Long Beach · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Long Beach public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Zaferia business district assessment renewal
Businesses in the Zaferia district along East Anaheim Street would keep paying their annual assessment for cleaning, promotion, and parking services for another year. A public hearing gives property owners a chance to protest.
NACW 2027 conference bid
A new ad hoc committee will prepare a proposal, due October 15, to host the National Association of Commissions for Women conference in Long Beach in 2027, bringing visitors and visibility to the city.
Men's Room Bar Entertainment Permit
A historic Broadway-corridor gay bar won its entertainment permit with conditions limiting hours and banning outdoor amplified music. Supporters called it a vital LGBTQ safe space; a neighbor raised ongoing noise complaints.
Permanent Taxicab Program
The city found Yellow Cab's service adequate, will end the modernization pilot in April, and moved to a permanent taxi program with updated rules. Three council members sat out due to campaign contributions from the company.
Utility workforce development programs
The department is building its future workforce through an academy program now partnered with Long Beach City College, plus hosting high school tours via the Water Replenishment District. A member asked whether Catholic schools like St. Anthony are included.
Business improvement district renewals (Fourth Street and Belmont Shore)
Both the Fourth Street and Belmont Shore parking and business improvement areas had their annual assessment levies renewed, keeping funding for cleaning, promotion, and events in those commercial corridors.
Record 2025 passenger year and new Southwest destinations
The airport finished 2025 with 3.8 million travelers — its third-busiest year — and was named second-best airport in the nation by the Washington Post. Southwest launches nonstop flights to Portland and Seattle this summer.
Business improvement district assessments renewed
The Bixby Knolls, Downtown (property and parking), Midtown, and Belmont Shore business improvement district assessments were all continued or advanced, keeping district services and events funded for another year.