New London Council Discusses Strategies to Address Homelessness and Mental Health Services

The New London City Council meeting on September 2, 2025, spotlighted the urgent issue of homelessness, with council members emphasizing the need for increased funding and community collaboration to tackle the crisis. Councilor Efren Dominguez opened the discussion, stressing the importance of transparency and public education regarding the city's efforts to support the unhoused population. He highlighted the misconception that New London is solely responsible for addressing homelessness in the region, urging residents to engage with the facts presented by city professionals.

Councilor Muller echoed these sentiments, calling for actionable steps to secure more financial resources for mental health and substance use services. He proposed that city counselors actively engage with state representatives to advocate for increased funding, emphasizing the necessity of a united front in addressing the challenges faced by the unhoused.

The council also discussed the role of local harm reduction centers, which provide essential services to those experiencing homelessness. Dominguez invited fellow council members to visit these centers to foster relationships and better understand the needs of the community.

As the meeting concluded, there was a consensus on the need for further discussions, with plans to schedule additional sessions to delve deeper into the complexities of homelessness in New London. The council's commitment to addressing this pressing issue reflects a growing recognition of the multifaceted nature of homelessness and the collaborative efforts required to create effective solutions.