Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Beverly Hills public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues in taxes budget with high priority
Commissioner Recruitment Process Review (Item A-1)
Commission interviews are now public meetings after a resident's Brown Act challenge, but the city gave only 24 hours' notice and didn't directly notify the person who raised the issue. The council will seat one recommended applicant immediately and reopen the process for a second seat.
FY 2026-27 Capital Improvement Budget
The ZBB committee's recommended $105.8 million five-year capital project portfolio was on the agenda but not taken up at this meeting.
Suspension of the Measure RP Sales Tax
Beverly Hills will not collect its Measure RP sales tax because a new state law raised the county's tax ceiling, so the city tax would just stack on top and cost shoppers and businesses more. The council suspended it, honoring the original promise to voters.
FY 2026-27 General Fund Budget and Structural Deficit
The city faces a $4.9 million projected shortfall next year, covered by a one-time $5 million cut to the infrastructure fund cash transfer, with structural deficits projected through 2028-29 before One Beverly Hills revenues turn the tide. The three-year deficit estimate improved from $22.4 million to $14.8 million.
City Manager Employment Agreement
Ryan Gohlich was hired as City Manager with a $425,000 base salary and rich benefits package. Councilmember Mirisch flagged that total compensation wasn't calculated and criticized rising personnel costs, but joined the unanimous approval.
June 2, 2026 Municipal Election and Campaign Finance Rules
Three council seats and the city treasurer are up on June 2. The council approved $210,000 for the election and rewrote contribution limits — $500 per donor for candidates accepting the voluntary spending cap, $400 for those who don't — after a heated First Amendment debate.