During the June 11, 2025 El Monte City Council meeting, Housing Manager Vanessa Sedano presented an update on the city’s homelessness response, highlighting both recent progress and challenges tied to regional funding structures. The discussion centered around the implementation of Measure A, a Los Angeles County initiative designed to address homelessness, and the local impacts of ongoing funding shortfalls.
El Monte is set to receive $575,000 in Measure A funds. While this allocation is above average compared to other cities in the San Gabriel Valley, Sedano pointed out that the city receives far less than it generates in countywide tax revenue. “The City of El Monte is getting more than most of the cities in the San Gabriel Valley,” she noted, but emphasized the mismatch between community need and available funding.
Councilmembers expressed concern over the disconnect between the city’s contributions and returns. Mayor Jessica Ancona called it “truly unfortunate” that El Monte, despite a large population and visible homelessness issues, does not see a proportional benefit from measures like Measure H, which generates over $1.2 billion annually for homelessness services across Los Angeles County.
Nonprofit Closures Pose Risk to Local Outreach
Sedano warned that local services could worsen in the near future due to the closure of key nonprofit partners. She cited the example of Volunteers of America’s outreach center, which is expected to shut down due to lack of continued funding. The center has served as a vital access point for housing navigation and street outreach in El Monte.
The conversation also referenced the broader legal and financial context of homeless services in the region. Mayor Ancona mentioned ongoing court proceedings led by Judge David Carter, which have raised questions about misallocated funds and lack of accountability in countywide homelessness programs.
Despite these challenges, Sedano said the city has an opportunity to expand access through new channels. Under La Casa, a program mentioned during the meeting, the City may apply for additional support resources.
City Emphasizes Pathways to Services
During the discussion, Sedano explained that individuals experiencing homelessness can access services either through the Coordinated Entry System, administered by the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, or by visiting the El Monte Housing Division in person. Staff at the Housing Division can help connect residents with county-level services by initiating the referral process and providing guidance. In response to a question from Mayor Ancona about how this information is being shared with the public, City Manager Alma Martinez said the details are available on the city’s website.
City Maintains Focus on Equity and Coordination
City Council members praised Sedano’s update and expressed continued interest in improving the City’s role in coordinating services. Several members underscored the importance of advocating for more equitable returns of tax-generated homelessness funds.
As the homelessness crisis remains visible in El Monte and throughout the San Gabriel Valley, the City continues to position itself as an active partner in seeking solutions, even as regional structures and nonprofit capacity face strain.
For information on El Monte homeless services or to connect with the Housing Division, visit www.ci.el-monte.ca.us.
