The special meeting of the Budget and Finance Committee held on September 9, 2025, focused on critical discussions regarding the timeline and financial implications of preparations for the upcoming Olympics in Los Angeles. The meeting highlighted the urgency of completing necessary projects on schedule, with a particular emphasis on the need for a maximum of 20 days of additional data to meet the established timeline.
Committee members expressed concerns about the feasibility of the current schedule, which is set to conclude on March 31, 2025. They noted that this timeline leaves only two months for potential delays, which could significantly impact the overall project. The discussions underscored the importance of these 20 days, which could be utilized to address unforeseen issues that may arise during construction.
A key point raised was the aggressive nature of the project timeline, with the city having already utilized approximately 70 Saturdays for work, leaving 50 Saturdays available for further progress. Despite the challenges, some members remained optimistic, citing past experiences with municipal projects, although they acknowledged that delays are common.
The financial stakes were made clear, with committee members warning that failure to meet the timeline could lead to catastrophic consequences for the Olympic planning, potentially costing the city millions of dollars. The urgency of securing agreements for events and managing budgets was emphasized, particularly for venues like the Crypto.com Arena.
Additionally, the committee discussed the involvement of AEG and its future role in the project. AEG is expected to remain part of the project until the agreement is executed, after which Primery Group will take over. Concerns were raised about the implications of AEG's potential exit from the project and how it might affect financial responsibilities.
Overall, the meeting concluded with a clear understanding of the challenges ahead, the critical nature of adhering to the timeline, and the financial implications of any delays. The committee plans to continue monitoring progress closely to ensure that the project remains on track for the successful hosting of the Olympics.