The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) is facing criticism for refusing to release public records related to $800,000 in settlements for wrongful termination and whistleblower retaliation claims. Former executives Kristina Dixon and Emily Vaughn Henry filed these claims after their termination in 2024 during Va Lecia Adams Kellum’s first year as LAHSA’s chief executive.
According to LAist, the agency settled these claims but has not disclosed the details, citing several exemptions, including attorney-client privilege. However, public records attorney David Loy argues that these exemptions do not apply, and withholding the records is “unlawful.” Loy emphasizes that the California Public Records Act mandates disclosure, especially since taxpayer money was used for the settlements.
The settlement agreements reveal that Dixon received $450,000 and Vaughn Henry $350,000. The agreements outline allegations such as whistleblower retaliation, wrongful termination, and discrimination but do not provide specific details. Both former executives declined to comment.
Newsbreak reports that Dixon and Vaughn Henry were dismissed amid a “wave of departures” at LAHSA, leading to concerns about a leadership vacuum. LAHSA’s refusal to release the records has drawn attention to transparency issues, with public records attorneys highlighting the public’s right to know about claims involving public agencies.
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