Beautifying Los Angeles was Tom LaBonge’s passion and now callers who share his love for Los Angeles can hear an inspiring message when they are on hold calling for MyLA311 services.—
Los Angeles, CA — Tom LaBonge who served as the Fourth District Councilmember from 2001 to 2015, passed away in January of 2021. Known as “Mr. Los Angeles” for his love of the City, beautifying Los Angeles was important to Tom. He kept cones, shovels, rakes, and trash bags in the trunk of his car and was always ready to jump out and rake leaves or clean storm drains. A lifelong advocate for Griffith Park, he took daily sunrise hikes during which he always picked up trash and encouraged others to do so.
“Tom LaBonge loved Los Angeles and his commitment to leading the life of a tireless and passionate public servant was unparalleled,” said Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez. “Tom was an inspiration and led by example, instructing the importance of personal responsibility and teamwork to keep our City clean.”
One of Tom’s signature sayings is a profound directive to celebrate and take care of our city – “Let’s continue to enjoy and love Los Angeles.” On February 9, 2021 Councilwoman Rodriguez introduced a motion to use that phrase in the message callers to MyLA311 hear when they are on hold. Tom LaBonge’s voice is now a part of that message while he continues to inspire us all to make Los Angeles a better place.
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Los Angeles City Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez serves as the City’s Chair of Public Safety and represents the 7th Council District in the Northeast San Fernando Valley which include the neighborhoods of Sylmar, Mission Hills, Pacoima, Lake View Terrace, Sunland, Tujunga, North Hills, Shadow Hills, and La Tuna Canyon.