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Long Beach Ends 26-Year Partnership with spcaLA, Aiming for Improved Animal Care Services
Man Shot and Wounded at Long Beach CVS
LBUSD Expands Access to Menstrual Products Under California’s Menstrual Equity for All Act
Congressman Robert Garcia Faces Censure Over Elon Musk ‘Dick Pic’ Remarks, Escalating Political Tensions
Drive-By Shooting on Rose Ave Leaves One Injured, Dog Wounded

Advanced Endoscopy Procedures at MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center

August 10, 2021August 9, 2021 LBLN

More info: https://www.memorialcare.org/services/diagnostics/endoscopy

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Long Beach Ends 26-Year Partnership with spcaLA, A

Long Beach Ends 26-Year Partnership with spcaLA, Aiming for Improved Animal Care Services

The City of Long Beach has officially ended its 26-year partnership with the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles (spcaLA), citing non-compliance with the lease agreement and ongoing operational concerns. The termination requires spcaLA to vacate the Long Beach Animal Care Services (LBACS) campus within 30 days, marking a significant shift in the city’s approach to animal care.

For decades, spcaLA has operated on city-owned land adjacent to the LBACS facility, paying just $120 per year for the lease. Additionally, the city has covered 50% of the operating costs for the entire campus, despite concerns that spcaLA has not been fulfilling its obligations under the agreement. The city’s decision to terminate the partnership stems from long-standing issues, including space limitations, failure to comply with municipal reporting laws, and a drastic reduction in the number of adoptions facilitated by spcaLA.

Local animal activists have had a long love-hate relationship with spcaLA at the Long Beach facility. Many activists viewed the organization as one that emphasized money over adoption, often prioritizing financial interests over the well-being of the animals in its care. Over the years, these concerns have fueled frustration among rescue groups and volunteers who have criticized spcaLA’s lack of transparency and reluctance to take in more adoptable animals from LBACS.

Long Beach officials are prepared to take legal action if spcaLA does not vacate the premises within the given 30-day timeframe. In the meantime, LBACS is working with partner rescue organizations to ensure a smooth transition and will provide updates on expanded adoption programs and services in the coming weeks. The city encourages residents to visit longbeach.gov/acs for updates on adoption events and shelter initiatives.

Long Beach Local News reached out to spcaLA and we are waiting to hear back with a statement.

Read more about this on our website

Man Shot and Wounded at Long Beach CVS Long Beac

Man Shot and Wounded at Long Beach CVS

Long Beach, CA – A shooting occurred on Saturday at approximately 2:55 AM in front of a CVS located at 4400 Los Coyotes Diagonal. The Long Beach Police and Long Beach Fire responded to the scene after reports of gunfire.

Authorities found a male victim with a gunshot wound to the lower body. The victim, who remains conscious and breathing, was attended to by emergency personnel. Preliminary witness accounts suggest the man may be a CVS employee who attempted to intervene in a shoplifting incident moments before the shooting.

According to witnesses, three female suspects fled the scene in a white Mercedes-Benz sedan shortly after the incident. Details about the suspects and the vehicle remain limited as the investigation unfolds.
LBPD officers are investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting, and no arrests have been reported at this time.

This is a developing story, and more information will be provided as it becomes available.

*LBUSD asked us to replace the photo with a more f

*LBUSD asked us to replace the photo with a more fitting image*

LBUSD Expands Access to Menstrual Products Under California’s Menstrual Equity for All Act

Long Beach Unified Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusivity and Equity Amid Mixed Reactions

February 19, 2025 – Long Beach Unified School District (LBUSD) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting all students, staff, and families—especially those in the LGBTQ+ community—amid societal and political challenges that seek to divide rather than unite.

The district emphasized that its dedication to Excellence and Equity drives every decision, ensuring that every student, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, background, race, faith, disability, or immigration status, feels seen, safe, and supported. LBUSD stated that it rejects any attempt to undermine dignity or deny access to inclusive education.

As part of this commitment, the district is expanding mental health support, addressing disparities in education, and fostering safe spaces for LGBTQ+ students, families, and staff. The district also highlighted the importance of celebrating diversity and closing achievement gaps.

Additionally, LBUSD is implementing California’s Menstrual Equity for All Act, ensuring free menstrual products are available in all girls’ restrooms, gender-neutral restrooms, and at least one boys’ restroom on each campus. This initiative, which began in the 2024-25 school year, applies to students in grades 3-12, with dispensers being installed across school sites.

