Cottage Grove leaders discuss tiny home sales and homelessness strategies

The Cottage Grove City Council meeting on February 24, 2025, highlighted pressing concerns regarding homelessness and the management of local camps. Community members voiced their opinions on the effectiveness of current strategies and the need for better accountability and support for individuals experiencing homelessness.

One resident raised concerns about the financial implications of giving away tiny homes intended for transitional housing. They suggested that the city could sell these homes to generate revenue instead of distributing them for free, emphasizing the potential for financial gain if managed properly. The speaker also criticized the safety concerns associated with Highway 99, arguing that recent infrastructure changes have made it safer for individuals to navigate the area without relying on the highway.

Jennifer Faraz, a licensed clinical social worker, shared her experiences working with the homeless population in Cottage Grove. She expressed disappointment with the management of the 99 camp, stating that the organization overseeing it, Carry It Forward, failed to provide adequate support for individuals transitioning out of homelessness. Faraz highlighted the lack of accountability and motivation for residents to improve their situations, describing the camps as deteriorating into environments that perpetuate addiction and illness.

Jeff Arkins, another community member, called for neighborhood input regarding the location of future camps, referencing past issues with homeless encampments that affected local residents. He emphasized the need for community engagement to address concerns about safety and the impact of homelessness on the quality of life in the area.

The discussions at the meeting underscored the ongoing challenges Cottage Grove faces in addressing homelessness and the importance of collaborative efforts to find effective solutions. The council is expected to consider these community insights as they move forward with plans to manage local homeless services.