Blue Chirper devices were removed from the stairwell adjacent to a Trader Joe’s store in West Hollywood. (photo by Sam Mulick)

Blue Chirper alarms meant to deter homeless individuals from congregating were removed outside businesses along the 8600 block of Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood. The alarms were installed by the building’s property manager – Investors’ Property Services – during the week of May 27 and were met with public backlash alleging the alarms disregarded homeless people. The alarms emit a loud cricket sound when triggered by motion sensors.

Investors’ Property Services did not respond to a request for comment regarding the decision to remove the alarms. Sheri Lunn, a spokesperson for West Hollywood, said that the alarms did not violate city code.

“Upon review, the city determined that no specific municipal code or applicable laws were violated in the installation or operation of the ‘Blue Chirper’ device at this commercial location. Therefore, no code violation was issued,” Lunn said. “The city remains mindful of potential adverse effects devices such as the Blue Chirpers may have on local businesses and community members. Recognizing the possibility that such technology could become a nuisance, the city is committed to monitoring community feedback. Should concerns arise, the city will collaborate with the property owner to explore and recommend alternative monitoring solutions that do not negatively impact the surrounding neighborhood.”

On June 3, while the alarms were still installed, an employee at the West Hollywood location of Fresh Brothers Pizza who only gave his name as Kevin, said the alarms were successful in clearing the stairwell next to the restaurant of homeless individuals. On June 16, after the alarms were removed, one person had returned to the stairwell.

Stephen McMahon, general manager of a Santa Monica homeowners association who created the alarms, said he was not aware of any other Blue Chirper alarms being removed after installation. In addition to one other Blue Chirper device sold in West Hollywood at a cosmetic surgery business, McMahon also said eight Blue Chirper devices had been sold in Beverly Hills but did not elaborate where specifically. He also said the city of West Hollywood is not doing enough to protect members of the public who are attacked or threatened by homeless individuals.

“So, who is looking out for the interests of the young mothers, with toddlers, and other vulnerable persons, who are accosted, threatened and frightened by these same homeless people so that they can aggressively panhandle money from them?” McMahon said.

McMahon also said he tests the Blue Chirpers to ensure the devices remain below a volume of 70 decibels as to not violate California Penal Code, adding that the devices present a solution of “non-aggressive diversion security.”

Cathy Blaivas, a longtime West Hollywood resident, said the devices go against her personal values as well as the core values of West Hollywood, although she empathizes with property owners trying to solve a difficult problem.

“There’s no question that addressing homelessness is complex, especially when individuals may pose a danger to themselves or others,” Blaivas said. “But making life harder for people in crisis is neither a solution nor humane. These devices are cruel, dehumanizing and ultimately ineffective.”

Blaivas added that she hopes property owners can consider more “humane” solutions such as increased security and mental health services.

West Hollywood has a city-wide initiative to address homelessness by coordinating across agencies and partnering with nonprofits to provide rehabilitation and temporary housing.