Controversy in Hollywood over Planter Box Removal to Deter Homeless Encampments”.

The removal of planter boxes that were meant to deter homeless encampments has sparked controversy in Hollywood. Local business owners had placed the garden bed planters in early May to address the issue of homeless encampments, but the city claims that they were installed without a permit.

When the planters were first put in place, they quickly cleared the encampment from the area. However, the city eventually announced that they would be removed due to lack of permits. A representative from City Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martinez’s office explained that this was necessary and that people who lived there were relocated through the Inside Safe program.

The removal of the planters has caused frustration for business owners in Hollywood. Some argue that they took action after their complaints were ignored, while others say that they feel the city did not adequately address the problem. Blake Edwards, who works in advertising in the area, supports keeping the planters as they helped reduce threats from homeless individuals. Andrew Monheim emphasizes that the issue is not about targeting homeless individuals but rather addressing neglect.

As crews cleared out the planters, local businesses raised concerns about a lack of an alternative solution. Some suggested implementing a beautification strategy instead of removing them altogether. Overall, there are ongoing tensions between business owners, homeless advocacy groups and government officials regarding how best to address homelessness in Hollywood.