Mayor Karen Bass has reinforced her commitment to tackling Los Angeles' housing and homeless crisis amidst threats to weaken Measure ULA. In a recent statement, Bass highlighted the successes of Measure ULA in funding affordable housing and supporting eviction-vulnerable Angelenos. However, she pointed out looming challenges, including funding cuts from the Trump administration, state grant reductions, and a controversial diversion of Measure A funding by the County to create a new bureaucratic entity.
During her mayoral tenure, Bass has focused on exempting Palisades residents affected by wildfires from Measure ULA obligations and has confronted decreased support for the measure, which stands as a pivotal element in addressing the city's housing dilemma. "Measure ULA is a critical tool to help us address the housing and homelessness crisis and to build on our progress by bringing more affordable housing units into the pipeline," Bass said. Yet, Bass's ongoing battle faces the stark reality of state and federal funding slashes paired with local bureaucratic reshuffles that may hinder progress.
Los Angeles has seen a decline in street homelessness for two consecutive years, a trend that could reverse if funding sources like Measure ULA fall by the wayside. Bass voiced her concerns by stating, "For the past three years, Measure ULA has raised funding for affordable housing development across L.A. and supported tens of thousands of Angelenos facing eviction and on the verge of homelessness – but more is needed." She remains firm on her stance to not only maintain but also build upon the progress made thus far.
The Mayor's plan involves closing critical funding gaps, jumpstarting multifamily and mixed-use housing productions, and continuing the construction of affordable housing units. Acknowledging the obstacles ahead, Bass is poised to rally stakeholders in order to safeguard Measure ULA's future. "I am committed to bringing stakeholders together and looking at all opportunities to ensure Measure ULA remains a critical funding source to help us address Los Angeles’ housing and homelessness crisis," Mayor Bass reaffirmed.
