The Los Angeles City Council has unanimously approved Yolanda De La Torre’s appointment to the Los Angeles Board of Harbor Commissioners, the governing body responsible for overseeing the Port of Los Angeles.
Nominated by Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, De La Torre is a long-time Wilmington resident and dedicated community leader. With nearly 30 years of service at the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles, she has held roles such as executive director for Wilmington since 1995 and, more recently, district representative.
Mayor Bass commented: “As the City continues its urgent response to the windstorm and moves forward on a sweeping recovery plan to rebuild homes, businesses and communities, we must also ensure our Port of Los Angeles remains well-positioned to move essential goods for this effort.”
Mayor Bass added: “Ensuring that the community of Wilmington has a strong voice and advocate on the Los Angeles Harbor Commission has been an important priority for me. With Yolanda’s extensive background, hands-on experience, and years of commitment and service to the families, youth and seniors of the Los Angeles Harbor area, she will add a critical local perspective to the Board. Last year was a record-breaking year for the Port and the entire country relies on it for goods movement.”
This month, she will transition to the YMCA’s Mission Advancement Team as vice president, supporting fundraising efforts across 28 YMCAs in Los Angeles County.
Replacing Harbor Commissioner Mike Muñoz, De La Torre fulfils the requirements of Measure HH, which mandates representation from San Pedro and Wilmington on the Harbor Commission. Her term officially begins on 17 January 2025.
Furthermore, the Port of Los Angeles has appointed Artie Mandel as its new Director of Government Affairs, where he will lead the Port’s collaboration with governmental agencies across local, regional, state, and federal levels, while a new CFO will lead the financial projects of the Port.
