As we move into the heart of 2026, I want to take a moment to connect with all members and valued allied industry partners of the Greater Los Angeles New Car Dealers Association. We’ve had a busy spring, and there’s plenty more on the horizon.
Political Engagement
This is an important election season, with the June 2 primary fast approaching. Key races at the city, county, state and federal levels will directly impact our industry. GLANCDA continues to meet with candidates and incumbents to communicate the collective interests, needs, and concerns of Los Angeles County dealers and identify those who align with our priorities.
Your participation matters, and we encourage our members to make every effort to vote. It is more crucial than ever.
Advocacy remains central to our mission. On April 7, Los Angeles-area dealers joined colleagues from across the state in Sacramento for more than 25 meetings with Assemblymembers and Senators. We encouraged our lawmakers to continue incentives for zero-emission vehicles to help maintain affordability as federal programs sunset. We also highlighted the shortage of skilled automotive technicians in our industry and the need to fund training programs to address this challenge.
Workforce Development
While engaging with our California legislators is critical, we’re also working proactively to address these challenges. In line with our ongoing workforce development efforts, GLANCDA will host the 2026 High School Auto Tech Competition at Rio Hondo College on Saturday, May 26. Fourteen schools are expected to participate in the event, now in its third decade.
When dealers and industry professionals engage directly with students and encourage their interest in careers in automotive technology, those experiences leave lasting impressions. We encourage you to get involved in Career Days, competitions, and other workforce development initiatives as we strengthen the pipeline of skilled technicians in the Greater Los Angeles area.
Member Events
On March 18, we hosted our annual member luncheon at the Universal Sheraton, featuring Dave Roberts of the Los Angeles Dodgers, who shared insights on leadership and building a championship culture. We also recognized Tim Smith of Bob Smith BMW as the recipient of the 2026 Lifetime Service Award. We wish Tim, who will retire from the board at the end of the year after more than 40 years of dedicated service, all the best as he begins his next chapter.
Looking ahead, we encourage all members to join us for our Dealer Appreciation and Recruitment Dinner on June 25 at 555 East American Steakhouse in Long Beach. These gatherings offer a relaxed setting to connect with colleagues and engage with GLANCDA leaders.
Thank you for your continued engagement and all you do for our industry.
Jeanne Brewer
President, GLANCDA
