transparency, better service delivery from the county, and governance structures that allow residents to have more voice in decisions that affect their daily lives.
Most recently, under pressure from both community advocates and county supervisors (notably Hilda Solis), the Los Angeles County Chief Executive Office conducted a new fiscal feasibility study. The study concluded that East LA would face a nearly $28 million annual deficit if it incorporated as a city—because the cost of transferring services and covering infrastructure and government operations would significantly exceed projected revenues. As a result, the report deemed cityhood “not feasible at this time.” Instead, the CEO recommends forming a Municipal Advisory Committee (MAC) or Town Council to offer East LA residents a more direct advisory role with County governance, with better community input and representation.
What is a MAC?
A Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) is a community-based body that advises county or city officials on local issues such as planning, public safety, infrastructure, and community services. Typically made up of residents who are either elected or appointed, a MAC provides a formal way for local voices to influence decisions that affect their area—especially in unincorporated communities that lack their own city government. The council meets regularly to discuss neighborhood priorities, share community concerns, and make recommendations to policymakers, helping bridge the gap between residents and local government.
Key Questions
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Local advisory councils often address planning and zoning, community arts and culture, public safety, parks and libraries, infrastructure, and budget matters. These areas shape how neighborhoods grow, stay safe, and thrive.
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Councils can either report formally to a Town Council or operate independently. Membership can be chosen by election, appointment, or both — and might represent specific geographic areas. Terms, residency rules, and even reserved seats for youth can shape who gets a voice. Some councils dissolve when an elected official’s term ends.
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Councils can be small or large, with officers or co-chairs. Members may serve as volunteers or receive small stipends. Recognition, training, and support can make service more rewarding and effective.
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Regular meetings keep councils active and responsive. Subcommittees can focus on specific issues. Clear agendas, open discussion, and opportunities for public input build trust. Some councils publish meeting records or formal community impact statements to share decisions publicly.
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Item descriptionCouncils differ in their authority and resources. Some manage small budgets or advise on spending priorities; others receive staff support or training to strengthen their input. They may report to a supervisor, planning commission, or council office — and may be authorized to speak for their community in broader forums.