ONE BIG THING: ONE YEAR OF THE UNARMED MODEL OF CRISIS RESPONSE
What Happened?
In one year of operation as a small pilot program in just three LAPD Divisions, LA’s Unarmed Model for Crisis Response has already diverted 7,362 calls from LAPD to trained unarmed responders – with 97% of calls completed entirely without LAPD support.
Why it Matters
When you call 911 – you should receive the resources that prioritize your safety – not a one-size-fits-all approach.
91% of LAPD calls are nonviolent, so this successful unarmed response model presents us with a huge opportunity to stop overburdening our current system – so police officers can respond quickly to violent crime and life threatening emergencies.
What’s Next?
For decades, the cost of our existing public safety infrastructure has exploded, but services have remained stagnant. Last year, LAPD used 46% of the city’s unrestricted funds while unarmed response programs received less than 0.5%.
We need systems that are faster, smarter, and more efficient instead of doubling down on the failed status quo, but this year’s challenging finances puts funding for unarmed crisis response at risk.
Click here to get notified about how to get involved in the budget process, including a Budget 101 Town Hall!
Learn more from LAist about the Unarmed Model of Crisis Response and threats of funding cuts
Three More Quick Hits
- New Interim Housing Coming to East Hollywood!
City Council just approved our lease for a vacant lot at 5301 Sierra Vista Ave, clearing the way for a brand-new interim housing site with over 50 beds! Right now, District 13 only has around 450 interim beds to serve thousands of unhoused Angelenos — forcing far too many people to live on the streets.
This new site will provide shelter for unhoused residents already living in the East Hollywood area, and we hope to start construction later this year for a 2026-27 opening.
- New Collaborative Hub to Combat Food Insecurity
We were thrilled to join Hollywood Food Coalition, Asian Pacific Islander Forward Movement, Polo’s Pantry, and Sunrise Organic Farm to open a new Collaborative Food Hub in Glassell Park!
This hub brings together local organizations to share resources, increase efficiency, and keep people from going hungry. To learn more and get involved in building a stronger food justice network across LA, visit hofoco.org.
- Trash Pick-Up Fee Update Scheduled for January 2026
For the first time in over 16 years, LA Sanitation is adjusting track pick-up rates to help address the city’s $1 billion budget deficit.
Starting January 2026, the monthly Solid Resources Fee is set to rise to about $56/month (up from about $36/month for single-family properties), with additional increases phased in through 2030.
Click here for more information about LA Sanitation’s rate increase, and you can also learn more about discounts for age, disability, or income.
CD13 Leadership Update
Kate Pynoos is our new Deputy Chief of Staff, overseeing legislative affairs, housing, homelessness, and homelessness prevention!
A third-generation Angeleno, Kate previously served as our Legislative Director and worked on the policy team of former Councilmember Mike Bonin. Kate is a longtime Hollywood resident who is deeply involved in the local community, having served on Hollywood Studio District Neighborhood Council, along with volunteer work with the Hollywood Food Coalition and the Center in Hollywood.
CD13 Pet of the Week
You just got a letter, you just got a letter…wonder who it’s from?!
Meet Blue, our Pet of the Week!
Blue is a senior sweetheart, weighing in at 85 lbs of pure love & affection…He is looking for a home that can upkeep with all his scarf collecting!
He is currently being fostered but has been looking for his forever home since 2023, please email ani.foster@lacity.org if you would like to adopt this handsome boy!
