020723-NB-29sr&att.pdf — Long Beach City Council, February 7, 2023

February 7, 2023

HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
City of Long Beach
California
RECOMMENDATION:

Continue the local emergency caused by conditions or threatened conditions of homelessness within the City of Long Beach, which if not corrected, constitute an imminent and proximate threat to the safety of persons and property within the City, and; Receive and file an update on the emergency declaration and associated activities and provide any additional direction to City staff regarding the emergency. (Citywide)

DISCUSSION
The City of Long Beach (City) has designated significant resources to address homelessness in Long Beach. Since 2020, more than 530 new interim housing units have been developed.

The City opened the first year-round ABC Shelter, secured three hotels along with the County of Los Angeles (County) , and recently purchased the 78 -bed Luxury Inn and more than 30 modular shelter units. The City also implemented three Restorative Engagement to Achieve Collective Health (REACH) teams, increased the number of outreach staff and call takers from 4 to 27, expanded hours for weekend outreach, began conducting localized interdepartmental response, partnered to provide mobile health care services, and doubled Police Department Quality of Life teams. In 2023, the City has implemented mobile Multi-Service Center (MSC) outreach teams, will launch a mobile mental health and substance use treatment van, and will continue to focus on mental health prevention and treatment access.

The City continues to have approximately 3,300 people experiencing homelessness throughout Long Beach, which is a 77 percent increase since 2017 and a 62 percent increase from 2020 to 2022 . Of the se 3,300 people, more than 2,000 are unsheltered. The City and local community-based organizations provide approximately 1,300 interim shelter beds, and most of these shelters are operating at capacity, leaving few options for those currently without shelter.

Declaration of the Emergency
On January 10, 2023, the City Council proclaimed the local emergency, in accordance with the provisions of Long Beach Municipal Code Chapter 2.69. This item will be reviewed every fourteen (14) days until the City Council terminates sa id local emergency or amends requirements for reporting frequency. A local emergency must be terminated at the earliest possible date as the conditions warrant.

Office of the City Manager
411 West Ocean Boulevard, 10th Floor Long Beach, CA 90802 (562) 570-6711
NB-29

HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
February 7, 2023

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Action Taken in the Past Two Weeks

Over the past two weeks, the City emergency structure has been established and below is a summary of the major items worked on. Supporting information is included in Attachment A. • Announced second winter shelter location
• Announced location for RV dump station
• Held second livestream update with Mayor Richardson and Development Services Director Christopher Koontz and third livestream update with Mayor Richardson and Economic Development Director Bo Martinez
• Launched new Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) Grant awards to support sidewalk activation, special events, and clean and safe initiatives • Established a Field Command Center to coordinate planning and services for the downtown area to provide immediate and critical support and resources to people experiencing homelessness
• Published a homelessness column, written by Kelly Colopy, in the Press-Telegram • Launched Visual Improvement (VIP) Grants available for small businesses impacted by crime and vandalism
• Held Point -in-Time (PIT) Count on January 26, 2023 to count and survey people experiencing homelessness in our community which helps to understand the scope of homelessness, define existing resources available, and identify gaps • Received $4 million from Senator Gonzalez for funding for upgrades to support the City’s Multi Service Center
• Awarded $6.1 Million in Funding to Two Developers for New Affordable Rental Housing • Updated City homelessness website with new information on programs and services supporting people experiencing homelessness
• Finalized eight letters to send to County of Los Angeles, LA Metro, and local partners requesting support to address the regional challenge of homelessness • Submitted proposed $11.91 million budget to support the response effort for City Council consideration
• The Mayor, Health Director and C ity Attorney toured the winter shelter located at Community Hospital.

Questions from January 24, 2023

At the last hearin g of this item, there were several questions from the dais. Some were answered in person, and the following is a list of questions staff are working on a response to and their status.

HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
February 7, 2023

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• How does the community know who to call related to homeless services? How can Councilmembers call in to report hotspots that need attention? o Response: While the City has phone numbers for emergency and other services for residents and people experiencing homelessness, staff will explore preparing a document that captures this information in a clear and user-friendly format. This will also include information about how this will be prepared and shared in multiple languages.

• Can the City provide a map of RV sewer dump stations? o Response: Now that a location has been identified, we will work to those who need it.

• Can the City’s dashboard data include information on additional permanent housing and how the City is doing in this area?
o Response: The Development Services Department will share the 2022 Housing Element Report which includes new and affordable housing starts. Additionally, the Department produces an annual memo for the City Cou ncil on housing production, which is produced in April. This memo will be produced in April 2023 and the Department will plan to present this information to Council in conjunction with bi-weekly progress information the City’s emergency.

• Can the City explore ways to reduce the impact of gas rate increases? o Response: The City Cou ncil took action o n February 1, 2023 to create an Emergency Price Spike Rebate Program,

Focus Areas for the Next Two Weeks

Staff will provide an oral report on February 7, 2023 on some of the areas of focus for the next two weeks. Topics will include:
• Further development of the emergency response efforts through the nine identified workgroups
• Complete preparations required to bring the second winter shelter online within three weeks of announcement
• Finalize letters to state and federal partners outlining the City’s requests for support to address the homelessness emergency
• Work to set up meetings with regional partners such as LA County, LA Metro and regional partners to discuss opportunities.
• Engage with the County of Los Angeles on their plans for Measure H funding to expand resources for Long Beach to prevent homelessness and provide services

HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
February 7, 2023

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• Announce SAFE Parking site for vehicles that will create safe parking locations to reduce impacts on neighborhoods
• Continue evaluating properties citywide (both public and private) that can be temporarily used or acquired to further support the local emergency • Expand locations across the City where people can donate items for people experiencing homelessness a nd develop a site where non -profit o rganizations can request items
• Design notification system for people experiencing homelessness so they are aware of when service opportunities are available
• Plan for next locations and focus areas for Mobile Access Center and coordinated efforts • Launch the initial version of the data dashboard
• Begin formation of key stakeholder outreach plan
• Begin formation of the clergy workgroup and stakeholder engagement plan • Staff up the Homeless Services Bureau to address case management and public health nursing needs

This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Anita Lakhani and by Budget Analysis Officer Greg Sorensen on February 2, 2023.

