LA Leaders Applaud Mayor Bass’ Appointments to the Board
LOS ANGELES – Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass today commended the Los Angeles City Council for unanimously confirming the Mayor’s appointees to the Board of Public Works. These appointments come as Mayor Bass continues urgent preparations for major world events coming to Los Angeles, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“I want to thank the City Council for their unanimous approval of Public Works Commissioners Jenny Chavez, Steve Kang and Faith Mitchell who will serve all of Los Angeles by ensuring that city services for cleaning, maintaining and improving our communities are effectively delivered,” said Mayor Bass. “These appointees have committed their lives to serving the people of Los Angeles, and I believe that their collective expertise will bolster our commitment to cleaner, safer streets, better maintained infrastructure and more vibrant public spaces.”
Leaders applauded Mayor Bass for her appointments, recognizing the importance of their collective expertise in addressing the city’s most pressing needs:
Here’s what community leaders are saying about the appointment of Jenny Chavez:
Nella McOsker, President and CEO, CCA
“From inside and outside City Hall, Jenny Chavez brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her appointment as Board of Public Works Commissioner. As we tackle existing challenges with city services and work to deliver a world-class experience ahead of major global events, Angelenos will be well served by Jenny's strong track record of executing bold visions."
Elise Swanson, President and CEO, San Pedro Chamber of Commerce
"For nearly two decades, Jenny Chavez has been instrumental in driving economic development not only in San Pedro and the LA Harbor Area but throughout the City of Los Angeles. As policy director and Chief of Staff to multiple LA City Councilmembers, she has led key legislative efforts that have revitalized communities and strengthened our local economy. Her leadership was critical in the creation of the San Pedro Business Improvement District, and her deep understanding of citywide issues, along with her strong network of relationships, has enabled transformative projects across Los Angeles. Jenny's role in spearheading the passage of Charter Amendment P and state legislation was critical to the success of the LA Waterfront paving the way for major developments like West Harbor, benefiting the entire city. We are excited to continue working with her as she brings her expertise and vision to the Public Works Commission."
Eddie Escotó Alvarez, Council Representative, Los Angeles /Orange Counties Building & Construction Trades Council, AFL-CIO
"The Mayor's appointment of Jenny Chavez to the Board of Public Works is a positive step for Los Angeles. Ms. Chavez was instrumental in uniting a diverse group of stakeholders to work on expanding the Los Angeles Convention Center which is critical for a vibrant Downtown economy. We look forward to working with Jenny Chavez and the entire Board to carry out the critical investments in infrastructure that will create jobs and make LA a more equitable city as we prepare for major international events coming to Los Angeles in the next few years."
Elected Officials and advocates have also praised the Mayor for her appointment of Steve Kang:
California State Assemblymember Miguel Santiago, District 54
"I have had the honor and pleasure of working with Steve Kang to support the constituents of the 54th Assembly district. He has been an outstanding community partner, playing a pivotal role in bringing vital resources to those in need. His leadership in senior meal distribution, COVID-19 vaccination efforts, combating anti-Asian hate, and connecting community members to my staff to receive unemployment assistance has made a tangible impact across the city. I am confident that his passion for serving the community will bring even more positive change in his new role on the Los Angeles City Public Works Commission. I look forward to continuing our work together in public service."
California State Senator Maria Elena Durazo, District 26
“I congratulate Mayor Bass on her appointment of Steve Kang to the City of Los Angeles Board of Public Works. He is a dedicated advocate for working families across Los Angeles. He embodies the best qualities of our city and is committed to uplifting people and communities in need. He is adept at building coalitions among immigrant and working-class groups. He understands the role language and communication plays in respecting voices. He has the “know-how” to bring nonprofit service providers, public agencies, and the private sector to the table for the common good. Steve cares about fairness and transparency. He will be a valuable voice in improving Los Angeles Public Works.”
Connie Chung Joe, CEO, Asian Americans Advancing Justice Southern California (AJSOCAL)
"I want to commend Mayor Karen Bass for appointing Steve Kang to the Board of Public Works. I have known Steve for a long time and have full faith in his ability to effect positive change for all Angelenos. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience directly from the community and I trust that Steve will represent the interests of the Korean American and AANHPI communities as he embarks on this new chapter. I look forward to continuing to work with Steve to help move our City forward."