However, not all parents are sure this is the right approach. Some have expressed concerns about the focus on LGBTQ+ issues in schools, questioning whether these initiatives align with all families’ values. Others worry about how these policies will be implemented and what impact they may have on students.

Despite differing opinions, LBUSD maintains that creating an inclusive and accepting environment is essential for student success. The district encourages families to learn more about its efforts by visiting lbschools.net/LGBTQ.

Congressman Garcia Faces Censure Over Elon Musk ‘Dick Pic’ Remarks, Escalating Political Tensions

The political landscape in Washington has been rocked by a heated controversy involving Representative Robert Garcia (former Mayor of Long Beach) and tech billionaire Elon Musk, who currently holds a role in the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The situation has escalated to the point where House Republicans, led by Rep. Nancy Mace, have introduced a resolution to censure Garcia over his recent remarks, which some have interpreted as a call for violence against Musk.

The Controversial Remarks

The uproar began during a House subcommittee hearing when Garcia criticized Musk’s leadership and policies. At one point, he referred to Musk as a “dick” and later, in a CNN interview, stated “What I think is really important and what the American public want is for us to bring actual weapons to this bar fight. This is an actual fight for democracy, for the future of this country. And it’s important to push back on the chairperson of this committee” when discussing opposition to Musk’s policies. These remarks quickly ignited backlash, with critics accusing Garcia of inciting violence against a federal official.

Republican Response and Calls for Censure

Rep. Nancy Mace responded swiftly, labeling Garcia’s words as “dangerous and deranged.” She argued that no elected official should make statements that could be interpreted as advocating violence, regardless of intent. Mace has filed a formal resolution to censure Garcia, a move that, if passed, would require him to stand before the House for a public reading of his reprimand.

DOJ Inquiry Adds Legal Pressure

The controversy has now drawn the attention of the U.S. Department of Justice. In a letter dated February 17, U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr. formally requested that Garcia clarify his statements, citing concerns that they could be perceived as a threat to Musk and government employees working under him.

Read more on our website link in bio #longbeach

Drive-By Shooting on Rose Ave Leaves One Injured,

Drive-By Shooting on Rose Ave Leaves One Injured, Dog Wounded

A shooting on the 1400 block of Rose Avenue left one person injured and their dog also wounded, according to Long Beach Police at 11:23PM Wednesday night.

Officers from the Long Beach Police and paramedics from the Long Beach Fire responded to the scene at approximately 11:23 p.m. The victim sustained a gunshot wound to the lower body but was reported to be conscious and breathing.

Witnesses in the area reported seeing a vehicle driving by as shots were fired. Officers discovered shell casings and multiple vehicles with strike marks at the scene. The northbound lanes of Rose Avenue are currently blocked north of Anaheim Street as the investigation continues.

In an update, LBPD confirmed that officers were transporting the victim’s injured dog to an emergency veterinary clinic.

Authorities have not released any suspect information at this time. The investigation remains ongoing. Notified by @streaming562

Armed Suspect Robs Brink’s Armored Truck Outside

Armed Suspect Robs Brink’s Armored Truck Outside Chase Bank

A man armed with a rifle robbed a Brink’s armored vehicle outside a Chase Bank near Spring Street and Palo Verde Avenue around 1:15 p.m. Wednesday, police reported.

According to authorities, the suspect stole the driver’s handgun and an undisclosed amount of cash before fleeing the scene.

Witnesses described the suspect as a Black male wearing a ski mask and green, Army-style clothing. He was estimated to be between 5’6” and 5’8” tall.

A witnessed of the robbery saw from the Amazon parking lot across the street that they initially thought the altercation involved homeless individuals before realizing it was a robbery in progress.

“I was across the street in the Amazon parking lot when I heard and saw the struggle. I thought at first it was a couple of homeless until I saw one suspect pulling something from the armored driver. The suspect I saw had a rifle in his left arm. They got into a silver car and left west on Spring,”

Police have not released any further details on the suspect or vehicle. No injuries were immediately reported.

This is a developing story. More updates will be provided as information becomes available. Photo by Kristin Schroyer

Police are investigating two separate violent inci

Police are investigating two separate violent incidents that occurred overnight, leaving two men injured.

The first incident took place on Feb. 18, 2025, at approximately 8:08 p.m. at the intersection of Atlantic Avenue and Artesia Boulevard. Officers responded to reports of a stabbing and found a male adult suffering from non-life-threatening stab wounds to the upper body. Paramedics from the Long Beach Fire Department transported the victim to a local hospital. Authorities are still investigating the motive, circumstances, and suspect information.

