Homeless camping at beaches and parks? L.A. proposal stirs outcry from some neighbors
LA TimesStephanie Popescu and her 2-year-old son Dacian head to a playground as a homeless woman walks by with her belongings in Westchester Park. He grew even more alarmed after learning the park is one of several recreation areas being considered for “safe camping,” a program that allows homeless people to pitch their tents and receive social services. Supporters of Bonin’s proposal have grown frustrated by the pushback, saying recreational activities are still happening in Westchester Park and that homeless people, there and elsewhere, are as concerned for their safety as anyone else. “If we don’t want to become like Venice, then we need to be engaging this problem head on,” said Popescu, whose group delivers food and supplies to people living in Westchester Park. “For $7 you get to park and literally walk to the beach in two minutes.” In Westchester, Bonin’s proposal dominated two virtual meetings of the local neighborhood council, which also represents the neighborhoods of Playa del Rey and Playa Vista.