Complaints about Homeless Camps Prompt Leaders to Create Single Complaint Point of Contact
As complaints about homeless encampments in Asheville continue to rise, city leaders are taking action to address the issue. Officials are working on establishing a single point of contact for complaints related to homeless camps in the city.
Increasing Concerns in the City
On a recent day, an active homeless encampment was discovered near a Lowe’s store in South Asheville. Retail staff in the area revealed that the camp had been active for months, with homeless individuals living in cars outside the retailer. A police report filed indicated a disturbance involving a homeless man living in his car.
Efforts to Address the Homelessness Crisis
Following Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer’s advocacy in Washington, D.C. for federal funding to build housing for the homeless, city officials are taking steps to tackle the homelessness crisis locally. A task force comprising representatives from various departments is working on a plan to streamline the process of handling complaints about homeless camps.
Stories from the Community
Shana Oelke, a homeless individual living in west Asheville, shared her story. Despite finding employment in the city, Oelke expressed the challenges of securing affordable housing, with waitlists extending several years.
Residents living near affected areas in Asheville, such as Hanover Street, have voiced their concerns about the increasing presence of homeless encampments. The situation has raised safety and quality of life issues for long-time residents who have witnessed the changes over the years.
City’s Response and Future Plans
A spokesperson for the city of Asheville confirmed that meetings are underway to develop a specific protocol for responding to complaints about homeless camps. The plan is a collaborative effort involving multiple city departments and community stakeholders.
City Councilwoman Maggie Ullman emphasized that changes in policy are based on feedback from community responders and law enforcement officials who have been involved in addressing homeless-related incidents.
Call for Immediate Action
With the homeless population on the rise in Asheville, residents are urging swift action to provide housing solutions for those in need. The recent Point in Time count revealed a concerning number of unhoused individuals in the city, signaling the urgency of the situation.
As efforts to address homelessness continue at the local and national levels, the community hopes for tangible outcomes that will alleviate the challenges faced by both homeless individuals and residents impacted by the presence of encampments.
