Opinion: Latino voices matter—Measure G will ensure we are heard

For generations, the Latino community has been the backbone of Los Angeles County. We’ve built businesses, raised families, and contributed to the cultural and economic vitality of this region. And while we’ve made strides in representation, we know there’s still work to be done to ensure that all Latino voices are fully heard in the halls of County government. Latinos make up nearly 50% of LA County's population, yet we hold only one seat on the Board of Supervisors. Measure G gives us the opportunity to change that.

We know how much stronger our community can be when we have a seat at the table. Today, each member of the Board of Supervisors represents two million people—an overwhelming number for any elected official to effectively serve. Measure G will expand the Board from five to nine members, creating more opportunities for leaders who understand and reflect our community’s unique experiences and challenges.

Latino representation has been a force in County government, but we need more voices from our community—leaders who will fight for equitable access to education, housing, healthcare, and economic opportunity. Measure G will make it possible for even more diverse voices to shape the policies that directly impact our daily lives.

Beyond representation, Measure G will ensure that our County leadership remains accountable to the people. The measure requires open and transparent budget hearings so that every resident can know how our $46 billion budget is being spent. Our communities deserve to be part of these decisions, and with public budget hearings, we will no longer be left in the dark about how resources are allocated and how those decisions impact our neighborhoods.

The measure also establishes an independent Ethics Commission to oversee County operations and ensure transparency. Too often, communities like ours bear the brunt of corruption and lack of oversight. This Commission will help restore trust and ensure that our government operates with integrity.

Measure G creates an elected County Executive, similar to a Mayor, Governor, or even the President, providing a clear separation of executive and legislative powers. For the first time, LA County will have a leadership structure that mirrors every other level of democratic government in our country. And while this new structure will bring about much-needed checks and balances, we will still have dedicated civil service staff with the professional experience to handle day-to-day operations. This balance is crucial for a more effective and accountable government that truly serves the people.

Importantly, these reforms will be achieved at no additional cost to taxpayers. With LA County’s $46 billion budget, we have the resources needed to reallocate existing funds without cutting any current programs or services that our communities depend on to thrive.

Latinos have helped shape the story of Los Angeles County, and Measure G will ensure that our voices continue to lead in shaping its future. We’re urging everyone to vote YES on Measure G because we believe in a County government that represents and works for all of our communities.

We hope you’ll join us in this important effort to build a better, more inclusive Los Angeles County. Together, we can make sure that our community’s voice is not only heard but that it drives the change we deserve.