On Thursday, September 21, 2023, a collaborative effort unfolded in Venice as the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works and Clean Harbors Environmental Inc. joined forces to address the challenge of homeless encampments. Demonstrating their commitment to the well-being of both residents and the homeless population, a section of Westminster Dog Park was temporarily closed for a cleanup operation. To ensure the safety of all participants, workers wore protective white hazardous materials suits in adherence to established safety protocols. The cleanup proceeded seamlessly through the collaborative efforts of two distinct waste management teams, each assigned specific responsibilities. The City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works crew, clad in yellow safety vests, worked diligently alongside the Clean Harbors Environmental Inc. team, easily identifiable by their orange vests. Methodically, the Clean Harbors Environmental Inc. team began by sorting through refuse, meticulously identifying and segregating hazardous materials such as batteries, syringes, and other harmful substances. Following this crucial step, Los Angeles Public Works sanitation workers managed the collection of non-hazardous waste, contributing to the overall success of the operation. The commendable support for this cleanup initiative was significantly enhanced by the active participation of the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA). Their pivotal role in providing essential outreach services, catering to the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness, was indispensable. Safeguarding the well-being of all participants and ensuring compliance from the homeless community was the diligent presence of Los Angeles Police Officers. Their vigilant watch wasn't solely to uphold cleanliness and hygiene standards; it also aimed to ensure adherence to safety protocols, making the operation as secure as possible and ensuring compliance. Notably, despite the enforcement of Ordinance 41.18, which prohibits sitting, lying, or sleeping in public places, as well as storing, using, maintaining, or placing personal property in the public right-of-way, no citations were issued during the cleanup operation at the Venice homeless encampments. However, it's crucial to understand that while these cleanup initiatives, like the one in Venice, undoubtedly contribute to the City of Los Angeles' broader efforts to address homelessness, they constitute just a fraction of the comprehensive strategy. Recognizing the limitations of such actions, the city's commitment to formulating sustainable, long-term solutions remains steadfast. The focus is on addressing the root causes of homelessness while providing essential resources to those in need—a multifaceted approach that underscores the city's dedication to creating lasting change. ‐---------------------------------------------------------- Fabian Lewkowicz is a Santa Monica-based photojournalist, press photographer, and the creator of the photo blog, Santa Monica Close Up. With years of experience as a staff photographer for several media outlets including the Santa Monica Daily Press, Santa Monica Mirror, Santa Monica Observer, and the Santa Monica Corsair, Fabian has captured some of the most iconic moments of Santa Monica. Fabian's photographs have been displayed in a variety of settings, including museums, art galleries, hospitals, department stores, banks, fire stations, police stations, commercial buildings, amusement parks, offices, and homes. His photography captures the essence of Santa Monica, from its beautiful landscapes and stunning sunsets to its unique culture and diverse community. Support Santa Monica Closeup by making a One Time Donation via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/fabianlewkowicz Make a One Time Donation via Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/santamonicacloseup Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/santamonicacloseup Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SantaMonicaCloseup Join this channel to gain access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqrlnKSQlVU42TEn_-PAtWw/join For licensing this video email FabianLewkowicz@aol.com TAGS: Photojournalism, Photojournalist, Documentary, Cinema Verite, Fly-on-the-wall, Observational Photography, Press Photography The video is intended solely for personal use. Any form of copying, re-uploading, sampling or other unauthorized use is strictly prohibited. (C) 2023 Fabian Lewkowicz/Santa Monica Closeup. All Rights Reserved.