in the news
(For the most updated news, please scroll to the bottom of the page)
UWO alumnus promotes activism in LGBTQ and women’s rights
WeHo debuts weekend pedestrian zone on Robertson Blvd. to give local businesses a boost
A Voice for Women and Girls: Governor Picks John Erickson
A Q&A with West Hollywood City Council Elect John Erickson
WeHo City Pays Tribute to Activist Ivy Bottini with a Tree at Matthew Shepard Human Rights Triangle
These L.A. Gay Bars Are Going Extinct — And Their Landlord Won’t Help
“We’re seeing landlords who are willing to keep their businesses there and to work with the community members, or to essentially use this as an opportunity to get them out".”
‘Disclosure’ Filmmakers Honored by City of West Hollywood
West Hollywood City Council has voted unanimously to add brown and black stripes to its rainbow crossings and to paint a new Trans Pride crossing.
COVID-19 Vaccine Panel Discussion with experts in the fields of medicine and public health, as well as members of the community who participated in vaccine clinical trials. Presented by the City of West Hollywood.
The City of West Hollywood hosted a panel discussion regarding the documentary film, "Disarm Hate." "Disarm Hate" follows the story of the nine LGBTQ individuals who come together after the Pulse Massacre to join Jason Hayes, a hairdresser and activist, as he builds a national rally to demand LGBTQIA equal rights, fight the NRA, and challenge America's obsession with gun violence.
The panelists included Jason Hayes, founder of National Rally Disarm Hate in Washington D.C.; Julianna Brudek, Director of Disarm Hate; Ashlee-Marie Preston, Executive Producer and cast member, journalist and activist; Alexis Sanchez, cast member and advocate; Vic Gerami, American journalist and LGBT activist; and Jackie Steele (moderator) comedian and member of the City of West Hollywood's Lesbian & Gay Advisory Board.
Showtime and HRC Unveil Queer to Stay Public Art by Lauren YS!
“I am thrilled to welcome the ‘Queer to Stay’ campaign to the City of West Hollywood — the international epicenter of LGBTQ+ commerce and culture,” said West Hollywood Councilmember John Erickson. “The small LGBTQ+ businesses that define our Creative City need help, and I am so grateful to SHOWTIME and the Human Rights Campaign for stepping up and pitching in.”
“That’s an education campaign, and we can’t let the actions of a few bad actors scare us off from making better transit opportunities for our residents. A few years ago, I rode an e-scooter to help me get to my job downtown when my car needed repairs.
This is the type of stuff that helps with climate change … and only further emphasizes how we think about how people get around. We want to make sure they can be on the sidewalk without the fear of getting hit by a scooter.
Erickson said the city will continue to tweak the program to ensure that it is being utilized in a responsible manner. He said there are many residents who support the program, as evidenced by the number of people who discussed it with him while he was campaigning for City Council.
“Obviously, there are always going to be individuals who do not want this,” he said. “We have to rely on data and what is working best for our city.”
Dogs of WeHo and their two-legged guardians gathered at West Hollywood Park yesterday for a celebration a World Dog Day 2021. The City of West Hollywood co-sponsored the the fifth annual event hosted by The Vanderpump Dog Foundation.
“I’ve seen what minimum wage standards and poverty level wages have caused. That’s a lack of health care, a lack of security,” said Councilman John Erickson, who made the motion. “We’re not doing anything radical here. We have to find a compromise and move forward.”
CTSJ Los Angeles & GWSS with The Representation Project present:
The Future of Roe — After the Supreme Court Decision on Texas SB 8
A Panel Discussion:
David Donatti, ACLU of Texas, Staff Attorney - https://www.aclutx.org
John Erickson, Councilmember West Hollywood
Serita Fontanesi is the Executive Director of Emerge Texas - https://tx.emergeamerica.org
with Dr. Caroline Heldman
“In the United States, approximately 15,000 women die of ovarian cancer each year. Another 21,000 women are diagnosed annually. Statistically, ovarian cancer represents three percent of all cancers affecting women in the nation,” said City of West Hollywood Councilmember John M. Erickson. “Early detection is critical to saving the lives of those affected. Women diagnosed at an early stage – before the cancer has spread – have a much higher five-year survival rate than those diagnosed at a later stage.”
West Hollywood Just Won the Highest Minimum Wage in the Country
The ordinance could—and should—serve as a template for wage protections and working conditions for low-wage workers across the country.
In the early morning hours of November 4, union organizers in Southern California scored a huge labor victory. Just after midnight, the West Hollywood City Council, one of whose members rose up through the ranks of the AFSCME, unanimously voted to create a $17.64 hourly minimum wage in the city.
WeHo’s Rainbow Crosswalks to be Replaced with Pride Progress Crosswalks
West Hollywood is home to a thriving LGBTQ+ community! We sat down to talk with West Hollywood City Councilmembers John Erickson and Sepi Shyne about what makes the city such an inclusive and inviting location for travelers. We also met with Lindsey Horvath, who at the time was the Mayor of West Hollywood, to talk about her experience as a community leader and what she loves most about the city.
From West Hollywood to Santa Monica and Dodger Stadium to Susan Feniger's Socalo Restaurant, the Amazing Race winners share favorite LGBTQ+ destinations in Los Angeles.
The City of West Hollywood is like no other city in the world. In 1984, the idea for the City of West Hollywood was proposed by an unlikely coalition of LGBT activists, seniors, and renters. These groups came together to advocate for cityhood.
Through tireless determination, the City of West Hollywood was officially incorporated as an independent City on November 29, 1984, and the rest is history!
Happy West Hollywood Day!
West Hollywood increases security for holidays
“We don’t know where any of those dollars are going. They won’t let us look at their books at all,” Councilmember John M. Erickson said. “And the sheriff told us to take a long walk off a short cliff, essentially. So, I don’t know if giving them $600,000 is going to say, ‘You know what, now we actually could work.’”
West Hollywood bans use of non-eco-friendly utensils
West Hollywood is taking steps to minimize its environmental footprint by adopting an ordinance that would prohibit the distribution of single-use, non-compostable foodware items.
The new policy is an adaptation of a 2019 proposed city directive that sought to make plastic utensils and straws available only upon customer request. The plan was placed on hold due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The new ban was drafted, in part, in response to recent research showing the production of plastic has increased worldwide over the last 10 years – a trend that has been exacerbated by the pandemic.
West Hollywood City Council Approves Measure to Confirm Policies Were Put In Place to Reduce Black Homeownership Over Several Generations
Removal of Rainbow Crosswalk Begins Later this Month for New Progressive Pride Crosswalk
On December 21, 2020, the City Council directed staff to study the permanent installation of transgender colors in crosswalks located at a prominent intersection along Santa Monica Boulevard and to proceed with updating the existing rainbow flag crosswalks located on San Vicente Boulevard at Santa Monica Boulevard with the rainbow flag that is inclusive to all communities.
WeHo City Council Approves Distribution of Drink-Spiking Test Strips at Bars
At a regular West Hollywood City Council meeting on Tuesday, February 22, 2022, the city council moved agenda item 5.B. to consent, which explores the allocation of funds for the purchase and distribution of drink-spiking test strips at bars and nightlife establishments in West Hollywood. Item 5.B., initiated by Mayor Pro-Tem Sepi Shyne and council member John Erickson, will also develop educational materials regarding test strips to distribute to community members and business establishments and post through the City’s communication channels.
Human Rights Speaker Series - My Name is Pauli Murray: Exploring Race and Gender Equity
WeHo paints new colors in rainbow crosswalks
The city of West Hollywood has updated the city’s rainbow crosswalks and incorporated additional inclusivity design elements to recognize the diverse LGBTQ community.
