By Matt Brand Santa Monica
Santa Monica, lovely though it may be, has earned a dismissive nickname over the years that will still elicit a smirk from people: “The Home of the Homeless.” For as long as I can remember, this dubious distinction has been attached to the city. We are noted for our progressive policies toward this issue, but to what ends? How is the attitude of our city government benefiting us, the legitimate, tax-paying citizens?
While I have nothing but sympathy for those who have fallen upon such hard times that they are forced to live on the streets, I have no tolerance for a City Council that promises sweeping results and then doesn’t deliver. Take the recent crackdown on charitable organizations, for example. We were told that forcing most of the food-donation services to either obtain a permit or get out of Santa Monica would decrease our homeless rates and make the community safer. Two years into the project, the only sign of change is the marked drop in charitable outreach efforts. Santa Monica’s homeless may have lost a previous food source, but they’re not going anywhere.
It’s time for the City Council to admit that the plan didn’t work and move on. New opportunities and strategies must be developed and discussed if we are to make any headway against the ever-increasing tide of transients that flow into our city. But, please, don’t make me any more promises. Like a secret in Hollywood, it’s something you just can’t keep.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on April 22, 2005. Read the original PDF.