City grapples with rising tensions over homeless crisis

During a recent city council meeting in Pueblo, Mayor Graham and council members celebrated the crowning of the 2024-2025 Colorado State Fair Fiesta Queen, Karina Ruiz Salcedo, and her court, recognizing their role in representing Hispanic culture within the community. The mayor emphasized the significance of Fiesta Day, which marks its 57th anniversary this year, and expressed pride in the queens' contributions to the event. The queens will be featured at the upcoming Nocho de Fiesta on August 3 at the Pueblo Convention Center.

Following the recognition ceremony, community member Kathy Nichols addressed the council, voicing concerns about the treatment of homeless individuals in Pueblo. She described a recent incident involving a homeless man who was attacked and subsequently refused medical assistance due to fear of police intervention. Nichols criticized the city's approach to homelessness, suggesting that it has created a \"war on the homeless.\" She recounted instances where individuals attempting to help the homeless faced police scrutiny, raising questions about the city's policies and the impact on community safety and well-being.

The meeting highlighted both the celebration of cultural achievements and the pressing social issues facing the Pueblo community, underscoring the need for dialogue and action on homelessness.