Venice, Los Angeles – October 4, 2024 — A large-scale cleanup operation targeting a homeless encampment, including that of a local homeless artist, took place at Venice Beach on Friday, coordinated by a multi-agency task force. The operation, led by Los Angeles Park Rangers, involved the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Department of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, LA County Beaches and Harbors, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), and a representative from Councilwoman Traci Park’s office.
During the cleanup, a homeless artist was given 15 minutes by sanitation workers to gather her belongings and relocate. She managed to save her art paintings and some personal items, but the rest of her belongings were discarded as part of the cleanup process.
The operation was executed efficiently, with personnel in protective gear carefully sorting and removing hazardous and non-hazardous waste. This cleanup effort highlights the city’s ongoing commitment to improving public health and safety while addressing homelessness in a compassionate manner.
LAHSA provided essential services such as food, water, and hygiene kits to those affected by the operation, emphasizing the city's focus on support over punishment. No citations for public camping were issued during the cleanup, underscoring the city’s preference for compassionate, non-punitive measures.
This weekly cleanup is part of a broader city initiative to address the complexities of homelessness while maintaining public safety. The regular Friday operations are a critical component of the city’s strategy to keep Venice Beach safe and clean, with Councilwoman Traci Park’s office ensuring a humane and balanced approach to these ongoing challenges.
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