Hours later, at 3:02 a.m. on Feb. 19, 2025, officers were called to the 2000 block of Cedar Avenue following reports of a shooting. They discovered a male adult with non-life-threatening gunshot wounds to the lower body. Investigators believe the victim was walking outside when he was approached by a male suspect on a bicycle, who then opened fire before fleeing the scene. The victim was also transported to a local hospital by paramedics.

Both cases remain under investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Man Killed After Being Hit by Multiple Vehicles in

Man Killed After Being Hit by Multiple Vehicles in Long Beach

A pedestrian was struck and killed late Tuesday night in Long Beach, prompting an investigation by the Collision Investigation Detail.

According to the Long Beach Police, officers responded to reports of a traffic collision at approximately 11:17 p.m. on February 18, 2025, at the intersection of Anaheim Street and Roycroft Avenue. Upon arrival, they found a male adult pedestrian lying in the westbound lanes of Anaheim Street. Long Beach Fire personnel pronounced him dead at the scene.

Preliminary findings indicate that a 2021 Volkswagen ID was traveling westbound on Anaheim Street when the driver saw the pedestrian suddenly jump from the sidewalk into the roadway. Unable to stop in time, the driver struck the pedestrian. Authorities believe the pedestrian remained in the roadway and may have been hit by two additional vehicles.

All three drivers remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. Police have ruled out speed, reckless driving, or impairment as contributing factors in the incident.

The identity of the deceased has not been released, pending notification of next of kin by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.

Authorities urge anyone who may have witnessed the collision to contact LBPD Collision Investigation Detail Detective Efrain Pineda at (562) 570-7355. Anonymous tips can be submitted through LA Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), using the “P3 TIPS” smartphone app, or visiting www.LACrimeStoppers.org.

Long Beach Launches “Love Your Block” Initiati

Long Beach Launches “Love Your Block” Initiative to Empower Residents and Strengthen Neighborhoods

The City of Long Beach, in collaboration with the Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation at Johns Hopkins University, has launched Love Your Block, a new initiative designed to empower residents to take an active role in enhancing their communities. By joining this national network of cities, Long Beach is reinforcing its commitment to fostering resident-led projects that create lasting, positive change.

“Love Your Block is about bringing people together to build on the strengths of our neighborhoods and empower residents to take the lead in shaping their communities,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “By working directly with the people who live and breathe these spaces every day, we can create solutions that reflect their needs and aspirations. I encourage all residents to get involved and be part of this exciting opportunity.”

Long Beach residents—especially those in West Long Beach—are encouraged to participate in several ways, including applying for a mini-grant, joining the Love Your Block Civic Deliberation Team, or volunteering for the initiative. The Love Your Block Interest Form is now open and will remain available for the duration of the program, allowing residents to receive updates, guidance, and resources as they prepare for the grant application launch on Earth Day, April 22, 2025.

“Love Your Block is an opportunity to support resident-led projects that will make a meaningful impact. I look forward to seeing how this program will help strengthen connections and enhance the places we all call home,” said Vice Mayor and Seventh District Councilmember Roberto Uranga.

As Love Your Block moves through its development phase, additional details about the mini-grant process and the Civic Deliberation Team will be announced in the coming weeks.

Read more on our website

Long Beach Faces Police Shortage as Crime Rates Cl

Long Beach Faces Police Shortage as Crime Rates Climb

A shortage of police officers in Long Beach is contributing to an uptick in violent crime, with homicides, robberies, and commercial burglaries all rising over the past year. The Long Beach Police Department (LBPD), which has struggled with staffing shortages, is now dealing with increased crime levels as it works to maintain public safety.

According to recently released crime statistics, homicides in Long Beach increased from 26 in 2023 to 38 in 2024, marking the highest total since 2021. The most significant increases were recorded in the East Division, where murders spiked from 2 to 11, and the North Division, where the number doubled from 6 to 12. Additionally, commercial burglaries rose by 55.6% citywide, with the biggest jump occurring in the South Division, where they increased by 74.5%. Robberies also saw an 18.5% increase, surpassing 1,100 incidents for the first time since 2017.

Gun violence has also become a growing concern. Between January and April 2024, officers responded to 114 reports of gunfire, up from 105 during the same period in 2023. Murders during that time increased from six to eleven.

The Long Beach Police Officers Association has expressed concerns about the impact of understaffing, arguing that without additional recruitment and retention efforts, crime could continue to rise. City officials are exploring ways to boost hiring while balancing the department’s budget.

