File #: 19-55    Version: 1
Type: Informational Report Status: Filed
In control: City Council
On agenda: 1/28/2019 Final action: 1/28/2019
Title: Food Distributions in Parks. Ward(s): All Wards Councilor(s): All Councilors Neighborhood(s): All Neighborhoods Result Area(s): Safe Community; Welcoming and Livable Community
Attachments: 1. Park Feeding Task Force Work Plan Outline
Related files:

TO:                      Mayor and City Council   

THROUGH:                      Steve Powers, City Manager   

FROM:                      Peter Fernandez, PE, Public Works Director  

                                          

SUBJECT:

title

 

Food Distributions in Parks.    

 

Ward(s): All Wards    

Councilor(s): All Councilors    

Neighborhood(s):  All Neighborhoods    

Result Area(s): Safe Community; Welcoming and Livable Community  

end

 

ISSUE:

 

Provide the work plan for addressing food and sundry distributions in parks.    

 

 

RECOMMENDATION:

recommendation

 

For information only at this time.  

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SUMMARY:

 

At the January 14, 2019, meeting, Council requested an update on the status of allowing food and sundry distributions at Marion Square Park. Staff has prepared the attached work plan to engage stakeholders in a process of understanding the needs of the distributors, and issues and impacts associated with this activity. Staff intends to complete the work plan items within 60 days.

 

 

FACTS AND FINDINGS:

 

None.   

 

BACKGROUND:

 

The distribution of food and sundries at Marion Square Park has been going on for a number of years.  The area under the Marion Street Bridge adjacent to Marion Square Park has been a focal point for distributions since 2015. The distributions have created significant litter and property damage at the park. In November 2018, the City cleaned and  sanitized the area under the Marion Street Bridge and provided trash receptacles and picnic tables. The intent was to continue to allow distributions but in a limited, designated area, with proper facilities. Over time the area was overrun with urban camping. On January 15, 2019, the area was cleaned out and posted no trespassing. Sixteen dump truck loads of garbage were removed as a result of the clean up. Additionally, all food and sundry distribution permits were cancelled until further notice.  

                     

 

Attachment:

1. Work Plan Outline for the Food and Sundries Distribution to the Homeless Community Task Force