2025 Los Angeles Congress of Neighborhoods: Workshops

This year marks a special milestone as we return to City Hall for our 15th convening.

Dive into a full day of learning and conversation with 15+ workshops covering everything from neighborhood history, city budgeting, and land use, to youth leadership, civil rights, public safety, environmental sustainability, and more.

Whether you're passionate about local policy, eager to build community power, or just getting started with your Neighborhood Council, there’s something here for you.

Let’s learn, engage, and shape the future of Los Angeles, together.

Session 1

Civil Rights Enforcement in Los Angeles

Explore the City of Los Angeles’ Civil and Human Rights Law, established in 2019 to protect and promote equity across the city. This session will provide an overview of the law’s key provisions and detail the civil rights enforcement mechanisms under its authority. Learn how this law impacts residents, businesses, and public agencies, and discover ways Neighborhood Councils can support and engage with civil rights initiatives to foster a more just and inclusive LA.

How LA Youth Can Lead Through Neighborhood Councils

Many young Angelenos don’t realize they can serve as Youth Representatives on Neighborhood Councils—and cast votes on local issues. This interactive session will introduce the role of youth in LA’s civic landscape, explain how to register to vote in NC elections, and share strategies to create or fill youth seats. Participants will leave with a civic action toolkit to engage young leaders and build strong youth leadership pipelines across Los Angeles.

How Would You Change the City's Budget?

If you could reshape Los Angeles’ budget, where would you start? This interactive workshop invites attendees to explore the City’s current budget and share ideas for how funds could be better allocated to reflect community priorities. We’ll discuss opportunities for greater equity, transparency, and sustainability, as well as strategies to avoid future fiscal challenges. Join the conversation and help imagine a more responsive and resilient city budget—grounded in the voices of Angelenos.

Optimizing and Protecting the Historical Resources in Your Neighborhood

Learn how to identify, celebrate, and protect the historic and cultural landmarks that shape your neighborhood’s identity. This workshop will guide attendees through the City of Los Angeles' process for landmark designation, including how to research potential sites and submit nominations. We will share tools, funding resources, and strategies to help communities preserve their local heritage for future generations. Perfect for Neighborhood Council members and residents passionate about local history.

Pure Water Los Angeles: L.A.’s Journey to a New and Sustainable Water Supply

As we look to the future, the City continues to take steps to secure safe, reliable, high quality water. Pure Water Los Angeles is an ambitious program aimed at developing a sustainable and dependable local drinking water supply by purifying recycled water through an advanced water purification system. It is a initiative between the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) and Los Angeles Sanitation and Environment (LASAN). Community and stakeholder feedback is essential to the planning and implementation process so join us and make your voice heard.

Session 2

Demystifying LASAN Trash Fees

Join us to demystify LASAN’s Trash Fees and learn about the full range of services included in the Solid Resources Program. We’ll review proposed rate increases, including multi-family bulky item fees, and explain the Prop 218 process. Discover how to maximize LASAN services and explore available financial assistance through DWP. The session will conclude with an interactive Q&A session, giving you the chance to get your questions answered directly.

Hot Legal Topics for Neighborhood Councils

Back by popular demand, this essential session offers Neighborhood Council members clear, practical guidance on key legal responsibilities. Learn the basics of the Brown Act, the California Public Records Act, and conflict of interest laws in a way that’s easy to understand and apply. Whether you're new to your board or need a refresher, this workshop will help you navigate legal requirements with confidence and ensure your NC operates with transparency and integrity.

Know Your Rights: Protecting Immigrant Communities in Los Angeles

Join Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martínez’s Office for a Know Your Rights workshop focused on empowering local leaders in Los Angeles. Learn about your constitutional rights, what individuals can do if they are approached by ICE or law enforcement, and how LA’s sanctuary city policies offer protection. The session will also connect attendees to local legal aid and support services. Whether you're an immigrant or an advocate, this workshop will equip you to stay informed and protected.

Upcoming Changes to the NC Funding Program

Big changes are coming to the Neighborhood Council Funding Program. Join the Office of the City Clerk for an overview of updated policies and procedures—many developed in collaboration with the NC Funding Work Group—to reflect new Citywide standards and evolving needs. This session will explain what’s changing, why it matters, and how NCs can stay compliant while supporting their communities. A must-attend for board members, treasurers, and stakeholders managing NC resources.

Zero Waste Events in LA: Why and How

What does it take to host a Zero Waste event in Los Angeles—and why does it matter? This informative session will explain the City’s Zero Waste requirements for Neighborhood Council–funded events, including the environmental impact behind the policy. Attendees will receive practical, budget-friendly tips for planning events that reduce waste and avoid common pitfalls. Learn how to align your outreach efforts with LA’s sustainability goals while keeping your events successful and compliant.

Session 3

Finding Ethics Violations with Public Data

Curious about how to uncover ethics violations in Los Angeles city government? This hands-on workshop will introduce tools and public data portals that help residents track City contracts, money flows, and potential conflicts of interest. Learn how the Levine Act applies to local officials and explore real-world case studies— including an adjudicated conflict of interest violation by Councilmember Kevin de León. Leave empowered with practical tips for holding public officials accountable through transparency and data.

Planning 101 for Neighborhood Councils

New to land use and planning? This introductory workshop will guide Neighborhood Council members through the basics of Los Angeles’ planning process. Learn how to find and review project approvals, understand key terms and timelines, and connect with the right Planning Department staff. Whether you’re responding to a local development or shaping your community’s future, this session will give you the tools to participate effectively in LA’s planning and land use decisions.

Planning for Regional Housing Needs

The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) will provide an overview of their role as a regional planning entity in the housing space, including a discussion on supporting local housing projects to increase housing capacity, resources and tools for planners and the general public, and determining housing need across the SCAG region. The presentation is intended to provide clarity about SCAG’s role in housing planning for the region and how the agency helps local jurisdictions overcome barriers, comply with housing element requirements, and promote sustainable and inclusive housing outcomes.

Proposition 36 and the Future of Public Safety in Los Angeles

Join the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for a conversation on Proposition 36 and the evolving future of public safety in LA. Learn how this reform to the now infamous Prop 47, which drastically reduced accountability for theft and drug crimes, has impacted sentencing, incarceration, and community reintegration. The workshop will explore how the DA’s Office is balancing justice and equity through prevention and rehabilitation opportunities. Attendees will gain insights into local reform efforts and engage in an open Q&A with DA representatives.

Upcoming Changes to the L.A. Charter: Threat or Opportunity?

Los Angeles is exploring major changes to its City Charter—the city’s foundational governing document. Are these proposed reforms a threat to community power or an opportunity for stronger democracy? In this session, we’ll break down what the Charter is, what changes are being considered, and how Neighborhood Councils and residents can shape the conversation. Join us to discuss what should be recommended, what should be resisted, and how your voice can help shape LA’s future.