The Los Angeles City Council meeting on February 14, 2025, celebrated the impactful tenure of Laura Raymond, the outgoing executive director of ACT LA, a coalition focused on housing and transit justice. Council members recognized her significant contributions to housing policy, particularly her role in the successful passage of Measure ULA and Measure A, which aim to enhance affordable housing and tenant protections in the city.

Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martinez highlighted that under Raymond's leadership, ACT LA has transformed the narrative around renters' rights, shifting from a historically overlooked demographic to a powerful voice in city policy. He emphasized that over 60% of Los Angeles residents are renters, and the recent victories reflect a growing demand for social housing and support for tenants.

Councilmember Nithya Raman echoed these sentiments, praising ACT LA's coalition-building efforts that have led to substantial policy changes. She noted the importance of collaboration among various community organizations to address the city's housing crisis effectively. Raman also recalled ACT LA's successful campaign against Measure S, which sought to ban new construction, further underscoring the coalition's influence in shaping housing policy.

In her farewell remarks, Raymond expressed gratitude for the partnerships formed during her decade-long tenure and emphasized the power of collective action in achieving significant policy changes. She acknowledged the grassroots organizations within ACT LA that have worked tirelessly to improve living conditions across diverse neighborhoods in Los Angeles.

The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges in addressing housing affordability and the need for continued advocacy and collaboration among community members and local leaders. As Raymond steps away from her role, the council and community members remain committed to building on the progress made in housing justice, ensuring that the voices of renters continue to be heard in city governance.