For now, residents are urged to remain vigilant and take precautions as the city works to address both crime and the police shortage.

Hundreds Protest in Long Beach as Part of Nationwi

Hundreds Protest in Long Beach as Part of Nationwide Presidents Day Protests Against Trump Policies

Hundreds of protesters gathered in Long Beach today as part of a nationwide movement called the 50501 Movement, which organized demonstrations in all 50 states to oppose the Trump administration. The protest was held on Presidents’ Day and took place outside Long Beach City Hall, where participants chanted with signs, and demanded action against what they describe as threats to democracy.

The demonstration was one of many across the country, with activists opposing policies related to immigration, civil service purges, and alleged unconstitutional actions by the administration. The protest in Long Beach remained peaceful, with organizers emphasizing nonviolent resistance. However, some participants expressed concerns about the broader political climate and the need for continued civic engagement.

While no single group claimed full responsibility for organizing the Long Beach protest, information about the event was widely shared on social media platforms, including Reddit and Instagram. Flyers for the event encouraged people to gather without formal leadership, a strategy mirrored in other cities across the United States.

Law enforcement maintained a presence at the protest but reported no major incidents. Organizers and attendees stressed that their goal was to send a clear message that “President, not King,” a slogan that has become a rallying cry against what they see as authoritarian tendencies in the current administration.

The nationwide protests highlight growing tensions leading up to the 2026 elections, with activists promising continued demonstrations in the coming months.

Rising Gun and Gang Violence in Long Beach: Recent

Rising Gun and Gang Violence in Long Beach: Recent Homicide Adds to Growing Concern

A deadly shooting in Long Beach on February 16, 2025, has once again highlighted the persistent issue of gang and gun violence plaguing the city. The latest incident, which occurred in broad daylight, left one man dead and another injured, further raising concerns among residents and law enforcement about escalating gang-related crime.

At approximately 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Long Beach police officers responded to a shots-fired call in the 1700 block of Long Beach Boulevard. Upon arrival, officers found evidence of a shooting but no immediate victims at the scene. Shortly after, authorities were notified that two male victims suffering from gunshot wounds had been dropped off at a local hospital. One of the victims, identified as Edgar Ortiz-Escamilla, a 32-year-old Long Beach resident, later succumbed to his injuries. The second victim, whose identity has not been released, is in stable condition.

According to Long Beach homicide detectives, the shooting is believed to be gang-related, though the motive and circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation. Police have not announced any arrests or identified any suspects. The killing of Ortiz-Escamilla adds to a troubling pattern of gun-related violence in Long Beach, where gang activity continues to drive homicides and shootings. Law enforcement officials have long battled gang-related crime in the city, but a recent uptick in gun violence has left communities on edge.

According to Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) data, the city has seen a rise in gang-related shootings over the past year, with many incidents occurring in broad daylight and in high-traffic areas. Residents and business owners near Long Beach Boulevard have expressed concerns over safety, urging city officials to take more aggressive action against gang violence. “It’s terrifying to think that someone could be shot just down the street in the middle of the afternoon,” said one local resident, who wished to remain anonymous. “We need more police presence and tougher consequences for those committing these crimes.”

Two car collision at Spring and Studebaker just af

Two car collision at Spring and Studebaker just after 11:30am. One elderly patient being evaluated. Traffic lights are out of service cars backing up, avoid the area.

Love is in the Air: Valentine’s Day in Long Beac

Love is in the Air: Valentine’s Day in Long Beach

Valentine’s Day in Long Beach ❤️

✨ Romantic Dinners & Cruises ✨
🌊 Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise – Sail through Naples & Alamitos Bay with a 3-course meal + champagne. (6:00-8:30 PM, Spirit Cruises)
🍽 Marriott Long Beach Downtown – Savor a prix fixe Valentine’s dinner featuring lobster bisque & diver scallops.
💖 The Breakfast Bar, Belmont Heights – Cozy up for an intimate Valentine’s dinner at this local favorite.

🎶 Live Music & Entertainment 🎶
🎸 80’s Valentine’s with Knyght Ryder – Rock out to ’80s classics! (9 PM, Gaslamp Long Beach)
🎻 Garagio in Love Concert – Experience “The Language of the Heart” at Twelfth House Tea Sanctuary.

