Can EmpowerLA’s budget be used to fix potholes, repair sidewalks, or fund affordable housing?

No. This is a common misconception. EmpowerLA’s budget is exclusively for the administrative support and oversight of the Neighborhood Council system. Funding for infrastructure (Public Works), housing (Housing Department), street services, or homelessness solutions comes from those specific departments’ budgets.

However, transparency is a priority for the City. You can review every City Department’s budget proposal to understand what is being requested for these services at the City of Los Angeles Department Budget Requests Page.