Community Concerns Over Needle Exchange Program in MacArthur Park

Mayor Karen Bass has come under fire for allegedly turning MacArthur Park into a “drug haven” due to a city-funded needle and pipe distribution initiative. A local business owner, Norm Langer—a deli owner—expressed his discontent and commended the FBI’s recent raid on the park.

“I think the needle distribution in the park should definitely come to an end,” Langer mentioned to reporters at his deli. “Mayor Bass appeared on TV last night and committed to ending these needle programs. I’ll keep saying it.”

During a mayoral debate, Bass affirmed that Los Angeles should cease its needle exchange program. Proponents, including non-profits like Homeless Healthcare LA, argue the initiative is about “harm reduction” and aims to mitigate the spread of diseases such as HIV and hepatitis C, which can occur through dirty syringes.

Langer, however, is skeptical. He believes the program merely “prolongs the time people are in need of help” and can attract more individuals drawn by drug use. “People come here for drugs and needles,” he asserted, asking Bass to outline when the needle exchange would conclude.

John Are, who manages Langer’s Deli, echoed Langer’s concerns, remarking that rampant gang violence and the needle exchange have created an unprecedented decline in safety, leading to the deli’s encroaching struggles. “The neighboring store closed down, and even potential tenants are hesitant to move in,” Are revealed.

Langer expressed frustration over alleged gang intimidation, stating he’s faced demands for sidewalk space for vendors. “It’s happening. We want to bring legitimate vendors, but the legal ones only make up about 10% in Los Angeles, and we want to revitalize this area.”

Meanwhile, Langer shared that his business is “doing well,” although he wouldn’t proclaim that they’re thriving. “On weekends, there’s often a line of 30 to 50 people waiting to get in. I think that says a lot,” he said.

However, Are described a more dire picture: the deli might need to close early due to safety concerns for employees. “It’s worrying when employees have to rush to their cars,” he remarked.

Both Langer and Are are hopeful that the city will ramp up police presence and continue efforts to clean up the area. “The community, along with law enforcement and relevant agencies really needs to keep working around the park,” Langer concluded. “We require ongoing vigilance.”