Local News in Brief : Referendum Sought on Homeless Center
A leader of a large West Hollywood business association has called for a referendum on whether the city should go ahead with plans for a $1.2-million comprehensive center for the homeless.
“Anytime you consider spending that kind of money to provide services to non-taxpayers, residents deserve a chance to have a say in the matter,” said Mike Radcliffe, who is on the board of directors of the 88-member West Hollywood Community Alliance.
Recent attempts by city officials to solicit support for the project among resident and business owners, Radcliffe said, is “nothing more than tokenism.” He called the project ill-conceived and “too ambitious.”
After he and others voiced their complaints, the City Council postponed until Sept. 6 voting on a lease for part of a warehouse to house the proposed 70-bed facility.
In a gesture aimed at quelling criticism, the council called for city officials to meet with area residents and merchants to discuss the project before the Sept. 6 council meeting.
The city hopes to acquire up to $525,000 in federal, state and county funds to help pay for renovating the warehouse.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
