Steve Kang, commissioner of the Los Angeles Board of Public Works, has been elected as chair, becoming the first Asian American to hold the position.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass announced the appointment in a statement on May 5, welcoming Kang’s leadership. Bass described his election as “a symbol of fairness and inclusive governance” and expressed anticipation for future collaboration.
Board of Public Works Oversees LA Infrastructure
The Board of Public Works oversees critical aspects of the city’s infrastructure, including roads, sanitation, street lighting, and procurement. The agency manages about 5,500 employees and operates on an annual budget of approximately $1 billion.
Kang to Lead Shine LA Service Initiative
Steve Kang called his appointment “a personally proud moment” and said he would work to ensure that LA’s public infrastructure and services are delivered equitably and effectively across all communities.
He will also lead “Shine LA: AAPI Day of Service,” a citywide cleanup and volunteer effort scheduled for May 31. The event will focus on Koreatown and other areas with large Asian Pacific American communities, in preparation for the upcoming 2026 World Cup and 2028 Summer Olympics to be hosted in LA.
Kang was appointed to the Board of Public Works by Mayor Bass in October 2023.
BY KYEONGJUN KIM [kim.kyeongjun1@koreadaily.com]
