The motion to ban feeding the homeless in Los Angeles

MOTION

The City of Los Angeles has numerous non profit organizations that provide services to

the needy, including but not limited to, shelter, clothing, storage of personal effects and

feeding programs. While these organizations provide a valuable service; sometimes there

are negative impacts to surrounding communities.

Due to the large demand to feed those in need, these activities frequently spill out onto

the sidewalk and street, creating numerous public safety and public health concerns.

Additionally, concentrations of people, lack of ADA accessibility and blocking of streets

and sidewalks cause significant public safety problems. City Departments should come

together to determine a solution that addresses non-commercial feeding in the public

rights of way.

The City of Los Angeles, LAHSA and neighboring municipalities have had measurable

success with permanent supportive housing, which provides housing, food, social

services and other needs to homeless people.

I THEREFORE MOVE that the City Attorney, Board of Public Works, Department of

Disability, LAHSA, County Health Department and the Los Angeles Police Department

be requested to report on measures which address providing meal service to individuals

in the public rights of way.

I FURTHER MOVE that the City Attorney be requested to report on efforts by other

municipalities to address non-commercial feeding in the public rights of way.

I FURTHER MOVE that the City Attorney be requested, in consultation with the Bureau

of Street Services, LAHSA and LAPD, to provide legislative options for an ordinance

which would address non-commercial meal distribution in the public rights of way.

I FURHTER MOVE that the City Attorney draft legislation as it relates to noncommercial

meal distribution in the public rights of way.

PRESENTED BY: Tom LaBonge

Council member, 4th District

SECONDED BY: Mitch O'Farrell 

Council member, 13th District

September 17th, 2013

Motion 13-1238