Overview

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has officially declared housing insecurity a public health crisis. This resolution aims to address the significant impacts of unstable housing on community health and well-being.

While the declaration does not activate emergency powers, it sets a framework for county agencies to work collaboratively on solutions to housing instability.

Key details

  • The resolution was passed by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday.
  • It focuses on residents in unincorporated areas, giving them priority access to affordable housing in their neighborhoods.
  • Supervisor Hilda Solis emphasized that housing instability is a critical factor contributing to chronic illness and health disparities.
  • The motion directs various county departments to create coordinated plans to maintain existing affordable housing and support residents at risk of losing their homes.
  • Departments involved include the Department of Homeless Services and Housing and the Los Angeles County Development Authority.
  • A separate motion was approved to develop a local preference policy for affordable housing funded by L.A. County.
  • This policy would prioritize residents of communities like East Los Angeles, Willowbrook, and Altadena for new affordable housing projects.
  • According to the motion, 59% of renters in unincorporated areas spend over a third of their income on rent.
  • The term “housing insecure” encompasses those without stable housing, including those at risk of eviction or living in overcrowded conditions.
  • The resolution aims to unify county agencies in addressing the health impacts associated with housing instability.
  • Supervisor Solis highlighted the broader implications of housing insecurity beyond economic factors.
  • The declaration does not constitute an official emergency declaration.

Context

This declaration comes amid growing concerns about the health implications of housing instability, which affects a significant portion of the population in Los Angeles County.

What happens next

County agencies will begin working on coordinated plans to address housing insecurity and develop policies that prioritize local residents for affordable housing opportunities.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the specific timeline for the implementation of the coordinated plans and the local preference policy have not been confirmed.