Councilmember Erickson: How many deputies do we need to make WeHo feel safe?
“I’m a councilmember. I’m on the phone with our public safety director and I can’t get anyone out here to make sure members of the public who are actively in the street directing traffic don’t get killed by cars on Fountain. And that’s just one of the many issues that I hear every day about reporting and how people don’t feel like they’re taken seriously.”
West Hollywood will audit Sheriff’s Department budget
The West Hollywood City Council has unanimously moved to conduct an independent audit of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s budget and will investigate the effectiveness of various public safety tools, including the Block by Block unarmed security teams, the installation of surveillance cameras and increased homeless outreach resources. The motion came at the close of an over six-hour meeting on April 4, with most of the discussion devoted to public safety.
Protests erupt in wake of Roe draft
According to West Hollywood Councilman John Erickson, West Hollywood also has a duty to stand as a signal of hope across the nation.
“West Hollywood has always been that bastion that people from all over the country and all over the world come to when they need a home, whether it’s because they’re LGBTQ, Russian as we saw in the early formation of the city, Jewish and fleeing antisemitic hate crimes, people of color or women. Because it is a that place, while albeit only 1.8 square miles, we are more than just a city. We are a community that is as vibrant as the rainbow that we fly on our flagpoles. We are a community of people who represent multiple opinions, but at the end of the day, they come out and fight for what’s right.”
Erickson said the decision would be just the first in a series of reversals that could affect other communities.
“For anyone who isn’t a white, cisgendered straight male, this is a five-alarm fire,” he said. “If any city in this country or anyone isn’t worried that something like this can or will affect them, they’re kidding themselves.”
West Hollywood City Hall is back in business
“This moment where you can come in without an appointment is great,” Councilman John Erickson said. “Not only for me as a new council member who hasn’t been able to just walk in City Hall the way I’m accustomed to or when I worked there as an intern, but it’s also really important because it signals hopefully an ongoing shift in the fight against COVID-19.”
“The fact that you can now go up, get your parking passes or pay a parking ticket if you need to or make sure that you’re getting access to city services without doing email or setting up a meeting in some way via technology that you may or may not have access to is just one other way that West Hollywood is continuing to make sure we are there for our residents and our businesses,” Erickson said.
WeHo Pride strives for more inclusivity
“West Hollywood has not only put out the hand but our monetary investments to ensure that they’re not only a part of our story, but they’re a part of our story from the very beginning,” Councilman John Erickson said. “That’s why West Hollywood is the first Pride in June here in Los Angeles that’s going to show everyone how, why and the importance of having the beautiful rainbow of our community centered first and foremost for everyone to take part in.”
WeHo event kicks off Pride month
“For being [the city’s] first Pride, you would have thought we’d been doing it for years,” Councilman John Erickson said. “We know how to do Pride because Pride lives in West Hollywood.”
West Hollywood Hosts First Q Con for LGBT Comic Book Fans
“The event is extremely successful,” said council member John Erickson and self-professed comic book nerd. “It’s packed in here and it’s been like this since I saw everyone outside waiting to get in. I hope next year is bigger and better. A grant funded this through the city’s art department. Prism Comics brings the connection between superheroes, comic books and queer culture. This is the type of thing the city arts should be funding. It’s a great way to promote this really great public space. It’s great to see so many people in this space feel welcomed and happy and invited and be part of this community.”
WeHo approves sheriff cuts
Councilman John Erickson and Mayor Lauren Meister voted no on the budget, with Meister citing issues with the shifts in public safety funding.
Part of Erickson’s concern was lack of hiring in the Block by Block program.
“I support the concept, but I have concerns with how it would be effectively implemented given that my colleague Mayor Meister and I back in March 2021 attempted to do this expansion [without cutting deputies] in our commercial corridors, and it has yet to happen,” Erickson said in a statement on Twitter. “I asked the city manager whether or not the city would be even able to find, train and hire enough BBB ambassadors given the ambitious timeline presented and then ensure that the community was educated and updated. ‘No,’ was the answer given, and we were told the city was still waiting to fulfill not only our existing BBB contract but also the addition that myself and the mayor asked for back in March 2021.
“What was originally before us was a balanced, fiscally responsible budget that I was prepared to support. It brought back one LASD deputy for entertainment policing and didn’t include more supplemental funding for them, and didn’t cut existing community safety options.”
West Hollywood approves extending last call at bars until 4 AM
West Hollywood City Councilmember John Erickson says the biggest issue is making sure people can all get home safely.
"As a young person and young elected official, I see my friends out there way past 2 a.m., but also we have public safety concerns. We want to make sure people are getting home safely. And when people are leaving our bars and nightlife, they’re going into other cities so what do other cities think?" said Erickson.
Suspected Pickpockets Arrested, 17 Stolen Cellphones Recovered
John Erickson, a West Hollywood City Councilman, said he is thankful that city is one step closer to stopping the problem.
"I know that this is an issue that the community has been talking to me and my colleagues about and something we've been taking very seriously," Erickson said. "To have someone out there pickpocketing and hurting our businesses and our residents, it's really great to see that we were not only able to apprehend them but now hold them accountable."
WeHo deputies spot, arrest pickpocket suspects; recover 17 stolen cellphones
Authorities were able to recover 17 stolen cellphones and take two suspected thieves into custody while on patrol in West Hollywood recently.
The patrol team approached the intersection of Santa Monica and Robertson boulevards July 8 and saw a man who resembled a pickpocket suspect from past incidents, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department tweeted.
Officials say monkeypox response is lacking locally
“The government has and is continuing to fail at its official response to the monkeypox outbreak, which has been declared a global health emergency,” West Hollywood City Councilman John Erickson said. “What we are seeing is a repetition of history, where local activists, social service providers and health care providers are having to step in and play the part of the role that the government should be doing for an emergency health crisis that we are seeing come before our very eyes. None of this is more so relevant than the 300,000 vaccine doses that sat in Denmark as the federal government adopted a wait-and-see response to the outbreak.”
“And as we sit here in L.A. County, the largest county in the country, and [the government says], ‘Let’s not go to major population centers where the LGBTQ community is and force individuals to drive to Santa Clarita or Encino,’ is downright criminal in my opinion,” Erickson said.
CicLAvia Brings Open Street Event to West Hollywood and Beyond
CicLAvia–Meet the Hollywoods–brought an open street event that connected the City of West Hollywood and the Los Angeles neighborhoods of Hollywood and East Hollywood with a care-free space for everyone to enjoy. Community members from the Greater Los Angeles Area were invited to ride, walk, bike, roll, or stroll along the area’s most iconic streets. The event ran from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, August 21, 2022.
Plans call for end to WeHo rent freeze
Erickson, who noted he is among the city’s renters, has come out in support of a permanent cap.
“The rent is already too high,” Erickson said. “The state has offered multiple solutions to landlords to make up back rent and essentially get it paid for by the state if they had renters impacted by COVID-19. If landlords did not take advantage of that free money being offered by the state, then that fault should not lie with the renters. Instead, we should continue to strengthen protections for them by assuring renters that while the market may be volatile, their cost of living in terms of annual rent increases will be capped out at 3% moving forward.”
West Hollywood Hosts Bi Picnic to Cap Off Bi Visibility Week
WeHo adopts definition of antisemitism
The West Hollywood City Council voted Sept. 19 to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of antisemitism.
West Hollywood offering test strips to detect ‘date rape’ drugs
Testing is an important tool for businesses and customers, according to West Hollywood Councilmember John Erickson.
“We’ve heard from the public and we’ve seen it at our public meetings that individuals have talked about potentially having their drinks spiked while they are out, and when cities hear that sort of thing, it’s up to us to act. It’s up to us to ensure that people are remaining safe,” he said.
