Neighbors raising questions about homeless housing project at Motel 6 North Hills

NORTH HILLS, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Questions are being raised about a homeless housing project in the San Fernando Valley.

In November 2023, the city of Los Angeles was awarded more than $32 million for an "acquisition and rehabilitation project" that would convert the Motel 6 North Hills into 111 interim housing units for the homeless. It was one of two Project Homekey sites announced at the time.

But according to one neighbor, the motel is closed and blocked off, with many homeless individuals living around the fenced area. She's concerned about the volume of homelessness and drug activity in the area, wondering when the transition will begin.

"It's a big mess," said Fran Potaski. "It's awful."

She said homeless encampments have taken over two vacant lots on a corner near her home.

"This is unacceptable. It's not safe for the residents. It's not safe for anybody," she said.

"I saw a guy smoking a pipe the other day, lighting up right there on the sidewalk, I went, 'Oh my God. I've had enough of this. It's ridiculous.'"

According to Hope the Mission's president Rowan Vansleve, they received the funding just over a month ago and closed escrow on the property last week.

The project is set to be completed next year.

Hope the Mission founder and CEO Ken Craft said he understands neighbor's concerns, saying the area is guarded by 24/7 security.

Craft said the delay on breaking ground on the project is due to the vetting process to get approved. He said the vacant lot in front of the motel is slated to become a convenience store.

Due to this Eyewitness News report, Craft's team plans to reach out to the homeless individuals living on the property.

"Sometimes there are things on the outside that are out of our control, and it really does require cooperation, working with LAPD and our outreach team and the city of Los Angeles," he said.