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Dear Neighbor,
The Supreme Court’s decision in the case of City of Grants Pass v. Johnson clarifies that cities can enforce criminal penalties on people who are unhoused and sleeping outside when there is no shelter available. This provides a punitive approach that moves people experiencing homelessness from one street to the next without truly solving the problem.
For the first time in six years, the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority’s Point in Time count has shown a decrease in the number of people experiencing homelessness. I’m sharing this not as a win but as an indicator that our strategies are making an impact. It is important to remember what is working as we face the Grants Pass decision and Governor Newsom’s recent Executive Order directing state departments to adopt policies to urgently address encampments on state property.
Now is the time to double down on what gets and keeps people humanely housed; this includes Pathway Home, the County’s all-hands-on-deck approach to bringing our unhoused neighbors indoors and ultimately into permanent housing with a suite of supportive services. Since launching last summer, Pathway Home has connected over 600 residents to interim housing and 100 to permanent housing and removed nearly 400 RVs.
For the first time, we also have an inter-government agency that I am proud to serve on, the LA County Affordable Housing Solutions Agency. Our work is focused on producing and preserving affordable housing to help us close the 500,000-unit housing shortage for LA County.
The above examples build on the County’s existing strategies, which have housed 104,000 people over the last six-and-a-half years since voters approved a ballot initiative to create the first funding stream to prevent and address homelessness. Voters will decide this November on whether to accept a ½ cent sales tax to provide funding for homelessness solutions through Measure A.
I understand the frustration of residents and small businesses in my district who want to help their family, friends, and neighbors who are unhoused and worry about their quality of life and safety. To urgently turn this promising decline in the number of people experiencing homelessness into a continuous drop that is visibly seen and felt throughout the County, we have to continue to invest in more affordable housing and services.
At the public Board meeting this Tuesday, July 30th, we will discuss with County departments the Grants Pass decision and the County’s strategy for addressing the homelessness crisis. For ways to participate, visit: bos.lacounty.gov/board-meeting-agendas.
To notify the County of a homelessness encampment, you can do this through the Public Works app by downloading The Works or visiting the Los Angeles County Homeless Outreach Portal (LA-HOP) at www.lahsa.org/portal/apps/la-hop/. For the latest information from LA County’s Homelessness Initiative, visit: homeless.lacounty.gov/.
Sincerely,
Holly J. Mitchell
Supervisor, Second District
Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors
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 Mitchell Memo Content
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Ballot Transparency & Consistency |
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Voters can expect their County sample ballot to include an objective analysis of the estimated cost of countywide ballot measures. Currently, statewide ballot measures provide this info, but countywide measures do not. To help close this inconsistency in voter information and transparency, the Board unanimously approved my motion with Supervisor Barger to have the Auditor-Controller provide a fiscal analysis on countywide ballot measures as allowed by state law. |
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Community Voices with Crystal Stairs - Strengthening the Childcare System |
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Top Photo: LA County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell, Office of Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell Deputy, Human Services & Child Welfare, Marina Escobedo, Community Voices Advocates and Crystal Stairs Staff
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I recently met with parents and childcare providers with Crystal Stairs as part of its Community Voices initiative to hear more about their advocacy for a fully funded childcare system in California. I also shared my journey from leading this organization to serving in elected office along with key County initiatives and departments that help support families and their children. Community Voices and Crystal Stairs, thank you for your ongoing work to ensure families in South LA have access to quality childcare and educational programming. Visit the Crystal Stairs website to learn about their free or low-cost childcare programs. |
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Drew League Foundation Community Day! |
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LA County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell and Drew League Foundation
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For over 51 years, the Drew League Foundation has provided mentorship, community, and a pathway to new possibilities for our young people through the sport of basketball. This organization's love for South Central and tangible support have impacted countless lives and inspired generations of young leaders on and off the court. It was a joy to acknowledge co-founder Michael McCaa and the work of Drew League Foundation at its 2nd Annual Community Day at Charles Drew University and to join in congratulating honorees Sylvia Drew Ivie, Donny Joubert with Watts Gang Task Force, and of course, our champions at King Drew Magnet High School! |
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Addressing Homelessness - LA County Right to Counsel Ordinance |
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LA County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell and Right to Counsel Advocates