🎨 Creative & Social Events 🎨
🖌 Paint Notes of Love – Valentine’s-themed painting fun at Hellada Gallery.
🌟 Glow in the Dark Paint & Sip – A vibrant & artsy date night at The Merchant.
👯‍♀️ Galentine’s Paint & Sip – Girls’ night out at Blondie’s (Feb 16).
🍸 Do-Gooders & Entrepreneurs Mixer – Connect at The Wicked Wolf.

💍 Unique & Quirky Valentine’s 💍
⛵ Jolly Sailing Charter – Private, bring-your-own-food sailing adventure.
💒 $14 Valentine’s Weddings – Say “I do” at Cute Little Wedding Chapel (8 AM-3 PM).
🍹 Beachwood Brewing & Distilling – Valentine’s cocktails, live music & sweet treats.

🌊 Scenic & Outdoor Experiences 🌊
🦢 Swan Boats at Rainbow Lagoon – A dreamy pedal boat ride under the stars.

Tag your Valentine & make plans now! 💕 #ValentinesInLB #LongBeachLove

Long Beach City Begins Sidewalk Vending Cart Givea

Long Beach City Begins Sidewalk Vending Cart Giveaway

In an effort to support small businesses and bring more diverse food options to city streets, Long Beach has kicked off its Sidewalk to Success program by awarding free vending carts to local entrepreneurs. This week, the city presented its first carts to Ladie Kakes and Lucky Bees, marking a milestone in the program designed to help vendors comply with regulations while reducing financial barriers.

Mayor Rex Richardson celebrated the launch, emphasizing the city’s commitment to small businesses. “Here in Long Beach, we want small businesses to thrive,” he said.

For Ashley Arnold, owner of @myladiekakes Ladie Kakes, the program is a game-changer. Since 2021, she has been operating as a cottage food business, selling brownies, whoopie pies, and cookies from her home and at farmers markets. With her new cart, she can now bring her sweet treats directly to the streets of Long Beach.

A third vendor, Paletas Murillo, owned by Juana Murillo, is also set to receive a cart once manufacturing is complete. Murillo, who previously faced challenges with an aging cart, will now have a fresh start selling traditional paletas (Mexican popsicles) throughout the city.

Meanwhile, Anita McCoy, owner of @luckybees1 Lucky Bees, will use her cart to sell hot dogs and pastrami while also piloting a program to employ individuals who have been formerly incarcerated. McCoy, who gave away free hot dogs to those in need during the COVID-19 pandemic, sees this as an opportunity to combine business with community service.

However, some critics might question whether the Sidewalk to Success program will add strain to public spaces, lead to unfair competition, or present enforcement challenges for the city. How will officials ensure compliance with health and safety regulations? Will brick-and-mortar restaurants see this as a threat to their business?

Long Beach Forced to Return $5.6 Million Grant for

Long Beach Forced to Return $5.6 Million Grant for Homeless Shelter Project

Long Beach city council voted last night to return a $5,616,752 grant to the California Department of Housing and Community Development, initially awarded for the Modular Non-Congregate Shelter Project under the state’s Homekey Program.

Adding to the controversy, city officials confirmed that most of the grant money has already been spent, The remaining $2,680,267 has been unspent from the the initial Project Homekey Grant from the state (originally reported here as $800,000 unspent) the health department let us know that was inaccurate. Unspent funding remains within the City's account and will be returned to the state. The funds were reportedly used for project planning, site preparation, and other preliminary costs, but no modular units were ever installed. This revelation has led to growing concerns over how the city manages homelessness funding and whether it will seek alternative solutions to replace the lost shelter project. The mayor stated during the meeting that they used most of the grant money to construct approximately 33 units, which are currently in storage.

The City Council, with all members voting yes except for Councilmember Supernaw, who was absent, approved the return of funds, citing an inability to move forward with the project.

The decision comes as frustration among residents grows over the city’s handling of homelessness. Despite efforts to expand shelter options, many believe the city lacks a clear plan to address the ongoing crisis. The grant was meant to fund interim housing for those experiencing homelessness, but its return leaves a significant gap in resources.

Currently, Long Beach has about 490 shelter beds available, including a winter shelter at 702 W. Anaheim St., which increased its capacity from 85 to 125 beds this season. The city also operates the Multi-Service Center, which offers 60 additional beds during extreme weather conditions. However, with over 3,300 people experiencing homelessness in Long Beach, according to the 2024 Point in Time Count, the available shelter beds fall far short of the need.

Long Beach Pushes Amphitheater Project Without Fun

Long Beach Pushes Amphitheater Project Without Funding.

