Board unanimously elects him today during AANHPI Heritage Month
LOS ANGELES – Mayor Karen Bass today expressed her full support for Commissioner Steve Kang as the next President of the Board of Public Works, as the commissioners unanimously voted on new leadership today. Commissioner Kang makes history as the first Asian American to serve as President of the Board of Public Works in the City of Los Angeles.
“Los Angeles is strongest when its leadership reflects the people it serves. Steve Kang brings a deep understanding of our city, especially the needs of immigrant and working-class communities,” said Mayor Bass. “As the first Asian American to serve as President of the Board of Public Works, his leadership is not only historic – it’s a reflection of our city’s commitment to equity, accountability, and inclusive service. I look forward to working with President Kang in the months ahead, especially as we work to improve and upgrade the delivery of city services ahead of major global events.”
“I’m honored to serve as President of the Board of Public Works. This is a responsibility I don’t take lightly,” said Steve Kang, the new President of the Board of Public Works. “I will work diligently to ensure that our infrastructure and public services are equitable, effective, and rooted in community priorities. As a Korean American Angeleno, this moment is deeply personal and a reminder of what’s possible in a city that believes in opportunity and representation.”
Kang’s election comes during Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, marking a major milestone in the City’s ongoing efforts to uplift diverse leadership across all levels of government. In celebration of AANHPI Heritage Month, he will also lead Shine LA: AAPI Day of Service on May 31. Shine LA is a city-wide initiative to revitalize LA’s neighborhoods ahead of the City welcoming the world in the coming years. The event will take place across AAPI communities, including Koreatown. You can sign up for the event here.
Appointed by Mayor Bass in 2024, Kang previously served as Director of External Affairs at the Koreatown Youth & Community Center (KYCC), where he provided direct social services throughout the City of Los Angeles ranging from youth services, mental health counseling, affordable housing, financial literacy, tree planting, graffiti abatement, drug treatments, and more. He has also held leadership roles in organizations committed to empowering the Angelenos of Korean descent and ensuring they have a seat at the table.
