Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has made a groundbreaking decision to establish a new county homelessness department, redirecting hundreds of millions of dollars from the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) to this new entity. The move, approved on a 4-0 vote, will create a budget exceeding $1 billion, with a significant portion coming from Measure A, a half-percent sales tax.
Transitioning over 700 county workers to the new agency by January 1, and absorbing more employees from LAHSA six months later, the supervisors aim to streamline services and enhance oversight. The decision to restructure the county’s approach to homelessness comes after years of criticism and calls for reform within LAHSA.
Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, a key proponent of the plan, emphasized the need for accountability and efficient use of taxpayer dollars. The establishment of the new department is based on the recommendations of a blue ribbon commission and aims to address the shortcomings highlighted in recent audits of LAHSA’s operations.
The vote marks a significant setback for L.A. Mayor Karen Bass, who warned that the changes could hinder progress in combating homelessness and create unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles. With LAHSA facing a substantial reduction in its budget, the path forward for the agency remains uncertain.
In response to concerns raised by city officials and council members, Supervisor Horvath defended the decision, citing the success of the county’s Department of Health Services’ Housing for Health program as a model for the new agency. The program, which has a proven track record of helping individuals secure permanent housing, is seen as a beacon of hope in the fight against homelessness.
Challenges and Concerns
While some city officials have expressed support for the restructuring, others, like Councilmember Nithya Raman, fear that the move could jeopardize essential resources for addressing homelessness. The potential loss of funding and resources raises questions about the impact on ongoing efforts to provide shelter and support for vulnerable populations.
Supervisor Holly Mitchell highlighted the need for a clear strategy and expressed reservations about the rapid implementation of the new agency. Concerns about accountability, oversight, and service delivery remain at the forefront of the debate surrounding the transition from LAHSA to the county-controlled department.
Path Forward and Accountability
Despite the challenges and uncertainties, advocates for the new homelessness department believe that the changes will lead to a more efficient and effective system of care. Donyielle Holley, a homeless programs supervisor, sees the restructuring as an opportunity to ensure that services are responsive to the needs of all stakeholders and are in line with the priorities set by Measure A.
As the county prepares to take on a more prominent role in addressing homelessness, the focus on accountability and transparency will be critical. Supervisor Kathryn Barger emphasized that the responsibility for the success of the new department rests with the five county supervisors, signaling a commitment to ensuring that taxpayer dollars are invested wisely and impactfully.
In conclusion, the establishment of the new county homelessness department represents a significant shift in how Los Angeles approaches one of its most pressing issues. With a mix of optimism, skepticism, and determination, stakeholders are navigating uncharted territory in the quest to provide comprehensive and effective services to those experiencing homelessness. The road ahead may be challenging, but the shared goal of creating a more just and equitable society drives the ongoing efforts to address this complex and multifaceted problem.
