Region Business
County — the governmental entity that provides public and mental health services — wouldn ’ t commit to its participation in the comprehensive plan to address the homelessness crisis .
On Aug . 8 , the city council decided to keep the measure on the ballot for city voters with some changes , most notably by adding the caveat that Measure O will only go into effect when the city and county adopt a legally-binding agreement detailing how homeless residents of the city will receive mental health , substance abuse and other crucial social services .
“ Frankly , it ’ s better than where we had it ,” says Joshua Wood , CEO of Region Business . “ Our plan was in two years to go to the county to do a county-wide measure . Now there would be no purpose in doing that . If anything , we ’ re now two years ahead of schedule because of the city ’ s move .”
Within 90 days of adoption , encampments ( defined as four or more unrelated people living within 50 feet of
each other without permitted bathrooms , power or running water ) will be prohibited based on available alternative capacity . Residents harmed by illegal camping on city property can file legal complaints to force action .
“ The unhoused population in Sacramento has exploded , increasing over 67 percent since 2019 with almost 10,000 people living outdoors ,” says Amanda Blackwood , president and CEO of the Metro Chamber . “ The safety of our community and the future of our economy can no longer allow a status quo response . By passing Measure O in November , Sacramento will lead the nation in taking a results-focused , compassionate and balanced approach to the biggest challenge we currently face .” “ Josh Wood and Region Business have had a major impact on Sacramento ’ s growth and progress over the last 10 years ,” says Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg . “ While we have not always agreed on every issue , I appreciate Josh ’ s unending willingness to try to reach a fair resolution on the most difficult issues . Together we are moving our city , county and region forward .”
Ken Smith is a freelance writer , public relations consultant and video producer who is also managing editor of Sierra Sacramento Valley Medicine magazine . More at kdscommunications . com .
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