A Message from Our BOMA/GLA Advocacy Director
This month, BOMA/GLA’s Director of Government and Public Affairs, Chris Bowen, shares an update on several policy discussions unfolding across Los Angeles County that could affect how commercial buildings operate.
As governments confront budget deficits and consider new taxes, regulations, and development policies, these conversations could shape operating costs, development opportunities, and the broader commercial real estate landscape.
As Los Angeles enters another challenging budget season, governments across the region are confronting significant fiscal shortfalls.
Nearly every municipality in Los Angeles County—as well as the County itself—is facing deficits, and the State of California is navigating similar pressures.
In environments like this, policymakers often begin exploring new revenue sources and regulatory mandates to close funding gaps.
Earlier this year, BOMA/GLA members engaged with City Hall on proposals such as the Parking Occupancy Tax increase, which was ultimately not placed on the June ballot, and we continue to closely monitor discussions around a potential commercial real estate vacancy tax in Los Angeles.
At the County level, voters will see a ½-cent sales tax proposal on the June ballot, advanced by the Board of Supervisors to address anticipated funding gaps tied to potential federal healthcare funding reductions.
BOMA/GLA has not taken a position on the measure but will continue monitoring developments and their potential implications for the regional economy.
Across the County and in several cities, policymakers are also discussing building decarbonization requirements, electrification mandates, and other climate-related performance standards that could affect existing commercial buildings. While sustainability remains a priority for our industry, many of these proposals are still evolving and could carry significant operational and cost implications depending on how they are implemented.
There are also some encouraging developments. The City of Los Angeles is expanding its adaptive reuse framework, creating new opportunities to convert underutilized commercial buildings—particularly office properties—into housing and other productive uses.
Meanwhile, the City of Santa Monica recently advanced a self-certification program allowing qualified architects and engineers to certify code compliance, helping streamline permitting and reduce project timelines.
Finally, our Political Action Committee has been actively preparing for the 2026 election cycle. The PAC has already interviewed candidates for Los Angeles Mayor, City Controller, and City Council Districts 3 (West San Fernando Valley), 9 (Southwest DTLA and South LA), and 13 (Hollywood Area), and will continue evaluating opportunities to support candidates who understand the importance of a healthy commercial real estate sector.
As these conversations continue, BOMA/GLA will remain engaged with policymakers across Los Angeles County to ensure the commercial real estate industry has a voice in shaping policies that affect how our buildings operate and how our communities grow.
