During a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the establishment of Single Room Occupancies (SROs) in residential neighborhoods of Saint Helens. A local resident expressed gratitude for community engagement but highlighted the presence of commercial operations that house individuals with mental health issues, suggesting these establishments disrupt the fabric of family-oriented neighborhoods.

The resident argued against the introduction of SROs, asserting that they would lead to increased competition for housing, ultimately driving up costs for families seeking to purchase homes. They emphasized that nonprofit and government-funded operations could outbid families, creating a commercial property market that undermines residential stability.

Citing a housing analysis conducted in 2019, the resident urged the planning commission to reject the proposed SRO rules, stating that the analysis indicated no need for such housing solutions in the area for the next two decades. They specifically recommended that SROs not be permitted in R5, R7, or R10 zones, suggesting that if SROs were to be considered, it should only be in areas already designated for higher density housing.

The discussion reflects ongoing tensions in Saint Helens regarding the balance between addressing homelessness and maintaining the integrity of residential neighborhoods. The planning commission is expected to deliberate on these recommendations in the coming weeks.