The Roseburg City Council meeting on December 9, 2024, spotlighted the ongoing homelessness crisis in the community, with passionate calls for support of local initiatives aimed at addressing the issue. Community members John and Pam Berman shared their experiences visiting a managed homeless camp under a bridge, highlighting its cleanliness and organization as a stark contrast to illegal encampments in the area.

John emphasized the importance of engaging with Bernie Woodard, a community member dedicated to improving the situation. He praised Woodard's vision and urged council members to meet him and consider his approach, which he believes could effectively tackle homelessness in Roseburg. "None of it really has worked," John stated, referring to past efforts, but he expressed optimism about Woodard's initiative.

Pam echoed these sentiments, describing her visit to the camp as eye-opening. She noted the residents' commitment to maintaining a clean environment, with organized recycling efforts and a sense of community accountability. "It's working, and it's clean, and it's neat," she remarked, urging the council to recognize the difference between this managed camp and the more chaotic illegal sites.

The discussions underscored a growing recognition among council members of the need for effective solutions to homelessness, with community-driven efforts being highlighted as a promising path forward. As the meeting concluded, the council moved to approve the consent agenda, but the focus on homelessness remains a pressing issue that will likely continue to shape future discussions.