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Recently, the Board approved the first reading of the LA County’s Right to Counsel ordinance to help protect tenants from eviction in unincorporated LA County. Thank you to Strategic Actions for a Just Economy (SAJE), Stay Housed LA, and all the housing advocates who joined in fulfilling this important step. Once the ordinance goes into effect, it will be a significant resource in providing legal representation for renters in eviction court. I am proud to have authored the motion with Supervisor Solis to create this ordinance and look forward to the next vote to pass it officially. If you or someone you know is facing eviction, Stay Housed LA is here to help. To learn more visit Stay Housed LA or call 888-694-0040. |
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Stopping Arson at Marina City Club |
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My office continues to be responsive to constituents at the Marina City Club by ensuring our County Fire Department and the Public Works Building and Safety Unit are working with the condo management team and answering constituent questions on recent fires on the property. We will continue to work closely with the community to resolve this issue and ask for your support. If residents see suspicious activity, please contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Marina del Rey Station at 310-482-6000. If you prefer to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477. You can also make an anonymous report online at LA Crime Stoppers. |
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Parking Enforcement Update |
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Parking enforcement services for our unincorporated communities will remain within the Sheriff’s Department with a plan to phase in funding to extend coverage to 24 hours a day/7 days per week. Additionally, the Department of Public Works will embed staff within the Parking Enforcement Unit to establish a work group to enhance enforcement and community outreach. I greatly appreciate the Sheriff Department, Public Works and County’s Executive Office for working together to help address this issue and look forward to significant improvements in parking enforcement in our unincorporated communities. |
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Bringing Nature and Community Together at Lennox Park |
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Right Photo: Office of Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell Assistant Director, Unincorporated Areas, Alfonso Ruiz-Delgado
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At the beginning of my first term, my constituent service team created a Working Group for a Safer Lennox Park. I am proud to see this organization grow and provide engaging events for our community. Thanks to residents like Daniel Hernandez, a member of the working group, and organizations like Baldwin Hills Conservancy, Southern California Crossroads, Sunbeams at Lennox Park and our County Parks Dept - residents enjoyed a film screening of the Bee movie, fun activities and a discussion with a bee expert about the vital role bees play in our local ecology. |
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Summer Parks After Dark at Bethune Park |
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Top Left Photo (left to right): LA County Department of Parks & Recreation Aquatics Staff, LA County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell, and LA County Department of Parks & Recreation Director Norma García-Gonzalez
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As the summer heat continues in LA County, it’s the perfect time to visit your local county pool! This week, I visited Bethune Park for their Summer Parks After Dark event for an evening swim with community residents. The Second District has 14 of the 30 countywide pools, and for the first time, the Department of Parks & Recreation has extended pool hours into the evenings for Summer Parks After Dark programming. Whether you are learning how to swim or are already a pro, your county pools are a great way to stay cool. Visit Aquatics-LA Parks & Recreation for more information on aquatics classes and programs in LA County. |
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Alondra Park Hawaiian Festival |
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Top Photo (left to right): Office of Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell Intern, Karla Vasquez Perez and Office of Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell Deputy of Constituent Engagement, Ara An
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Team Mitchell joined the Hawaiian Inter-Club Council of Southern California and thousands of attendees at the 2nd District's Alondra Park for the annual Ho'olaule'a, the largest Hawaiian Festival in Southern California. This event uplifts Polynesian history, culture, and community through entertainment, dance, arts and crafts, food, and activities. A special thanks to the County's Department of Parks & Recreation for supporting this event and ensuring its success. |
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As temperatures rise, cooling centers are available throughout LA County. To stay safe, escape the excessive heat, and find a cooling center near you visit ready.lacounty.gov/heat. |
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BEHAVIORAL HEALTH INFRASTRUCTURE GRANTS
The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) announced the release of the Behavioral Health Continuum Infrastructure Bond Act of 2024: Program Round 1, Launch Ready Request for Applications (RFA). Through this RFA, DHCS will award up to $3.3 billion in grant funds to eligible entities. Eligible entities may apply and receive funding to construct, acquire, and rehabilitate real estate assets in behavioral health settings that serve Medi-Cal members. Go to Bond BHCIP Round 1: Launch Ready RFA to learn more and apply. The application deadline is December 13, 2024.
