City Council Honors Community Leaders Barbara Fine and Johnny Harris After Their Deaths

The Los Angeles City Council meeting on August 8, 2025, was marked by heartfelt tributes to community leaders who recently passed away. Council members expressed their condolences and shared memories of Barbara Fine, a dedicated advocate for local issues, particularly in hillside planning and solid waste management. Fine was remembered for her passionate engagement in community matters and her ability to rally others around important environmental and land use issues.

Council members highlighted Fine's extensive involvement in various boards and advisory groups, noting her commitment to making a difference in the community. Her passing was described as a significant loss, with calls for all council members to co-present a motion in her honor.

Additionally, the council acknowledged the recent death of Johnny Harris, the lead pianist of the famous musical group, the Ink Spots. A service for Harris is set to take place in Durham, North Carolina, and council members requested to adjourn the meeting in his memory.

The meeting also included a tribute to Maria P. Cortez, a long-time resident of San Fernando, who was remembered for her dedication to her family and community. Council members expressed their sorrow over her passing and recognized her contributions to local culture and community life.

Overall, the meeting served as a poignant reminder of the impact that dedicated individuals can have on their communities, as council members reflected on the legacies of those who have recently passed.