In addition to the testing strips, the city is adding more safety personnel on the streets, including Block by Block ambassadors and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputies, and offering bystander intervention training to local businesses so they can help proactively prevent sexual assaults.
WeHo takes the leash off Plummer Park
“The dog park is really important to the east side members, because many of them have to trek all the way over to the west side to use [West Hollywood Park] when we all know people love taking their four-legged companions to Plummer Park to have a lot of fun,” Councilman John Erickson said.
WeHo Social Justice Task Force wraps its research
West Hollywood’s Social Justice Task Force was commissioned by the City Council in December 2020, in the wake of the Black Lives Matter protests that followed the murder of George Floyd. Since then, the nine-member group has met to discuss how to move the city in a more inclusive, equitable direction for marginalized communities.
“From our finances, business practices, policing equity and workforce equality, the task force examined areas of our city and provided concrete steps for us to address as a body moving forward,” Councilman John Erickson said. “It was the first of its kind, and we owe them a debt that we now must carry on in conjunction with the community.”
In discussing the next steps following the recommendations, Erickson said the council now has to get to work.
“Their recommendations were based on a multi-year examination and approach to the policies of the city. We need to examine the work and now create the next steps for the city to begin implementing these changes to ensure that we make good on the promise and challenge that the task force provided to the council to act on,” Erickson said.
“West Hollywood is a progressive city, and we need to ensure that both social equality and justice for all are not just issues on the ballot every two years but issues that have longstanding precedents in our city and our policies, and are not beholden to one person or entity but rather the good residents and businesses of West Hollywood,” Erickson said.
West Hollywood plans candlelight vigil for victims of Colorado shooting
“We need to stand in solidarity with everyone in the LGBTQ community,” said West Hollywood Councilman John Erickson, “and hopefully be a beacon for anyone who identifies as LGBTQ or who loves and supports our community.”
Erickson described the gathering, which will take place at Rocco’s WeHo at Santa Monica and San Vicente boulevards, as a community effort initiated by the city’s public safety commissioner Jackie Steele.
“Together we need to demand action and solutions, no more thoughts and prayers,” added Erickson, who has been working to ensure public safety for the vigil. “Last night’s shooting was grim, especially as details emerge.”
D’Amico retires from WeHo council, leaves lasting legacy
Council John Erickson described D’Amico as a mentor and friend.
“He is someone that I have come to rely on for so many things that impact West Hollywood,” Erickson said. “Having known him since I was an intern at the city, then a staff member, planning commissioner and then councilmember, John has offered me much advice on city business and, more importantly, life as a gay man. John’s steadfast commission and fight to end HIV/AIDS while also reminding us of the importance of this work and the role West Hollywood has and is playing in ending this epidemic has forever changed my life. I have very fond memories of sitting next to him on the dais, and I will miss his physical presence, but I am so proud of his time in the city and forever thankful for his service to the city, our residents, businesses and so much else. His impact will continue to be felt for years to come, and what a legacy that is.”
Erickson takes on new role with WeHo council
“The last two years on the City Council have seen the city grow, face new obstacles and overcome challenges still remaining from the COVID-19 pandemic as well as longstanding issues that the council righted with new policies,” he said. “Having worked at the city for six years prior to my time on council, I already knew how the city worked and it was great to grow in this new role and now, step into the role as mayor pro tempore and continue to push and fight for progress at all levels.”
Outdoor dining becomes permanent in WeHo
“The outzones have been a critical component of how our city’s businesses reinvented themselves during the pandemic and created space where none existed,” Mayor Pro Tempore John Erickson said.
West Hollywood Gender-Neutral Bathrooms Passes
West Hollywood is taking a big step toward making sure that gender-neutral bathrooms are easily accessible for everyone in the community. Robert Kovacik reports for the NBC4 News on Feb. 21, 2023.
WeHo introduces Drag Laureate, pushing back against conservative bans
West Hollywood took a decided stand against anti-LGBTQ+ legislation that was passed in Tennessee last week. The City Council on March 6 approved the final version of a Drag Laureate program. The program will designate one drag performer as the official West Hollywood ambassador of the city’s drag culture. The performer will receive a $15,000 stipend, although that income will be reviewed and may increase in the future.
Mayor Pro Tempore John Erickson postured that perhaps the Drag Laureate could circumvent the city’s ordinances against traveling to areas with anti-LGBTQ+ legislation for protest activities, but this type of travel is not currently apart of the program.
WeHo votes to ban glue traps
The council was unanimous in its passage of the ban, with Mayor Pro Tempore John Erickson praising the council’s “bold action.”
“Together, we can – and are – creating new pathways for cities to act more ethically when it comes to the treatment of animals, and that is something that I hope we can all agree on, regardless of what side of this conversation you may or may not be on,” Erickson said.
Mayor Pro Tem John Erickson Speaks Out on Receiving Death Threats
West Hollywood Mayor Pro Tem John Erickson received a death threat Monday morning. A text message sent to his personal phone number at 3:30am calls him a homophobic slur and makes reference to a noose around his neck. He shared the post on his social media.
“Hey John F*gg a noose would look great around your neck,” reads the text. He says it’s one of many that he’s received since he was elected to City Council. However, unlike the previous threats, he decided to share this latest one with the public.
In an interview with WEHO TIMES, the Mayor Pro Tem discussed how these threats are no joke, how hate inspires hate and how we must all be vigilant to stay safe.
Saint Victor Church Welcomes Mayor and City Officials to Sunday Mass
Saint Victor Church welcomed Mayor of West Hollywood Sepi Shyne, Mayor Pro Tem John Erickson, council member Chelsea Byers, and some appointed City Commissioners for Sunday Mass at 8634 Holloway Drive this past Sunday.
Minimum wage hits $19.08 per hour in West Hollywood
West Hollywood has always postured itself as a progressive city, and it doubled down on its position on July 1, when a new minimum wage of 19.08/hour took effect. The nightlife-centric city, known for its LGBTQ+ clubs on Santa Monica Boulevard and famed celebrity nightspots on Sunset Boulevard, now has the highest minimum wage in the country.
Mayor Pro Tempore John Erickson expressed pride in the new wage.
“West Hollywood is [centered on] recovery [for] everyone and not just a few,” Erickson said. “As we’ve seen, a small wage increase can have a monumental impact on someone’s life and as someone who has worked a minimum wage job and seen the impacts this has, I’m proud West Hollywood is leading the way.”
West Hollywood bartender Chris DiPrete said that the increased wage will make a difference in his livelihood.
“For someone who has lived in West Hollywood for about seven years, and paying quite a hefty chunk of change to live … it makes perfect sense for the minimum wage to increase,” DiPrete said. “It’ll hopefully help to even things out. In the wise words of Lizzo, it’s about damn time.”
Erickson said he was looking forward to seeing Los Angeles city officials move the discussion forward with the potential of a $25/hour minimum wage.
“Let me state that the current minimum wage is not a livable wage with the rising cost of rent and other necessities,” he said. “I hope we continue to look at how we can continue to impact the economic realities many West Hollywood residents and businesses face as well as influence the cities surrounding our 1.89 square miles.”
PrEP bill halted after potentially harmful amendment added
West Hollywood Mayor Pro Tempore John Erickson, who also works at Planned Parenthood, said that prior authorization is the most difficult obstacle to getting people the medication. He also said the blame for the amendment lies squarely on one California assemblyman’s shoulders.
