Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Set for Historic Expansion

Los Angeles County is undergoing a significant governance transformation following the approval of Measure G in the November 2024 election. This landmark amendment to the county’s charter introduces three major structural reforms aimed at increasing accountability and representation: expanding the Board of Supervisors from five to nine members, establishing a directly elected County Executive position, and creating an independent ethics commission.

The implementation of these changes will take place gradually over the next decade. The first step, set for 2026, is the formation of an independent ethics commission tasked with overseeing transparency, enforcing ethical standards, and holding county officials accountable. By 2028, Los Angeles County will elect its first-ever County Executive, a role designed to centralize leadership, improve coordination across departments, and streamline administrative functions. The final phase of Measure G will take effect in 2032, with the expansion of the Board of Supervisors from five to nine members, allowing for more localized representation in the governance of the county’s diverse and expansive population.

Supporters of Measure G argue that these reforms are long overdue. With a population exceeding 10 million—larger than that of most U.S. states—Los Angeles County has long been governed by a five-member board, a structure unchanged for over a century. Expanding the Board of Supervisors will provide a broader range of perspectives, ensuring that communities across the county have stronger representation in policy decisions. Meanwhile, the County Executive position is expected to improve governance by providing a clear chain of command, reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies, and enhancing public accountability.

However, critics have voiced concerns about potential bureaucratic conflicts between the newly created County Executive and the expanded Board of Supervisors. Some argue that adding new elected positions and restructuring county government could increase costs and complicate decision-making. Others worry about whether the reforms will truly enhance efficiency or if they will lead to greater political gridlock. Additionally, questions remain about how the transition will affect the balance of power between local agencies and whether the new system will lead to more effective policymaking.

Despite these challenges, Measure G represents one of the most significant overhauls of Los Angeles County governance in modern history. The transition will be closely monitored as policymakers, residents, and government officials assess its impact. If successful, these changes could serve as a model for other large metropolitan areas seeking to modernize their political structures. However, the ultimate success of these reforms will depend on how effectively the county implements them and whether they truly result in greater accountability, efficiency, and representation for its residents.