Los Angeles business owner blasts ‘hellscape’ created by spiraling homelessness problem

Businessman Josh Kaye says the “city of angels” has become a “hellscape” of homelessness due to impotent officials. 

The owner of Lunch Money clothing on 15th Street recently turned to a Los Angeles’ NBC affiliate for help because a homelessness encampment — along with its out-of-control fires — has reached his doorsteps.

“Downtown LA is a hellscape now. And I don’t know who’s in charge of keeping it clean and nice but they’re not doing it. And I think that’s pretty shameful,” Mr. Kaye said Tuesday.

The businessman said that even threats to his safety hasn’t cut through a maze of red tape.

“Our gate was completely singed — burned [during an encampment fire],” he said. “We can’t load anything in or out of here anymore. We had to call the fire department. They came out, opened the gate, saw the carnage, told us ’you know what, sorry guys, there’s nothing we can do — can’t touch it, can’t clean it up. You should contact 311.’”

Mr. Kaye said he implored officials via 311 to help him for months with zero success.

“I was just bounced around like a pingpong,” he added. “I’m sure somebody’s hands are tied because nothing happens.”