|
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
| |
- VICA Newsmaker Connection: Boeing: From Deep Sea to Deep Space
- VICA Victory! City Council Approves Harvard-Westlake River Park Project
- VICA Advocates Against Council Rent Freeze Ordinance
- VICA Board Supports Prop 1
- VICA's 2024 Board of Directors and Executive Committee
- VICA Wants to Know Your Legislative Priorities for 2024
- In Memory of Robert Philibosian
| |
|
Quick Jump - Register to Attend!
| | |
|
"Fixing this freeway is critical to restoring the movements of people and goods in the third-largest metropolitan economy in the world. With President Biden's support to rebuild critical infrastructure, California is leveraging an all-of-government approach to fix the 10 as quickly as possible so we can get LA's traffic moving safely."
Governor Gavin Newsom
Statement on mobilizing agency efforts to expedite the rebuilding of the I-10 Freeway
| |
VICA Hosts Boeing Newsmaker Event: From Deep Sea to Deep Space | |
|
On Monday, VICA hosted a Newsmaker Connection with Boeing, who presented From Deep Sea to Deep Space: How Boeing is Driving Innovation in California.
With a rich legacy spanning over 100 years, Boeing has established itself as a cornerstone in the global aerospace industry. In Los Angeles County, the company's influence boasts a workforce of 13,600 employees while supporting a retired workforce of 34,000. Boeing's economic impact is direct and ripples throughout the community, contributing significantly to the region's vitality.
The aerospace giant has strategically positioned itself across various facilities both in the County and throughout the state, with sites in El Segundo, Long Beach, Seal Beach, Sylmar, Palmdale, and Mountain View to name a few.
Human capital is a key asset for Boeing, with the company investing in its workforce through training, mentorships, and leadership development programs. With a competitive starting salary, Boeing strives to attract and retain top talent, recognizing the importance of a skilled and motivated workforce.
Boeing's engagement in charitable giving is structured around supporting future innovators, covering educational needs from early learning to skillset preparation. Additionally, Boeing extends its support to veterans and their families, focusing on recovery programs and workforce training.
Looking to the future, Boeing envisions job growth through a multifaceted approach, including diversifying their workforce while also taking steps to get students involved in the STEM field in their early educational career.
Boeing's impact on Los Angeles County extends beyond economic contributions, encapsulating a commitment to sustainability, education, and community engagement.
| |
VICA Victory! LA City Council Unanimously Supports Harvard-Westlake River Park Project | |
|
On Tuesday, VICA participated in the Los Angeles City Council meeting to express our support during the final stage of the approval process for the Harvard-Westlake River Park project.
Following six years of collaborative efforts within the community and coordination with various city departments, the Los Angeles City Council unanimously voted to approve the River Park project in the Studio City area.
The redevelopment of the 17-acre Weddington Golf and Tennis facility, acquired by Harvard-Westlake in 2017, is set to transform into a state-of-the-art athletic facility benefiting both students and the community. The River Park project will replace the current facilities with eight tennis courts and two soccer fields, in addition to a running track, gym, pool, walking path, and public plaza.
Beyond catering to Harvard-Westlake students, the River Park will be accessible to the public from sunrise to sundown. Moreover, numerous athletic facilities will be open for use by nonprofit organizations, including the Boys and Girls Club of Burbank and East San Fernando Valley, Angel City Sports, and the Fernandeño Tatviam Band of Mission Indians, among others.
The development promises significant environmental advantages, such as substantial water savings, an increased number of trees offering more shade and capturing more carbon dioxide than the current site, and native landscaping that will serve as a superior habitat for wildlife and birds.
VICA takes pride in supporting Harvard-Westlake throughout this transformative journey and eagerly anticipates the positive impacts that their forthcoming development will bring to the Studio City community.
| |
VICA Advocates Against Rent Increase Restrictions at City Hall | |
|
On Tuesday, VICA called in to the Los Angeles City Council meeting to voice our opposition to the Council's proposed motion to place restrictions on increasing rental rates for rental units under the Rent Stabilization Ordinance.
We are approaching the end of the pandemic-era rent freeze on January 31, 2024, and VICA stood firmly opposed to the proposed Rent Freeze ordinance before the Los Angeles City Council, emphasizing the need to consider its impact on property owners.
Over the past three years, property owners have faced undue burdens. Placing further restrictions — such as the proposed Rent Freeze ordinance — would compound existing challenges by impeding property owners' capacity to maintain and improve their properties, thus negatively affecting housing quality for residents.
