Filipina Lawmaker In LA Secures $500,000 Budget For Flat Top Park

LOS ANGELES, California—Assemblymember Jessica Caloza,the first Filipina elected to the California State Legislature, has awarded a $500,000 check to Los Angeles-based nonprofit North East Trees last December 17 at the Los Angeles River Center & Gardens.

A picturesque destination in Montecito Heights in Los Angeles, Flat Top Park was acquired by North East Trees in 2014 with LA County Proposition A funding.

Offering a stunning panoramic views of the Los Angeles skyline, Flat Top Park plays an essential role in supporting native habitat, biodiversity, stormwater management, and maintaining wildlife corridors.

The park also serves as a living classroom and worksite for youth development and workforce development programs focusing on climate action, wildfire resilience, and nature-based education. It also features several trails suitable for hiking and walking, attracting nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts. Its elevated location provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with green spaces perfect for picnicking. Wildlife observers will find the area rich in local flora and fauna, providing a great opportunity for outdoor exploration.

“North East Trees has spent over 30 years restoring urban green spaces and championing climate justice from the ground up,” Caloza said, in a press statement.

“This investment moves our communities forward in expanding equitable access to open spaces, strengthening environmental preservation, uplifting Indigenous stewardship, and building real climate resilience," the assemblymember noted.

With this critical state funding, Caloza said North East Trees will be able to acquire vacant lots, expand park access, and bring green infrastructure, like bioswales and rain gardens, to Flat Top Park. It will also further develop the North East Trees youth workforce program.

“Despite a challenging state budget year, Assemblymember Jessica Caloza stood firm to champion a $500,000 investment that ensures Flat Top Park remains a permanent, thriving sanctuary for North East LA. This vital funding empowers North East Trees to expand our ecological and community reach, proving that her dedication to preserving our open spaces is a direct investment in the health, equity, and pride of our neighborhood. We are honored to have a leader who fights for our district’s green future even when the choices are most difficult,” said Carlos Moran, Executive Director of North East Trees.

“Assemblymember Jessica Caloza has been an outstanding champion for the 52nd Assembly District, and because of her tireless advocacy Angelenos will soon be able to enjoy these important new improvements at Flat Top Park,” said Assembly Budget Committee Chair Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino).

“Thank you, North East Trees, for your vision, leadership, and deep-rooted commitment to our community. Los Angeles is brighter, greener, and stronger because of your inspirational work,” Assemblymember Caloza stated. “As a proud member of the Water, Parks, and Wildlife Committee, I look forward to continuing this important work to preserve and protect our green spaces.”

North East Trees was awarded as the Assembly District 52 California Nonprofit of the Year by the California Association of Nonprofits and Assemblymember Caloza earlier this year.

In the Assembly, Caloza has committed to prioritize reducing the cost of living, building more affordable housing, investing in public education, supporting small businesses, protecting a woman's right to choose, and ensuring California leads the nation and world in fighting the climate crisis.

Caloza represents the 52nd Assembly District, which includes the Los Angeles County communities of Angelino Heights, Atwater Village, City Terrace, Cypress Park, Eagle Rock, East Hollywood, East Los Angeles, Echo Park, El Sereno, Elysian Heights, Glassell Park, Garvanza, Highland Park, Hillside Village, Lincoln Heights, Montecito Heights, Monterey Hills, Mount Washington, Silver Lake, South Glendale, and University Hills.

Photos: Jessica Caloza IG