TIMING CONSIDERATIONS

City Council action is requested on February 7, 2023, in accordance with the Long Beach Municipal Code requirements for the review of the local emergency. In order to report back every two weeks and to allow time for updates with the actions of the past two weeks, the item will generally be released on the Supplemental Agenda with a presentation with the latest information provided to the City Council and community during the meeting.

FISCAL IMPACT

The full fiscal impact is unknown at this time and will be based on the work required and projects implemented to respond to the homelessness crisis. As the Citywide strategy is developed, and funding is identified, staff will return to the City Council with fiscal impacts and requests for appropriation. On the February 7, 2023 City Council agenda, the City Council will be asked to approve one time funding of $5.4 million in the General Fund, $4 million in Measure A, and $2 million in Tidelands, which when combined with $510,000 in redirected Long Beach Recovery Act grant funds for business supports totals $11.91 million in support for this effort. This recommendation will result in significant staffing impacts beyond the normal budgeted scope of duties and is expected to affect Citywide staffing workload and will cause priorities to shift due to this emergency. There is no local job impact associated with this recommendation.

HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
February 7, 2023

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SUGGESTED ACTION:

Approve recommendation.

Respectfully submitted,

THOMAS B. MODICA

CITY MANAGER

Attachments: A – Supporting Documentation on Actions Taken in the Past Two Weeks

2/3/23, 9:37 AM City Establishes Field Command Center in Response to Homelessness Emergency https://longbeach.gov/press-releases/city-establishes-ﬁeld-command-center-in-response-to-homelessness-emergency/ 1/2

PRESS RELEASE
City of Long Beach
Public Information Office
411 W. Ocean Blvd,
Long Beach, CA 90802
Press Release # 013023
1/30/2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Long Beach, CA – Today, the City of Long Beach established a Field Command Center in effort to provide immediate and critical support and resources in the City’s homelessness emergency response. The Field Command Center will serve as a location for the City’s Interdepartmental Team to further coordinate planning and services for the downtown area. “The Field Command Center will be a tremendous asset in our City’s emergency response,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “We are working together to make real-time decisions in the field and offer our staff and partners the resources and support they need to address this crisis.” The Field Command Center will be in the Downtown area for the next three weeks and will be staffed by people from various City departments, including the Department of Health and Human Services (Health Department), Public Works Department, The Police Department and Fire Department. The City’s stated mission is to reduce the number of people experiencing homelessness in Long Beach by increasing housing opportunities and enhancing current initiatives that provide field-based outreach, engagement and supportive services while maintaining the safety and security of people experiencing homelessness, the general public and staff, and address and improve overall public safety for the entire community. The Field Command Center will assist staff in the field working to fulfill this mission.

While the Field Command Center plays a supportive role in the response and does not offer direct services to people experiencing homelessness, direct services continue to be provided in the downtown area through Homeless Services Bureau Outreach Teams and the Mobile Access Center. Services are also available through the City’s Multi-Service Center, via citywide outreach and through the City’s partner organizations.

City Establishes Field Command Center in Response to Homelessness Emergency City of Long Beach Joint Information Center
562.570.NEWS
[email protected]
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2/3/23, 9:37 AM City Establishes Field Command Center in Response to Homelessness Emergency https://longbeach.gov/press-releases/city-establishes-ﬁeld-command-center-in-response-to-homelessness-emergency/ 2/2 For more information on the City’s efforts to reduce homelessness in Long Beach, people may visit longbeach.gov/homelessness and follow @lbhealthdept and @longbeachcity on social media and follow the hashtag #EveryoneHomeLB.

For more news, pictures, videos and announcements of what’s happening in Long Beach, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
2/3/23, 9:37 AM City Announces Business Improvement Districts Grant Awards Under the Visual Improvement Program https://longbeach.gov/press-releases/city-announces-business-improvement-districts-grant-awards-under-the-visual-improvement-program/ 1/2

PRESS RELEASE
City of Long Beach
Public Information Office
411 W. Ocean Blvd,
Long Beach, CA 90802
Press Release # 013023-3
1/30/2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Long Beach, CA – The City of Long Beach announced a total of $100,000 in new Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) Grant awards, which will support sidewalk activation, special events, and clean and safe initiatives. This program is in addition to the existing LB Recovery Act funding for BID Grants.
“This is an amazing opportunity to help Business Improvement Districts create an environment that attracts more people into local businesses,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “Our business corridors can use a little extra love as they continue to recover.” Business Improvement Districts receiving funding include:

