L.A. County to Vote on Forming Its Own Homeless Services Department

Tags: Los Angeles County, Homelessness, Public Policy, LAHSA, Government Reform

Plan to Consolidate Homeless Services

With billions allocated to homelessness services in Los Angeles County and slow progress, the Board of Supervisors is set to vote on a proposal to consolidate these services into a single county department.

Currently, homelessness services are spread across 14 county departments, the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), the City of Los Angeles, and various other cities within the county. L.A. County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath argues that this fragmented system lacks accountability and oversight.

Addressing Structural Issues

Audits have highlighted inefficiencies, wasted funds, and poor tracking of services. Many individuals cycle through programs without achieving stable housing. Previous ballot measures, including Measure H and Measure A, have injected significant funding into homelessness programs without sufficient oversight, Horvath explained.

Ensuring Fiscal Accountability

The proposed restructuring aims to bring financial oversight directly under county control, ensuring that resources are used effectively to produce tangible results. Horvath emphasized that while the county will not sever its partnership with LAHSA, it will take a more direct role in managing homelessness services to benefit all 88 cities within the county.

LAHSA’s Perspective

LAHSA CEO Dr. Va Lecia Adams Kellum acknowledges the audits’ findings but points out that recent improvements have contributed to a decline in the overall homeless population. She asserts that collaboration between the city and county, with LAHSA executing their shared vision, has been effective.

Next Steps

If approved, the new county department would begin operations on July 1, aiming to streamline services and improve efficiency in addressing homelessness.