“That committee staff does not just do stuff on their own,” Erickson said. “They do it with the exclusive sign-off of the committee chair, who is Assemblyman Chris Holden (D-Pasadena). And so essentially what that assembly member did in appropriations is kill access to life-saving preventative medication for individuals who are trying to prevent themselves from getting HIV. That is mostly people of color, poor people, immigrants and, sadly now if you look at numbers, it’s Black and brown women. And so, a Democrat in a powerful position [is] essentially [sentencing] people to potential death sentences or life sentences with a disease that is treatable and doesn’t have to happen.”
Erickson added that with California’s Democratic supermajority, the bill would have easily passed both houses without the additional amendment.
“It’s shameful. And I don’t care what anyone says, because I know how Sacramento works … Chris Holden did this to this bill. And he is directly responsible whether or not he was directly asked by the health insurance companies to do it. He is the chair of the committee; he could have stopped it. And he knew that this would further undermine this bill and access to PrEP,” Erickson said.
WeHo plants new roots with updated tree canopy standards
The West Hollywood City Council approved revisions on Dec. 18 to standards for tree canopy requirements for privately-owned property. The aim was two-fold, both to improve the cityscape and to help fight the effects of climate change. The item was approved unanimously by the council.
“West Hollywood has worked tirelessly to make sure our city is being resilient and responsive to climate change,” Mayor Pro Tempore John Erickson said. “I think [this will help] to replenish our tree canopy on private properties. We have our own internal tree replacement policies, which are very aggressive. But, as we all know, the city owns less property than the private property owners.”
Erickson, Byers lead WeHo council in 2024
“I am truly honored by my colleagues selecting me to serve the mayor for the next year,” Erickson said. “And I’m even more [excited] to be serving alongside my colleague and friend – the city’s first ever vice mayor – Chelsea Byers. As we go into a new year, which will see many issues on the national and local scale that try to drive us apart, coming [I’m excited to come together] now more than ever to show what our city stands for, who we are, and why West Hollywood always be that beacon on a hill for people of all walks of life – specifically our renters, our LGBTQ community and anyone that feels like they don’t have a home where they’re currently at.”
Erickson was elected to the council in November 2020, while Byers joined in November 2022.
State leaders express retail theft frustrations at California State Capitol
The dollar amount of stolen goods in California has more than doubled statewide. It's an issue that's become so bad in several cities, including Sacramento, that legislators are looking to change the laws.
More than 100 city leaders who were at the State Capitol in Sacramento with the California Contract Cities Association on Tuesday focused on issues like homelessness and retail theft – both big issues in San Francisco, Sacramento and Los Angeles County.
"After the COVID-19 pandemic, so many of our local businesses are just starting to get back on their feet," said West Hollywood Mayor Pro Tempore John Erickson. "And with the rise of retail theft, businesses are now continually threatened by this other wave of economic hardship."
Q&A – Mayor Elect John Erickson Shares His Vision on Being Mayor of West Hollywood
7th Annual Best of LGBTQ+ LA, honoring our community
West Hollywood’s Mayor John Erickson was on hand to accept three awards on behalf of the city, including most LGBTQ-friendly city, most friendly workplace, and best pride festival in the Los Angeles region.
Erickson could barely contain his excitement about this year’s Weho Pride Festival, which will be happening May 31-Jun 2.
“I legally cannot tell you who is performing, but you won’t want to miss it,” Erickson said.
Erickson also acknowledged The Blade for its work bringing the community together.
“Let’s give it up for the Los Angeles Blade! They’re doing such great work,” he said.
West Hollywood Mayor John Erickson Hosts Meet and Greet at Javista
West Hollywood Mayor John Erickson moved his monthly meet-and-greet event known as “Saturday in Plummer Park with John” to Javista Coffee located at 7494 Santa Monica Blvd. The gathering moved down the street from the park due to heavy rain this morning.
The newly sworn-in mayor met with WeHo community members, West Hollywood commissioners and board members for a chance to answer questions, discuss community concerns or just mingle. He also had a chance to chat with the owner and staff at Javista Coffee.
WeHo touts $31 million budget surplus
West Hollywood’s coffers are lined more heavily than anticipated. While the city had a robust $22 million surplus last year, a budget update to the City Council during its Feb. 5 meeting showed that 2023 left the city with more than $31 million extra in the bank.
“Good governance and good policies bring about a wonderful surplus,” he said, adding that the end of the pandemic also helped bring tourists back to the city.
The city has many capital projects to which some of the surplus could be used. Erickson mentioned that he would like to see progress on the Coast Playhouse redevelopment and the renovation of the Log Cabin, as well as using some funding to invest in the arts and social services. Both he and Byers also mentioned the importance, as Heilman also noted, of building the city’s rainy-day funds.
Motion to protect Jewish community approved
West Hollywood Mayor John Erickson said that the city is working to improve its own Jewish community safety plan as needs and situations evolve.
“The city of West Hollywood officially supported the motion put forth by Supervisor Horvath,” Erickson said. “This was something that the supervisor set forth when she was on the West Hollywood City Council. I’m proud that when Vice Mayor Byers, myself and the rest of the council, were actually reviewing ongoing programs and initiatives the council has in place, we [agreed] to reemphasize our Jewish community safety plan. [We] sent it back to staff to continue to revitalize, revamp and reinvigorate to ensure that all members of our community, especially our Jewish community and businesses know that the city has their back.”
Jones Hollywood Is Open Again After Three Months of Closure Due to a Huge Car Crash
General manager Keith McCarthy says he found ample support from longtime Jones loyalists following the accident. The morning after the crash, McCarthy was contacted by West Hollywood mayor John M. Erickson who offered support, along with operators like Employees Only who hosted a fundraiser benefiting Jones’ employees that raised $11,500. Additionally, the restaurant raised over $26,000 for staffers through GoFundMe. While the main dining room reopens tonight, the cafe remains closed due to structural damage. “I opened Jones in 1994,” says McCarthy. “When we first were conceiving Jones, our mindset was to be one of those institutions that’s going to be around for years and years and years.” Call (323) 850-1726 for a reservation.
MedMen returns to WeHo after corporate restructuring
Media reports indicated that MedMen had a history of not paying invoices and abruptly changing management. West Hollywood Mayor John Erickson indicated that the company had been unfair to workers.
“What [was] going on with MedMen is symbolic of the way all major corporations that prioritize greed and investors getting paid first [operates] – versus the workers and communities in which they serve,” Erickson said. “I’m glad that they’ve reopened, and I hope they’ve got a plan to help readdress the harm that they might have caused to their employees.”
AT&T's proposal to phase out landline service in California draws both opposition and support
AT&T says fewer than 5% of households are served by cooper based landline phones. Even so, local leaders like West Hollywood Mayor John Erickson is fighting for his constituents to keep their landline.
"A landline which is something we rely on should there be a natural disaster an earthquake or something else we utilize landline phones," said Erickson.
St Victor’s Catholic Church Welcomes Mayor Erickson to 2nd Annual Mayor’s Mass
Mayor Erickson sent a message of prayer, love and peace to the community stating that he is available and answer questions and listen to concerns.
“I’m thankful to my religious community of St Victor’s Catholic Church for hosting the ‘Mayor’s Mass’ again, and for former Commissioner Richard Maggio for helping organize it and all those who attended,” said Mayor Erickson. “It was truly wonderful being in community with everyone, praying and wishing for a better and more peaceful world.”
OUT on Robertson Pilot Program Gets Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Robertson Boulevard In West Hollywood To Close On Weekends For Outdoor Dining
CanivisionCA speaks to Weho Councilmember John Erickson
WeHo Joins LA Regional Food Bank to Host Free Food Giveaway Event
“There has been a steady stream of cars all morning long. This is such an important event because so many people right now are facing so many issues, but food insecurity is something where we always want to make sure people are fed and healthy. This event has no income requirement, so anyone can sign up and get food. Many people feel the shame and stigma of singing up to ask for something like this, but we’re here to help and happy to provide something like this. People helping out is what makes West Hollywood, West Hollywood. This is who we are as a city. We’re out here helping out our residents and helping our community. It’s also nice to see some people in the flesh.”
