Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas said the $30.8-billion proposed budget for fiscal year 2018-2019 would improve the quality of life of millions of residents, particularly the most vulnerable, while maintaining public safety, advancing economic equity, and fostering fiscal responsibility.

“Government can’t do everything but the county of Los Angeles does a whole lot,” Supervisor Ridley-Thomas said.

“This budget reflects our determination to confront homelessness, the dearth of affordable housing, and the need for criminal justice reform,” he said. “It also expands access to health services and an equitable economy, ventures into innovations in technology and biosciences, and celebrates the arts.”

County Chief Executive Officer Sachi Hamai, who recommended the spending plan, said, “This budget demonstrates the county’s determination to address the region’s most difficult social issues through bold action, elevating the quality of life for all residents, no matter what their circumstances or paths.”

The budget includes the first full year of funding from Measure H, a $374-million investment to combat homelessness. It also includes $45 million for affordable housing and creates 1,000 jobs providing services to the homeless.

Since voters passed Measure H in March last year, the County has helped thousands of individuals and families through an unprecedented expansion of outreach, emergency shelter, rapid rehousing, supportive housing, and benefits advocacy.

Among the early successes between July and December 2017: more than 7,000 people entered crisis, bridge and interim housing, many of whom were among the 3,000 people who secured permanent housing.

Public hearings on the budget will begin May 16. The Board of Supervisors will kick off deliberations on June 25.

To view the proposed budget, [click here].