We first met Valerie Chavez and Alan Gonzalez at our first friday of the month business roundtable held by the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. Shortly thereafter we requested an interview with the new Allied Universal team and submitted questions via mail.
- Who is the team lead (and or vice leads?)
We have several team leads who are dedicated to providing the highest level of service to the City, its residents, and the community.
- The new phone number to share with the public. (explain availability via text or on WeHo app “call for service”).
24/7 call/text hotline at (323) 848-6500 and a dedicated information page at www.weho.org/security.
Community members can also submit requests for service or provide feedback about interactions with Security Ambassadors directly through the City’s Official App. For details on downloading the app, visit www.weho.org/servicerequest.
- When should a business call the security ambassadors first, or when should they call the sheriff first?
Security Ambassadors leverage the effectiveness of local law enforcement (LASD) and work in collaboration with the West Hollywood Sheriff’s Station. In addition to supplemental safety services, Security Ambassadors also get to know West Hollywood’s neighborhoods and assist in providing an extra level of hospitality to visitors and help to address quality of life concerns in the community. Security Ambassadors work seamlessly to:
- Maintain uniformed foot and bicycle patrols throughout all City neighborhoods;
- Provide in-person responses 24/7 to non-violent calls for service to the Security Ambassador number: (323) 848-6500;
- Conduct safety escorts for residents, businesses, and visitors; and
- Offer helpful guidance to community members and visitors about City information, directions, parking, and more.
- In case of an emergency, we always urge community members to contact the West Hollywood Sheriff’s Station at (310) 855-8850 or dial 911.
- How many ambassadors are there expected to be in total? Are there still opportunities to apply?
There are 82 positions, including Security Ambassadors, Supervisors and Senior Safety Officers. Yes, there are opportunities to apply.
- Overview of type of training provided to security ambassadors.
Allied Universal is proud to partner with the City of West Hollywood to ensure our Security Ambassadors receive the most comprehensive training possible. Allied Universal Security Ambassadors complete extensive instruction and training in areas such as cultural diversity and sensitivity, LGBTQ+ awareness and inclusion, mental health first aid, de-escalation techniques, Narcan administration, and emergency preparedness.
This training goes beyond safety—it’s about understanding, empathy, and service. West Hollywood is known around the world as a welcoming and inclusive community, and our goal is to reflect those same values in every interaction our Security Ambassadors have with residents, businesses, and visitors.
- What are services provided (escort services, etc.)
- Citywide bike and foot patrols
- Responses to non-violent calls and provide safety escorts
- Guidance on directions, parking, events, and city information
- Proactive presence to ensure safety and a welcoming environment
- Engagement with the unhoused community, connecting individuals with appropriate social services.
- Handling evolving situations effectively.
- How many bases are there throughout the city and are they manned?
- Eight kiosk locations
- Two fixed buildings
- Patrol
As this information evolves, the latest details will be provided on the City of West Hollywood’s website at www.weho.org/security.
- Any general comments you would like to convey to WeHo residents?
Allied Universal is honored to begin management of the City of West Hollywood’s Security Ambassadors program and proud to partner with the City in continuing this important program that enhances community safety, hospitality, and neighborhood livability.
With a long history of providing professional security services in communities across California and throughout the nation, Allied Universal is committed to ensuring the continued success of the West Hollywood Security Ambassadors program.
Sincerely,
The Allied Universal Communications Team
When are they going to get rid of the drug Den behind the post office on Norton and Fairfax? The parklet on Crescent Heights has become off limits to locals. There’s no green space in town. The new parking lot on Crescent Heights was a waste of money and honestly should be investigated. They overpaid and there has to be some kickback. That parking lot was a bonanza for the company. None of the workers were local. I’d like to know how much money the city and the government in general paid for that transitional housing by Holloway. Has anyone… Read more »
Most fights and othersissues happen when the clubs close and people are out front ont he sidewalks. Place ambassadors in front of every club after closing and most issues wouldn’t go away.