City Hall honors Theodore Irving after 29 years at City Planning

Los Angeles City Council members on April 17 honored Theodore Irving on his retirement after 29 years with the Department of City Planning.

Councilmember H. Hutt led the presentation, recounting Mr. Irving's career trajectory from planning assistant to principal city planner and noting his work on community plans, zoning matters and outreach to underrepresented communities. Lisa Webber, speaking for the Planning Department, described his role overseeing challenging geographies and cases across the city and his mentorship of younger planners.

Speakers at the dais emphasized Irving's role in projects ranging from the Jefferson oil facility closure process to recovery work after the Palisades fire. Rev. Walker and other colleagues praised Irving's career and community commitment. Irving thanked colleagues and family and noted the planning office's work to expand services into South Los Angeles.

The presentation included a plaque and public remarks from multiple councilmembers recognizing Irving's mentorship and legacy.

Ending: The council expressed gratitude and invited the retiree and family for photographs. No formal policy or budget action accompanied the recognition.