*Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has secured $1.3 billion from the L.A. city council to help combat the homelessness crisis.
“This budget will make Los Angeles more livable for all. It will allow us to confront the emergency of homelessness with the urgency we need and make innovative investments in bold new methods to make our neighborhoods safer,” the mayor said in a statement, LA Focus News reports.
“We also take steps towards strengthening our city’s infrastructure, ensuring we continue to combat climate change in a significant way and improve city services to make a Los Angeles that is stronger, healthier, happier and safer,” Bass continued. “This budget process has been a prime example of how working together, we can move LA forward.”
According to LA Focus News, the funds will be used to build new housing for the homeless, along with mental health care, addiction treatment, and job training services. Additionally, homeless shelters and support services will be expanded.
“This new budget will effectively help address our City’s most pressing needs surrounding homelessness, public safety, pedestrian and traffic safety, climate change, increasing opportunities for growth and reducing poverty,” said Councilmember Curren Price.
A major component of Bass’ spending plan involves acquiring and converting motels into transitional housing. The mayor also wants to help vulnerable seniors with rental assistance.
“We are trying to lay the foundation and set the stage for what I hope will be a very significant reduction, especially in street homelessness,” said Bass.
“With a shared commitment toward building a more fair and equitable Los Angeles, we have met this moment with great urgency and determination. I am proud to see that the Council was able to make such historic investments across the board, which will surely improve the lives of Angelenos,” said Price, according to LA Focus News.
READ MORE: LA Mayor Karen Bass Makes Remarks at Lisa Collin’s LA Focus’ 25th Annual First Ladies High Tea
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