Did you know that Carlsbad’s homeless numbers increased 86% last year?   Yes, it’s true, despite the city spending millions on the issue.  I participated in our local “point in time” count this year, which annually monitors the number of homeless in Carlsbad.  Meeting these homeless people and seeing first hand their living conditions was heartbreaking.  I do have several ideas on how to compassionately, yet firmly, address this issue. 

I want Carlsbad to utilize software used for foster youth to find “long lost” relatives who may be able to either house their homeless relative or pay for a psychiatric bed for them.

I want Carlsbad to place the funding requirements for “low bar” facilities that don’t require people to be clean and sober for housing on those facilities and not on taxpayers.  I am all for providing anyone a “hand up” but a “hand out” without any effort to improve their situation isn’t going to help anyone.  No barrier shelters are no benefit to anyone. 

There are several things Carlsbad can do to quickly address homeless issues.  Landscaping in our natural areas can be cut back, creating healthier vegetation that doesn’t allow for concealment of encampments.  Encampments need to be recognized and addressed when they begin, not when they get out of control.  Overnight parking restrictions on all streets need to be enforced regularly.

Also, I really want our parks to be safe for all Carlsbad’s kids and families.  Whether your child is playing baseball at Chase Field, practicing for their soccer team at Stagecoach, or playing lacrosse at Pine Park, these spaces need to be safe and healthy recreation areas regardless of which “district” they fall in.