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The City Administrative Officer (CAO) provides internal and centralized services to the Mayor, City Council, and City departments. The CAO is the financial advisor to the Mayor and City Council and is the only appointed City officer to report both to the Mayor and City Council. The mission of the CAO is to provide sound advice and recommendations to the Mayor and Council on the fiscal condition, financial status, and future needs of the City and to promote productivity, economy, and efficiency in the conduct of City government so that available resources provide the greatest benefit possible to the residents of the City of Los Angeles.

The CAO assists the Mayor and Council in the preparation of the City budget, plans and directs the administration of the budget, and directs the development of work programs and standards. The CAO represents the management of the City in negotiating all labor contracts. In addition, the CAO provides revenue estimating and long term financial planning, debt issuance and administration, and risk management services Citywide.

The primary work activities of the CAO include:

• Budget, grants, and financial analysis
• Debt management and investor relations
• Employee relations
• Asset management
• Municipal facilities and physical plant capital project oversight
• Disaster grant administration

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