Residents voiced strong concerns during a recent government meeting regarding the proposed establishment of a homeless facility in their community. Many expressed fears for their safety and the well-being of their children, citing personal experiences with theft and encounters with individuals they believed posed a risk.

One resident, who identified himself as a former volunteer feeding the homeless, criticized local officials for their lack of support for homeless individuals, claiming that the community's approach to homelessness was driven by a desire to hide the issue rather than address it. He argued that the homeless population is often marginalized and that their needs are overlooked by those in power.

Another speaker, Catherine Duran, shared her distress over incidents involving theft and encounters with individuals exhibiting erratic behavior near her home. She raised concerns about the safety of her children, questioning the lack of background checks for individuals who might be placed in the proposed facility. Duran emphasized the potential risks posed by individuals with criminal histories, particularly in proximity to schools and parks.

Rick Rome, representing his elderly mother, acknowledged the complexities of homelessness, noting that many individuals face challenges beyond their control, such as inflation and housing instability. However, he echoed the concerns of others regarding the potential for increased crime and drug use associated with the facility.

The meeting highlighted a growing tension between community safety and the need for compassionate solutions to homelessness, with residents calling for more accountability and transparency from local officials. As discussions continue, the community remains divided on how best to address the pressing issue of homelessness while ensuring the safety and security of its residents.