Los Angeles Launches Civic Assembly for Charter Reform

Los Angeles residents now have a new opportunity to directly influence the city’s governing rules through a series of upcoming mini civic assemblies focused on updating the city charter – a process that could reshape how the city operates for decades to come.

The Los Angeles Charter Reform Commission, a 13-member civilian board, recently endorsed the use of these assemblies and will consider their recommendations at upcoming meetings. The first assembly, organized by the coalition Rewrite LA, will take place on December 13 at the Institute of Contemporary Art in downtown Los Angeles. Forty residents will be selected through a lottery system designed to ensure demographic representation based on factors like age, race, and geography.

Civic assemblies are intensive, in-person working groups designed to tackle complex community issues. Participants will focus on a specific topic related to charter reform and develop suggestions for the commission’s consideration. Those unable to participate in the assemblies can still contribute by sharing their thoughts on the Rewrite LA website or by submitting written comments to [email protected]. Further opportunities for public input will be available at upcoming Charter Reform Commission meetings. The city charter hasn’t undergone a major overhaul in over 25 years, making this a pivotal moment for civic engagement.

Applications for the first mini assembly are open until Tuesday. Officials stated that additional assemblies are planned for 2026, providing ongoing opportunities for residents to shape the future of Los Angeles governance.