Casa Vega Square Dedication Ceremony
In May, the Casa Vega Mexican restaurant in Sherman Oaks received a notable distinction. A sign now marks its corner on Ventura Boulevard as “Casa Vega Square.” The event was attended by Mayor Karen Bass and City Councilmember Monica Rodriguez, though notably absent was Councilmember Nithya Raman. Critics argue Raman’s absence underscores a key issue with her leadership: insufficient attention to district needs.
Bass has criticized Raman during her election campaign, going so far as to label her “contemptuous of her constituents” in a televised debate. Raman refuted these claims. Some constituents express dissatisfaction with Raman’s office, alleging neglect of various local services such as sidewalk repair and homelessness issues.
“She’s just been MIA,” said Jessica Lewis, a local business owner.
Lewis describes sending photos to Raman’s office detailing problems like human feces and encampments, only to receive no response.
Responses from Raman’s Office
Raman’s spokesperson, Stella Stahl, challenges these criticisms, describing the office as having “a proactive constituent service team.” Stahl emphasizes their approach of listening to neighborhood concerns and utilizing city resources to address them.
Raman’s office co-presented the motion to dedicate Vega Square; however, Raman’s absence from the ceremony was due to scheduling conflicts. Rodriguez states her staff led the initiative to celebrate Latino contributions across the city.
Despite criticisms, Raman retains some support. Marissa Rodriguez, grateful for help with city permits for her wine shop, Dia Natural Wine, acknowledged the office’s assistance during a challenging process.
Tyler Simmons, another local business owner, praises Raman’s team for addressing community needs. He cites the installation of speed tables near his business as an example.
Business Owners’ Concerns
Conversely, Casa Vega owner Christy Vega voices dissatisfaction with Raman’s district support. Vega recounts years of seeking assistance for issues such as sidewalk repairs and removal of homeless encampments during the pandemic.
According to Vega, Raman’s staff advised self-repairs for certain problems, including curb damage from street racing incidents. Vega criticizes the perceived lack of support, alleging that she was regarded as a nuisance.
Vega backs Bass in the upcoming election, expressing frustration with Raman’s handling of various business-related issues, including thefts and public safety concerns.
Community Challenges and Political Dynamics
Several business owners, including Sophia Brodetsky of Valley Inn, remain critical of both mayoral candidates. Brodetsky reports enduring robberies and property damage without satisfactory political response.
Lewis and Vega recall reaching out to Bass post-election to voice concerns about Raman’s district management. Bass’s engagement included safety meetings and assistance to Vega with her permit application for an outdoor patio.
“I wasn’t a supporter of hers,” Vega stated of Bass. “She answered the phone immediately.”
Despite endorsing Raman for reelection in 2024, Bass’s response earned mixed reactions from constituents. Lewis, hesitantly planning to vote for Bass, describes ongoing frustration with perceived finger-pointing between governmental offices without effective resolution.