It’s early, but LA County’s next budget starts with $200 million deficit and hiring freeze

After absorbing 8.5% across the board cuts, Los Angeles County is facing more financial woes starting next fiscal year, including an estimated $200 million budget shortfall by the end of June, according to the county’s acting chief executive officer.

In a preliminary look at balancing the 2026-2027 budget that starts July 1, acting CEO Joseph M. Nicchitta gave general recommendations to the Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, Feb. 3 that include asking department heads to trim costs, increasing...