Several commenters used the Aug. 18 public comment period to criticize Denver’s approach to homelessness, alleging problems with program oversight, contractor behavior and recent layoffs.

One commenter identified as Moath said the city exhibits traits of a "failed city" under the current mayor’s leadership and criticized Denver Human Services and the Department of Housing Stability. Moath said the mayor has "hired and fired" staff in ways that reduced oversight and claimed some people housed under the mayor’s plan were placed using state and federal vouchers and remain at risk of eviction. "He claimed he housed 5,000 folks. Those are state and federal vouchers and they're getting evicted today," Moath said.

Speakers also alleged problems with motel placements used for temporary shelter. Moath named the Messer Inn and the Driftwood Motel, saying managers at some hotels "are trafficking our clients" and selling drugs to residents there. Moath urged the council to act on those reports.

Jessica (Jesse) Paris, speaking for several grassroots groups including Black Star Action Movement for Self Defense and Northeast Denver Residents Council, criticized layoffs in city government and said the mayor had created a budget shortfall she quantified as "$250,000,000," which she said contributed to job losses and increased risk for recently unemployed residents.

Some commenters praised specific programs or providers. Moath singled out Roads of Recovery and certain Denver Police Department crisis responses as positive, saying those programs provided help in his experience.

The transcript records these remarks as public comment; it does not show a council or staff response, nor does it record any formal investigation, motion or vote in reaction to the allegations. Several speakers asked the council to take action and to provide oversight of homelessness contracts and services.

Next steps: Commenters requested follow‑up, including oversight of motel placements, review of contractor performance, and clarification of voucher outcomes; the council’s response is not recorded in the public comment segment of the transcript.