Updated homeless ordinance in El Centro draws community response
Adrik Vargas
EL CENTRO, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) – The City of El Centro has changed a local ordinance, giving police the ability to charge people with a misdemeanor if they refuse services like rehab or mental health support.
City officials say the goal is to reduce public nuisance issues, not to criminalize homelessness.
“Where would they go? If they have a place to take them then that would be awesome to do that, it would force some people to get assistance,” said local resident Jose Rodriguez.
But some community members are concerned the change could do more harm than good.
“I think that charging them with a misdemeanor for refusing services is just gonna further their challenges, like trying to get jobs,” said Valerie Sanchez, another local resident.
Others believe more investment in services would be a better solution.
“I think as long as we continue to offer support and put funding into mental health resources and our Veterans, that might be better for all of us,” said Gannon Strong, another local resident.
Another concerned local, Miriam Silva, added, “I think it’d be better to incentivize them than punish them.”
City officials say support services will continue to be offered, and this ordinance is just one tool to address ongoing issues.