Los Angeles County today unveiled a $30.8-billion balanced budget for Fiscal Year 2018-2019 that confronts the region’s most difficult social challenges and builds a foundation for future progress through an array of proven programs and services.

The proposed spending plan for the nation’s most populous county supports a range of vital commitments — from its vast health care system to its essential public safety operations to its broad beaches and world-class cultural institutions.

“This recommended budget demonstrates the county’s determination to elevate the quality of life for all residents, no matter what their circumstances or paths,” said Chief Executive Officer Sachi A. Hamai.

At the same time, Hamai said, it embraces the county’s longstanding commitment to conservative fiscal practices, which have consistently led to strong credit ratings and taxpayer savings.

The recommended budget specifically aims to advance the ambitious priorities of the five-member Board of Supervisors. Among other initiatives, the spending plan:

* Ramps up the fight against homelessness through Measure H investments that already have helped place more than 3,000 homeless families and individuals in permanent housing;

* Enhances the lives of children and families through funding commitments and innovations in foster care, youth jobs and expanded recreational opportunities, including the popular Parks After Dark Program;

* Expands access to medical and mental health services, including substance abuse treatment and the hiring of hospital-care companions for patients who need observation in medical-surgical areas of County medical centers;

* Promotes justice reform through diversion and innovation, including allocations for supportive housing and intensive case management services and other programs to reduce recidivism.

The proposed budget also continues to support the county’s work on behalf of immigrants and its commitment to environmental justice. In addition to these high-priority policy areas, the plan invests in new facilities, infrastructure repair and improvements in monitoring and remediating stormwater pollution, including in the Santa Monica Bay.

The recommended budget is the first step in a process that will stretch across the next several months and will include public hearings and budget deliberations. Adoption of the budget is expected in late June.

For additional details, visit lacounty.gov.