Examining the amended plan, which limits rent increases to a maximum of 4% (or 6%, if housing providers cover gas and electrical costs), rather than an all out ban on rent increases, VICA stressed the importance of advocating for policies that sustain the vibrancy of the housing market. Rental limitations like the one being considered could hinder landlords' effective property management, potentially harming the financial stability of housing providers.
With VICA and a chorus of others voicing their opposition to the proposal and similar rental initiatives, the City Council voted to pass the motion 12-2.
VICA will continue to advocate for policies that foster a thriving housing market, encourage property investment and development, and contribute to the wellbeing of our communities.
| |
VICA Board of Directors Support Prop 1, The Behavioral Health Infrastructure Bond Act of 2023 | |
 | |
On Wednesday, VICA's Board of Directors voted to support Proposition 1, The Behavioral Health Infrastructure Bond Act of 2023, which is designed to overhaul the state's behavioral health system. Prop 1 will be on the March 2024 Ballot.
Proposition 1 marks a significant step in addressing the evolving landscape in which mental health issues have become intricately linked to substance abuse disorders. Governor Newsom's reforms, which were present in AB 531 and SB 326 and consolidated under Prop 1, expand California's ability and scope to include both mental health services and substance use disorders under the same umbrella, allowing severe cases to be addressed while transitioning those individuals into holistic care.
Proposition 1 would allocate $6.4 billion in funds for the construction, expansion, and renovation of treatment facilities, supportive housing units, and outpatient services. The proposed bond issuance would lead to 11,150 additional treatment beds and housing units, providing the aforementioned care to approximately 27,000 individuals.
Notably, $1 billion from existing funds would be used to support various services and programs within the health system. This allocation includes significant amounts for permanent supportive housing for homeless veterans and grants toward behavioral health treatments and accommodations.
Proposition 1, with VICA's support, would be a crucial step towards addressing California's longstanding behavioral health crisis. bridging gaps in the healthcare system and offering a comprehensive approach to mental health and substance use disorders.
| |
VICA's 2024 Board of Directors and Executive Committee Slates | |
|
During the 74th Annual Meeting of VICA on December 8, members will participate in the election of our Board and Executive Committee for the year 2024. Thoughtfully-chosen nominees representing a variety of businesses, organizations, and industries are poised to guide VICA in the upcoming year.
Explore the 2024 Slates for VICA's Board of Directors and Executive Committee by clicking the buttons below!
| |
Powerful and Effective Advocacy Isn't Cheap | |
|
As the preeminent business advocacy group in Southern California, VICA is steadfast in its commitment to advancing its members' economic interests and opportunities. This dedication is manifested through effective legislative correspondence, civic leadership representation, and conscientious community engagement. However, sustaining this critical advocacy work comes at a cost, prompting the need for a dues increase.
We understand that increasing rates may pose challenges, so we want to provide an option that accommodates your preferences. If you wish to maintain your 2023 level dues for an additional year, you can pay the full amount before December 31, 2023. Should you choose to capitalize on this option or inquire further about the 2024 rates, please get in touch with jessica@vica.com at your earliest convenience. Your continued support ensures the uninterrupted progress of VICA's essential advocacy efforts.
| |
|
Membership Level
Basic Membership:
Circle if Influence:
Business Leader:
| |
|
2023 Rate
$750
$1,300
$1,850
| |
|
2024 Rate
$850
$1,400
$1,950
| |
Tell VICA Your 2024 Legislative Priorities! | |
|
It's always important to ask what the next legislative session's agenda might look like, and how that affects your business and the greater San Fernando Valley-Los Angeles business community.
VICA will begin discussing next year's legislative priorities this month, and we want to know what you think will be important for 2024. Please click the "Notify Now" button below to communicate your ideas and priorities to our Legislative Affairs team!
| |
|
In Remembrance of Robert Philibosian | |
|
We remember Robert Harry Philibosian, a legal luminary whose impactful career included serving as Los Angeles County District Attorney in 1981 and holding key positions in both legal and political realms. His influence reached beyond the courtroom, extending to mentoring and advising others. Even in his role at Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton, he continued contributing to government-related issues. Though his passing leaves a void, his legacy of justice, mentorship, and family love inspires us. As we bid farewell, we are privileged to have known and learned from him.
Rest in Peace, Robert Philibosian.
| |
|
VICA After Dark: Evening with Senator Caroline Menjivar and Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo
November 28 | 5:30 PM
The Park VNY
Join us for an evening with freshman legislators Senator Caroline Menjivar and Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo as they discuss their experiences during their first year in Sacramento, and some of the issues that they're working to address as representatives of their communities and the greater Los Angeles region.
