Los Angeles County is moving forward with plans to convert a Torrance motel into permanent housing for the homeless, despite strong objections from local officials and residents.
The conflict began when the LA County Board of Supervisors proposed turning the Extended Stay America motel—located one block west of Torrance City Hall—into a housing facility for the unhoused. The project would transform the site into a 120-unit permanent supportive housing complex.
In response, the Torrance City Council unanimously passed a resolution opposing the plan. However, the Board of Supervisors confirmed last week that it would proceed, prompting a wave of local backlash.
The motel, situated at the intersection of Torrance Boulevard and Madrona Avenue, lies in a busy area surrounded by the Del Amo Fashion Center, city offices, public swimming pools, educational centers, and medical facilities. The location’s high pedestrian traffic has raised concerns about public safety and community impact.
Concerns Over Safety and Neighborhood Suitability
Local business owner Casey Yang, who runs a shop near the site, voiced concern about the decision. “I need to look into the details, but this should absolutely not happen. If a majority of citizens feel unsafe or concerned about public health, the County must reconsider,” he said.
Seo-Yeon Kim, whose child attends a tutoring center next to the motel, echoed those concerns. “This area is frequented by children and is close to a senior apartment complex. I don’t know if this is a wise decision. I hope they reconsider after listening to public opinion,” she said.
Torrance Mayor George Chen criticized the County’s decision, stating that the proposed site sits in the heart of the city and lacks sufficient distance from sensitive community zones. “Over 90% of our residents oppose this,” Chen said on June 2, adding that the city is currently exploring legal action.
LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn, however, pushed back on the mayor’s statement. “We’ve received a much wider range of feedback than that,” Hahn said. She added that the site is actually located near churches and commercial zones, making it a suitable place to connect unhoused residents with job opportunities and rehabilitation programs.
State Funding and Security Measures Planned
The housing conversion is being funded through Project Homekey, a state initiative aimed at expanding permanent homeless housing. According to the County, the site will include on-site staff and operate under a 24-hour security system once complete.
The debate underscores the ongoing challenges of balancing urgent housing needs with community concerns in densely populated urban areas like Torrance.
BY BRIAN CHOI [choi.inseong@koreadaily.com]
