LOS ANGELES - The City of Los Angeles announced another record-breaking year for tourism, Port cargo and the city's economy in 2017.  

This week, I joined my colleagues at the annual State of the City address by Mayor Eric Garcetti, where he also discussed his fiscal year 2017-2018 budget proposal. 

In the coming weeks, I will once again lead the Budget and Finance Committee in deliberations on the budget. This intense three week process will help shape our city's priorities and set the path for our future as a safer, more prosperous, sustainable, livable and well-run city. 

Lankershim Boulevard is home to an incredible array of community businesses that add tremendous vibrancy to our neighborhoods, play a great role in the local economy, and are an important part of the history and character of the San Fernando Valley. 

LOS ANGELES - Here's a rundown of the latest transit news for the East Valley.

As a Councilmember, I attend many groundbreaking events, but this week I attended a very special one. Over my nearly seven years on the City Council, I don't think I've been involved in a groundbreaking for a project that is this tied to the history of the San Fernando Valley as well as its future. NOHO West has ushered in a historic moment for our region. This is the beginning of a renaissance in the East San Fernando Valley.

This week, I joined dozens of community members to kickoff my 2017 community lunch series, Lunch with Paul, at the newly opened North Hollywood pizzeria, The Pizza Press.

When I was on the Cleveland High School swim team, I remember day after day of exhausting laps in the pool. As we trained hard for our swim meets, one of the things that got me to push through those last meters was the sound of that unforgettable anthem of the Olympic Games.

The Los Angeles City Planning Commission just voted overwhelmingly to approve NOHO West, a critical redevelopment project that will revitalize Laurel Plaza and make this East San Fernando Valley commercial corridor thrive once again. This is a huge step forward for what I believe will be the cornerstone of a bright commercial future in the area. Securing a worthy redevelopment project here and in Valley Plaza has been my top economic development priority since I took office in January 2010. With NOHO West, we can all look forward to 24+ acres of top-notch, brand new retail, entertainment, office and housing options for Valley residents.

The San Fernando Valley is a treasure trove of hidden commercial gems. From restaurants and coffee shops, to great boutiques and salons, some of the best places to eat, shop and play are tucked away in our neighborhoods, just around the corner from where we live. Our communities wouldn't be the same without these go-to destinations. That's why I want to you to tell me about the important community fixtures that bring so much vibrancy to our neighborhoods. 

In this quick and easy survey, please share your favorite places, how you get there and what makes them so special to you.