A revocable permit for the housing facility for the homeless at the Port of Los Angeles was renewed by the city commission on Thursday. However, nearby residents raised concerns that city departments need to address.
The approval of the successor permit, allowing the General Services Department to run A Bridge Home, was voted unanimously 5-0 by the Harbor Commission. The facility will continue operating on port-owned land until February 28, 2027.
Currently managed by GSD through a sublease with U.S. Vets, a nonprofit organization providing shelter and meals to the unhoused, the housing facility at the port has 100 beds and has been in operation since July 2020.
Mayor Karen Bass expressed the need to address the city’s homelessness crisis in a letter to the commissioners, urging them to approve the permit.
Lucille Roybal-Allard, the president of the commission, approved the permit with several conditions. These include compliance with all permit terms, the provision of a corrective action plan by the Port of L.A. within 30 days, and regular reports on the status of corrective actions.
Residents of the Wilmington area have raised concerns about public safety, site maintenance, environmental impacts, and issues with car and RV encampments. Councilman Tim McOsker, in a letter to Mayor Bass, highlighted these grievances and emphasized the city’s failure to fulfill commitments made to the neighborhood.
The councilman acknowledged the importance of extending the lease but also stressed the need to support the affected communities. Eight representatives from city departments appeared before the commissioners to address these concerns and offer reassurances.
Commissioner Michael Munoz highlighted the historical distrust experienced by working-class communities of color and emphasized the need for transparency and accountability. City officials assured that they would work towards addressing the grievances and involve the Wilmington Neighborhood Council in the decision-making process.
The commission also discussed the possibility of revoking the permit if improvements are not made, with a termination notice period of 120 days. Diane Middleton, vice president of the commission, appreciated the community’s participation and thanked the city representatives for their commitment.
Overall, the commission aims to deliver on their promises and ensure the well-being of the residents in Wilmington.
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