Anne Keicher

I am very concerned about the homeless encampments at the parks along Lake Merritt. I live on Staten Avenue in a tiny apartment, and I frequently go to the parks by Lake Merritt to exercise and spend time with friends. Lately, I have noticed an influx in homeless encampments. Not only do the homeless encampments make the space very unpleasant, but they are a public safety hazard. In the past month, I have seen two men urinating in public and one man burning a fire. I would like the encampments moved as soon as possible.

From 2009-2011, I lived on Bellevue Avenue, and there were never homeless encampments along Lake Merritt. I know the recent housing crisis may have contributed to homelessness, but the city should be doing more to address it.