Concerns over the treatment of the homeless population in Eugene took center stage at the Eugene Police Commission meeting on March 14, 2025. Community members voiced strong objections to the Eugene Police Department's (EPD) involvement in encampment sweeps, particularly during extreme weather conditions.

Bridget, a local advocate, highlighted the traumatic impact of these sweeps, especially during heat waves and freezing temperatures. She described distressing encounters where individuals were given mere minutes to vacate their encampments, often under the watchful eye of police officers. "Can you imagine having to pack your belongings in 15 minutes or less with a person with a gun on their hip telling you to move?" she asked, emphasizing the psychological toll these actions take on vulnerable individuals.

Bridget's testimony was supported by others who echoed her concerns about the EPD's role in these operations. They called for a reevaluation of how the police interact with the unhoused, stressing the need for compassion and understanding rather than punitive measures. The discussions underscored the broader issue of homelessness in Eugene, which has one of the highest rates in the nation.

The commission acknowledged the importance of these comments and encouraged further public engagement, inviting residents to share their thoughts via email. As the meeting concluded, the call for a more humane approach to homelessness and mental health support resonated strongly, leaving many to wonder how the city will respond to these pressing concerns.