Downtown Election Update
![Aerial view of a Downtown LA at sunset industry trends](https://growthzonecmsprodeastus.azureedge.net/sites/1775/2021/09/Depositphotos_128588274_s-2019-6474f644-f7c4-4a54-8e51-8208d29001a3.jpg)
Downtown did not have a city council candidate on the ballot, but that does not mean it was a quiet election night for the region. From LA Mayor to Measure ULA, many consequential items were on the ballot for this area at the city's heart.
LA Citywide Candidate Races
Karen Bass has defeated Rick Caruso in the race for mayor.
Election night results were favorable for Rick Caruso. However, recent updates gave Karen Bass the edge she needed to win.
We are excited that BOMA/GLA endorsed candidate for LA City Attorney, Hydee Feldstein Soto, won her race against Faisal Gill. She is one of the bright spots this election cycle for the City of LA.
Unfortunately, in the race for LA City Controller, our supported candidate Paul Koretz lost to newcomer Kenneth Mejia. This result could have significant consequences on how the city operates.
LA City Ballot Measures
Measure ULA and Measure SP presented some of the highest potential costs to our members they have seen in years.
Measure SP, a parcel tax on all property types, is headed for defeat.
Unfortunately, Measure ULA, the real estate transfer tax, appears headed for victory. It has maintained a steady lead since the first ballot update on election night.
With this measure's passing, the city's costs for real estate transactions will rise significantly.
The next chance to undo this measure will be with 2024's statewide ballot initiative, the Taxpayer Protection Act. If passed, this act will require more significant majorities to pass tax measures. And because of its "look-back" provision, local tax measures that fail to meet the TPA's threshold will be rescinded.
For other race results, please visit the LA County Registrar's website.
We thank all the members who could join the BOMA/GLA PAC candidate interviews. Your participation and perspective were invaluable!
For continued election coverage, please follow BOMA on the Frontline.