Palmdale Hosts Los Angeles County Blue Ribbon Commission on Homelessness Meeting

PALMDALE, CA - On October 10, the City of Palmdale hosted a regional meeting of the Blue Ribbon Commission on Homelessness (BRCH) at the Palmdale Playhouse. Key figures from Los Angeles County and the surrounding region gathered to explore cooperative strategies for tackling homelessness. 

The focus of the meeting was to develop a cohesive response to this pressing issue through innovative solutions that bring communities together. Attendees included Fifth District Supervisor Kathryn Barger, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, Palmdale Mayor Austin Bishop and Mayor Pro Tem Richard J. Loa, who serves on the BRCH commission, as well as Councilmember Eric Ohlsen. Representatives from Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority and other member cities, such as Agoura Hills, Burbank, Calabasas, Glendale, Hidden Hills, La Canada Flintridge, Lancaster, Malibu, San Fernando, Santa Clarita and Westlake Village are also actively contributing to these discussions regarding homelessness solutions in Los Angeles County.

“This regional meeting is a crucial step in addressing the complex issue of homelessness,” said Palmdale Mayor Austin Bishop. “We’re committed to working collaboratively with our neighboring cities and Los Angeles County to develop effective, compassionate solutions that serve our entire community.”

During the meeting, participants noted that relocating individuals experiencing homelessness between cities is not a sustainable solution. There was a strong emphasis on the need for adequate shelter and comprehensive wraparound services to achieve meaningful progress. Additionally, the group identified the importance of policy reforms, such as revising ordinances to ensure veterans receiving benefits are included in services and working with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to streamline the qualification process for assistance.

“My passion for community service and my experience in practicing law and being on the Blue Ribbon Commission representing the Antelope Valley puts me in a unique position to understand and act on the issues of homelessness,” said Palmdale Mayor Pro Tem Richard J. Loa.

In recent months, Palmdale completed three Pathway Home operations in partnership with LA County, helping 121 people transition from makeshift encampments and RVs in the desert to safe interim housing. Initiatives like these are paving the way for the City to provide the necessary support and services to assist individuals experiencing homelessness in moving toward permanent housing. 

Together, the City and its regional partners are committed to creating localized solutions and expanded housing initiatives and resources. For more details about the Blue Ribbon Commission on Homelessness, visit brch.lacounty.gov

About the Blue Ribbon Commission on Homelessness (BRCH) 

Established by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors in July 2021, BRCH is tasked with conducting a comprehensive study of the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority’s (LAHSA) governance structure and providing recommendations for improvement. The Commission comprises 12 members representing various stakeholders across Los Angeles County.

About the City of Palmdale

The City of Palmdale, with nearly 170,000 residents, sits perfectly nestled in the Antelope Valley against the picturesque backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains. Our community thrives on its forward-thinking and innovative ethos, driving progress across multiple sectors, from transportation to aerospace to public safety. Families enjoy Palmdale’s excellent schools, affordable housing, abundant recreational opportunities, diverse local culture and welcoming atmosphere, all within reach of the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Despite its urban proximity, Palmdale retains its identity as a desert oasis, boasting stunning landscapes, native Joshua trees and over 300 days of sunshine each year. Explore our possibilities at www.CityOfPalmdaleCA.gov