Story by Megan Diskin
February 7th, 2013
Section: News – Photos

CSUN’s Valley Performing Arts Center in conjunction with the Los Angeles Business Federation and L.A. Daily News hosted the Los Angeles mayoral debate Thursday, which focused on issues such as public safety, budget and transportation.

Former Los Angeles Deputy Mayor Austin Beutner moderated the debate and began by asking the candidates what leadership qualities they bring to the position.

Kevin James said he has a unique perspective of City Hall not only because of his background in the private and public sector, but also from his media background as a broadcaster covering City Hall issues.

Beutner pointed out that it may be difficult for James in the mayoral seat, because he is a republican among a heavily democratic Los Angeles City Hall.

“Part of what it takes to lead is coming in with a lot of respect,” James said. “It’s about representing people in a fair non-partisan way.”

One of the hot issues brought up by Beutner was the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and Bureau of Sanitation allocating $8 million to help open the Children’s Museum in the San Fernando Valley.

Wendy Greuel called the joint venture a poor example of the private and public sector working together. She then noted that the VPAC was a prime example of both sectors working well together.

“This is a jewel, not only for the San Fernando Valley, but the entirety of Los Angeles,” Greuel said.

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