Belmont Shore PBIA
Bixby Knolls PBIA
Downtown Long Beach PBIA and PBID
Fourth Street PBIA
Long Beach Tourism BIA-Downtown
Magnolia Industrial Group PBID
Midtown PBID
Uptown PBID
Zaferia PBIA
Grant awards to Business Improvement Districts will be calculated with the same formula used for the previous BID Grants, accounting for the number of businesses served in each district, and funding will be made available as quickly as possible. Business Improvement District activities will be tracked through, reported on, and communicated via the Long Beach Recovery Act website. For City Announces Business Improvement Districts Grant Awards Under the Visual Improvement Program
City of Long Beach Joint Information Center
562.570.NEWS
[email protected]
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2/3/23, 9:37 AM City Announces Business Improvement Districts Grant Awards Under the Visual Improvement Program https://longbeach.gov/press-releases/city-announces-business-improvement-districts-grant-awards-under-the-visual-improvement-program/ 2/2 more information, visit the Long Beach Recovery Act website at longbeach.gov/recovery/reporting- data/. The $100,000 will be repurposed from other Long Beach Recovery Act funds.

This program is made possible by the Long Beach Recovery Act (Recovery Act), a plan to fund economic and public health initiatives for residents, workers and businesses critically impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional information about the Long Beach Recovery Act is available at longbeach.gov/recovery.

For more information on the City’s efforts to reduce homelessness in Long Beach, people may visit longbeach.gov/homelessness and follow @lbhealthdept and @longbeachcity on social media and follow the hashtag #EveryoneHomeLB.

For more news, pictures, videos and announcements of what’s happening in Long Beach, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
2/3/23, 9:37 AM City Announces Visual Improvement Grants Available for Small Businesses Impacted by Crime and Vandalism https://longbeach.gov/press-releases/city-announces-visual-improvement-grants-available-for-small-businesses-impacted-by-crime-and-vandalism/ 1/2

PRESS RELEASE
City of Long Beach
Public Information Office
411 W. Ocean Blvd,
Long Beach, CA 90802
Press Release # 012723-2
1/27/2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Long Beach, CA – The City of Long Beach announced the availability of grant funds through the Visual Improvement Grant program, which will support local businesses impacted by crime and vandalism on or after Oct. 1, 2022. This program aims to ease the burden of property crimes and vandalism for small businesses throughout the city, with property crimes as a whole increasing from 2021 to 2022. A total of $350,000 will be available, repurposed from Long Beach Recovery Act funds.
“Our small business owners have endured several crises over the last few years while keeping their shops running and their employees working,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “With this new grant opportunity, the City continues to provide support during this process of recovery.” Awarded grants of $1,500 can be used for storefront repairs, boarding costs, insurance deductibles and business operating expenses.

As part of the City’s efforts following the proclamation of a local homelessness emergency, and discussed by the City Council at the Jan. 24 council meeting, staff will establish grant funds for local businesses that have been affected by impacts potentially related to the homelessness crisis. It should be noted that crime and vandalism can be committed by people who may be housed or unhoused and often exacerbated by mental health challenges and increases in societal stressors, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and its associated economic effects. “Small businesses are a key component to a vibrant community” said Bo Martinez, Director of Economic Development. “This grant opportunity is one of several the City has provided over the last few years to help small businesses get through challenging times and start to thrive once again.”
City Announces Visual Improvement Grants Available for Small Businesses Impacted by Crime and Vandalism
City of Long Beach Joint Information Center
562.570.NEWS
[email protected]
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2/3/23, 9:37 AM City Announces Visual Improvement Grants Available for Small Businesses Impacted by Crime and Vandalism https://longbeach.gov/press-releases/city-announces-visual-improvement-grants-available-for-small-businesses-impacted-by-crime-and-vandalism/ 2/2 Applications will open on Feb. 22, with more information and online application available at longbeach.gov/smallbizgrants. Applications will remain open until funding is exhausted. Grant awards will be issued on a rolling basis to eligible applicants. Visual Improvement Grant activities will be tracked through, reported on, and communicated via the Long Beach Recovery Act website.

For more information, visit the Long Beach Recovery Act website at longbeach.gov/recovery/reporting-data/.

For more news, pictures, videos and announcements of what’s happening in Long Beach, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
2/3/23, 9:38 AM City of Long Beach Awards $6.1 Million in Funding to Two Developers for New Affordable Rental Housing https://longbeach.gov/press-releases/city-of-long-beach-awards-$6.1-million-in-funding-to---two-developers-for-new-affordable-rental-housing/ 1/3

PRESS RELEASE
City of Long Beach
Public Information Office
411 W. Ocean Blvd,
Long Beach, CA 90802
Press Release # 012023
1/20/2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Long Beach, CA – The City of Long Beach, through its nonprofit affiliate The Long Beach Community Investment Company (LBCIC), on Jan. 18, 2023, awarded a total of $6.1 million in loans to two area firms for the purchase and development of affordable rental housing that will serve those who are experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness. “This funding and key action reflects our sense of urgency to enhance the city’s housing stock and support working families who are most in need,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “We thank The LBCIC and these development partners who, together, are helping ensure Long Beach has safe, quality affordable housing that meets the needs of our community.” Facilitated by the Long Beach Development Services Department, a total of $4 million in federal funding provided through the HOME Investment Partnerships Program, known as HOME, was awarded as a loan to Holos Communities, a North Hollywood-based nonprofit organization, for construction of affordable rental housing at 521 and 527 E. 4th St. The development will consist of two new apartment buildings featuring a total of 140 one-bedroom units. Seventy five percent of the units will be reserved for residents who are experiencing homelessness. The project is expected to break ground in summer 2024.
“We welcome the opportunity for a partner like Holos Communities to build an affordable housing project here in the downtown area,” said First District Councilwoman Mary Zendejas. “With 75 percent of units dedicated for people experiencing homelessness and a local preference, this project underscores our efforts to address the homeless emergency and we look forward to residents who will be able to call this project their home.” City of Long Beach Awards $6.1 Million in Funding to Two Developers for New Affordable Rental Housing
Rick de la Torre
562.570.7174
[email protected]
Community Information Officer
Development Services Department
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2/3/23, 9:38 AM City of Long Beach Awards $6.1 Million in Funding to Two Developers for New Affordable Rental Housing https://longbeach.gov/press-releases/city-of-long-beach-awards-$6.1-million-in-funding-to---two-developers-for-new-affordable-rental-housing/ 2/3 A second loan of $2.1 million in federal grant funding was awarded to Jamboree Housing Corp. of Irvine, also a nonprofit builder of affordable homes, for acquiring the vacant property at 101 E.

