About

General Manager Raquel Beltrán
EmpowerLA

Mayor Eric Garcetti nominated Raquel Beltrán as the next General Manager of the Department of Neighborhood Empowerment (DONE). Beltrán is a longtime community leader who has served as the Associate Director for the Pat Brown Institute for Public Affairs at California State University L.A. since 2014. She brings more than three decades of experience in community organizing, executive management, and public policy to her new role.

As the General Manager of DONE, Beltrán will oversee critical department operations and functions such as management of the Neighborhood Council system, development of the department’s budget, and all personnel, constituent, and government relations.

“The City of Los Angeles’ Neighborhood Council system is a unique and important part of the City’s democratic process,” said Beltrán. “Serving the City’s Neighborhood Councils is a noble responsibility. I have worked with these committed community leaders for many years and admire their determination to strengthening L.A.’s distinct communities. I look forward to collaborating with their dedicated leaders to advance a cooperative vision for the Department of Neighborhood Empowerment.”

As the Associate Director of the Pat Brown Institute, Beltrán has managed the Institute’s operations, community engagement efforts, and leadership programs — including Civic University, an initiative founded in partnership with Mayor Garcetti that gives Angelenos the tools they need to understand City government and influence policy at City Hall. From 2006 to 2014, Beltrán served as the Executive Director of the League of Women Voters of Los Angeles. She’s also worked in government for the City of San Diego; as a Program Manager for the American Red Cross in San Francisco; and as the co-founder of the United Domestic Workers Union of America. Beltrán’s nomination is subject to City Council confirmation. She would replace outgoing General Manager Grayce Liu, who stepped down after seven years to accept a position with the City’s Personnel Department as City Engagement Officer.