Hahn Sues Over Homeless

Los Angeles City Atty. James K. Hahn charged today that the county has “dragged its feet” in caring for the homeless, and announced the filing of a lawsuit to force county supervisors to meet the health care needs of indigents. Hahn asked the court for an immediate injunction to force the county to provide expanded shelter and services before the city’s “urban campground” at 4th Street and Santa Fe Avenue closes Aug. 10. About 500 people have been staying in the camp.

Hahn said the county has abandoned its legal obligation to provide rooms and relief, with supervisors opting to conserve resources and let the city cope with the problem. The city has spent about $1 million this year providing care for people who should receive county aid, he charged. “It is unfortunate that we have reached the point where the city’s only recourse is to take legal action against the county,” Hahn said.