Break-Up of City Debated at Business Association Event.

City Desks/News Editors

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 19, 2002

With less than two months remaining before L.A. residents go to the polls to determine whether the city of Los Angeles will be carved into two localities, key opinion leaders representing both sides of the debate today gathered for a panel discussion held at a Downtown hotel, co-hosted by the Central City Association (CCA), the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, and the L.A. Headquarters Association.

More than 175 guests filled the downtown Wilshire Grand Hotel & Centre for the luncheon debate to hear from a panel that included Keith Richman, California Assemblyman and proposed Valley city mayoral candidate; Tom LaBonge, Los Angeles City Councilman, 4th District; Cindy Miscikowski, Los Angeles City Councilwoman, 11th District; Mitch Menzer, Partner, O'Melveny & Myers; Ben Reznik, former chair, Valley Industry & Commerce Association (VICA); and Mel Wilson, former chair, VICA, and proposed Valley city mayoral candidate. Bill Rosendahl, recognized host of public affairs cable television programs including "Week In Review" and "Local Talk," was on-hand to act as emcee for the lively discussion.

"Election Day is just weeks away and, with it, the possibility of the disastrous break-up of our great city," said Carol E. Schatz, President and CEO of CCA. "Although the CCA strongly opposes secession, we believe that the fair and open exchange of ideas will inevitably lead reasonable people to the same conclusion. That is why we decided to gather some of the most prominent people in this debate for today's event."

Rusty Hammer, President & CEO of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the resolve that Angelenos possess to accomplish greatness "from wowing the world with the successful 1984 Olympics ... to recovering from the civil unrest and earthquakes, Angelenos have shown a spirit, creativity and innovativeness to overcome obstacles. We believe we are up to the task of addressing the legitimate grievances of secessionists through constructive problem solving."

Central City Association is the leading architect for revitalization in Downtown Los Angeles and is L.A.'s premier business advocacy leader shaping public policy on a broad range of issues.

The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce assures prosperity for the Los Angeles Region by being the voice of business, helping its members grow and promoting collaboration.

The Los Angeles Headquarters Association is an organization of businesses committed to Los Angeles achieving its optimum potential as a major world city by fostering responsible growth and improving its quality of life.