Mayor Karen Bass Reports Record Gains in LA’s Wildfire Recovery, Homelessness Reduction, and Crime Decline

Mayor Karen Bass is reporting major progress in disaster recovery, homelessness reduction, and crime in Los Angeles, according to the latest Culture Leader Toolkit released on April 2.

Debris removal in the wake of the Palisades Fire is proceeding at a record pace. More than 1,000 lots have already been cleared in Phase 2 of the operation, led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

The EPA also completed hazardous material removal in just 28 days, clearing over 300 tons of debris including exploded lithium-ion batteries.

This pace is significantly faster than similar efforts following the Camp Fire in Paradise.

Utilities for standing homes in the Palisades were restored in just two months. In contrast, it took 18 months to restore safe drinking water in Paradise.

Emergency executive orders have been issued to streamline rebuilding, relocate affected schools, provide tax relief for businesses, and cut through red tape.

Several support centers have opened to assist fire survivors.

These include a Disaster Recovery Center serving over 8,800 households, a One-Stop Rebuilding Center, and four Worker and Family Recovery Centers focused on employment, financial aid, and youth services.

Homelessness in Los Angeles has declined for the second year in a row, marking the first back-to-back drop since the crisis escalated.

In 2024, the city saw a 10% decline in street homelessness—the largest drop in nine years.

The number of people placed into permanent housing nearly doubled.

Crime rates are also down across the city. Violent crime dropped for the second consecutive year, with homicides down 14% in 2024 compared to 2023.

Property crimes fell by more than 7,200 incidents, including reductions in burglary and vehicle theft.

These figures come alongside continued collaboration across city, county, state, and federal agencies.

The Mayor’s Office encourages community leaders and organizations to stay engaged and informed as the city continues its efforts.