The Venice Dell Homeless Housing Project has been mired in bureaucratic delays and obstacles since its inception in 2017, despite being approved twice by the City Council. The project, led by nonprofit developers Venice Community Housing and Hollywood Community Housing Corps, aims to transform a 2.65-acre city parking lot in Venice into housing for homeless and low-income individuals and families. Located just blocks from the beach, this project was seen as a crucial step in addressing the housing crisis in Los Angeles, particularly for homeless individuals.
Obstacles and Delays
Despite meeting all requirements, including public hearings, environmental studies, and redesigns to address city officials’ concerns, the Venice Dell project has faced numerous roadblocks. In 2023, newly elected City Attorney Hydee Feldstein Soto directed city departments to halt work with the developers due to pending litigation, causing funding issues and delaying the Coastal Commission approval by over a year. However, the project persevered, overcoming lawsuits and obtaining the necessary permits to move forward.
The latest hurdle came from the Board of Transportation Commissioners, who deemed the project unsuitable for the lot and recommended an alternative location for housing, suggesting the Venice Dell site be turned into a “mobility hub.” Despite legal challenges asserting the City Council’s authority over land use decisions, the project faced continued opposition from Councilmember Traci Park, who introduced a motion to explore the feasibility of the recommended smaller lot.
City Council’s Role
The Venice Dell project represents a crucial opportunity to provide much-needed affordable housing in a well-resourced area of the city. While debates continue over the project’s viability, it is essential to recognize the importance of addressing homelessness and housing insecurity in Los Angeles. Councilmember Nithya Raman, chair of the Housing and Homelessness Committee, has expressed concerns about supporting motions that may undermine approved housing projects.
Mayor Karen Bass, despite her commitment to housing homeless individuals, has remained largely silent on the Venice Dell project, raising questions about the city’s dedication to affordable housing initiatives. As the City Council navigates the complexities of housing development, it is imperative to prioritize projects that have already secured approvals and financing to address the urgent needs of homeless individuals.
In the face of escalating housing crises and rising homelessness rates, the Venice Dell Homeless Housing Project serves as a litmus test for the city’s commitment to providing sustainable solutions. By prioritizing affordable housing initiatives and supporting approved projects, city officials can demonstrate their dedication to addressing homelessness and creating a more equitable and inclusive city for all residents. Letting a project like Venice Dell falter would not only undermine past decisions but also hinder progress in combating homelessness and housing insecurity in Los Angeles.
