In a decisive move to revitalize Los Angeles County’s world-renown film and television industry, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors today unanimously approved a motion aimed at cutting red tape, modernizing permitting processes, and exploring bold new investments to secure the region’s creative future.
Authored by Supervisors Kathryn Barger and Lindsey P. Horvath, the motion directs the Department of Economic Opportunity’s LA County Film Office to work collaboratively with key County departments—including the Department of Regional Planning, Fire Department, Public Works, Beaches and Harbors, Parks and Recreation, and the Sheriff’s Department. Together, these departments will examine current permitting policies and procedures with the goal of making filming in Los Angeles County more efficient, more affordable, and more competitive when compared to other leading production hubs such as Georgia, New York, and Texas.
“Our region is the heart of entertainment,” said Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger. “We’re taking action today to cut through outdated bureaucracy , invest in innovation, and make sure Los Angeles County remains the number one place to film and create.”
“Too many entertainment industry professionals are out of work and living with real uncertainty about their future. As the creative capital of the world, Los Angeles County must lead with action,” said Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath. “That’s why we’re investing in our quintessential industry, streamlining outdated permitting, reducing costs, and exploring new solutions like a public-private Evergreen Fund and new tech-forward production facilities. This is about protecting our creative workforce and ensuring the entertainment industry remains a cornerstone of our history—and our future.”
The motion also calls for an in-depth exploration of a public-private Evergreen Fund, a proposed $80 to $100 million investment strategy designed to support emerging technology start-ups in the film and television sector. County officials will work with the Center for Strategic Partnerships and the Department of Arts and Culture to assess the structure of the fund, identify potential funding sources, evaluate workforce impacts, and ensure long-term sustainability. The goal of this initiative is to fuel innovation, create high quality local jobs, and keep production spending rooted in Los Angeles County.
“This motion models how local government can do its part to support the film industry,” stated Paul Audley, President of FilmLA, the County’s official film office. “Today’s vote was a vote to support an industry that needs every bit of help it can get and reaffirms its vital role in the economy.”
With the entertainment industry still recovering from the pandemic and the dual Hollywood strikes of 2023, today’s action comes at a critical moment. The Board’s approval sets in motion a series of reports and feasibility studies over the next 120 days, all designed to accelerate solutions that streamline processes, reduce costs, and foster innovation while balancing the needs of local communities.