West Hollywood Mayor John Erickson, right, and Councilman-Elect Danny Hang celebrated their win at a Nov. 5 watch party. (photo courtesy of Danny Hang)

After a long election season, West Hollywood Mayor John Erickson was reelected to the City Council. The other open seat of the five-member body, currently held by outgoing Councilwoman Sepi Shyne, will be filled by newcomer Danny Hang, who has served on the city’s business license commission. Erickson and Hang campaigned together, promising a progressive vision for the city.

“I am honored and humbled that the people of West Hollywood have overwhelmingly reelected me to represent them on the West Hollywood City Council,” Erickson said. “I would like to thank all the candidates who participated in the electoral process, as we collectively gave voters the opportunity to help decide the direction of our city. I welcome my new colleague, Danny Hang, to join us on the dais in ensuring WeHo remains a beacon of justice, diversity and sustainability.”

Hang echoed Erickson’s sentiments.

“I feel so grateful and honored that the voters put their trust in me and elected me to serve,” he said.

Among the most contentious campaign issues was the future of Fountain Avenue. The other seven council candidates were opposed to a redesign that would see bike lanes installed and traffic lanes reduced on the residential thoroughfare. Erickson and Hang, meanwhile, agreed with the current council majority that a redesign was necessary for public safety. While Councilman John Heilman is opposed to the redesign, he endorsed Erickson and is looking forward to collaborating with the new council.

“I always hope that council members will focus on basic services residents and businesses need in the community,” he said. “The council works best when it makes decisions based on the best interests of the community.”

Hang said that he is prepared to work with the council, which also includes Councilwoman Lauren Meister and Vice Mayor Chelsea Byers, regardless of where each falls on the issues facing West Hollywood.

“I believe that you can have a hard-fought campaign, but when it’s all said and done, true leadership calls on us all to bridge the gap and work together,” Hang said. “I believe we all want what’s best for West Hollywood. We may not always agree on solutions but we are all here to serve this great city. For me, my hand will always be out and my door open. I believe the best way forward is working together. The city deserves that.”

He added that rebuilding the city’s business community is among his chief objectives.

“Empty storefronts are not acceptable. I hope to bring businesses back to West Hollywood and make it easier to do business in the city,” Hang said.

He also cited his background as a social worker when discussing his other pressing concerns for the city.

“I want to help our unhoused neighbors and, as a social worker, believe I have the experience to help those struggling with addiction and mental illness. I want to work on making housing more affordable,” Hang said.

West Hollywood voted strongly against the incoming presidential administration. As such, Hang also noted the importance of council leadership during the coming years.

“During these troubled times, I want West Hollywood to be a beacon of light to our LGBTQ+ brothers and sisters and anyone in a marginalized community. I want to make sure everyone knows they are welcome and safe in West Hollywood,” he said.

Erickson and Hang will be sworn-in at 6 p.m. on Dec. 16 at the regular City Council meeting, which is held in the council chambers, 625 N. San Vicente Blvd.