About Councilmember John Lee
John Lee was elected to the Los Angeles City Council on August 30, 2019. Running in a crowded field of 15 candidates, John’s deep knowledge of the Twelfth Council District and City Hall enabled him to quickly emerge as a leading contender. As a resident of Council District 12 for more than 40 years, John discovered his passion for public service at the age of 13 while volunteering with local nonprofit organizations.
A lifelong public servant, John has dedicated his entire adult life to serving the community. His extensive understanding of the City’s legislative and budget processes, as well as its day-to-day operations, gives him valuable insight into what works—and what needs improvement—at City Hall. John remains committed to making local government more effective, responsive, and accountable for the residents of Council District 12.
Before his election to the City Council, John had already established a strong record of delivering results for the community. Throughout his public service career, he spearheaded innovative programs and policies designed to improve the delivery of City services to neighborhoods. He created the CD12 Rapid Response Program to combat illegal dumping throughout the district. John also played a key role in creating and supporting the Devonshire Police Activities League Supports (PALS) Youth Center in Northridge. The PALS program provides at-risk youth with opportunities to work alongside police officers, develop leadership skills, and participate in activities that strengthen the community.
A longtime advocate for programs and organizations serving the community’s most vulnerable residents, John was instrumental in identifying a location and securing funding for the San Fernando Valley Rescue Mission. Since opening its doors in 2014, the Rescue Mission has helped thousands of individuals and families experiencing homelessness find permanent housing and is a stalwart community partner.
Now serving his second term as Councilmember for the Twelfth District, John’s priorities continue to focus on public safety, economic development, and working collaboratively with the community and his colleagues to develop more effective solutions to the homelessness crisis. Since taking office on August 30, 2019, he has demonstrated a willingness to address challenging issues and to advocate for the voices of Council District 12 residents on matters that directly affect their communities.
John proudly represents the communities of Northridge, Chatsworth, Porter Ranch, Granada Hills, North Hills, Sherwood Forest, Reseda, and West Hills on the Los Angeles City Council. A product of local public schools, John is a proud Highlander and Matador, having attended Prairie Street Elementary School, Robert Frost Middle School, Granada Hills High School, and California State University, Northridge. He resides in Porter Ranch with his wife, Sheila, and their two children.