SAN FRANCISCO โ The governor of California recently urged cities and counties within the state to take action against homeless encampments, recommending legislation to help clear areas lined with tents on streets, parks, and along waterways.
Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, declared homelessness a central concern of his administration since assuming office in 2019. While this issue was previously considered a primary responsibility of mayors and other local authorities, Newsom has funneled resources into renovating old motels into housing and introduced various measures to address the growing crisis.
Despite these efforts, Newsom has consistently called on local governments to contribute more significantly. On Monday, he unveiled a draft ordinance that local jurisdictions can adopt to remove encampments more effectively.
The draft ordinance aims to prohibit โpersistent campingโ in fixed locations and encampments that obstruct sidewalks and public areas. It advises cities and counties to provide notices and make substantial efforts to find shelter solutions before clearing a homeless encampment.
In response, organizations representing cities and counties in California have expressed concern over the implication that they are responsible for the current state of the streets. They emphasize the need for consistent, long-term funding for permanent solutions rather than intermittent, one-time allocations.
According to Carolyn Coleman, the executive director and CEO of the League of California Cities, 80% of cities have policies targeting encampments. Still, they require additional funds to address the root causes of homelessness, primarily through increased housing availability. The California State Association of Counties highlights the gap between the stateโs funding claims and actual allocations, stating that a substantial portion of the funds is directed towards housing developers.
Meanwhile, homeless advocates argue that banning encampments and implementing punitive actions may hinder individualsโ chances of securing stable housing and employment. Alex Visotzky from the National Alliance to End Homelessness noted that such measures could cause people to lose essential documents or sever connections with case managers, compelling them to restart their search for stability.
In Los Angeles, resident Jay Joshua oversees a small encampment where he also resides. He believes encampments often provide a safe haven for those living within them.
In many major cities led by Democratic mayors, efforts are underway to tackle encampments, citing health and safety concerns. San Franciscoโs mayor, Daniel Lurie, has committed to rejuvenating city sidewalks, while San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan has proposed legal action if individuals refuse shelter on multiple occasions.
However, local adherence to the ordinance remains voluntary, as Governor Newsom lacks the authority to enforce its adoption. Nonetheless, the proposed legislation coincided with the announcement of $3.3 billion in grants for mental health and substance abuse treatment facilities, suggesting potential future contingents on state compliance. In 2022, Newsom halted $1 billion in state funds for local government, citing inadequate homelessness reduction efforts.