The City of West Hollywood is reminding residents and businesses of a significant change in the local sales tax rate, which increased from 10.5% to 11% on October 1, 2026. This adjustment follows the approval of Los Angeles County Measure ER, the Essential Services Restoration Act, in the June 2026 election. The measure introduces a 0.5% countywide sales tax hike designed to generate approximately $1 billion annually for essential services across the county, including healthcare and public health systems. The increase is set to remain in effect until October 1, 2031. Certain essential items such as groceries and prescription medications remain exempt from this tax hike, according to the City of West Hollywood News.
In other West Hollywood developments, the city has launched Phase 2 of the Plummer Park Comprehensive Improvement Plan. The first public working session of the Plummer Park Planning Working Group is scheduled for September 29, 2026. This phase will focus on long-term planning and community input to shape the park's future. The working group will consist of city staff, consultants, and community members to evaluate park programming and implementation strategies. The final decisions will be made by the City Council (City of West Hollywood News).
As part of LGBTQ+ History Month, West Hollywood is co-sponsoring the fourth annual Circa: Queer Histories Festival. This festival features over 40 arts and humanities programs highlighting queer and trans history. Events will take place throughout Los Angeles County and virtually, with several programs occurring in West Hollywood. The festival aims to make LGBTQ+ history accessible and engaging for the public (City of West Hollywood News).
Meanwhile, in Beverly Hills, Shana Epstein, the Director of Public Works, has announced her retirement effective October 9, 2026. Epstein has served in this role since 2017, overseeing the city's infrastructure and utilities. City Manager Ryan Gohlich praised her leadership and contributions to sustainability and municipal services. Plans for appointing a new director will be announced soon (Beverly Hills News).
Culver City is also making strides in urban development with an open house scheduled for September 22, 2026, to discuss the SB79 Transit Oriented Development Alternative Plan. This plan aims to concentrate housing density near transit stations to maximize accessibility. The initiative is part of California's broader effort to increase housing near major public transit stops, with a focus on affordability and anti-displacement protections (Culver City News).
These updates reflect ongoing efforts across West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Culver City to enhance community services, infrastructure, and cultural engagement, ensuring a vibrant and inclusive environment for all residents.