Mayor vetoes garage plan that would have used cash he needs to balance budget
Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa today issued a rare veto, rejecting a City Council vote that called for using money in a special parking revenue account to help build two parking garages.
The mayor had wanted the council to borrow the garage construction money so the cash in the parking account -- about $20 million -- could be shifted into the general fund's reserve account. That way it could help keep the city budget in balance or be available for other expenses, such as covering the cost of police services.
Council members had balked at the idea of borrowing because interest charges would have added to the cost.
The matter now goes back to the council for reconsideration. It was Villaraigosa’s fifth veto since taking office in 2005.
-- Phil Willon at L.A. City Hall
