Topic: Tom LaBonge

Thomas J. LaBonge (born October 6, 1953) is a member of the Los Angeles City Council representing the 4th district. He has served since 2001, taking over the position upon the death of John Ferraro. The district represents a wide diversity of incomes and neighborhoods. He is currently the Chairman of the Arts, Parks, Health and Aging committee, Vice Chairman of the Public Works Committee, and member of the Audits and Governmental Efficiency Committee and the Ad Hoc River Committee in the city of Los Angeles.

Prior to serving as councilman, LaBonge was Director of Community Relations at the Department of Water and Power, Special Assistant to Mayor Richard Riordan, and Chief Deputy to Council President John Ferraro. Tom LaBonge is a life long advocate for Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in the nation, which falls in his district. Tom Labonge calls himself the Cheerleader of Los Angeles. His reputation for adding history lessons in City Council meetings is well known.

A graduate of John Marshall High School, Tom LaBonge received his Bachelor degree in sociology from California State University, Los Angeles. He married graphic designer and illustrator Brigid Manning LaBonge in 1988. They reside in the Silver Lake district of Los Angeles with their two children Mary-Cate and Charles.