(SACRAMENTO) - Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez (Pomona) today unveiled a $4 million State allocation to the City of Pomona to launch the Pomona OATH (Officers Assisting the Homeless) Initiative within the Pomona Police Department. This initiative will fund new police officers and mental health clinicians to work directly with the Pomona homeless populations to provide security and services. Joined at a press conference by Pomona Mayor Tim Sandoval and Chief of Police Michael Olivieri, Assemblymember Rodriguez said the following:
“As a lifelong resident of Pomona, when I talk with people, I always hear homelessness as the number one concern on their minds. Today, I am proud that we are not just talking about plans- but taking action. These funds will help our officers address homeless issues on our city streets, increase public safety, and provide necessary resources to those that need them.”
Pomona Chief of Police, Michael Olivieri
“Over the last few years, our community in particular has experienced a significant increase in homelessness and related issues. As an officer for more than 28 years, I know this supplemental funding for the Pomona Police Department will help us in outreach and response to homeless individuals across the community. I look forward to hiring additional police officers and working with Los Angeles County mental health clinicians, which more than quadruple our current staff dedicated to provide homelessness services.”
Carolyn Hemming, Pomona Business Owner
“Known for its compassion to the most vulnerable, Pomona has experienced an influx of homeless populations. As a small business owner and President of the Downtown Pomona Owners Association, I can attest to the difficulties that a large homeless populations places on businesses and the community. We are fortunate here that Assemblymember Rodriguez has listened closely to the needs of our concerned residents and taken action. These funds are needed and can be a game-changer for the business climate of Pomona.”
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Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez (Twitter) represents the 52nd Assembly District which includes the cities of Chino, Montclair, Ontario, Pomona and portions of unincorporated Fontana. He is Chair of The Assembly Committee on Public Employees, Retirement, and Social Security.