Homeless High-Rise in Los Angeles to Cost Taxpayers $165 Million

## Homeless High-Rise in Los Angeles to Cost Taxpayers $165 Million

### Los Angeles authorities plan to build a high-rise shelter for homeless individuals, raising concerns about the significant cost to taxpayers.

Homeless High-Rise in Los Angeles to Cost Taxpayers $165 Million

Los Angeles taxpayers are facing a hefty bill of $165 million to fund the construction of a new homeless high-rise shelter in the city. The project, aimed at addressing the growing homelessness crisis in Los Angeles, has drawn criticism for its exorbitant cost.

The high-rise, planned to be 14 stories tall, will provide housing for approximately 1,200 people. The project is part of Mayor Karen Bass's ambitious plan to build 20,000 new housing units for homeless individuals.

Homeless High-Rise in Los Angeles to Cost Taxpayers $165 Million

Critics argue that the high cost of the project is excessive and could be better spent on other initiatives to address homelessness, such as providing more affordable housing or increasing mental health services. They also express concerns about the potential impact on surrounding neighborhoods and the long-term maintenance costs of the high-rise.

According to a report by the city's Housing and Community Investment Department, the total cost of the project is estimated at $165 million, excluding ongoing maintenance and operational expenses. The city plans to fund the project using a combination of public funds and private donations.

Homeless High-Rise in Los Angeles to Cost Taxpayers $165 Million

Supporters of the project argue that it is necessary to provide safe and stable housing for individuals experiencing homelessness. They maintain that the high cost is justified by the long-term benefits of reducing homelessness and its associated social costs.

The high-rise shelter is expected to be completed in 2026. It remains to be seen whether the substantial cost of the project will be justified by its impact on the homelessness crisis in Los Angeles.

Homeless High-Rise in Los Angeles to Cost Taxpayers $165 Million

### Concerns Raised Over Excessive Cost and Alternative Options

The high cost of the homeless high-rise has raised concerns among taxpayers and advocates for affordable housing. Critics argue that the funds could be better allocated to other initiatives, such as providing more affordable housing, increasing mental health services, or expanding job training programs for homeless individuals.

Homeless High-Rise in Los Angeles to Cost Taxpayers $165 Million

They also express concerns about the potential impact of the high-rise on surrounding neighborhoods. The 14-story building will be located in a densely populated area, and residents worry about increased traffic, noise, and potential safety issues.

Furthermore, there are questions about the long-term maintenance costs of the high-rise. Critics argue that the city will be saddled with ongoing expenses to maintain and operate the building, which could divert funds from other essential services.

Homeless High-Rise in Los Angeles to Cost Taxpayers $165 Million

Some advocates for homeless individuals also question the effectiveness of high-rise shelters. They contend that these shelters can be isolating and impersonal, and may not provide the supportive environment that homeless individuals need to rebuild their lives.

### City Officials Defend Project, Cite Long-Term Benefits

City officials defend the high cost of the homeless high-rise, arguing that it is a necessary investment to address the homelessness crisis in Los Angeles. They maintain that the high-rise will provide safe and stable housing for approximately 1,200 people, and that the long-term benefits of reducing homelessness will outweigh the costs.

Officials also note that the city is exploring alternative options, such as expanding the use of tiny homes and modular housing, to provide more affordable and flexible housing solutions for homeless individuals.

The city's Housing and Community Investment Department has conducted a cost-benefit analysis of the homeless high-rise project. The analysis found that the project would generate significant cost savings for the city over the long term by reducing homelessness and its associated social costs, such as healthcare expenses and criminal justice costs.

### Ongoing Debate and Future Prospects

The debate over the homeless high-rise is likely to continue as the project moves forward. Critics will continue to argue that the high cost is excessive and that the funds could be better spent on other initiatives to address homelessness.

Supporters will maintain that the high-rise is necessary to provide safe and stable housing for individuals experiencing homelessness, and that the long-term benefits will justify the costs.

The city is expected to make a final decision on the project later this year. If the project is approved, construction is expected to begin in 2024 and be completed in 2026.