Pacific Coast Hwy. Expected to break ground in summer 2024, the site will be developed into a 52- unit permanent housing complex for those who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. “I’m so proud that Council District 6 is contributing to increase the amount of housing available to meet the Long Beach Housing Promise,” said Sixth District Councilmember Dr. Suely Saro. “We know that this housing is needed in our community and we look forward to seeing Jamboree build a beautiful project.”
Holos Communities, formerly known as Clifford Beers Housing, has previously developed four other affordable housing projects in Long Beach, including Vistas del Puerto, a 48-unit apartment complex in the Midtown area. Jamboree Housing Corp. also has extensive experience developing projects in Long Beach, including the Puerto del Sol development and Collage Apartments, located in the Downtown and Midtown areas, respectively.
“The LBCIC enthusiastically continues to invest in opportunities like these that have the ability to provide housing for Long Beach residents,” said The LBCIC Chair Mary Castro. “These developers are valuable partners. They truly exemplify how the City remains committed to bringing people and communities together.”
“The City is fortunate to have critically needed financial resources and the means available to share them with developers of affordable housing,” said Director of Development Services Christopher Koontz. “Our Department is honored and stands ready to assist in the entitling and permitting of the safe and sustainable construction of these prospective projects.” Last week, the Long Beach City Council adopted the proclamation of a local homelessness emergency to strengthen the City’s preparedness and ability to respond to homelessness, including moving quickly and efficiently to expand housing and services. As part of this declaration, a dedicated work group has been assigned to focus on increasing housing opportunities, both permanent and temporary, that provide greater access for people experiencing and at risk of homelessness.

For more information on the City’s affordable housing and assistance programs, the community can visit longbeach.gov/lbds.

About the City of Long Beach
Home to approximately 470,000 people, the multiple award-winning and innovative City of Long Beach offers all the world-class amenities of a large metropolitan city while maintaining a strong sense of individual and diverse neighborhoods nestled together along the California coast. As a full-service charter city, Long Beach is home to the Queen Mary, Aquarium of the Pacific, several museums and theaters, a highly-rated school district, Long Beach Airport, the Port of Long Beach, as well as many award-winning City departments such as Health and Human Services; Parks, Recreation and Marine; Development Services; Public Works and more. The City also has a highly respected university and city college, two historic ranchos, five hospitals, 12 libraries, five golf courses, 169 parks, miles of beaches, marinas, bike paths and a Bike Share program.

For more information about the City of Long Beach, visit longbeach.gov/. Follow us on social to keep up with the latest news: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. 2/3/23, 9:38 AM City of Long Beach Awards $6.1 Million in Funding to Two Developers for New Affordable Rental Housing https://longbeach.gov/press-releases/city-of-long-beach-awards-$6.1-million-in-funding-to---two-developers-for-new-affordable-rental-housing/ 3/3 About Long Beach Development Services
Serving residents, businesses and the community at large, the award-winning Long Beach Development Services Department sets a standard for high-quality, innovative urban planning and livability efforts that create more progressive and sustainable communities within the diverse City of Long Beach, CA. Through a variety of development, code enforcement, housing and neighborhood services and building activities, the Department builds a better future for the city while also honoring its unique past. For more information, visit longbeach.gov/lbds. Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

For more news, pictures, videos and announcements of what’s happening in Long Beach, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
2/3/23, 9:38 AM Housing Authority to Provide Program Incentives for Property Owners in Long Beach https://longbeach.gov/press-releases/housing-authority-to-provide-program-incentives-for-property-owners-in-long-beach/ 1/2

PRESS RELEASE
City of Long Beach
Public Information Office
411 W. Ocean Blvd,
Long Beach, CA 90802
Press Release # 011723-2
1/17/2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Long Beach, CA – The Housing Authority of the City of Long Beach, a bureau within the Department of Health and Human Services, is offering several incentives to encourage new housing providers to lease up with people who are assisted through its Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV) and Housing Choice Voucher programs.
“Emergency Housing Vouchers are a critical resource in meeting the City’s housing needs,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “We need property owners to be ‘all in’ when it comes to solving the homelessness crisis, and the City is willing to help landlords make the leap and open their rentals to voucher holders.”
The Housing Authority is providing monetary incentives – including direct payments to landlords – to cover leasing bonuses, security deposits, utility deposits, application fees, and damage mitigation or repairs. Additional resources are available to help EHV families with costs associated with moving, renter’s insurance and furnishing their units. “There are hundreds of people who have been issued vouchers but are still in search of housing,” said Health and Human Services Director Kelly Colopy. “These people are ready to match with a landlord, and we are doing everything we can to successfully pair participants with housing.” Participating landlords are also supported through direct support by a dedicated Housing Authority team and constant communication through its Partners in Housing newsletter.