West Hollywood to Add Black, Brown Stripes, Trans Flag to Crosswalks
Human Rights Speaker Event: Disclosure. Join us for a candid conversation about transgender rights and Disclosure, a Netflix documentary, directed by Sam Feder!
Remembering Ivy Bottini: 1926-2021
“Because of Ivy, so many of us remained safe and alive in our communities when our governments and families turned on us. Because of Ivy, we found that home may not be where we were born or raised but in a place called West Hollywood.”
WeHo to require gender-neutral bathrooms
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Join the City of West Hollywood for a candid conversation exploring the intersection of faith and sexual identity!
![“I’m gravely concerned by the whistleblowers’ claims, and I will say from a public safety standpoint, when I was away in Wisconsin, I was receiving a number of disturbing emails [alleging unresponsiveness] from the sheriff’s department,” Erickson said. “I have great respect for our first responders, those who put their lives on the line, but I am slowly losing confidence in the sheriff’s department. I’ve always worked with them in a great way and found them to be responsive, but they are not being responsive to members of our community who call them for very simple tasks, and that’s concerning to me.”](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e33ae8f0c664940d3c4dab2/1623361819360-3313WT8RJWX1FRNSYEBS/Sheriff.png)
“I’m gravely concerned by the whistleblowers’ claims, and I will say from a public safety standpoint, when I was away in Wisconsin, I was receiving a number of disturbing emails [alleging unresponsiveness] from the sheriff’s department,” Erickson said. “I have great respect for our first responders, those who put their lives on the line, but I am slowly losing confidence in the sheriff’s department. I’ve always worked with them in a great way and found them to be responsive, but they are not being responsive to members of our community who call them for very simple tasks, and that’s concerning to me.”
West Hollywood approves 2021-22 budget!
The general fund is projected to be $104 million by the end of the fiscal year, while the city is slated to spend approximately $114 million. That gap will be filled by the city’s reserves, which are projected to be $101 million by the end of the fiscal year.
The Los Angeles Blade celebrates Next Generation Pride
It was a gathering to celebrate, honor and recognize the achievements of LGBTQ+ students, faculty, staff and the administrators of the Los Angeles Community College District, which is the largest community college district in the United States and also one of the largest in the world.
Hotel employees in West Hollywood will likely have new protections at their workplaces in the near future after the City Council voted 4-1 on Monday to approve a proposed hospitality workers ordinance.
It requires hotels to offer personal security devices to employees, provides employees the “right to recall” and worker retention protections, establishes worker training protocols, and creates workload and compensation standards.
Eastside Community Update & Forum
WeHo City Holds Reproductive Rights Rally Protesting Texas Anti-Abortion Law
Join us for a candid conversation exploring the Anti-LGBTQ Policies in Iran.
No more plastic forks in West Hollywood.
Councilman John Erickson said he wants to be mindful of business owners’ concerns, but he referenced a study by the University of California Los Angeles Luskin Center for Innovation that found threats to businesses and the economy posed by the transition to plastic alternatives are small. The study stated that food vendors may benefit fiscally following the adoption of reusable items.
West Hollywood aims for carbon zero
West Hollywood wins 2021 ‘Most Business-Friendly City Award’
The City of West Hollywood was a finalist among five cities with a population under 60,000 people in Los Angeles County.
WeHo approves draft ordinance which would increase minimum wage to highest in country.
“This is about ultimately how we can help people earn a little bit more and ultimately how we can make sure this city does set a national standard for what we think about when it comes down to labor,” Councilman John Erickson said.
WeHo debates sheriff’s department’s future
“After hearing from the community and reviewing the community survey results, one thing was clear: we should utilize more funds to invest in new services that aim to tackle Mental and Behavioral Health while also tackling our homelessness crisis.
Our #WeHo Sheriff's Station has whistleblowers, we have people saying things in the press about the misuse of funds, we have people talking to us that are concerned about LASD and the number of services they get.
Most importantly, I can’t actually look at someone and say, ‘I know where all $20 million of your taxpayer dollars is going,’ because of the Sheriff's continued refusal to let us do an audit and I find that deeply troubling.
We must work together to identify community safety updates and I'm dedicated to ensuring that we get this right (and done together as a community).”
The City Council on Monday approved a motion to start a request for proposals process for a historical context study that would evaluate the city’s policies and the potential establishment of a community reparations program.
Join the City of West Hollywood’s Human Rights Speakers Series for a candid conversation exploring LGBTQ Identity, Spirituality, and Liberation focused around the new Netflix film Pray Away.
WeHo City Officials Join Activist in Remembrance of U.S. Capitol Riot
West Hollywood city officials joined members from Hollywood NOW (the Hollywood Chapter of the National Organization for Women) and Stonewall Democratic Club for a candlelight vigil at Sal Guarriello Veterans’ Memorial to acknowledge the one year anniversary of the January 6th U.S. Capitol riot. The event was lead by Abbe Land, Executive Director of L.A. County Women and Girls Initiative AMD and former Mayor/Councilmember in West Hollywood.
Speakers included West Hollywood Mayor Lauren Meister, council members John D’Amico and John Erickson, Vice President of Hollywood NOW Karen Andros Eyres, Stonewall Democratic Club President Alex Mohajer, and At-Large Board Member Jasmyne Cannick.
West Hollywood green lights traffic stop analysis
The city of West Hollywood is investigating the possibility of ceasing or reducing low-level traffic stops in the city with the hope of freeing up law enforcement while reducing racial bias and possible profiling.
The West Hollywood City Council on Jan. 18 voted 4-1 to have the City Attorney Lauren Langer and the city’s Public Safety Division analyze possible measures West Hollywood could take and report back to council at a later date.
Although the council wants more localized data, it could be a long time before the center releases the Center for Police Equity’s report, Councilman John Erickson said.
“We’ve asked for it multiple times, and I don’t feel confident that it’s going to be coming back anytime soon,” he added.
WeHo’s finances better than projected
The West Hollywood City Council Finance and Budget Subcommittee met on Jan. 31 to discuss the mid-year budget outlook for the 2021-22 fiscal year, and to discuss the living and minimum wage rate.
While the city is still expecting a revenue shortfall by the end of the fiscal year, the newly projected deficit is less than initially thought. The shift in estimations is due to an unexpectedly strong economic performance by the retail and hospitality industries from June 2021 to December 2021.
Kitchen24 West Hollywood Celebrates 10 Years with Drag Brunch Show
Installation of New Pride Progress Flag Crosswalks Began Today
The installation of the new pride progress flag crosswalks began this week. The work will take place over the course of four days. The new borders were installed yesterday, Monday, March 7, 2022 (day 1), and installment of the new colors began today and will continue through Thursday, March 10, 2022 (day 2,3,4).
WeHo acknowledges indigenous Tongvas people
At the Feb. 22 City Council meeting, the city of West Hollywood took a step toward paying respect to the area’s Native American heritage by adopting a land acknowledgment policy. The statement declares that the city recognizes “the history and presence of indigenous peoples and their enduring relationship to their homelands.” The land acknowledgement will be read aloud at official West Hollywood events and will also be posted on the city’s website and printed on council, commission and advisory board agendas.
A changing of the guard at WeHo Sheriff’s Station
The West Hollywood Sheriff’s Station underwent a change in leadership on April 2 after former captain Edward Ramirez was promoted to commander of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s North Patrol Division.
