No easy fix for growing number of homeless camps, Asheville leaders say
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — Asheville residents have noticed an increase in homeless camping throughout the city. In recent weeks, tent cities have emerged along the French Broad River Greenway, Lexington Avenue and even in Aston Park.
Reuben Dejernette is one of several people who live near Aston Park and is concerned about the foot traffic,
“There’s been an increased number of people stopping at different houses, knocking on doors, asking for anything from food to water to money," Dejernette said.
Dejernette said neighbors have called the police in an attempt to prevent camping in the city’s public park, but it's been to no avail.
According to the Asheville Police Department’s homeless camp policy, when called, police will connect campers with community assistance options and instruct them to leave within seven days. By the seventh day, police can mandate campers to vacate the property. However, neighbors who live near Aston Park said that does not appear to be happening.
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Asheville Assistant City Manager Cathy Ball said the city is following CDC guidance, which recognizes the removal of homeless camps as a public health issue. The guidance warns against disrupting or displacing people living in homeless camps.
She said, during the COVID-19 pandemic, CDC guidance takes precedence over APD policy.
“Unless there is something unlawful happening there, police will not be able to help,” Ball said.
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The city of Asheville is funding temporary housing at Red Roof Inn for people experiencing homelessness. It’s also contracting with Homeward Bound and adding a second community liaison to connect people without homes with local resources, with a long-term goal to find stable housing for the city’s homeless population.
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