LA Supervisors Vote to Create New Agency on Homelessness

Los Angeles County will create a new “super agency” to deal with the crisis of homelessness, the Los Angeles Times reports.

Tuesday’s vote by the Board of Supervisors was 3-2, with Sheila Kuehl and Holly J. Mitchell voting against.

“I couldn't support this motion, however well-intended it may be, because it adds a new layer of bureaucracy to an already complicated system, proposes a shift away from a housing first model, and further splinters our ability to provide more housing,” said Kuehl.

Mitchell complained about the price tag and the model’s feasibility.

The new agency was recommended by a special committee on homelessness, which presented seven different recommendations to the board. Supervisor Kathryn Barger co-authored the motion with Hilda Solis.

“The new entity would have authority over various agencies — including the county’s departments of health services, social services and mental health — and would report directly to the Board of Supervisors,” according to the Times.

Supervisors also voted to set aside revenue from Measure H for a “local solutions fund” that would help cities establish housing and service plans for the homeless.