WeHo’s ‘Meet Me at the Park’ Recognizes Lesbian and Queer Women
West Hollywood City officials and staff gathered with members from the lesbian and queer women community for a “Meet Me in the Park” event on Saturday, April 30, to recognize and celebrate Lesbian and Queer Women Visibility Week. The fellowship included a full schedule of programming at the Great Lawn at West Hollywood Park, located at 647 N. San Vicente Boulevard.
It's our second episode and we're not just angry, we are angry AND disappointed (we recorded this the day after the Supreme Court decision leak of its decision on Roe v. Wade). But we are thrilled that we got to interview West Hollywood City Councilmember, John Erickson. We discuss local politics, reproductive choice, and more!
CicLAvia hits local streets again in August
CicLAvia will be returning to Hollywood and West Hollywood in August 2022. On June 6, the West Hollywood City Council approved a measure to help host the event in partnership with the city of Los Angeles.
WeHo City Celebrates Junteenth with Pan-African Flag-Raising Ceremony
The City of West Hollywood hosted a Pan-African Flag-Raising ceremony in celebration of the Juneteenth 2022 holiday on Sunday, June 19, 2022 at 10 a.m. The event took place in the auto court behind West Hollywood City Hall, located at 8300 Santa Monica Boulevard.
State prepares for Roe reversal fallout
West Hollywood Councilman John Erickson, who works at Planned Parenthood, said the non-profit has been preparing for the decision.
“We are ready,” Erickson said. “We’ve been seeing the eradication to the federal right to a legal abortion for quite some time, and that’s why the forward-thinking nature of Planned Parenthood Los Angeles has been getting ready for this moment.”
Erickson spoke at a rally in West Hollywood Park on June 24, organized by the West Hollywood City Council, that offered a strong rebuke of the Supreme Court decision, specifically speaking to how the decision could marginalize people in states with anti-abortion laws.
Following an hour of speeches, the large crowd marched east on Santa Monica Boulevard, stopping at the Planned Parenthood offices. An emphasis in many of the speeches highlighted other landmark decisions that could be overturned. In his concurrent opinion, Justice Clarence Thomas cited three cases he thought should be revisited, including Obergefell v. Hodges, which made same-sex marriage legal.
Erickson warned that if the Republican party were to gain control of Congress and the presidency, these decisions could be codified into national law.
“If Republicans have the majority and the votes to pass an abortion ban, which they have already signaled if you’ve been watching [Sen.] Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and what he’s been saying to do, that’s something they could do,” Erickson said.
Erickson reminded angry citizens that voting in November is paramount.
“Donate to your local abortion provider, make sure that we are telling our stories because that does have the power to change a lot of people’s minds and ensure that you’re not only registered to vote, but that everyone that you know is taking action and voting and organizing because the fight starts now,” Erickson said.
Candlelight vigil and march in WeHo to protest SCOTUS reversal of Roe v. Wade
Hundreds of protesters turned out across the US after the supreme court's decision to abolish the constitutional right to abortion.
2 pickpockets arrested, 17 stolen cell phones recovered in West Hollywood
A man and a woman have been arrested on suspicion of stealing more than a dozen cell phones from people enjoying West Hollywood's bars and clubs.
Congressman Schiff’s sponsorship of marriage equality bill praised
“West Hollywood is both home to and has been a leading proponent of the fight for marriage equality and today’s passage of the Respect for Marriage Act not only signals that our rights are under attack but also that we need to recommit to the fight to enshrine equality into law to protect the fights that we won in the past and those we’ll be facing in the immediate future,” Councilman John Erickson said.
Councilmember Erickson raises concerns over monkeypox
Councilmember John M. Erickson sponsored an item with the Los Angeles Blade to host a monkeypox town hall event to discuss concerns over the spread of monkeypox in the U.S.
WeHo Council moves ahead with Robertson Lane project
“The Robertson Lane project is a beautifully designed, thoughtful and community-driven project,” Erickson said. “The care the applicants took to reach out to the community as well as the community benefits package that was made stronger on Monday night signify to me that this landmark development in the heart of our Rainbow District will be, much like the Pacific Design Center is now, a landmark for West Hollywood for years to come.”
West Hollywood Leaders Study Nighttime Safety Concerns
LA Times: To prevent rapes, West Hollywood is giving spiked-drink tests to bars and clubs
In response to nightlife safety concerns, a new initiative is underway in West Hollywood to stem the problem of spiked drinks and the sexual predators who spike them.
The city began distributing date-rape drug test kits Monday to venues that serve alcohol and to some patrons. The packages contain tests that detect whether someone’s drink has been drugged, also referred to as “roofied” — meaning dosed with Rohypnol (flunitrazepam) or a similar drug.
“This prevention can literally save someone’s life,” West Hollywood Mayor Pro Tem Sepi Shyne said. Shyne and Councilman John Erickson proposed the initiative to the City Council in February, and it passed with unanimous approval.
WeHo expands electric bike program
An expansion of its electric bike pilot initiatives is just one of a series of recent moves to create a green energy future by the West Hollywood City Council. At the Sept. 19 regular meeting, the council agreed to direct city staff to plan for the installation of e-bike charging stations on the path toward a permanent program.
The program has been of particular interest to Councilman John Erickson, who initiated the agenda item calling for e-bike charging stations.
“I’m an e-bike user myself. I actually rode my bike to the meeting,” Erickson said. “And yes, I rode it home [when the meeting was over] at 1:30 in the morning. And you know, they’re actually a great way to get around. They’re easy, they’re accessible. But what happens if you’re riding and ran out of a little bit of juice? So, I was thinking West Hollywood could help lead the way. We need to continue to push forward for the use of electric vehicles and e-bikes as we continue to improve our infrastructure throughout the city.”
City Council Moves to Ban Sale and Use of Glue Traps in West Hollywood
West Hollywood's Official Poet Laureate - Brian Sonia-Wallace
Did you know many cities, including West Hollywood, have an official Poet Laureate? We Know WeHo talks to the Official Poet Laureate of West Hollywood - Brian Sonia-Wallace. Listen to find out what it means to hold that position and Brian's official duties whilst he is in this role. Be sure to check out the Tuesday night open mic for poets, musicians, artists as well as a quarterly poetry SLAM competition being hosted at Micky's West Hollywood. GUEST RESOURCES Website: briansoniawallace.com Instagram: @rentpoet PODCAST Website: anchor.fm/weknowweho Instagram: @weknowweho_official Host: @TLP_Style Guest Co-Host: @johnericksonwh SHOW NOTES & LINKS: Brian Sonia Wallace - Poet Laureate West Hollywood Arts Micky's West Hollywood The Invisible Life of Addie Larue - V.E. Schwab West Hollywood Aquatic Center CicLAVia IRV's Burgers Tail O' the Pup Madeo at the One Hotel Butcher's Daughter Zinc Cafe and Market Zinque V Wine Room Sunset Marquis DineLA Restaurant Week West Hollywood City Council
51 New Businesses Opened in the City of West Hollywood in 2022
At the November 7, 2022, Regular City Council meeting, Mayor Pro Tempore Sepi Shyne directed staff to return to the City Council with a report and list of new businesses that have opened in the City in the last two years. City staff produced a list of new businesses opened in 2021 and 2022, as well as businesses projected to open in the first half of 2023. In total, the list consists of over 100 businesses, including restaurants, retail businesses, fitness/gym uses, art galleries, hotels, and cannabis businesses, all of which are located in commercial districts.
According to the staff report, 22 businesses opened in 2021, 50 have opened so far in 2022, (the accurate number is 51 if you count Urbn Leaf, which had a grand opening last week) and another 12 are projected to open later this year. There are 17 businesses projected to open in the first half of 2023. Half of the new businesses are restaurants, bars, or coffee shops.
