Downtown St Petersburg Residents Demand Action on Homelessness and Public Safety Issues

In the heart of St. Petersburg, the City Council meeting on June 5, 2025, unfolded under the bright lights of city hall, where residents voiced urgent concerns about the growing challenges facing their downtown community. The atmosphere was charged with emotion as speakers highlighted a pressing issue: the increasing visibility of homelessness and its impact on public safety and quality of life.

Karen Carmichael, president of the Downtown Neighborhood Association, opened the discussion with a poignant reminder of a recent tragedy that underscored the complexities of urban life. She painted a vivid picture of downtown St. Petersburg, often perceived as a pristine destination, yet marred by the struggles of individuals grappling with mental health and substance abuse issues. “This is no longer a housing issue,” she asserted. “It’s a public safety issue, a public health issue, and a community quality of life issue.”

Echoing her sentiments, Jason Mathis, CEO of the St. Petersburg Downtown Partnership, emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to address these challenges. He acknowledged the city’s efforts but urged for more resources, stating, “We need to change the way we think about managing our downtown area.” With the downtown population swelling from 3,000 to nearly 20,000 in just over a decade, the call for enhanced safety measures and community engagement has never been more critical.

As the meeting progressed, the voices of business owners like Veronica Whaley and Carrie Amboga brought a stark reality to the forefront. Whaley recounted her harrowing experiences with threats and violence, while Amboga highlighted the fear that permeates their workplaces. “We don’t feel safe at all,” she said, reflecting a sentiment shared by many in the room. The need for effective enforcement of existing laws, particularly Bill 13 65 aimed at improving public safety, was a recurring theme. Amboga passionately criticized the lack of accountability, urging the council to take action.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of homelessness, with speakers like Aaron Peter representing the Ovation Condominium Association, who expressed concerns about the impact on property values and community pride. “The current situation is beginning to have a visible impact on public spaces, small businesses, tourism, and the overall sense of safety,” he warned.

As the meeting drew to a close, the call for a “clean and safe” program gained momentum, with multiple speakers advocating for dedicated resources to maintain the vibrancy and safety of downtown. Christopher Pitts, general manager of 1 Saint Petersburg, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach that includes cleaning crews and safety ambassadors to foster a welcoming environment.

The council meeting served as a crucial platform for residents to voice their concerns and aspirations for a safer, more inclusive downtown. As the city grapples with these challenges, the discussions highlighted a community united in its desire for action, compassion, and a renewed commitment to the well-being of all its residents. The path forward remains uncertain, but the urgency for change is clear, leaving many to wonder how the city will respond to the growing crisis on its streets.