VICA thanks our Presenting Sponsor, The Walt Disney Company,
and our Co-Sponsors, The Park VNY and ICON-CDC,
and our Leadership Sponsor, Southland Regional Association of REALTORS.
| |
|
Caroline Menjivar
State Senator (20th District)
Senator Caroline Menjivar represents Burbank and the San Fernando Valley in the 20th Senate District. She is a first-generation American daughter of Salvadorean immigrants and is Chair of Budget Subcommittee #3 on Health and Human Services. The Senator previously served in the Marine Corps and worked as an EMT in Van Nuys
|
|
|
Pilar Schiavo
Assemblywoman (40th District)
Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo represents the Northwest San Fernando Valley and the Santa Clarita Valley in the 40th Assembly District, currently serving as Chair of the Military and Veterans Affairs Committee. She previously helped deliver healthcare to over one million people, and founded an organization that helped secure housing for Veterans experiencing homelessness.
| |
|
REGISTER: VICA's 74th Annual Meeting
Friday, December 8 | 11:30 AM
Airtel Plaza Hotel
Each year at VICA culminates with our celebratory Annual Meeting, which brings together our members, volunteers, and the Valley's business leaders. During this event, VICA members will engage in the election process, selecting a new Board and Executive Committee for the upcoming year from a diverse array of businesses, organizations, and industries.
VICA thanks our Presenting Sponsors:
The Garland, San Fernando Valley Business Journal, and SoCalGas
Toy Drive: Please bring an unwrapped toy or gift card. Gifts should be suitable for ages 0-2, and will be distributed by Rescue Mission Alliance - San Fernando Valley.
| |
VICA Thanks Our New and Renewing Members! | |
|
Renewing Members:
New Member:
| |
|
Senate Passes Stopgap Spending Bill
The Senate voted overwhelmingly to approve a stopgap spending bill ahead of a Friday deadline. The final vote was 87-11. The House-passed bill now heads to President Biden for his signature. The unusual legislation funds four federal agencies until January 19 and the rest until February 2nd. The goal is to give Congress more time to negotiate long-term spending bills. If that doesn't happen, an across-the-board spending cut of 1 percent hits all agencies in April. So far, the House has passed seven, and the Senate has approved three.
Tim Scott Suspends POTUS Campaign
Senate Republican Tim Scott of South Carolina says he is dropping out of the 2024 GOP presidential race, only about two months before voting in Iowa's leadoff caucuses. Scott's jump into the campaign in May was with an excellent case to be made that he was the third-most likely Republican nominee, following former President Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. He managed to stay on the good side of both pro- and anti-Trump Republicans. However, he never cracked #4 in most national polls.
Bass Appoints New Chief of Staff
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass on Tuesday appointed Carolyn Webb de Macias as Chief of Staff, succeeding Chris Thompson, who held the powerful post for less than a year. Webb de Macias is a former senior advisor to former Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and worked for then-City Councilmember Mark Ridley-Thomas. She also worked in the U.S. Department of Education as an appointee of President Obama and as USC's Vice President of External Relations. Thompson, Bass' Chief of Staff since last December, is returning to the private sector.
| |
|
The Mayor's Strategy to Boost Housing
On Wednesday, Mayor Karen Bass signaled that she is interested in lifting obstacles for at least some market-rate units, particularly those located within projects that include some affordable housing. Executive Directive 7 calls for a fresh look at the city's "site plan review" process, requiring developments with 50 or more net new market-rate housing units to undergo an environmental analysis. She instructs the city's planning department to report on preparing an ordinance that would increase the threshold needed to trigger site plan review.
SCOTUS Adopts "New" Ethics Code
On Monday, the Supreme Court issued a code of conduct for itself for the first time, but it acknowledged the rules are "not new" and restated the principles it says its justices have long followed. The justices stated that they hoped the code would "dispel this misunderstanding" that they regard themselves as unrestricted by ethics rules. However, this effort is unlikely to end the controversy created by several Justices. That's because there is no enforcement mechanism behind the court's code of conduct.
Rams Moving to Woodland Hills
The Los Angeles Rams will move their practice facility to Woodland Hills next season as part of a large-scale real estate development planned by owner Stan Kroenke, which could help give the car-centric District at Warner Center a more urban feel. The Rams officially announced the long-expected move on Tuesday at an outdoor shopping center that Kroenke bought earlier this year, as he assembled a 100-acre parcel for future development that will include a new headquarters for the Rams.
| |
|
Member Messages
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.
| |
|
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.
| | | | |
