LAist is back, and we're here to serve Los Angeles by giving readers the inside scoop and updates about this imperfect paradise we call home.

We want to know what you want to know. What have you always wondered about Southern California and the people who call it home? What's the issue you want investigated?

Whether you're curious about how wildfires get their names, how to help the homeless in your neighborhood or even what to do about the loud airplanes in your neighborhood we want to hear from you.

Contribute your questions below, and we'll read each and every one of them. Some questions will go to a voting round, and LAist readers will weigh in on the questions they most want answered.

LAist reporters will weed through the palm trees and smog to track down the answers — with your help. Get started by asking a question, voting on an existing one or reading through our answers below.