WeHo Council approves Fountain bike lanes
A study by the city presented three options along Fountain Avenue to residents, and also included the potential for unprotected bike lanes or to keep the street as is. According to West Hollywood Councilman John Erickson, the overwhelming majority of residents wanted protected bike lanes.
“An online survey overwhelmingly showed that 62% of people that took the survey wanted option one, protected bike lanes. 10% of people wanted option two, which was unprotected bike lanes. So, you look at 72% [of people] wanted change,” he said.
Erickson said that alternative parking options will be explored by city staff.
“Parallel parking on streets actually takes up more room than diagonal parking. And so as long as the flow of traffic works there, we can change to diagonal parking,” he said, going on to explain that expansion of permit parking in surrounding streets would also be considered.
Erickson said that the bike lanes would likely be created in 2023, though a specific date will take time to determine.
“This is a long sought-after need and change, and we’re all doing it. We’re all doing what we can to improve safety for everyone,” he said.
Digital billboard will soon adorn the Whisky
While community members attending the city council meeting on Nov. 21 supported the billboard, Erickson addressed residents who might be concerned about any disturbances the new digital sign might cause.
“Community input is critical to all of what we do on the Strip and while I wasn’t on the City Council when these billboard programs were approved, I know that our staff and the applicants are committed to ensuring all voices are heard and all concerns are addressed as best as they can. I’m always available to anyone that wants to voice those concerns, and we do have to look at what the Strip will look like not only in the next six months but also a year, five years, etc., into the future,” Erickson said, adding that a projected date has not been determined for the sign’s completion.
West Hollywood election results a mixed bag, with wins for left and center
Councilman John Erickson called the election a “win for progressive values at the voter box,” with Byers’ victory and Wright — who would have been the first Black nonbinary person on the council — trailing so closely behind Heilman.
“What that says to me is voters want change,” said Erickson, who defeated Heilman in 2020 and appointed Byers to the Human Services Commission the next year.
“Voters want to look to, and are looking to, the future, and the future of West Hollywood is very bright.”
Pride flag decision raises ire in WeHo
West Hollywood is not near Huntington Beach, but the reverberations of the Huntington Beach City Council’s 4-3 vote on Feb. 7 to not fly the Pride flag over City Hall in June raised concern among local officials. The new policy only allows for government flags to be flown.
“In a time where we see our country headed backwards when people are protesting drag queens, reading to children and access to care, and [the] threats to same sex marriage are continuing and increasing, to see the city of Huntington Beach no longer fly the Pride flag is disgraceful and signifies a warning of much more bigoted and hateful actions to come if we don’t band together and take action now to stop this,” West Hollywood Mayor Pro Tempore John Erickson said.
Bike lanes OK’d on Santa Monica Blvd. in WeHo
According to Mayor Pro Tempore John Erickson, the move is an attempt to provide modes of transportation beyond driving for residents.
“The council took action to address the longstanding lack of infrastructure in our community connecting regional ways of transit outside of the use of a car,” Erickson said. “This process has been vetted through several public meetings and with experts on our mobility task force and I’m hopeful that when the staff returns with the block-by-block analysis, we’ll be able to see the bigger picture of how this will all work citywide.”
The proposal would create barriers for cyclist protection, expand sidewalks in some areas and eliminate some parking spaces. Council also directed staff to identify ways to connect Santa Monica Boulevard with Fountain and Willoughby avenues.
Over 20,000 Participants Passed Through ‘Rainbow Mile’ in WeHo for Los Angeles Marathon 2023
Over 20,000 participants passed through the streets of West Hollywood Sunday morning for the 38th Annual Los Angeles Marathon 2023. West Hollywood Mayor Pro Tem John Erickson referred to the turnoff at the Rainbow District on Santa Monica Boulevard as the “Rainbow Mile.”
“It’s the best mile,” he told Wendy Burch of KTLA. “We’ve got all the colors, we’ve got all the diversity, and there’s no better place to do it than West Hollywood… we love that they come through the city every year. We can see the crowds come out, every family from all walks of life, and we do it right here in West Hollywood because this is where everyone is welcome.”
WeHo Council takes stand against Airbnb
Mayor Pro Tempore John Erickson pointed out that the city consists of 80% renters, and that measures must be taken to protect them.
“I think we should go even further by not only banning their use in the city but also legal action if they continue to abuse and harass renters with false advertising and misuse of our rental housing stock,” he said.
New Shalom Peace Square Gets Official Unveiling in West Hollywood
WeHo kicks off Pride with special tribute
West Hollywood kicked off its Pride activities with the observance of Harvey Milk Day on May 22. The holiday launched the WeHo Pride Arts Festival, which the city also used to celebrate the life of Jose Sarria. In 1961, Sarria was the first openly gay candidate to run for political office and finished ninth in a race for the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. He was also the prominent drag queen the Widow Norton and the founder of LGBTQ+ organization the Imperial Court System.
To help honor Sarria’s legacy, the city held the Jose Sarria Drag Pageant, which was hosted by Maebe A. Girl, the Silver Lake Neighborhood Councilmember who was the first drag queen elected to public office in the United States.
“We honored and uplifted [Sarria] by highlighting none other than our amazing drag community with a drag show and performance, and by also having judges from the Imperial Court of Los Angeles present,” Mayor Pro Tempore John Erickson said.
The city will host WeHo Pride on June 2-4, which will feature a variety of events including the OTULOUD music festival, a Pride Parade, the Dyke March and the Women’s Freedom Festival. For information, visit wehopride.com.
“There is something to do every night whether it’s online or in person or here in West Hollywood,” Erickson said. “I know that we have something for everyone … like Harvey Milk always said, ‘Coming out is the most radical thing you could ever do.’ And at a time when rights and bans and everything are really out there and prevalent in our community, we have to make sure we all stay safe, but we also have to make sure we take pride in each other and, most importantly, ourselves, because we are all beautiful and that’s what Pride is really all about.”
Funding approved to renovate West Hollywood’s Log Cabin
Renovations to the historic Log Cabin building on Robertson Boulevard, which serves as the headquarters for the West Hollywood Recovery Center, have moved into the next phase of renovation following the California State Legislature’s approval of $1.15 million to support the building’s rehabilitation.
The funds, which were included in the state’s budget, were requested by State Sen. Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica) and Assemblyman Rick Chavez Zbur.
“Everyone has a story to tell of their experience with addiction, whether it’s their own or an experience with a loved one. I certainly do both with my family and friends,” Zbur said. “And the Log Cabin … within just a couple of months of assuming office, I got a call from [West Hollywood Councilman John] Erickson, and that was followed up by my long meetings with the mayor and every member of the council and the city staff really helping me understand the importance of obtaining more funding for the Log Cabin, and really what that would mean not only to the residents of West Hollywood, but really to the entire recovery community of the whole area … in and around West Hollywood.”
Zbur put in a request for $650,000, and Allen put in a request for $500,000. Both were approved.
“This item is deeply personal to me as I have friends and family members that have reached out over the years to discuss the importance of this site, not just historically, but also its impact on recovery services,” Mayor Pro Tempore John Erickson said. “This started prior to when I was on council when there was a threat to the Log Cabin and I worked to lobby then-Supervisor Sheila Kuehl around its importance. Since then, I have met with legislators up and down the state as well as in D.C. lobbying them to give us the much-needed funding to help restore this site, and I’m glad to see those efforts are being rewarded with these statewide funds.”
For information on the West Hollywood Recovery Center, visit thewhrc.org.(D-West Hollywood).
