It’s official: LA city workers recovered $27.8 million in unused city funds.
Due to the hard work of SEIU 721 members, the City Council voted unanimously on Feb. 13 to require city departments to release tens of millions of dollars they’ve been sitting on for years. The funds, called prior-year encumbrances, will be released this year and each year going forward.
Councilman Bill Rosendahl said, “Thank you SEIU for making this proposal, putting it together … and thinking outside the box,” when the issue appeared before the Budget and Finance Committee. Council members Paul Koretz, Paul Krekorian and Mitchell Englander echoed his sentiment.
“We just helped make it easier to get potholes filled, fix sidewalks, keep parks open and deliver vital public services to LA. More than that, we took action to protect our jobs. Thanks to city workers, LA is getting stronger.”
-Art Sweatman, LA City Tree Trimmer
When SEIU 721 members revealed their findings, media outlets reported the discovery, giving the union credit. NBC News ran this headline:
“Union finds millions of dollars in unused city funds.”
Download a victory flyer to post at your worksite.
If you have questions or need more information, contact David Sanders, Regional Director of LA/OC Cities and Districts: (213) 738-8433.