City of Los Angeles Neighborhood Councils

Neighborhood Councils are the foundation of democratic, community-based planning in the City of Los Angeles. They are the first rung of City government, and a critical venue for public participation, consensus building and positive local change. Through a network of 90+ Neighborhood Councils, the City promotes public participation in government and works to improve government responsiveness to local concerns.

Working with Neighborhood Councils isn't always easy. Livable streets advocates are frequently surprised to hear the various perspectives that people bring: that a 1 or 2 minute delay in vehicle travel time through a neighborhood is more important that the safety of pedestrians trying to cross the street, that biking in Los Angeles is just too dangerous to take seriously, or that all people who ride bicycles should have a mandatory bicycle license.

While at times frustrating, these discussions are at the heart of a healthy community process. By design, Neighborhood Councils are the place for local debate, as well as inspiration and education. By attending or, even better, joining as a board member, livable streets advocates can bring new ideas to a Neighborhood Council and help more Angelinos realize the many benefits of creating a community where traffic is tame, and streets are safe for cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers.

The Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition takes an active role in Neighborhood Councils by sending our staff to make presentations at meetings and by encouraging our members and friends to attend meetings and join their local Neighborhood Council. Neighborhood Councils are a priority in our work because winning local, popular support is the first step towards meeting our goal to make the City of Los Angeles a safer, healthier and more bike-able city.

The following pages will help you find your Neighborhood Council, understand how it works and explain the various ways that you can bring great livable street ideas to your community through Neighborhood Councils:

About Neighborhood Councils
Find your Neighborhood Council