Homelessness and Local Politics

This morning I was honored to attend Los Angeles Councilmember Jan Perry’s swearing-in ceremony for her second term in office. It was located at the impressive Alternative School in South Los Angeles. Among our current Mayor Hahn, Mayor-elect Villaraigosa, and a handful of council members, councilmember Perry was “roasted” by elected officials and community members.

A common thread throughout the speeches was her efforts to deal with our community’s approach to homelessness. Her district covers the downtown area—including Skid Row—as well as parts of South Los Angeles.

Homelessness cannot be ignored in her district. So she has utilized local politics among the business community, service providers, law enforcement, and community members to address this terrible societal problem.

It is encouraging to see local politicians address a controversial issue like homelessness…