Informational sessions for housing providers interested in supporting families can attend information sessions on Jan. 19, Feb. 15 or March 14. Visit longbeach.gov/haclb to sign up. Housing providers interested in learning more or signing up for an information session may can call 562.570.6985, e-mail [email protected] or visit longbeach.gov/haclb.

Housing Authority to Provide Program Incentives for Property Owners in Long Beach Jennifer Rice Epstein
562.441.3590
[email protected]
Public Affairs Officer
Department of Health and Human Services
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2/3/23, 9:38 AM Housing Authority to Provide Program Incentives for Property Owners in Long Beach https://longbeach.gov/press-releases/housing-authority-to-provide-program-incentives-for-property-owners-in-long-beach/ 2/2 As part of the 2021 American Rescue Act, the Housing Authority was awarded 582 emergency housing vouchers; to date, 357 participants have found housing. Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV) are available to individuals and families who are at risk of or currently experiencing homelessness; were recently experiencing homelessness or housing instability; or fleeing or attempting to flee domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking or human trafficking.

For more news, pictures, videos and announcements of what’s happening in Long Beach, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
2/3/23, 9:38 AM City Announces Donation Campaign for Mayor’s Fund for Homeless Action https://longbeach.gov/press-releases/city-announces-donation-campaign-for-mayors-fund-for-homeless-action/ 1/2

PRESS RELEASE
City of Long Beach
Public Information Office
411 W. Ocean Blvd,
Long Beach, CA 90802
Press Release # 011322
1/13/2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Long Beach, CA – The City of Long Beach is launching a donation campaign to raise money for the Mayor’s Fund for Homeless Action (Mayor’s Fund). Donations from residents, businesses and community organizations will support grants to organizations in Long Beach that address significant needs of people and families in the community who are experiencing homelessness. “We must go all in to address the urgent needs of those in our city experiencing homelessness,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “With the Mayor’s Fund for Homeless Action, we are empowering our City Announces Donation Campaign for Mayor’s Fund for Homeless Action City of Long Beach Joint Information Center
562.570.NEWS
[email protected]
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2/3/23, 9:38 AM City Announces Donation Campaign for Mayor’s Fund for Homeless Action https://longbeach.gov/press-releases/city-announces-donation-campaign-for-mayors-fund-for-homeless-action/ 2/2 community to make a real difference and support those who need it most.” The vision of the Mayor's Fund, formerly known as the Mayor's Fund to End Homelessness, is to activate innovative localized efforts to support people experiencing homelessness through outreach, connections to housing, supplies and opportunities for all community members and organizations to help in these solutions.

Contributions will aid the City and its partners in their efforts to address homelessness through a variety of critical needs, including relocation assistance, shelter services, transportation assistance, critical infrastructure improvements and repairs, replacement of mission critical equipment, move- in assistance, and other creative community-driven responses around homelessness. Money dispersed from the Mayor’s Fund must be used to benefit people experiencing homelessness in Long Beach.

Donations are tax-deductible and can be made by credit card or check on the City’s Homelessness website. Funds are administered by the Long Beach Community Foundation, allowing the City of Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services to use the funds for traditionally under- funded aspects of addressing homelessness, such as prevention.

The City is also accepting physical donations such as:

Hygiene kits with items like soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, dental floss, feminine products, shaving cream and razors.

Pet care kits that include items like pet treats, collars, leashes, pet toys or collapsible pet bowls.

Backpacks with needed items like hand warmers, flashlights, battery packs, batteries (usually D batteries), emergency blankets and charging cables.

Gift cards to places like Target, Walmart, McDonalds, Taco Bell, In 'N' Out, Dunkin Donuts and grocery stores.

Food items like canned food, bottled drinks like juices or water, snacks such as granola bars or power bars, instant oatmeal, instant soup, fruit and vegetables.

Unused clothing items like sweatpants, shirts, beanies, socks, underwear, scarves, caps, hoodies, towels or blankets.

People may drop off items at the Multi-Service Center (MSC) at 1301 W. 12th St., on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. (except for Thursdays, when the MSC closes to the public at 2 p.m.).

Please note that the MSC closes each day from noon to 1 p.m. Appointments prior to dropping off are not required but are appreciated; for appointments, please call 562.570.4MSC. People can also purchase items on the Homeless Services Bureau’s Amazon Wishlist.

