Councilmember Traci Park Applauds Budget Committee’s Vote to Protect Animal Services Funding

Los Angeles — Councilmember Traci Park expressed strong support for the Los Angeles City Council Budget Committee’s approval of a $5 million transfer from the city’s unappropriated balance to the Department of Animal Services, a critical step to help prevent harmful cuts to shelter operations citywide.

Councilmember Park and Councilmember John Lee submitted a joint letter urging the Committee to fully fund the department and avoid any reductions that could jeopardize animal care or force shelter closures, including the West Los Angeles Animal Shelter, which serves communities across CD11. 

“This is a step in the right direction,” said Councilmember Park. “Without it, the impact on our shelters –and the animals we’re responsible for – would have been severe. While the full budget is still being negotiated, I’ll continue to fight to ensure no shelters close and no animals are left behind.”

With the City still facing a nearly $1 billion deficit, Park emphasized that basic services (public safety, sanitation, and street services), including animal welfare, must remain a priority.