Joone Kim-Lopez Becomes First Korean American to Lead LA Sanitation

The Los Angeles City Council has unanimously confirmed Joone Kim-Lopez as the new head of LA Sanitation and Environment, making her the first Korean American to lead the agency.

The council approved Kim-Lopez’s appointment in a 14-0 vote on June 30.

Kim-Lopez, who was appointed by Mayor Karen Bass, will serve as executive director and general manager of the Bureau of Sanitation, commonly known as LA Sanitation and Environment, or LASAN. Her appointment marks the first time a Korean American has headed the agency.

LASAN is one of five bureaus under the Los Angeles Board of Public Works and oversees essential city services including wastewater management, solid waste and recycling, street cleanliness and environmental programs.

Ahead of the confirmation vote, Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez highlighted Kim-Lopez’s extensive experience in the water and wastewater sector, particularly as Los Angeles continues to confront operational and legal challenges involving the Hyperion Water Reclamation Plant.

City officials said her expertise could play a critical role in addressing the city’s wastewater infrastructure and environmental challenges.

Following her confirmation, Kim-Lopez said LASAN carries a major responsibility to keep Los Angeles communities safe, clean and resilient through street cleaning, integrated planning of critical infrastructure and environmental protection.

She pledged to work collaboratively with employees and partners, embrace innovation and focus on delivering measurable results and high-quality services to residents.

Kim-Lopez brings more than 30 years of public service experience. Before joining Los Angeles, she served as CEO and general manager of the Moulton Niguel Water District, which provides drinking water, recycled water and wastewater services to more than 170,000 residents in six South Orange County cities. She previously held leadership positions at several California water agencies and earlier served as a Pasadena police officer.

Mayor Bass said Kim-Lopez will play an important role in improving municipal services, strengthening city infrastructure, enhancing street cleaning and advancing Los Angeles’ environmental goals.