LOS ANGELES : Bernson Plan to Use Taxes for Quake Aid Challenged
Los Angeles City Councilman Hal Bernson clashed with other council members Wednesday over a plan to set aside all new property taxes in his San Fernando Valley district for an earthquake loan guarantee program.
Under state law, new property taxes, or tax increment, can be diverted for redevelopment projects, including disaster assistance programs such as loan guarantees for quake repairs.
But some council members are concerned about the impact of Bernson’s plan on other city services, the county government and school and community college districts.
“I have some serious problems with how this is coming down,” said Councilwoman Jackie Goldberg. “I can very easily see that what could happen, if it passes as it is written, the increment will be used in a very narrow way in a very large area.”
Bernson, who represents Northridge, Granada Hills and Chatsworth, defended the proposal, saying his district needs the extra help.
“We received 50% or more of the total damage of this city,” Bernson said. “We were the epicenter. . . . People out there are having a tough time recovering. They need help.”
Other council members said the redevelopment plan will force other areas of the city to shoulder the burden of funding the increased cost of municipal services in Bernson’s district.
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