Group widens reach

ADAMS HILL — In a move that members say will allow it to better represent the neighborhood, the Adams Hill Homeowners Assn. will now welcome renters and businesses into its ranks.

The group, now called the Adams Hill Neighborhood Assn., is the only such association to make the move.

“We’ve always welcomed people who were renters to come to our meetings and express their opinions,” said President Christopher Welch. “We wanted to make it a little more official and really truly welcome all people who live in the neighborhood.”

The change makes the organization similar to the 89 neighborhood councils found throughout the city of Los Angeles. These groups welcome all stakeholders — defined as anyone who lives, works or owns property in the defined area — to participate.

Neighborhood councils were incorporated into the city Charter in the 1990s, and are certified by a city board, said Claudia Dunn, interim assistant director of the Los Angeles Department of Neighborhood Empowerment, which advises the councils.

“It’s really about bringing people to the table to provide a good solid input into what’s happening in their neighborhood,” Dunn said.

Adams Hill Neighborhood Assn. board members said the change makes sense for the diverse area, which is home to a mix of single-family and multifamily housing. And as a result of the mortgage crisis, more people are now renting.

Joanne Hedge, president of the Glendale Rancho Homeowners Assn., which also has several renters, said the group welcomes renters of single-family residences, but declines membership to apartment dwellers.

“They don’t have the same stake in things,” Hedge said of apartment renters.

She added that she at times would love to reach out to the property owners of multifamily residences, but usually they don’t live in the area.

But Adams Hill Neighborhood Assn. members said by bringing more people into the organization, it can gain more political power and better represent the needs of the entire community. The association began increased outreach to renters during this year’s National Night Out event in Adams Square.