Hahn Visits Chamber Alliance Mayor James Hahn capped off a week of scattered appearances across the San Fernando Valley on Jan. 30 by swearing in the new chairman of the United Chambers of Commerce of the San Fernando Valley and the organization’s 2004 board of directors. Hahn took a few moments to address the UCC, outlining his view of the city’s progress on crime and improvements in the delivery of services across the Valley. “Over the years we’ve all heard people say you can’t bring down crime until the economy improves,” Hahn said. “I believe the opposite is true. The economy won’t improve unless crime is reduced.” Hahn told the UCC that homicides in 2003 were down 22 percent citywide and 24 percent in the Valley, and he expects a similar decrease in 2004. Hahn also highlighted the city’s efforts to continue to streamline procedures for economic development projects, and he spoke of his efforts to make city government more responsive and accessible. He said there are now 26 certified neighborhood councils in the Valley. Joel Simon, an attorney and partner with Encino-based Alperstein, Simon Gillin & Scott LLP, was elected to a two-year term, replacing Bill Powers. Hahn’s appearance at the event had not been pre-scheduled. The ceremony also drew several members of the Los Angeles City Council and state assembly members. Jacqueline Fox
