City Auditor Laura Doud Raises Questions with Report on $444 Million in Measure A Spending

Long Beach, CA – July 22, 2025

Long Beach City Auditor Laura Doud has released a sweeping new report on Measure A, the voter-approved sales tax that has brought in over half a billion dollars since 2017. While the City touts its progress, Doud’s findings raise new questions about whether that money is being spent effectively—and whether residents are seeing the improvements they were promised.

According to the Measure A Impact Summary Report, the City of Long Beach has spent $444 million of the $521 million generated by Measure A so far, with 60% allocated to public safety and 40% to infrastructure. But despite these investments, many residents continue to report poor street conditions, a visible homelessness crisis, and a sense that the city’s public safety resources are stretched thin.

“I am pleased a large portion of Measure A funds have been spent on street repairs, as there is such a significant need for this throughout the City,” said Auditor Doud.

Street Conditions Still a Major Concern

Doud’s own Street Projects and Pavement Management Audit revealed that even with $50 million spent on street, alley, and slurry seal projects, Long Beach’s roadways remain in rough shape. The City Auditor estimates an additional $20 million per year is needed for the next three years just to catch up.

Despite investments in sidewalk repairs, parks, and city facilities, the Auditor’s data show that many infrastructure needs remain unmet. Her report highlights $36 million spent on sidewalk improvements, $39 million on park upgrades and tree maintenance, and $28 million on public safety buildings, including new fire stations and police training facilities.

Public Safety: A $268 Million Investment, But Where’s the Impact?

Measure A allocated $268 million to public safety, with $168 million going to the Long Beach Police Department to restore patrol and academy positions, reestablish the South Patrol Division, and launch new neighborhood safety teams. The Fire Department received $90 million to bring back Fire Engines 8 and 17 and expand paramedic services.

Still, residents report understaffed fire stations and slower emergency response times, sparking concerns about whether the money has had the intended impact. Doud’s report does not question the appropriateness of the allocations but underscores the ongoing need for oversight and transparency.

Crime Declines Claimed, But Skepticism Persists

The release of Doud’s report comes on the heels of Mayor Rex Richardson’s announcement that crime is down citywide as part of the S.T.R.O.N.G. Beach Initiative. The City reported a 29% drop in shootings, a 28% reduction in homicides, and a 23.5% decline in property crimes, along with the recovery of 585 illegal firearms.

The City Auditor’s report also calls attention to the Citizens’ Advisory Committee for Measure A, which is charged with reviewing how funds are used and advising the City Council. Doud emphasized that residents can—and should—attend these meetings to voice concerns about how the tax dollars are being spent.

Upcoming meetings are scheduled for late August and October. The City has also pledged to make printed copies of the report available in multiple languages, including Spanish, Khmer, and Tagalog.

“We encourage the public to be aware that they can provide valuable input regarding the use of Measure A funds to help create a safe and sustainable community,” Doud said.

A Watchdog Role That Matters

As City Auditor since 2006, Laura Doud has built a reputation as a fiscal watchdog—someone who digs deeper than press releases and insists on measurable results. With Measure A funds set to continue flowing into City coffers for years to come, her report serves as a reminder that transparency and accountability are critical.

“We owe it to the people of Long Beach to ensure every dollar is accounted for and every promise fulfilled,” Doud said.

As public frustration grows over potholes, homelessness, and public safety staffing, many residents are now looking to the Auditor’s office not just for information, but for action.