TITLE
Recommendation to adopt resolution declaring a shelter crisis, suspending applicable provisions of local law, including those contained in the City's zoning ordinances and regulations, and authorizing the operation of a winter shelter between the dates of December 1, 2008 and March 31, 2009; and
Authorize City Manager to execute any and all documents necessary for a lease between the Roman Family Trust (Lessor) and the City (Lessee) and a sublease between the City (Sublessor) and the Long Beach Rescue Mission (Sublessee) and any amendments at the discretion of the City Manager for approximately 6,900 rentable square feet of industrial space at 2235 Lemon Avenue at the monthly base rent of $5,175 for use as a winter shelter. (District 6)
DISCUSSION
Who Started the Winter Shelter Program and Why?
In the late 1980's, four homeless persons died on the streets of Los Angeles County due to inclement weather during the winter months. In response to the deaths, then Mayor Thomas Bradley started the first Los Angeles City and County Winter Shelter Programs. The City of Los Angeles and the County of Los Angeles operated two separate Winter Shelter Programs. The Los Angeles County Emergency Food and Shelter Program Local Board also assisted with planning and funding the Winter Shelter Program.
Today, the County places one winter shelter in each of the five Supervisorial Districts. For Los Angeles County Supervisorial District 4, the site identified is at 2235 Lemon Avenue.
What is the Goal of the Winter Shelter Program and Who Does it Serve?
The main goal of the Winter Shelter Program is to increase the number of emergency shelter beds available throughout the County of Los Angeles during the winter months (December through March) each year.
As the capacity of providers has increased, the goals have expanded to include mainstreaming clients back into housing and jobs. The Winter Shelter Program is accessible to any individual or family that is homeless ...
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