Business Owners Critique Los Angeles DBA Fees and Licensing During Public Comment

During the Los Angeles City Council meeting on August 5, 2025, significant concerns were raised regarding the financial burdens placed on local businesses and the broader implications of city policies. One business owner highlighted the challenges of navigating the city's requirements for a Doing Business As (DBA) registration, which incurs a $500 fee. This fee, coupled with delays in receiving reimbursements, has strained small businesses, impacting their ability to operate effectively.

The speaker shared personal experiences of waiting ten months for prorated reimbursements, which hindered their business's financial stability. They also pointed out the unreasonable nature of being charged for multiple licenses within the same year, emphasizing that such costs are unsustainable for small enterprises.

In addition to business-related issues, the meeting featured discussions on social equity and the city's role in international matters. Several speakers expressed their concerns about the Los Angeles Police Department's training practices and the city's financial ties to controversial international actions, particularly regarding Palestine. They called for the city to take a stand against perceived injustices and reconsider its financial commitments that support such actions.

The meeting concluded with a call for the council to address these pressing issues, emphasizing the need for a more equitable approach to business regulations and a reevaluation of the city's international affiliations. As the council moves forward, the implications of these discussions could lead to significant changes in policy that directly affect the local business community and the city's global stance.