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Los Angeles Moves to Increase Transparency in Charter Reform Process
Los Angeles, CA – In a unanimous vote on Tuesday, january 20, 2026, the Los Angeles City Council approved a motion aimed at increasing transparency in the city’s ongoing charter reform process. The motion calls for an ordinance requiring the disclosure of all private communications between Charter Reform Commissioners and elected officials. This action comes as the city seeks to rebuild public trust following a series of scandals at City Hall.
Addressing concerns of Undue Influence
The proposed ordinance seeks to prevent ex parte communications – private discussions – that could potentially influence the Charter Reform Commission’s deliberations. Currently, Los Angeles Charter Code Section 2.22 already outlines similar policies for the city’s redistricting commission, and the new ordinance would extend these principles to the charter reform effort. Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez voiced concerns that “key ideas are being developed through informal, undisclosed conversations, limiting meaningful public input before the commission’s work reaches the City Council.”
Details of the Proposed Ordinance
the City Council has requested the city attorney’s office to draft the ordinance, which will enforce transparency regarding private discussions between elected officials, their staff, and commission members that occur outside of publicly noticed meetings. The motion was amended to specify that any violations of the ordinance would be addressed through civil, rather than criminal, penalties. The drafted ordinance is expected to be presented to the council for a final vote by January 27, 2026.
Background of the charter Reform Commission
The Charter Reform Commission was established in 2024 in response to a series of scandals that eroded public confidence in Los Angeles city government. The commission is tasked with reviewing and proposing changes to the city’s charter, the document that outlines the structure and functions of the city government. Recommendations from the commission will be submitted to the City Council for potential inclusion on the November 2026 ballot, giving voters the prospect to directly shape the future of Los Angeles governance.
Why Transparency Matters
Proponents of the ordinance argue that transparency is crucial for maintaining public trust in the charter reform process. By requiring disclosure of private communications, the city aims to ensure that the commission’s deliberations are free from undue influence and that all stakeholders have an equal opportunity to participate in shaping the future of los Angeles. As stated in the motion,”The transparency of the city’s charter reform process is essential to maintaining public trust in