For more news, pictures, videos and announcements of what’s happening in Long Beach, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
2/3/23, 9:38 AM City of Long Beach Centralizes Homelessness Emergency Response Efforts Downtown, Deploys Mobile Access Vehicle https://longbeach.gov/press-releases/city-of-long-beach-centralizes-homelessness-emergency-response-efforts-downtown--deploys-mobile-access-vehicle/ 1/2

PRESS RELEASE
City of Long Beach
Public Information Office
411 W. Ocean Blvd,
Long Beach, CA 90802
Press Release # 011223-3
1/12/2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Long Beach, CA – In an effort to more strategically conduct outreach to people experiencing homelessness in Long Beach, the City of Long Beach has begun centralizing emergency response efforts in the Downtown area, expanding street outreach and deploying a new Mobile Access Center vehicle. These mobilization efforts, which will continue over the next three weeks in the City of Long Beach Centralizes Homelessness Emergency Response Efforts Downtown, Deploys Mobile Access Vehicle
City of Long Beach Joint Information Center
562.570.NEWS
[email protected]
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2/3/23, 9:38 AM City of Long Beach Centralizes Homelessness Emergency Response Efforts Downtown, Deploys Mobile Access Vehicle https://longbeach.gov/press-releases/city-of-long-beach-centralizes-homelessness-emergency-response-efforts-downtown--deploys-mobile-access-vehicle/ 2/2 Downtown area, were announced during a press conference earlier today, where Mayor Rex Richardson and other City leaders delivered updates regarding the City’s proclamation of a local homelessness emergency.
“This focused activation in our Downtown area is critical to our overall emergency response. It allows us to reach more people experiencing homelessness and get them into shelter and connected to services,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “We must be strategic during our emergency response, lower barriers to services and meet people where they are.” Outreach teams from the Department of Health and Human Service’s (Health Department) Homeless Services Bureau have enhanced existing outreach efforts in collaboration with the Interdepartmental Team, consisting of the REACH team, Long Beach Police Department Quality of Life officers, the Long Beach Fire Department and Public Works Clean Team. These teams are educating people who are experiencing homelessness about the services and resources available to them. With increased staffing levels and expanded hours dedicated to conducting meaningful engagement with unhoused residents, the goal is to foster rapport with these individuals and connect them to housing and other services.

The City has also deployed its new Mobile Access Center (MAC) vehicle Downtown, which will significantly lower barriers to providing case management services and other resources for people experiencing homelessness. Unlike other forms of street outreach, the MAC allows Homeless Services Bureau outreach staff to start the intake process right on the street. Operated by outreach staff and a public health nurse, the vehicle offers nearly everything available at the Multi- Service Center, excluding services from co-located nonprofits, a full-scale medical clinic and showers. For the next three weeks, the MAC will travel around Downtown. Over time, the MAC will travel throughout locations in the city where people experiencing homelessness congregate. The City will be adding a second MAC later this year.

On Jan. 10, 2023, the Long Beach City Council proclaimed a state of emergency for homelessness in Long Beach. Since the proclamation, the City has established an Incident Command Structure, led jointly by the Health Department and Public Works Department and comprised of nine work groups consisting of 100 City staff to take on the various aspects of homelessness emergency response.

The emergency proclamation allows the City to mobilize local resources, coordinate interagency response, accelerate procurement of housing units and seek assistance from the County, State and Federal governments to increase focus, funding, resources and implementation of emergency assistance programs.

More information about the City’s efforts to combat the homeless crisis and how to get involved is available at longbeach.gov/homelessness.

For more news, pictures, videos and announcements of what’s happening in Long Beach, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
2/3/23, 9:38 AM Work Groups Established to Respond to Homelessness Emergency in Long Beach https://longbeach.gov/press-releases/work-groups-established-to-respond-to-homelessness-emergency-in-long-beach/ 1/3

PRESS RELEASE
City of Long Beach
Public Information Office
411 W. Ocean Blvd,
Long Beach, CA 90802
Press Release # 011123-2
1/11/2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Long Beach, CA – Following the proclamation of a local homelessness emergency in Long Beach yesterday, Jan. 10, City leadership has established an Incident Command Center and identified nine work groups consisting of 100 people to take on the various aspects of homelessness emergency response.

The emergency will use an Incident Command System (ICS) model of operation, which allows personnel from a variety of departments to work collaboratively to respond to the incident. It also provides a framework to manage Federal, State and regional assets assigned to the incident over a widespread geographic area over a prolonged period and provides logistical and administrative support to ensure that operational staff can meet their objectives. “It is critical that we address homelessness by building shelter capacity, increasing mental health and substance misuse treatment options and working to make our city streets cleaner and safer for all,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “The team that has been assembled to work on this issue is made up of some of the City’s best.”
Health and Human Services Department (Health Department) Director Kelly Colopy and Public Works Department Director Eric Lopez will serve as the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Incident Command. The EOC Command will coordinate efforts through City Manager Tom Modica and the City Management group and will be supported by Chief Public Affairs Officer Kevin Lee and Health Department Public Affairs Officer Jennifer Rice Epstein, City Attorney Dawn McIntosh and City Equity Officer Alanah Grant.

Work Groups Established to Respond to Homelessness Emergency in Long Beach Incident Command to be Led Jointly by Public Works, Health Department and immediately activating 100 top City leaders
City of Long Beach Joint Information Center
562.570.NEWS
[email protected]
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2/3/23, 9:38 AM Work Groups Established to Respond to Homelessness Emergency in Long Beach https://longbeach.gov/press-releases/work-groups-established-to-respond-to-homelessness-emergency-in-long-beach/ 2/3 The City’s stated mission is to reduce the number of people experiencing homelessness in the City and the region by increasing housing opportunities and by enhancing current initiatives that provide field-based outreach, engagement, and supportive services while maintaining the safety and security of the people experiencing homelessness, the general public and staff, and address and improve overall public safety for the entire community. Nine work groups, each assigned to a different focus area, have been convened to support this mission.

Focus Area: Intergovernmental Work
The intergovernmental work group will work with Los Angeles County officials and neighboring local governments to ensure all cities are engaged and contributing local resources to address homelessness in the region. This work will be led by Deputy City Manager Katy Nomura with support from Government Affairs, the Interjurisdictional Team, Financial Management staff and additional City Manager department staff.

