Dear <<First Name>>,
This week, we broke ground on another affordable housing project in the 13th District - our second groundbreaking this month alone.
The project involves the adaptive reuse of the historic Hollywood Western building - a Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monument - from office space into 79 units of affordable, income restricted housing for seniors. Located across the street from LA Metro’s Hollywood / Western Station, as well as a nearby grocery store and other neighborhood-serving amenities, this project is the perfect example of the type of transit-oriented development that will result in reduced carbon emissions, while increasing our supply of affordable housing and preserving Los Angeles’ cultural history - goals that aren’t mutually exclusive.
In the 13th District, we are breaking down regulatory barriers  for affordable housing developers; helping projects to secure financing; and building coalitions with community partners.
This takes time, effort and is by no means easy but the results speak for themselves: in the 13th District, more than 4,000 units of affordable and permanent supportive housing have been completed, are under construction, approved or financed since I took office in 2013 - more than any area outside of Downtown Los Angeles.
Simply put, the 13th District is leading the way and continuing to set an example for the rest of the City.
I’m thankful to our partners who worked with us to make this project a reality, including the developer - ABS Properties; Los Angeles City Planning’s Office of Historic Resources, whose work ensures that this majestic piece of architecture will continue to be appreciated and enjoyed by future generations of Angelenos; and the People Concern, which will provide wrap-around services to the building’s future residents so that our seniors can age in place, with a more secure future.
If you would like to learn more about these City-leading efforts, please contact our team.
Be safe and well,
MITCH O'FARRELL
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Iconic building reborn as housing for seniors [Beverly Press]
Micheltorena Stairs Mural restored by original artists after vandalism [mynewsLA]
LA City Council calls for state to pass gun control bill [Spectrum]
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TEAM MITCH MAKING A DIFFERENCE
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ATWATER VILLAGE - Our team regularly partners with Los Angeles Sanitation to address hotspots for illegal dumping and other quality of life issues. This week, we identified a stretch along Colorado Street, removing trash, large items and other debris. If you know of an area in need of service, please contact us at (213) 207-3015.
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THE MICHELTORENA STAIRWAY MURAL IS BACK!
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SILVER LAKE - When Team Mitch learned last month about the unfortunate white washing and vandalism of the Micheltorena stairway mural, we immediately leapt into action and contacted Carla O'Brien, one of the stairway mural's original artists, to restore this beloved piece as soon as possible. On Thursday, we partnered with Carla, the Silver Lake Improvement Association and volunteers to fulfill this promise. As you enjoy your Memorial Day Holiday, be sure to check out "Stair Candy."
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SAFETY ON SUNSET BUSINESS WATCH
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SILVER LAKE - Running a small business is never easy and, during the pandemic, it got even harder. On Monday, Councilmember O'Farell joined small business owners to launch "SAFETY ON SUNSET," a public awareness campaign that will enhance public safety along this beloved commercial corridor by equipping owners with resources and information needed to address everyday challenges. Participation in the program is simple - put up one of our "Safety on Sunset " posters in your storefront, or keep a flyer handy for your employees and patrons. Please contact our team to learn more.
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LA RIVER RECREATION ZONES OPEN MAY 30
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LOS ANGELES RIVER - Starting Memorial Day, the Los Angeles River Recreation Zones in Elysian Valley and the Sepulveda Basin will reopen for their summer season. Passive and active recreation opportunities, like kayaking, will be permitted along the River until September 30, from sunrise to sunset. Be sure to follow all health and safety guidelines.
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STAY CAFFEINATED AT CAFÉ AMERICANO
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GREATER WILSHIRE - As we continue our celebration of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we’re excited to highlight Café Americano, a beloved local business where you can grab your morning cup of coffee, gather with friends or get some work done. One of the 13th District’s many Korean-American owned businesses, they aren't just known for their coffee - try their Misutgaru smoothies and delicious Banana Mocha ice-blended drinks. Thank you Café Americano for calling the 13th District home and all you do to add to the local economy.
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CONNECTING LOCAL SENIORS WITH RESOURCES
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HOLLYWOOD - On Monday, Councilmember O'Farrell and Team Mitch met with Korean-American seniors to connect them with City resources from the Department of Aging and share more about our own efforts to support this important community. This includes senior meal assistance, new senior centers, fitness opportunities and more! If you are a senior or know a senior in need of assistance, please contact our team at (213) 207-3015.
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MEMORIAL DAY HOLIDAY HOURS
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CITY HALL - As we observe Memorial Day and remember everyone who served our country and paid the ultimate sacrifice, our offices will be closed on Monday, May 30. We will resume normal hours on Tuesday, May 31.
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