To the editor: I’m deeply involved by Mayor Karen Bass’ proposal to remove the Youth Growth Division (“Mayor Bass seeks to shutter department serving the city’s youths,” Might 1). This division performs a significant position in supporting our metropolis’s younger folks by way of packages just like the Youth Council, Youth Summit and Youth Expo, which offer important civic engagement, employment and private improvement alternatives. Dismantling this division might considerably cut back providers for younger Angelenos, significantly these in underserved communities.
Whereas I perceive town’s want to deal with a considerable price range shortfall, concentrating on a division straight investing in our future generations appears counterproductive. Consolidating youth providers into broader businesses could dilute their effectiveness and overlook the distinctive wants of our youth. I urge metropolis officers to rethink this determination and prioritize the well-being and improvement of our younger residents.
Jessica Iles, Scotts Valley, Calif.
