Eugene doubles down on homelessness programs despite skyrocketing rates

The City Council of Eugene, Oregon, convened on April 28, 2025, to address pressing issues surrounding homelessness in the city. The meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by Eugene, which has seen a significant rise in homelessness despite previous investments and initiatives aimed at addressing the crisis.

During the meeting, council members discussed the implementation of the TAC (Technical Advisory Committee) plan, which was developed to eliminate homelessness in the area. Since February 2018, the city has invested in this plan and partnered with various nonprofit organizations. However, concerns were raised regarding the effectiveness of these efforts, as homelessness in Eugene has reportedly increased, leading the city to have the highest homeless rate in the entire country.

Critics at the meeting pointed out that Eugene has created a "homeless infrastructure" that may inadvertently encourage chronic homelessness. The city has gained a reputation as a favorable location for those experiencing homelessness, attributed to perceived leniency in law enforcement and a lack of consequences for property crimes and illegal drug use. This situation has led to a growing perception that Eugene is a destination for individuals seeking refuge from homelessness.

The council faced scrutiny for its continued commitment to existing programs, which some argue have come at the expense of public safety, the city budget, and local businesses. The discussions underscored a need for a critical reassessment of the strategies employed to combat homelessness and the overall impact on the community.

As the meeting concluded, the council acknowledged the complexity of the issue and the necessity for a more effective approach moving forward. The city plans to continue evaluating its strategies and engage with community stakeholders to seek solutions that balance support for those in need with the safety and well-being of all residents.