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
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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