What's Happening?
The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) is set to appoint Gita O’Neill, a career city attorney, as its interim chief executive. This decision comes as the agency faces a significant downsizing, losing about 40% of its $875-million budget. O’Neill, who has worked in the city attorney’s office for nearly 24 years, will replace Va Lecia Adams Kellum, who is stepping down after leading the agency for two and a half years. The appointment follows the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors' decision to form a new county homelessness department, which will oversee funds currently administered by LAHSA. O’Neill's role will involve reshaping the joint city-county authority during this transition period.
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Why It's Important?
The appointment of Gita O’Neill as interim CEO is crucial as LAHSA navigates a challenging period marked by budget cuts and restructuring. The agency has faced criticism for poor contract and data management, as highlighted in audits by the Los Angeles County Auditor and U.S. District Judge David O. Carter. These audits revealed deficiencies in financial oversight, leading to waste and fraud vulnerabilities. The restructuring aims to address these issues by transferring over 700 county workers to a new agency by January 1, with more employees transitioning by mid-year. This move is expected to improve accountability and efficiency in managing homelessness services in Los Angeles.
What's Next?
The immediate next step involves the LAHSA commission negotiating a 12-month contract with Gita O’Neill, with a vote scheduled for Friday. As interim CEO, O’Neill will focus on implementing changes to improve financial oversight and service delivery. The transition of employees to the new county homelessness department will be completed by mid-2026, which is expected to streamline operations and enhance service provision. Stakeholders, including city and county officials, will likely monitor the agency's progress closely to ensure the restructuring achieves its intended goals.