Focus Area: Educational institutions, Businesses, Faith-based organizations and Nonprofit organizations
Led by Deputy City Manager Teresa Chandler, the educational institutions, businesses, faith-based organizations and nonprofit organizations work group will strengthen collaborations with these organizations to expand on current services, capacity and resources they provide to people experiencing homelessness. This work group will also work with local nonprofits, businesses, educational institutions, governmental institutions and faith-based communities to focus efforts on developing and resourcing upstream prevention strategies and identifying the strategies to address the root causes of homelessness. Homeless Services Bureau staff, Economic Development/Workforce Development staff, Financial Management staff and City Manager department staff will have also been assigned to this work group.

Focus Area: Public Health and Safety
The public health and safety work group will support ongoing efforts to expand mental health and substance use prevention and treatment; ensure housing includes behavioral health and other wrap-around service programming; and prioritize access to City services in areas where homeless resources are provided. This work will be led by Homeless Services Officer Somatra Church and Homeless Resource Coordinator Joel Reynoza, with support from the Homeless Services Outreach team, the Interdepartmental team, Police Department, Financial Management Staff, and other staff from the Health Department and Public Works Department.

Focus Area: Communications
The Communications work group will inform residents and the business community about strategies and resources the City is providing to reduce homelessness and ensure the safety of people living, working and visiting the city. This work will be led by Chief Public Affairs Officer Kevin Lee and Health Department Public Affairs Officer Jennifer Rice Epstein, with support from Public Information Officers and communications staff across the City.

Focus Area: Data and Technology
The Data and Technology work group will provide timely and accurate data that identifies areas of highest need, current gaps, Citywide resources provided, and number of people experiencing homelessness assisted. This work will be led by Technology Bureau Manager Behrang Abadi with support from staff members from Development Services, the Housing Authority, the Homeless Services Bureau and Financial Management.
2/3/23, 9:38 AM Work Groups Established to Respond to Homelessness Emergency in Long Beach https://longbeach.gov/press-releases/work-groups-established-to-respond-to-homelessness-emergency-in-long-beach/ 3/3 Focus Area: Housing and Land Access
The Housing and Land Access work group will increase housing opportunities, both permanent and temporary, that provide greater access for people experiencing homelessness and those at risk of homelessness. It also will identify land and property, both public and private, that can be used for interim and long-term housing, safe places to sleep and emergency shelters for people experiencing homelessness as well as ensure construction is quickly completed to bring the housing on board. This work will be led by Development Services Operations Officer Alem Hagos and Housing Authority Bureau Manager Alison King with support from Deputy City Manager Teresa Chandler, Homeless Services Bureau leadership, the Real Estate Development Bureau, Public Works and City Manager department staff.

Focus Area: Procurement and Finance
The Procurement and Finance work group will increase State, County and regional funding opportunities, resources, capacity and access to services available to people experiencing homelessness and streamline processes that impede the City’s ability to expeditiously develop new housing and shelter facilities and sites to address homelessness. This work will be led by Procurement Agent Michelle Wilson and Recovery and Equity in Contracting Officer Augusta Gudeman with support from Financial Management staff, Homeless Services Bureau staff and Public Works staff.

Focus Area: Human Resources and Staffing
The Human Resources and Staffing work group will facilitate and accommodate staff reassignments to activation and focus areas, as necessary. It is led by Human Resources Deputy Director Fred Verdugo and Civil Service Executive Director Christina Winting with support from Human Resources Department leadership and staff.

Focus Area: Logistics
The Logistics work group will lead the logistics necessary to support other workgroup efforts. This work is led by Health Department Communicable Disease and Emergency Response Bureau Manager Sandy Wedgeworth with support from Public Health Emergency Management staff.

Leaders of the work groups convened today at the EOC and will continue to meet regularly to create and implement plans to reduce homelessness in Long Beach. All in all, nearly 100 people are involved in the activation with the expectation that others will be tapped as needed.

For more news, pictures, videos and announcements of what’s happening in Long Beach, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
2/3/23, 9:38 AM Homelessness Proclaimed an Emergency in Long Beach https://longbeach.gov/press-releases/homelessness-proclaimed-an-emergency-in-long-beach/ 1/3

PRESS RELEASE
City of Long Beach
Public Information Office
411 W. Ocean Blvd,
Long Beach, CA 90802
Press Release # 011023-2
1/10/2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Long Beach, CA – Today, the Long Beach City Council adopted, in an 8-0 vote, the City Manager’s proclamation of a local homelessness emergency. The item was proposed by Mayor Rex Homelessness Proclaimed an Emergency in Long Beach
Jennifer Rice Epstein
562.441.3590
[email protected]
Public Affairs Officer
Long Beach Department of Health and Human
Services
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2/3/23, 9:38 AM Homelessness Proclaimed an Emergency in Long Beach https://longbeach.gov/press-releases/homelessness-proclaimed-an-emergency-in-long-beach/ 2/3 Richardson and co-sponsored by downtown Councilmember Mary Zendejas. The local emergency will strengthen the City’s preparedness and ability to respond to homelessness. “Homelessness is one of the biggest challenges currently facing our city,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “This emergency proclamation demonstrates the commitment of every department in our city to be all in.”
Given the current homelessness crisis, it is critical to be able to move quickly and efficiently to expand housing and services. The emergency will allow for increased ability to hire or contract critical roles and recruit qualified candidates; more quickly engage needed services, material and labor; speed up large-scale construction projects such as motel conversions and tiny homes; and work through zoning requirements that currently exclude certain uses of existing properties.