WeHo City Council opts for additional sheriff’s deputy
“Public safety is the No. 1 concern of the council, and I’m glad we had such a robust conversation around the decrease in crime, our continued focus on ensuring everyone is and feels safe in their community, and the work we’re doing to use all the tools in our toolbox to address the issue of public safety moving forward,” Erickson said.
Pope OKs same-sex couples, but stops short of marriage equality
In a historic move, Pope Francis approved the blessing of same-sex couples by Catholic priests on Dec. 18, although the Catholic church maintains its ban on same-sex marriages. The blessing was heralded by many LGBTQ+ leaders as a step toward full equality.
West Hollywood Mayor Pro Tempore John Erickson recently visited the Pope at the Vatican, and he discussed with him LGBTQ+ issues.
“I think for any LGBTQ person within religions that may or may not be … hostile to their identities – [this offers] glimmers of hope,” Erickson said. “And while stem religions have made monumental achievements in full open equality, [we] still see those large monoliths like the Catholic Church moving at a different pace. However, what Pope Francis has been doing since he has become Pope is moving the church … forward in a drastic way – from climate change to immigration and now to same sex, union blessings.”
Erickson said that, while full acceptance has yet to be achieved by same-sex couples in the church, the move was major for both the religious and LGBTQ+ community.
Erickson pointed out that the move by the church still makes a big difference to religious people, particularly young people, looking for acceptance.
“I’ve seen a lot of changes happen in my life, and being a young gay kid from Ripon, Wisconsin, I sit back and I think of even just meeting the Pope in general – that’s never something that would ever occur to me,” he said. “Having the pope do what he just did … [that’s] the power of community.”
Editorial: Amend state constitution to recognize same-sex marriage
Erickson looks to future as he steps into WeHo mayoral role
“My promises of my campaign were to bring about new leadership, new visions for the city and continue to ensure that the residents and businesses had a champion at City Hall,” he said. “I believe that I’ve not only fulfilled on those promises, but I’ve worked every single day to ensure that when someone calls my office, when someone calls City Hall, they’re not only getting a direct response from either myself or someone else, but know that we’re working tirelessly on their behalf.”
Leading with Purpose: An Interview with Incoming Mayor John Erickson
West Hollywood Sheriffs Have Coffee with Mayor John Erickson
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s West Hollywood Station hosted a Coffee with the Mayor event to welcome the newly sworn-in Mayor of West Hollywood, John Erickson. The event was at Dialog Cafe, located at 8766 Holloway Drive, on Saturday, January 27, from 11 am to 1 pm.
West Hollywood Council member Lauren Meister and Vice Mayor Chelsea Byers attended the event, along with former council member and Mayor Abbe Land.
City of West Hollywood Swears In Mayor John Erickson and Vice Mayor Chelsea Byers
West Hollywood’s new mayor, John Erickson, and Vice Mayor Chelsea Byers drew a large crowd of supporters during the City of West Hollywood’s annual city council reorganization and installation meeting and oath of office ceremony on Tuesday, January 16, 2023. The City’s Council Chambers/Public Meeting Room was filled with both supporters and the lobby area was bustling with attendees.
KTLA - West Hollywood Holloway Interim Housing Program
Gayle Anderson reports on the West Holloway Interim Housing Program, a five-year plan to address homelessness. That plan includes the Holloway Interim Housing Program in West Hollywood.
Newsom signs PrEP bill, making it accessible without prescription limitations
In September, a poison pill addition killed legislation that would have made life-saving HIV prevention medication widely accessible in California. State Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) put forth the bill again at the beginning of the 2024 legislative term, and on Feb. 6 Gov. Gavin Newsom signed it into law. Now, pre- and post- prophylactic medication will be able to be furnished by pharmacists without a prescription. Typically, the medications Descovy and Truvada are prescribed for HIV prevention.
When the previous bill stalled last year, an amendment had been added that opponents said defeated the legislation’s purpose by allowing insurance companies to require prior authorization. That amendment was removed and the original version is what was signed into law. West Hollywood Mayor John Erickson said that Assemblyman Chris Holden (D-Pasadena) was at fault for the addition to the bill, and that the delay in getting the amendment passed lays on his shoulders.
“I want to reiterate my complete disgust for what Assemblymember Chris Holden, the former chair of assembly appropriations, did in 2023,” Erickson said. “This is why we need LGBTQ elected officials in higher office, because unlike the assemblymember, they actually have the lived experiences to deal with making sure we have policy that saves lives rather than put lives at risk as he did last year.”
The California State Board of Pharmacy is required to adopt emergency regulations so to implement the bill by Oct. 31, 2024.
CPA Staff and Board Members Attend Sacramento Lobby Day
Recently, Clean Power Alliance (CPA) attended our annual lobby day, with our CEO Ted Bardacke attending meetings in Sacramento along with CPA Board members Director Deborah Klein Lopez (Agoura Hills), Director Cedric Hicks (Carson), and Director John Erickson (West Hollywood).
As demand grows for solutions that address the worsening impact of climate change as well as the need for energy reliability and affordability, CPA continues to play our part by advocating for and making substantial investments in renewable power sources and projects that will strengthen California’s green energy portfolio and meet long-term sustainability goals, while launching new energy- and cost-saving programs for local customers.
This lobby day was a part of a statewide advocacy effort with other Community Choice Aggregators (CCA’s) from across the state, along with members of our trade association, the California Community Choice Association (CalCCA).
WeHo officials will visit Pride House in Paris
Mayor John Erickson described the city’s visit to Paris as a “passing of the baton.”
“We’re doing all we can to uplift LGBTQ athletes on these big worldwide stages,” Erickson said.
Fan Girl Cafe Hosts Coffee with West Hollywood Mayor John Erickson
And the Winner of the 7th Annual Drag Queen World Series is…
Throughout the day, West Hollywood Mayor John M. Erickson umpired; Jai Rodriguez (from Queer Eye) sang the National Anthem; Karl Schmid (from KABC-TV) threw the ceremonial First Pitch, and music was spun by Celebrity DJ Eur-O-Steve. This year’s announcers were TV/Podcast personalities Alexander Rodriguez and Norma Lee High. The 3rd inning stretch featured a performance by RuPaul’s Drag Race contestant Eureka O’Hara.
Erickson among CD30 delegates for DNC
Erickson said he was excited to be in company with “an incredible slate of dedicated Democratic activists.”
“We are looking forward to going to Chicago this summer, and then ushering in a win for the president so our country doesn’t go backwards this year – really, for the next 50 years,” he added.
PRESS RELEASES
May 20, 2021 West Hollywood City Councilmember John Erickson’s announces 1 Year Update and Key Accomplishments
September 1, 2021 WEST HOLLYWOOD TO RALLY FOR REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS TODAY AT 5 P.M. IN RESPONSE TO TEXAS' ANTI-ABORTION LAW SB8!
November 4, 2021 WEST HOLLYWOOD MINIMUM WAGE INCREASE PRESS CONFERENCE
June 24, 2022 WEST HOLLYWOOD TO HOLD A CANDLELIGHT VIGIL AND MARCH IN RESPONSE TO SCOTUS OPINION OVERTURNING ROE V. WADE!
July 27, 2022 WEST HOLLYWOOD TO HOLD A MONKEYPOX TOWN HALL EVENT
November 20, 2022 WEST HOLLYWOOD TO HOLD A CANDLELIGHT VIGIL TONIGHT AT 5 PM IN WAKE OF THE MASS SHOOTING IN COLORADO SPRINGS AT CLUB Q
April 4, 2024 West Hollywood Mayor John M. Erickson, Ph.D. officially launches his re-election campaign for West Hollywood City Council