LOS ANGELES, CA – The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) Commission voted today to appoint Gita O’Neill as Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective August 26, 2025. O'Neill brings over two decades of executive-level experience from the Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office, where she has a proven track record of leading during complex transitions, providing strategic guidance, and maintaining stability across large public systems. Her expertise aligns directly with LAHSA’s mission and the agency’s current leadership needs.
“I am honored to step into the role of Interim CEO for LAHSA at such a critical juncture,” O'Neill said. “The challenge of homelessness in our community is immense, and the system is undergoing significant changes. Increasing trust in LAHSA hinges on our ongoing commitment to transparency, particularly in LAHSA’s core function of contracting. I am deeply committed to working collaboratively with the LAHSA team, our JPA partners, and the community to ensure that we are providing the most effective and compassionate services possible to those experiencing homelessness, and that we navigate this transition with strength and purpose. I look forward to contributing to the ongoing efforts to create lasting solutions.”
Throughout her public service career, O’Neill has developed a strategic perspective on highly complex and interdependent issues, notably in homelessness response and housing. As the City Attorney’s first Director of Homeless Policies and Strategies, she played a key role in developing “A Bridge Home,” Los Angeles’s first citywide shelter system. She also supported emergency operations during the COVID-19 crisis. Her deep understanding of Los Angeles’s diverse communities and her proven track record in navigating complex challenges will be invaluable as LAHSA continues its vital work to address the homelessness crisis, particularly as the system undergoes significant shifts.
“Gita O'Neill’s extensive experience and deep understanding of the challenges facing our homeless services system make her an ideal leader for LAHSA during this crucial time,” said LAHSA Commission Chair Wendy Greuel. “Her commitment to transparency, stakeholder trust, and equitable outcomes will be invaluable as we navigate this transitional period and work to stabilize the system.”
Given the system transitions underway, the LAHSA Commission is hiring O’Neill on a 12-month contract.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said, “Ms. Gita O’Neill brings deep expertise and leadership during a difficult transitional period for LAHSA as the County pulls its funding from the agency and the federal government continues to act with uncertainty. Even amid these headwinds, we’ve achieved a 17.5% reduction in street homelessness through unprecedented collaboration. We will not slow down—our commitment to saving lives and restoring communities remains as urgent and unwavering as ever.”
“LAHSA’s new executive director will play a critical role in our region’s fight against homelessness,” said Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger. “This appointment comes at a pivotal moment as L.A. County launches its new homelessness department, and I am confident that close coordination between our agencies will drive meaningful progress. Together, we can align resources, strengthen collaboration, and deliver the results our communities deserve.”
In her role as Interim CEO, O'Neill will oversee LAHSA’s daily operations, work collaboratively with its government partners, service providers, and community stakeholders, and advance the agency’s mission to coordinate and implement homelessness services across Los Angeles County. Her leadership will be key in ensuring a seamless transition as the regional response to homelessness adapts and optimizes its resources.