Navigating LA’s Housing Development: Challenges and Solutions

Your Starter Guide to Housing Development in L.A.

Some city and county leaders in Los Angeles are questioning the effectiveness of funding for homeless services. Recently, L.A. County Supervisors Lindsey Horvath and Kathryn Barger called for cutting hundreds of millions of dollars allocated to the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA). In response, some L.A. city council members are considering similar actions.

Councilmember Monica Rodriguez introduced a motion, seconded by Councilmember Bob Blumenfield, which seeks to keep homelessness funds within the city rather than routing them through LAHSA. Rodriguez expressed frustration over the perceived lack of transparency and accountability in how funds are currently managed.

An audit released by L.A. County Auditor-Controller’s office revealed that LAHSA advanced nearly $51 million to homeless service providers without formal agreements ensuring repayment. The audit also noted that LAHSA frequently pays providers late and does not effectively monitor compliance with contractual requirements.

What the City is Considering

Rodriguez’s motion must first receive approval from the housing and homelessness committee before going to the full city council. This proposal encourages city officials to explore direct contracts with service providers to manage programs independently of LAHSA.

Rodriguez has consistently challenged LAHSA’s officials on their spending practices. She aims for better accountability and transparency for taxpayers. In a parallel move, County Supervisors Horvath and Barger proposed redirecting county funds away from LAHSA to a new county department focused on overseeing homeless services. This motion will be voted on in an upcoming Board of Supervisors meeting.

Would the City Do a Better Job?

Opinions diverge on whether removing funding from LAHSA would improve homeless services. Former LAHSA executive director Mike Arnold expressed skepticism about the city or county performing better with fund management, citing inefficiencies in public systems. He remarked on the slow pace of city projects, like filling potholes, suggesting that political pressures could divert attention from systemic issues.

LAHSA was created in 1993 as a joint agency to tackle homelessness in the area. Past discussions about pulling back from LAHSA have occurred, but current frustrations are prompting renewed efforts to change direction.

Rodriguez supports the county’s effort to withdraw funds from LAHSA, suggesting that new departments in the city and county could work together without LAHSA’s involvement.

How LAHSA is Responding

LAHSA spokesperson Paul Rubenstein acknowledged that the issues noted in the audit occurred during a period of unprecedented growth for the agency and during the COVID-19 pandemic. He stated that LAHSA is committed to making improvements and is collaborating with the city to ensure effective solutions for unsheltered homelessness.

Upcoming Meetings

The L.A. County Board of Supervisors will consider the motion proposed by Horvath and Barger. Meeting details are as follows:

• Date and Time: Tuesday, Nov. 26 at 9:30 a.m.
• Location: 500 West Temple Street, Room 381-B, Los Angeles
• Call-in Information: (877) 226-8163 | Participant Code: 1336503
• Watch Virtually: Link

This meeting will give community members a chance to stay informed on funding decisions related to homelessness in L.A.