Renne Public Law Group’s (RPLG) Appellate Practice Group showcased its legal expertise when Of Counsel Michael Slattery appeared before the California Supreme Court to argue Olympic & Georgia Partners LLC v. County of Los Angeles, a property tax case with approximately $150 million in assessed value on the line, equating to roughly $1.7 million in annual tax revenue over 15 years.
The dispute centers on the Los Angeles Assessor’s assessment of the 1,001-room Marriott and Ritz-Carlton hotel complex in the LA Live entertainment district. At issue is whether revenue sources, including a hotel tax rebate from the City of Los Angeles and a $36 million in “key money” payment from Marriott, should be treated as taxable property or as non-taxable intangible assets.
“This case exemplifies the complex challenges our public agency clients face in protecting their revenue streams,” said Founding Partner Jon Holtzman. “When significant tax dollars are at stake, it’s crucial that assessments are based on sound legal principles that support the public interest.”
Michael collaborated with Of Counsel Thomas Kelch and Partner and Head of Appellate PracticeRyan McGinley-Stempel on the briefing in advance of the June 4 oral argument.
“Arguing before the California Supreme Court is both an honor and a responsibility,” said Michael. “Clarifying distinctions in property tax laws can have significant effects on local governments across California, and we’re proud to advocate for principles that help cities and counties fairly assess and collect the revenue they need to serve their communities.”
The decision is expected within 90 days and will add to a growing body of published opinions in RPLG’s property tax work. Over the past eight years, Michael and Thomas have secured nine published Court of Appeal decisions while representing Los Angeles County and other municipalities, and has also handled bankruptcy disputes for municipal clients.
For more information about RPLG’s Appellate Practice Group, please visit our website
RPLG practices throughout California, advising and advocating for public agencies, nonprofit entities, individuals and private entities in need of effective, responsive and creative legal solutions.