During the recent HBOARD Committee Meeting in Santa Fe, community members voiced their concerns regarding local housing and safety issues, particularly in relation to historic district regulations and the presence of homeless individuals in residential areas.

Janie Cravens, a resident of Romero Street, highlighted the prevalence of fences exceeding the four-foot limit in her neighborhood. She noted that while these structures may have been erected before current regulations were enforced, they contribute to a sense of security for residents. Cravens shared her personal experience of feeling safer after installing a lock on her fence, which has deterred unwanted nighttime visitors, although she acknowledged the presence of homeless individuals in her vicinity.

Joan Aon, a business owner on Del Marrow, echoed Cravens' sentiments, emphasizing the need for residents, especially single individuals, to feel secure in their homes. Aon expressed her support for a fellow resident, Camilla, who is seeking improvements to her property, suggesting that such changes could enhance safety and aesthetics in the neighborhood.

The meeting also touched on procedural matters, with participants discussing the need for formal requests to bring certain issues to the agenda for future meetings. Maisel, a participant, sought clarification on the process for requesting a ruling, indicating a desire for transparency in how decisions are made.

Stephanie Benonato raised concerns about the implications of reconsidering past decisions made by the committee, warning that it could set a dangerous precedent. Her comments reflect a broader anxiety among community members about the stability of local governance and the potential impact of changing regulations on their neighborhoods.

Overall, the discussions at the meeting underscored the community's ongoing struggle with balancing safety, historical preservation, and the realities of homelessness. As the committee continues to navigate these complex issues, residents are keenly interested in how decisions will shape their living environment and community dynamics moving forward.