Los Angeles business leaders share their thoughts on Commissioner Vahid Khorsand’s leadership:
Marian Jocz, Executive Director, United Chambers of Commerce of the San Fernando Valley
"I’d like to commend Mayor Bass on her selection of Public Works Commissioners and her decision to retain Vahid Khorsand on the Board. Vahid has been a long-time vocal proponent for small businesses in the San Fernando Valley and has dedicated himself as Chair of Inspirational Women of the San Fernando Valley to uplifting women. It has been my pleasure to work alongside Vahid and I know he will continue with that spirit in his role as Commissioner and Valley Advisor to help deliver reliable city services to the Valley."
Kathleen Rawson, President & CEO, The Hollywood Partnership
"Mayor Bass' appointees to the Public Works Commission is a commendable move that highlights the City's renewed focus on revitalizing long-overdue infrastructure improvements. With the implementation of Executive Directive No. 9, we can streamline critical services like street repairs, sidewalk maintenance, and graffiti removal, ensuring quicker response times and higher quality service delivery. I want to recognize the exceptional efforts of Public Works Commissioner Vahid Khorsand, a dedicated advocate for our community, who continues to play a pivotal role in advancing these initiatives. The Hollywood Partnership looks forward to continuing our collaboration with the City to bring about tangible improvements in our neighborhood."
Stuart Waldman, President, Valley Industry Commerce Association (VICA)
“Mayor Bass' selection of Public Works commissioners shows her conviction to prioritizing reliable and responsive city services for the San Fernando Valley. Vahid has been a responsive and reliable Valley Advisor and Public Works Commissioner. I look forward to further working with him, and the new commissioners, to make sure the Valley is represented when it comes to city services.”
Here’s the perspective of Los Angeles labor leaders on the appointment of John Grant:
Yvonne Wheeler, President, LA County Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO
“On behalf of the Los Angeles labor movement and the citizens of Los Angeles, we extend our deepest gratitude to Mayor Bass for her thoughtful appointment of John Grant to the Public Works Commission. John Grants’ unwavering commitment to workers’ rights and social justice makes him an outstanding choice for this pivotal role. Throughout his career, John has been a steadfast leader, empowering working families and upholding the dignity and rights of every member of our community. His work within the labor movement has been a driving force for positive change in our city. In this new role, John will continue to champion the policies and infrastructure that uplift all Angelenos. We are confident that his leadership will strengthen collaboration between the city and its workforce, advancing equitable development, improved public services, and sustainable job growth. Thank you, Mayor Bass, for this vital step toward a Los Angeles where everyone can thrive.”
Alexandra Suh, Executive Director, Koreatown Immigrant Workers Alliance (KIWA)
“I have known John Grant since 2012. John has devoted decades to uplifting the dignity of essential workers. As President of the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 770, he won my respect as an ethical, empathic, dedicated leader. You can hear it in his voice - he burns for a more just society, and at the same time, has a grounded, practical commitment to make change real. I’m thrilled that Mayor Bass has brought John into City service and knows he will make unique and invaluable contributions to her vision of effective governance and just leadership for Los Angeles.”
Víctor Sánchez, Executive Director, Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy (LAANE)
“I commend Mayor Bass on her appointment of John Grant as a Commissioner on the Board of Public Works. John Grant has dedicated his career to enhancing the quality of life of all Angelinos. He understands not just the importance of strong equitable economic growth, but the need to build healthy, thriving communities. He is a dedicated leader who, as a Commissioner, will work tirelessly to ensure our City works for everyone.”
Community leaders weigh in on Faith Mitchell’s appointment:
Natalie Powell, Chairperson, Crenshaw Manor Community Association
“For over 30 years as a neighbor, Faith Mitchell has consistently demonstrated a strong sense of responsibility and dedication to enhancing the quality of life in our community. She has actively been involved in numerous community initiatives which bring people together and foster collaboration. In addition, Faith Mitchell possesses strong leadership and organizational qualities that make her an ideal candidate for this appointment. Faith Mitchell is an excellent communicator and listener who values the input of others while steering towards constructive solutions. I am confident Faith Mitchell will bring the same enthusiasm and commitment to the Board of Commissioners that she has consistently shown in our neighborhood. She will be an invaluable asset in addressing the needs of our community. Thank you for considering this endorsement. I believe Faith Mitchell will make a positive impact.”
Valerie Lynne Shaw, Former President, the Board of Public Works
“Faith Mitchell will be an excellent Public Works Commissioner. Her background in law, community development, and advocacy will uniquely inform her decisions regarding improving the city’s infrastructure. I am certain that her presence on the board will result in thoughtful policy creation and increased services to residents.”