Los Angeles City Councilwoman Katy Yaroslavsky’s office announced on Thursday that in response to security concerns arising from property crimes and other issues, various LAPD substations in the Westside will receive a total of $200,000 in funding to enhance patrols.
According to the city news agency, on Wednesday, the Los Angeles City Council approved Yaroslavsky’s proposal to allocate funds for police overtime in her represented District 5. The Wilshire and West Los Angeles substations of LAPD will each receive $90,000, with the Pacific substation receiving $20,000.
Yaroslavsky stated in a press release that amidst the manpower challenges faced by LAPD, this funding is crucial for enhancing public safety, “Whether it’s increasing patrols, ensuring street safety, or supporting enforcement actions at schools and parks to prevent camping, these resources will help us address a variety of public safety priorities in the entire area.”
Her office mentioned that voters from District 5, including communities in the Westside such as Bel Air, Benedict Canyon, La Brea, Melrose, Palms, etc., have expressed the need for increased LAPD presence.
Yaroslavsky’s spokesperson, Leo Daube, stated in the release that parents have expressed concerns about safety while taking their children to school or visiting local parks. Councilwoman Yaroslavsky supports the enforcement of no camping laws around sensitive areas like schools and childcare facilities, which will be carried out by LAPD officers.
Furthermore, Daube pointed out that this funding will provide additional security for religious institutions. The Jewish high holidays are scheduled for October 2 to 12, and “we want to ensure that their places of worship are protected during this important period”.