It was a powerful statement for LA residents who feel powerless: A city council committee voted 4-to-1 for the incumbent against a new operator for the Greek Theatre in Griffith Park.

A Department of Recreation and Parks committee had unanimously recommended the company Live Nation over the present operator, Nederlander, but Los Feliz-area residents fought the recommendation, and were heard. In the end Nederlander joined forces with AEG to try to hold on.

The full council now takes it up. Similarly, Boyle Heights residents staved off a $49-million shopping center project at Mariachi Plaza. They didn't like the design, and sent it back to the drawing board.

Are these examples of neighborhood groups growing in political clout? And what are the implications for other neighborhood groups?

Guests:

Richard Close, President, Sherman Oaks Homeowners Association

Dave Brooks, Founder of Amplify, a new-media company in the events business. He was at the council committee meeting yesterday.