June 24, 2002 - Los Angeles

MAYOR HAHN ANNOUNCES
NEIGHBORHOOD VOLUNTEER BEAUTIFICATION PROGRAM

Insurance Coverage For Neighborhood Organizations

Mayor Jim Hahn today announced that a new insurance policy now protects neighborhood organizations from lawsuits that might arise as a result of their local improvement projects.

The $3 million general liability policy, which was signed into effect by the Department of Neighborhood Empowerment General Manager Greg Nelson, provides $1 million of coverage, per occurrence, for community volunteers and their organizations that participate in projects that have been approved by the communities. The projects include tree planting, mural painting, debris clean up, graffiti abatement, and median landscaping.

"At the heart of Los Angeles' vibrancy is its volunteerism by residents, organizations, and businesses committing their time, energy, and their passion to make a great city even greater," said Mayor Hahn. "As we empower our neighborhoods, we need to protect their precious volunteers."

Councilmember Eric Garcetti explained the need for such protection in a motion to the City Council. Councilmember Garcetti cited the example of several Sliver Lake community organizations that were sued following a traffic accident at the site of a median and overpass beautification project. Volunteers created an oasis of flowers, trees, and neighborhood artists' murals. The accident was unrelated to their work, and the lawsuit was resolved, but not until these volunteers suffered significant legal and emotional costs.

The City Council unanimously approved Councilmember Garcetti's motion that called for a multi-agency task force to tackle the problem. The solution was the insurance coverage.

"We need to encourage such partnerships between the neighborhoods and the City," said Councilmember Garcetti. "And this protection is a major step toward doing just that. It removes the of fear of personal liability."

The Neighborhood Volunteer Beautification Program coverage will be triggered when the City gives its approval for an improvement project, such as through the issuance of a permit. The coverage would also apply to the newly created Neighborhood Councils, their governing board members, and their volunteers.

The coverage is free to the neighborhood groups. The City will pay the $8,000 annual premium and be responsible for the $500 deductible if any claims arise.

CONTACTS FOR MORE INFO:

Katisha Robinson, Mayor's Office (213/978-0741)
Greg Nelson, Department of Neighborhood Empowerment (866/LA-Helps)
Fabiola Vilchez, Councilmember Garcetti's Office (323/913-4693)