Addressing Homelessness in Los Angeles: Can Nithya Raman Succeed?

In 2005, I met a man playing the violin near Pershing Square and followed him to Skid Row, where he lived. Since then, I have closely listened to the promises of Los Angeles mayors regarding homelessness. Mayors Antonio Villaraigosa, Eric Garcetti, and Karen Bass all aimed to solve this issue but fell short. Although they invested significant resources and helped many individuals, the problem persists with over 40,000 people still homeless in the city.

The Challenge for Mayor-elect Nithya Raman

The persistent homelessness issue is one reason why Mayor-elect Nithya Raman will have an opportunity to address the problem. While the city saw a slight increase in homelessness, Raman’s council district experienced a notable decrease.

During her campaign, Raman criticized Bass’s strategies, which she previously helped implement, as costly and ineffective. On her website, Raman promised to reduce tents and encampments by half before the Olympics and to eliminate visible homelessness by the end of her first term.

Promises and Skepticism

Promises from past mayors like Villaraigosa, Garcetti, and Bass have historically not resulted in the expected progress. In 2006, Villaraigosa announced a 10-year plan to end homelessness. Garcetti pledged to cut the problem in half within five years. Bass also had ambitious goals.

However, homelessness is complex, influenced by economic disparity, housing costs, and untreated mental health issues. A mayor alone cannot solve this without federal and local collaboration.

Raman’s Strategy

Raman plans to discontinue the Inside Safe program and employ short-term rental vouchers, which she argues are more cost-effective. She also advocates for accountability in program spending, including audits by City Controller Kenneth Mejia. Raman proposes using Medi-Cal funds for street medicine teams, investing in shared housing, and improving case management.

Raman’s urban planning education and experience as a co-founder of the SELAH Neighborhood Homeless Coalition equip her with valuable insights. Her ability to navigate the city’s political landscape will be crucial for implementing her policies. Louis Abramson, a SELAH board chair, recognizes Raman’s potential to deliver affordable housing.

Understanding Key Barriers

A key element of addressing homelessness is recognizing that recovery is not straightforward. It involves building relationships and supporting community initiatives. At Chrysalis, formerly homeless individuals now working emphasize the importance of ongoing support. Encouraging volunteer efforts can also contribute to addressing community needs.

My personal experience with my friend Nathaniel, a musician who moved indoors after a decade living outdoors, highlights the critical role of personal connections. Abramson echoes this sentiment: human relationships are essential for success in tackling homelessness.

For the 40,000 people like Nathaniel in Los Angeles, and their neighbors, there is hope that the next mayor can implement effective changes.