Aid to the Homeless Approved by Council

After a six-month study of the homeless in Santa Monica, the City Council has adopted what amounts to a $41,000 stop-gap measure to deal with some aspects of the increasingly controversial issue.

With a minimum number of votes needed for passage, the council adopted a plan that includes hotel vouchers for disabled homeless people, increased policing of liquor stores, establishment of an advisory group of homeless people and creation of a task force to study the problem.

The city staff also recommended the adoption of more substantial programs, such as creating more homeless shelters, policing parks and providing more health and social services.

“Some people are disappointed that (the adopted plan) doesn’t offer a major structure, but we have to be realistic,” said Barbara Stinchfield, the city’s community development manager.