California's homelessness crisis: Billions spent, little progress
California, renowned for its high taxes and substantial revenue, has invested a staggering $37 billion in addressing homelessness since 2019. Yet, the number of homeless individuals continues to rise, with cities like Oakland witnessing a 9% increase in just one year. Critics argue that if the state's goal were to increase homelessness, its policies would be a resounding success. This paradox highlights the urgent need for effective strategies and accountability in managing such significant expenditures.
A recurring theme in the discussion is the government's inability to track spending effectively. Described as an "incompetence" and a "lack of accountability," this failure has allowed the crisis to worsen. A state audit confirmed that the government "had no idea what it was doing," highlighting the need for improved oversight and transparency in managing funds. Without these, the state's efforts may continue to fall short, despite the massive financial commitment.
A recent audit of the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), commissioned by a federal judge, revealed significant issues. The city struggles to accurately track spending on homeless programs. Auditors found "substantial funds" untraceable due to "insufficient financial accountability" and noted that the agency failed to verify if billed services were actually provided. The audit also exposed a "lack of uniform data standards and real-time oversight," limiting the ability to assess the true impact of services.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/california-s-homelessness-crisis-billions-spent-little-progress/ar-AA1EgMqN?ocid=msedgdhp&pc=HCTS&cvid=52a30cc70b6c4977bb8ac61efe8ae605&ei=28