Empty Promises or Future Landmark?

The City of Long Beach is pushing ahead with plans for its highly anticipated Long Beach Bowl amphitheater, but one major question remains unanswered—how will it be paid for?

At Mayor Rex Richardson’s State of the City address last week, officials celebrated the selection of ASM Global/Legends as the tentative operator for the city’s first-ever waterfront amphitheater, to be located near the historic Queen Mary. However, the city has yet to secure the necessary funding to construct the temporary venue, leaving many questioning whether the ambitious project is more fantasy than reality.

“This is a transformative time for Long Beach,” Richardson declared, emphasizing the city’s aspirations to become a major hub for arts, entertainment, and tourism. But without a clear funding source, critics argue the city is making promises it can’t yet keep.

City officials claim that details on funding will be ironed out in the coming months, with the Long Beach City Council set to formally review the operator selection on March 11, 2025. But without secured financing, some wonder if this project will ever get off the ground.

City officials insist that site preparation and construction will begin this winter, with completion slated for the end of the year. But without the necessary funding in place, many are wondering: Is Long Beach jumping the gun on an expensive project it can’t afford?

The City of Long Beach has not publicly disclosed the estimated cost of the Long Beach Bowl amphitheater. However, similar temporary amphitheaters with a capacity of around 12,000 seats can cost anywhere from $10 million to $50 million, depending on infrastructure, staging, amenities, and operational needs.

For now, the Long Beach Bowl remains a vision—but until the city finds the money to back it up, it’s unclear when, or if, it will become a reality.

Long Beach City Council approved a tax increase tw

Long Beach City Council approved a tax increase two years early, arguing it was necessary to address a budget shortfall and aligned with voter intent. However, a lawsuit filed last week challenges the move, calling it unconstitutional.

The Long Beach City Council fast-tracked a sales tax increase in December, aiming to generate an additional $24 million annually. However, a legal challenge now questions whether the move was lawful.

A local anti-tax group, the Long Beach Reform Coalition, filed a lawsuit on Feb. 6, arguing that the council’s decision was “unconstitutional” because it bypassed voter approval. The lawsuit focuses on Measure A, a local sales tax originally passed in 2016 and extended in 2020. Under Measure A, the city’s sales tax rate was set to increase from 0.75% to 1% in October 2027. But on Dec. 12, the City Council voted 6-0 to implement the increase more than two years early, in April 2025. This would push Long Beach’s total sales tax rate to 10.75%—the highest in California.

The lawsuit argues that this violates Proposition 218, which requires voter approval for any new, extended, or increased taxes. “If you change anything that was approved by voters in a ballot measure, it can only be changed by another ballot measure,” said Ian Patton of the Long Beach Reform Coalition. The group is asking the court to block the tax increase, declare it illegal, and stop the city from collecting the additional tax.

Mayor Rex Richardson supported the early tax increase, emphasizing the financial impact: “If we do not do this today, we essentially forfeit up to $60 million in revenue for community services.” The city is also facing a $30 million budget shortfall in the next fiscal year, with an $87 million structural deficit projected through 2030 due to declining oil revenues. Officials warned that failing to implement the tax hike could force cuts to essential services, citing past budget crises that led to 200 police layoffs and fire station closures.

Read more about this on our website

19-Year-Old Killed in Long Beach Shooting; Suspect

19-Year-Old Killed in Long Beach Shooting; Suspect at Large

A 19-year-old boy originally report as 16 was fatally shot near Harcourt Street and Long Beach Boulevard on Super Bowl Sunday, prompting a homicide investigation, authorities confirmed.

The Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) and Long Beach Fire Department (LBFD) responded to the scene at approximately 7:46 p.m. after reports of gunfire in the area. Officers arrived to find the teenage victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the upper body. He was unconscious and not breathing.

Witnesses reported seeing a dark sedan speeding away from the scene shortly after the shooting. LBPD called for additional units to assist with crowd control as a growing number of people gathered at the location. Authorities blocked off Harcourt Street while they conducted their initial investigation.

By 7:56 p.m., paramedics transported the victim to a local hospital with severe trauma. Despite efforts to save him, the teenager succumbed to his injuries.

The identity of the victim has not yet been released, and authorities have not announced any arrests or a motive in the case. The investigation is ongoing, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward. #longbeachlocalnews #longbeach

Good luck to Long Beach Poly High School Graduate

Good luck to Long Beach Poly High School Graduate JuJu Smith-Schuster @chiefs in the 2025 @nfl Super Bowl

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