Which Way, L.A.?
High Speed Internet Service and a Low Turnout Election
The LA Unified School Board held a mid-summer special election this week and, as many predicted, almost nobody came. We’ll hear how education reformers, the Teachers Union, and local politicians are preparing for the next campaign.
By Warren Olney • • 15m ListenThe LA Unified School Board held a mid-summer special election this week and, as many predicted, almost nobody came. Just 8% of the voters showed up after one candidate disparaged the other. We’ll hear how education reformers, the Teachers Union, and local politicians are preparing for the next campaign.
Also, 30% of Angelenos don’t have access to broadband — a necessity of life in the 21st Century. Starting today, “Oh Ranger! WiFi” will be available in six Los Angeles City Parks for free.
Banner Image: George McKenna won yesterday's special election to fill Marguerite Poindexter LaMotte's vacated spot on the LA Unified School Board; Credit: electmckenna.com
In this episode
2 storiesFree WiFi at Los Angeles Parks… Closing in on the Digital Divide?
In many places around the country, cities provide WiFi service for all their citizens. That won’t happen for years to come in Los Angeles — if ever. But starting today, WiFi will be offered in six city parks, for free. There will be designated “hot spots” in Venice Beach, Pershing Square, the Griffith Observatory, Echo Park Lake and Reseda Park.
Read the story7 minThe Politics of the LAUSD District 1 Race
After Marguerite Poindexter LaMotte died suddenly, the LA Unifed School Board could have appointed a replacement to serve out her term. Instead, it held a special election, which ended in Tuesday’s mid-summer run-off, which attracted just 8% of available voters.
Read the story8 min
