Thank you for taking the time to listen to the concerns of the seniors of our area and being open to the idea of articles focused on bringing awareness to members of our community on the following issues.
1) Encampments of the transients.
2) Health issues being generated by discarded food left by the homeless transients, resulting in infestation of rats. Food provided by Union Gospel Mission and well-meaning religious organizations.
3) Increased and blatant drug use and prostitution.
4) Residents experiencing safety issues as a result of the first three issues.
A community meeting to assist in resolving these issues was held in August at the Terrance, a SHAG property at 6th Yesler Way, this resulting in the following ideas for resolution:
1) Demand greater awareness from police, fire, and medical emergency agencies by calling 911 to report any activity by non-residents of our community, involving homeless transients.
2) Removal of the vegetation from the back areas, which invite the creation of encampments.
3) Invite local businesses and other housing to join forces and request area for an off leash dog park, many residents no longer feel safe walking their dogs.
Also create parking utilizing available areas between Yesler and Jackson above Maynard. (end)
— Cyril A. Hylton, President
Senior Housing Assistance Group