re: OPPOSE: Item 13 - O: LA County DA Special Directives Resolution

July 26, 2021

Re: OPPOSE: Item 13 - O: LA County DA Special Directives Resolution

Dear Mayor Himmelrich, Mayor Pro Tempore McCowan, and City Councilmembers:

We are writing in strong opposition to Item 13 - O. We were incredibly disappointed to see this resolution proposed and hope you will unequivocally reject it. Santa Monica has a long history as a progressive policy leader and this item would be a step back towards the failed regressive policies of the past. We believe in data-driven policy reforms that support a more fair, equitable, and effective criminal justice system.

Our organizations were thrilled to see the important criminal justice reforms brought forward by Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón’s Special Directives 20-06, 20-07, and 20-08. Gascón campaigned on criminal justice reform in the wake of George Floyd’s murder and a summer of nationwide protest, and he was endorsed by Vice President Kamala Harris, Governor Gavin Newsom, the California Democratic Party, the Los Angeles Times, and many others. He also was supported by a majority of Santa Monica voters. The proposed resolution is a rejection of the will of Santa Monica residents, and reads like the talking points of the regressive right-wing groups pushing for Gascón’s recall. Passing this resolution would only serve to pour fuel on the fire of these recall efforts.

We ask that you reject this resolution and send a clear message that Santa Monica’s City Council stands with the majority of Santa Monica voters who support sensible criminal justice reforms.

Sincerely,

Abby Arnold and Carl Hansen Co-chairs, Santa Monica Forward

Jon Katz

President, Santa Monica Democratic Club

On behalf of its Executive Committee

Anthony Dedousis

Policy & Research Director

Abundant Housing LA

Michelle Seyler, J.D. Executive Director CLUE - Clergy and Laity United for Economic Justice

Bradley Ewing

Inclusive Santa Monica