Mayor Karen Bass has appointed Crystal Lee as City Engineer and Joone Kim-Lopez as Executive Director and General Manager of LA Sanitation, aiming to overhaul city infrastructure, enhance services, and advance climate goals. The City Council approved these key leadership roles today, marking a significant step in the Mayor's efforts to modernize Los Angeles's municipal operations.
Crystal Lee, the city's first female City Engineer, will spearhead the implementation of Mayor Bass’ Capital Infrastructure Program and oversee the completion of the new Convention Center. Her role also involves leveraging new technology to maintain and improve city infrastructure, a critical component for Los Angeles which previously lacked a comprehensive Capital Infrastructure Program. "I look forward to strengthening partnerships across the City, applying strategic leadership to advance our priorities, and empowering and elevating the exceptional teams driving this work," said Lee.
Joone Kim-Lopez will lead LA Sanitation and Environment, focusing on urgently cleaning city streets, ensuring long-term care for critical infrastructure, and protecting the environment through innovative solutions. Kim-Lopez brings over 30 years of experience, including her recent role as General Manager and CEO of the Moulton Niguel Water District. "LA Sanitation & Environment is charged with the important work of keeping our communities safe, clean, and resilient," Kim-Lopez said, expressing her commitment to high-level service for Angelenos.
Mayor Bass emphasized that these appointments are crucial to her ongoing work to change "decades-old systems at City Hall" and better deliver core services. Both leaders are tasked with advancing the Mayor's vision for a cleaner, better-maintained city, and achieving ambitious climate objectives.