The Los Angeles City Council held a budget hearing on May 16, 2025, focusing on the allocation of resources for Care Plus teams and addressing illegal dumping operations. The discussions highlighted the realignment of Care Plus teams, which will now consist of 17 teams—one for each council district, with additional teams designated for Skid Row and a split team for the coastal area and Grand Avenue.

Council members expressed concerns about the adequacy of the proposed budget, which maintains current operations but does not fully restore previous levels of service. The budget allows for Care Plus teams to operate five days a week, but some council members noted that this may not meet the needs of all districts, particularly those with higher demands for services.

The cost of maintaining a Care Plus team is approximately $3 to $3.5 million annually. Council members raised questions about the potential impact of reducing the number of teams, particularly regarding the flexibility of team assignments. It was clarified that while the goal is to keep teams within their designated districts, there may be instances where teams are reassigned to address citywide issues, potentially affecting scheduled services.

Additionally, the budget proposes the restoration of an illegal dumping team, which aims to enhance the city’s response to waste management issues. Council members emphasized the importance of maintaining oversight and management of Care Plus teams to ensure that services are delivered effectively.

The meeting concluded with a call for further consideration of the allocation of resources, particularly regarding the 17th team, which some council members believe is crucial for addressing the needs of districts with significant encampments and other challenges. The council plans to revisit this topic for a vote in the near future, underscoring the ongoing discussions about resource allocation and service delivery in Los Angeles.