I personally experienced homelessness as a child when we lost the family farm. We received help from the community that allowed us recover and get back on our feet. I’m a volunteer at The Landing, offering my services as a barber. While cutting hair, I get to hear the unique stories of those who are in difficult situations.
Persons experiencing homelessness need assistance. Our community should respond not only by providing a bed for the night, but services to help our neighbors move forward to a better tomorrow. I am encouraged by City, County, and non-profits partnering together with the Any Path Home program and look forward to contributing to solutions.
Police Chief Franklin came to City Council and asked for an ordinance to ban camping in city parks. The tent encampments were becoming unsafe for the camp residents. I support Chief Franklin and the camping ban. It passed 4-3 with my opponent voting against it. The ordinance only allows enforcement when a shelter bed is available. Following the camping ban, Rochester has seen a large reduction in tent encampments and improved public safety.