Gene Goss

The briefing focused extensively on COVID-19 related support services for Los Angeles County residents, particularly tenants, landlords, and the immigrant community. Key topics included the county's eviction moratorium, provisions for landlord assistance, and support services for public housing residents and seniors. Statistical data illustrating the disproportionate economic impact of the pandemic on Hispanic and Black communities (concerning layoffs, hour reductions, pay cuts, and lack of paid leave) was presented. Furthermore, discussions covered the Los Angeles County Development Authority's role in Section 8 and public housing, including rent adjustments based on income changes and ensuring landlords do not illegally deny Section 8 applicants. The Department of Consumer and Business Affairs detailed the emergency eviction moratorium, rent increase freezes on rent-stabilized units, and free mediation services for landlord-tenant disputes. Updates were also provided on the allocation of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding, including new infusions through the CARES Act, and the launch of small business recovery loans up to $20,000.

This document outlines LA County's strategic response to the homelessness emergency, charting a new course to end homelessness. It focuses on four strategic missions: encampment resolutions through the Pathway Home program, expanding interim and permanent housing options, providing mental health and substance use disorder services through outreach, and implementing eviction protections to prevent homelessness. The plan aims to accelerate service delivery, reduce red tape, and effectively house individuals and families while strengthening the county's ability to respond to the crisis.

This document describes a comprehensive plan to combat gun violence and enhance community safety. The plan emphasizes a multi-faceted approach, moving beyond law enforcement to include healing from trauma, providing services and support for young people to manage emotions and conflicts, and advocating for a ban on assault weapons. The overarching goal is to create communities where children and families can live, work, play, learn, pray, and grow without the fear of violence.

The briefing provided updates on critical county issues, primarily focusing on homelessness and criminal justice reform. Officials discussed the staggering results of the 2019 homeless count, noting a 13% rise in individuals experiencing homelessness. Key actions included establishing and extending an eviction moratorium (effective since March 4, 2020, and extended through July) to prevent exacerbation of the crisis due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Board of Supervisors also approved $30 million in federal CARES Act funding to extend the emergency rental assistance program. On criminal justice reform, motions were read to close Men's Central Jail and invest savings into community alternatives, and to ensure transparency in deputy-involved shootings, including the timely release of evidence. The work of the Sheriff Civilian Oversight Commission, focusing on transparency, accountability, and community feedback, was also highlighted.

This document provides an update on the Los Angeles County Museum of Art's (LACMA) significant expansion and transformation project, currently 60% complete and targeted for conclusion by the end of 2024. The transformation focuses on constructing the new David Geffen Gallery to house the permanent collection, aiming to create a welcoming and inclusive space representative of all Los Angeles communities. Key strategic goals include revolutionizing the art experience through new artistic narratives, integrating significant indoor and outdoor sculpture programs to attract diverse and younger audiences, and leveraging a public-private partnership with Los Angeles County.