For far too long, the people of Los Angeles County have lived with a system of government that doesn’t reflect who we are or serve the needs of all our communities. Measure G is our opportunity to change that—to build a County government that is not only more accountable but also more representative of the diverse voices that make up this great region.
Throughout my years advocating for justice, equity, and fairness, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to have a government that works for everyone, not just a privileged few. Unfortunately, LA County’s outdated system has left too many communities behind. Measure G is the solution we’ve been waiting for.
One of the key reforms Measure G introduces is open and transparent budget hearings. For the first time, residents of LA County will have the opportunity to see exactly how decisions are made about the $46 billion County budget. This ensures that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and that our government is working in the best interests of the people, not behind closed doors.
The measure also introduces an independent Ethics Commission, a long-overdue reform that will hold County leaders accountable to the people they serve. We’ve seen what happens when there is no meaningful oversight—political corruption and unethical behavior erode trust in government. With an independent body overseeing ethics and transparency, we can restore public confidence and ensure our leaders are working in the best interests of the people.
Measure G would modernize County government by expanding the Board of Supervisors from five to nine members. Right now, each supervisor represents two million people. These massive districts drown out too many voices, especially from underrepresented communities. Expanding the Board will bring government closer to the people, ensuring that every community has a real voice in County decisions.
For the first time, Measure G will create an elected County Executive, a position directly chosen by the people. Similar to how Mayors, Governors, and even Presidents are elected to lead cities, states, and our nation, LA County will finally have a clear separation of powers. The County Executive will be responsible for managing operations while the Board of Supervisors focuses on legislation. This system mirrors the structure we see at every other level of government in the U.S., ensuring better accountability to our communities.
And while the County Executive will bring essential checks and balances, we will still have dedicated civil service staff with the expertise to manage day-to-day operations. This balance of leadership and professional expertise will strengthen how the County serves the people.
Crucially, Measure G will implement these reforms without additional cost to taxpayers. With LA County’s massive $46 billion budget, we have the resources to reallocate existing funds without cutting any current programs or services. By making smarter use of our budget, we can ensure that these much-needed reforms are implemented without burdening our communities.
For too long, marginalized communities—Black, Brown, AAPI, LGBTQ+, and more—have been left without a seat at the decision-making table. Measure G changes that. It gives us a chance to create a County government that truly reflects the people it serves. A government that fights for justice and fairness. A government that listens to our concerns and works for real solutions.
I urge you to join me in voting YES on Measure G. This is our moment to build a better, stronger, and more inclusive Los Angeles County for all of us.
Nichelle Henderson is the president of the L.A. Community College District Board.