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FACILITY FEE WAIVERS FOR CHILDCARE PROVIDERS FOR INFANT & TODDLER SPACES
The LA County Office for the Advancement of Early Care and Education, in partnership with the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, is offering facility fee waivers for renovation or construction projects for childcare facilities that need construction plan reviews and/or building permits.
Applicants must serve infants and toddlers (Ages birth to 3) at the childcare facility and provide a Child Care Infant/Toddler license from the California Department of Social Services. The facility must be located in Unincorporated Los Angeles County, or the cities of Artesia, Carson, Cerritos, City of Industry, Irwindale, La Canada Flintridge, La Mirada, Lakewood, Lawndale, Lomita, Rolling Hills Estates, Santa Fe Springs, or Westlake Village.
The forms are available in English, Spanish, Korean, Chinese, Armenian, and Russian.
Visit Infant/Toddler Facility Fee Waiver Forms to apply.
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CAREERS FOR A CAUSE 8-WEEK PRE-EMPLOYMENT TRAINING
“Careers For A Cause” is an 8-week pre-employment training program offered by Los Angeles Southwest College to prepare Los Angeles residents to compete for careers in social services–such as Community Health Workers and Peer Support Specialists. Participants selected for the program will receive case management and supportive services during their training. Classes will be held Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and the eight-week session starts on August 26, 2024.
Visit bit.ly/LASC24 and apply by Thursday, August 1, 2024.
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LA COUNTY HOLIDAY CELEBRATION - NOW ACCEPTING PERFORMER APPLICATIONS
Every year talented performers and musicians from across the County participate in the annual LA County Holiday Celebration at The Music Center's Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Applications are now open until Tuesday, August 13 to apply to be part of this year’s celebration. Participants will have the opportunity to perform in front of a live audience and on PBS SoCal this Christmas Eve!
Learn more and apply here: bit.ly/4ct1z2t
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To access additional information on upcoming community resources and events related to education, health, housing, workforce development and more click here.
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LEARN TO SWIM
Upcoming Swimming Lessons at LA County Pools:
Session 5: 8/5 – 8/16
Registration: August 3
Various Locations
The LA County Parks Department is here to support you in learning how to swim or to improve your strokes! Swimming lessons are available at various pools throughout LA County. Learn more and sign up at Aquatics - Parks and Recreation.
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EVERYBODY SWIMS
Mon – Sat | 12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Parks After Dark
Thurs and Fri | 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Sat | 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Various Locations
Come out to enjoy all the fun your local County pools can offer! Visit LA County Swimming Pools to find a pool near you.
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2ND DISTRICT RACIAL JUSTICE LEARNING EXCHANGE
Mon, July 29 | 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Village Well Books & Coffee
9900 Culver Blvd.
Culver City, CA 90232
Join the Office of Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell at Village Well Books & Coffee to discuss key themes in Heather McGhee’s book, The Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together, including our journey to collective prosperity and racism’s impact on our communities. This discussion is open to all; prior reading of the book is not required to attend. Parking is available on-site.
