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Resident urges Cleveland County to pursue tiny homes, cybersecurity training and inclusive economic supports
Summary
During public comment, Sunitra Stewart urged commissioners to address homelessness and housing affordability with tiny-home communities and workforce-development strategies, called out litter and environmental neglect, and urged cybersecurity education to protect seniors and small businesses from scams.
During the public-comment period, Sunitra Stewart told the Cleveland County commissioners she and a local group of women are developing plans to address homelessness and the county’s rising housing costs. Stewart advocated for tiny-home communities and affordable housing strategies that she said would offer "not just shelter, but dignity, stability, and pathways towards long term sufficiency."
Stewart also raised concerns about litter and environmental neglect across the county and said community pride and cleaner neighborhoods support economic growth. As a cybersecurity professional and community advocate, she highlighted a digital divide that leaves seniors, small-business owners and veterans vulnerable to scams and identity theft. "Cybersecurity is no longer a luxury. It is a necessity tied directly to economic stability and public safety," Stewart said.
She called for collaboration among economic development leaders, nonprofits and local officials and said she would welcome exploring Community Development Block Grant and other funding opportunities to support housing, workforce development and cybersecurity education.
Stewart's remarks were part of the public-comment period and did not prompt an immediate board action during the meeting.
