Kathleen Rawson, president and CEO of the Hollywood Partnership, said the organization is dedicated to making Hollywood a vibrant place for people of all ages. (photo courtesy of the Hollywood Partnership)

The Hollywood Partnership, a nonprofit that oversees the Hollywood Entertainment Business Improvement District, and its affiliate Hollywood Partnership Community Trust, hosted its Annual Meeting on Nov. 16 at Avalon Hollywood.

The event featured a brunch and informative presentation on the current state of Hollywood, highlighting THP’s initiatives in 2023. Stakeholders from the Hollywood Entertainment District and local elected officials participated, as well as experts in public space management, economic development and public policy.

Stephen Cheung, president and CEO of the L.A. Economic Development Corporation, gave the keynote speech addressing the future economic vitality of Hollywood. He provided stakeholders with valuable data analysis to illustrate the devastating impacts that the pandemic and the recent writers and actors strike had on the region, while also indicating that there are many opportunities for L.A. to rebound with a number of major events taking place in the city over the next 10-15 years including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Summer Olympics.

The event also presented a unique opportunity for stakeholders to connect with the local officials representing Hollywood in Sacramento and City Hall. Sen. Maria Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles), Assemblyman Rick Chavez Zbur (D-West Hollywood) and City Councilman Hugo Soto-Martinez, 13th District, shared their visions and goals for Hollywood.

Kathleen Rawson, president and CEO of THP, also shared insights on the organization’s successful initiatives and programs in 2023 and highlighted the latest data and analysis showcasing how Hollywood measures against the 2023 Top 10 Global Trends Affecting Downtowns, an annual study and report conducted by Progressive Urban Management Associates.

“The world is changing, and so is the workforce. The younger generations, Millennials and Gen Z, continue to be drawn to the allure of urban living, and they are poised to make up much of the workforce over the next decade, as Boomers retire. Hollywood’s central location, access to public transit and global brand are attractive to an international audience of individuals looking to create a life in our region. We are a unique place, with a diverse population of residents, the majority of which are already aged 18-49, who work nearby or from home and are willing to pay a slightly higher rent for the amenities offered in the area,” Rawson said. “The Hollywood Partnership has a vision for what this community can be – a culturally relevant place where individuals and families of all ages can find an affordable home and thrive. With the commitment of local and civic partners, we are dedicated to creating a secure, hospitable and thriving destination for everyone. The possibilities for growth in Hollywood are endless, and we are excited to be part of this journey towards a brighter future.”

For information, visit hollywoodpartnership.com.