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WESTSIDE AREA PLAN COMMUNITY MEETING
Thurs, August 1 | 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Knox Presbyterian Church
5840 La Tijera Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90056
The LA County Department of Regional Planning is hosting an in-person follow-up of the virtual community meeting on the Westside Area Plan (WSAP) that took place on June 25. The WSAP focuses on the unincorporated communities in LA County’s Westside Planning Area: Ladera Heights, View Park – Windsor Hills, Franklin Canyon, West LA Sawtelle VA, West Fox Hills, Marina del Rey, and Gilmore Island. The plan includes goals of increasing housing developments and advancing environmental justice. The WSAP project team will be present to answer questions. Translation services are available in Spanish, Korean, and ASL.
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LA YOUTH CLIMATE COMMISSION – DISTRICT 2 COALITION MEETING
Fri, August 2 | 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Climate Center - 4th Floor
West Los Angeles College Library
9000 Overland Avenue
Culver City, 90230
Join the Los Angeles Youth Climate Commission for a District 2 Coalition meeting to share ideas on climate action, learn from each other, and make a positive impact on our planet. There will be discussions on public green space, green buildings, clean air, and more.
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SUMMER PARKS AFTER DARK - STUDENT & FAMILY RESOURCE EVENT
Sat, August 3 | 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Earvin “Magic” Johnson Park
905 East El Segundo Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90059
Join the Office of Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell, LA County Parks Department, and community partners for a fun-filled evening featuring a laptop giveaway, free raffle prizes, including Apple products, a smart TV, a BBQ grill, bicycles and helmets, entertainment, and valuable family resources. The first 300 attendees will receive free backpacks!
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SUMMER LOVE – PET ADOPTION EVENT
Sat, August 10 | 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Carson Animal Care Center
216 West Victoria Street
Gardena, CA 90248
Join the LA County Department of Animal Care and Control for a pet adoption event. Adoption fees will be waived, and free microchips will be available–thanks to Old Blue Inc., a nonprofit that provides medical funding for the dogs in Carson Animal Care Center.
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LENNOX NIGHT AT THE PARK
Thurs, August 15 | 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Lennox Park
10828 Condon Avenue
Lennox, CA 90304
Join us for our 3rd Annual Night at the Park event at Lennox Park. There will be a free concert, food, resource fair, a youth soccer clinic, and a 4v4 futsal indoor soccer tournament!
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BACK TO SCHOOL RESOURCE FAIR
Sat, August 17 | 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
LA Care Community Resource Center
2864 West Imperial Highway
Inglewood, CA 90303
The Community Resource Center in Inglewood will host a FREE school supplies and backpack giveaway for students. One backpack per student, while supplies last. Ages 3 years old and up. A limited quantity may be available for students who are not present. For information, visit communityresourcecenterla.org or call (310) 330-3130.
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FREE YOGA CLASSES WITH MASTER YOGI DAVID LILLY
Mondays | 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Burton Chace Park
13650 Mindanao Way
Marina del Rey, CA 90292
To reserve a spot, send an email to chacepark@bh.lacounty.gov.
Fridays | 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Dockweiler Youth Center
12505 Vista del Mar
Playa del Rey, CA 90293
To reserve a spot, send an email to dyc@bh.lacounty.gov.
Learn the fundamentals of yoga with Master Yogi David Lilly in a friendly and supportive environment. The program is aimed at improving flexibility, strength, and overall well-being.
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Board of Supervisors Public Meeting Updates
The Board of Supervisors (BOS) meets every Tuesday at 9:30 a.m., except on Tuesdays following a Monday holiday when meetings begin at 1:00 p.m. The next meeting is on Tuesday, July 30. All public Board meetings can be viewed live at: http://bos.lacounty.gov/Board-Meeting/Live-Broadcast.
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This Week on Social Media
Be sure to follow the Office of Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell on Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Threads to get the latest updates, resources, and events happening in the Second District!
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We encourage you to share this newsletter with your neighbors! If you aren’t already subscribed to the Mitchell Memo Newsletter, you can sign up here.
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