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Residents press council on chronic homelessness, safety and services
Summary
Public commenters at the March 17 meeting described a rise in chronic homelessness, linked it to addiction and mental health, cited a 20.6% increase to 402 people in 2023–24 (as presented), and urged stronger enforcement and treatment requirements.
Two speakers used the public‑comment period March 17 to press Roanoke City Council on growing homelessness and public-safety concerns.
Sarah Totree, identifying herself as a Roanoke resident and researcher, said homelessness in the Roanoke Valley rose 20.6% between 2023 and 2024 to at least 402 individuals and urged the council to distinguish between those experiencing short‑term economic hardship and a chronically unsheltered population she said is…
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