Homelessness in the northwestern Valley becomes a pressing issue in council race

Angel Griffin, left, and India Barr next to Barr’s RV at an encampment on Eaton Avenue in Chatsworth. She criticizes Lee for his reliance on Municipal Code 41.18 — the city’s anti-camping law — which she calls a “Band-Aid solution.” “We’re moving people from sidewalk to sidewalk and not solving the problem,” said Oberstein, adding that she would bring to the district more resources for mental health issues and substance abuse, shelter beds and housing. “Housing solutions are often controversial,” Lee said, “but I have shown that I will make tough decisions and work to find common ground.” City data show that Lee has designated dozens of areas in his district as 41.18 zones — around shelters, parks, freeways and elsewhere — allowing police to regulate where people can sit, sleep and store property. She said the answer isn’t “more or less 41.18 zones — it’s more affordable housing.” More than 1,000 people were recorded as homeless in District 12 in 2022, a 43% rise from 2020, the first count after Lee took office. His office is in “constant contact” with West Valley Homes Yes, he said, noting that “the reality is that sometimes partnerships take time to develop.” Stephanie Klasky-Gamer, chief executive of service provider L.A. Family Housing, said there’s more work being done on homelessness in the district than in previous years.