Although City departments have drawn down and designated more than $90 million to address homelessness (City general fund, County, State and Federal funding) by purchasing buildings and land, operating sites, funding housing at all levels, funding service providers and expanding outreach, the system remains insufficient to meet the current need. “We have a lot of work ahead, but we are committed to doing everything we can to shelter and house people experiencing homelessness in Long Beach,” said City Manager Tom Modica. “This includes working across departments and looking to our regional partners for support.” Key areas of focus include:

Enacting a State of Emergency declaration on homelessness and announcing an incident command structure, mobile command center, data dashboard, and the rollout of mobile access centers.

Calling for Federal, State and Regional response, including a declaration of emergency in the State of California and collaboration with adjacent cities and communities.

Boosting clean and safe team operations with an initial focus on engaging stakeholders and improving conditions in Downtown Long Beach corridors.

Identifying sites for safe parking and additional shelter capacity.

Establishing grant funds for impacted local businesses.

Conducting area-specific strategy meetings in high-need areas across Long Beach to identify resource needs and opportunities to better coordinate the delivery of services across the city.

In February of 2022, the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services conducted its annual Point-In-Time Homeless Count (Count) that revealed an overall rise in homelessness of 62%. The Count found a large increase (123%) in the number of people who were sheltered in emergency and interim housing, demonstrating the effectiveness of the City’s efforts to provide these services for people; however, another 2,300 people remained unsheltered. In addition, the number of people with mental health and substance misuse grew significantly: 1,214 people reported having a severe mental illness, an increase of 143%, and 951 people reported a substance use disorder, an increase of 70%. Approximately one-third of people interviewed have a physical disability or chronic medical condition, and nearly 44% said they became homeless due to unemployment or a lack of financial resources for housing, which is up from 35% in 2020.

The City has taken a number of actions to begin to address this increase, including:
2/3/23, 9:38 AM Homelessness Proclaimed an Emergency in Long Beach https://longbeach.gov/press-releases/homelessness-proclaimed-an-emergency-in-long-beach/ 3/3 Applying for Project Homekey Round 2 funding to purchase the 78-bed Luxury Inn as well as 35 modular units at the Multi-Service Center (MSC). These funds were awarded and Luxury Inn became a City asset in November 2022. Building improvements will soon begin with an anticipated opening of late 2023. The modular provider has been selected and the MSC has begun to prepare for installation.

Expanding the REACH program to three units with extended hours and diverting 911 calls to the REACH team.

Hiring two additional call takers to support communications with people experiencing homelessness as well as those seeking a response to homelessness.

Receiving a $1.3 million Homeless Encampment Resolution grant for the McArthur Park area.

Preparing for the launch of two new Mobile Access Centers and a mobile substance abuse and mental health treatment program in early 2023.

Decompressing the Atlantic Bridge Community (ABC) shelter to allow for full capacity of 125 beds and expanding the motel voucher program with available funding.

These actions, in addition to many others currently operating in Long Beach, demonstrate a real commitment to addressing homelessness in our city, but more must be done, with urgency, commitment and innovation.
“The homelessness crisis in our city didn’t emerge overnight, and it won’t be solved overnight,” said Health and Human Services Department Director Kelly Colopy. “But, with the additional support the emergency proclamation brings, Homeless Services will be able to more quickly fill key positions and move more quickly on projects that move people into interim and permanent supportive housing.”
In 2022, Homeless Services saw a record 42,169 visits to MSC, collectively moved 774 people from temporary programs into permanent housing and sheltered 1,942 people through emergency shelter and transitional housing projects like Atlantic Bridge Community Shelter, Project Homekey, Project Roomkey, crisis motels and partnering agency shelters. The Multi-Service Center’s mental health coordinator conducted 177 mental health sessions.

On average, the City receives 218 outreach requests monthly and engages about 250 participants a month. In addition, the City served 4,232 participants through the Safe Parking program. Homeless Services provided 13,561 showers, helped 407 people experiencing homelessness obtain birth certificates and helped 68 people reconnect with out-of-town family members through its homeward bound program.

For more information on the City’s efforts to reduce homelessness in Long Beach, people may visit longbeach.gov/homelessness and follow @lbhealthdept and @longbeachcity on social media.

For more news, pictures, videos and announcements of what’s happening in Long Beach, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

REQUEST TO ADD AGENDA ITEM

Date: February 3, 2023

To: Monique De La Garza, City Clerk

From: Thomas B. Modica, City Manager

Subject: Request to Add Agenda Item to Council Agenda of February 7, 2023

Pursuant to Municipal Cod e Section 2.03.070 [B], the City Councilmembers signing below request that the attached agenda item (due in the City Clerk Department by Friday, 12:00 Noon) be placed on the City Council agenda via the supplemental agenda.

The agenda title/recommendation for this item reads as follows:

Receive and file an update on the emergency declaration and associated activities and provide any additional direction to City staff regarding the emergency. (Citywide)

Council District Authorizing Councilmember Signed by
1 Mary Zendejas (Digital – attached email)
3 Kristina Duggan (Digital – attached email)
5 Megan Kerr (Digital – attached email

Long Beach City CouncilFebruary 7, 2023

Long Beach City Council
February 7, 2023