In a move that has sparked criticism from business owners and residents, the city of Los Angeles recently made the decision to remove planters that had been credited with reducing crime in the area. Locals expressed their concerns, stating that the planters were instrumental in keeping encampments and criminal activities at bay.

The planters, which were initially set up along Highland Boulevard in Hollywood in May, were erected by local business owners and residents to prevent homeless encampments from taking over the area. According to reports, the planters had significantly contributed to reducing crime in the vicinity, with some business owners reporting a staggering 90% drop in criminal incidents.

However, the city discovered that the planters had been put up without proper approval from the government. As a result, crews of workers were deployed to remove the planters on Monday, leading to a wave of criticism from the community.

Hollywood resident Jacqui Antebi shared her dismay over the decision, stating, "I think it's a really terrible thing that they're doing because those planters were there to keep the encampments away." Antebi also highlighted the positive impact the planters had on the safety of the neighborhood, recounting how she could finally walk down the street after years of rampant criminal activities.

A spokesperson for Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martínez responded to the backlash, acknowledging the frustration of local businesses but emphasizing the importance of following the legal process. The statement encouraged residents to work with the city to obtain proper permits for community beautification projects in the public right of way.

Business owners like Andrew Monheim voiced their disappointment and called for a comprehensive solution to the issue. Monheim expressed concern that simply removing the planters without implementing an alternative strategy or beautification project would perpetuate neglect.

The homelessness crisis in Los Angeles remains a divisive issue among residents. While some efforts have been made to address the issue, such as the allocation of state housing funds and tax credits for housing homeless individuals in the Skid Row neighborhood, there is an ongoing debate about the most effective approach.

As the controversy surrounding the removal of the crime-reducing planters continues, residents and business owners are urging city officials, including Mayor Karen Bass, to address the concerns and find a suitable resolution. At the time of writing, no official response or comment has been provided by either Soto-Martínez's office or Mayor Bass.

The removal of the planters has reignited discussions about public safety, homelessness, and the need for collaboration between local communities and the city to tackle these issues effectively and sustainably.