Homeless Encampments In Sepulveda Basin's Haskell Creek Targeted For Clean-Up
LOS ANGELES (CBSLA) — Clean-up crews cleared couches, shopping carts and other garbage from Haskell Creek in the Sepulveda Basin Monday, the second phase of clearing homeless encampments from the wildlife reserve.
The clean-up effort that started Monday in the Haskell Creek area is expected to last two to three days. Much of the Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve has become a popular place for homeless to set up camp, leading to some dangerous conditions.
In July, just a few days before the first phase of the clean-up effort was set to begin, a 10-acre fire broke out in the area. During the phase one clean-up effort, a grenade discovered among the homeless encampments prompted a response from the LAPD's bomb squad.
During the first phase of clean-up, more than 140 tons of trash and 200 tons of green waste were collected.
"People are very concerned for their safety and what they've come across in terms of needles and human waste sometimes they come across when enjoying the Sepulveda Basin, so it does have a huge impact on the quality of life," Los Angeles City Councilwoman Nury Martinez said.
She said the homeless in Haskell Creek were notified of the clean-up effort about two weeks ago, prompting most to leave, but about a dozen remained.
Overnight camping in the Sepulveda Basin is illegal under Los Angeles City municipal code. But more importantly, city officials say the encampments have created a dangerous situation for the homeless, park visitors, and residents in surrounding communities.
Monday's efforts, which were previously scheduled, comes just a day before hot, windy Santa Ana conditions are forecast to hit Southern California.
