Secession, Charter Reform to Be Discussed

What does secession mean for the Valley?

Why is the city charter being reformed and what will these changes mean to Valley residents?

These questions will be addressed tonight at the Northridge Town Hall Assn. meeting at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Northridge.

A panel of representatives from Valley VOTE, the group leading the secession drive, and the elected and appointed charter reform commissions will discuss issues affecting the Valley, said Steve Pallad, an event organizer.

“This meeting is about getting information about the future of the San Fernando Valley,” Pallad said.

Jeff Brain, president of Valley VOTE, Rob Glushon of the elected charter reform commission and Sharon Schuster of the appointed charter reform commission will answer questions on what impact charter reform or secession could have on Valley residents.

Greg Smith, chief deputy of Councilman Hal Bernson, who represents the northwest Valley, and Deputy Mayor Kelly Martin from Mayor Richard Riordan’s office also will participate.

The moderator will be Cindy O’Connor of the Los Angeles chapter of the League of Women Voters.

The public meeting, which will include a question-and-answer period, will be from 7:30 to 9 p.m. in the church community center, 17037 Plummer St., Northridge. For more information, call (818) 773-3044.