On Thursday, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass addressed the clearing of a homeless encampment in Van Nuys, stating it was not related to upcoming major sporting events in the city. The cleanup, part of her Inside Safe program, saw city crews clear the encampment visible from the 405 Freeway. According to Fox LA, at least 55 people accepted housing through the initiative.
Mayor Bass emphasized that the operation is part of her ongoing efforts to address homelessness in Los Angeles. She stated, “This is not because of sporting events happening. On day one of my administration, I declared a state of emergency, and we have been removing encampments and housing people for two and a half years.”
The city is preparing to host several major events, including the NBA All-Star Game, the FIFA World Cup, and the 2028 Olympic Games. However, Bass reiterated that the encampment clearance is unrelated to these events. The Inside Safe program aims to provide housing and prevent the return of encampments. As reported by Fox LA, the program seeks to keep communities intact by moving groups together into motels, where they receive meals, security, and social services.
While some community members protested the removal, citing the stability the encampment provided, Bass highlighted the importance of providing safer living conditions. She stated that the city is working to find more cost-effective solutions than motels for temporary housing.
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