HomeMy WebLinkAbout11222011 HOMELESS DONATION METERS PRESENTATION“Power of Change”
Pilot Funding Program to Address
Behavior and Homelessness
City Council Briefing
November 22, 2011
Mike Eason-Resort Management Office
Jim Davis-Chairman, Oceanfront Enhancement Committee
Background
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On August 10, 2010 the RAC Oceanfront Enhancement Committee
and City Staff briefed City Council on a proposal to install 8 donation
meters along the boardwalk to address aggressive panhandling and
provide an alternative method of collecting funds normally given
directly to panhandlers
OEC Problem Statement:
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“The quality of life and visitor experience at the oceanfront is
being negatively impacted by behavior of certain people who
may be experiencing homelessness.”
The following behaviors were the focus of concern:
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Aggressive and abusive actions against resident, tourist and businesses
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Panhandling
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Drunk and disorderly behavior in public
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Sleeping on public and private property
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Urinating in public places
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Belongings left unattended in parks and other places
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Background
Process to Utilize Funds and Implement Actions:
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Establish advisory committee comprised of resort stakeholders
from faith organizations, non profits, city agencies and homeless
persons
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Establish goals and objectives aligned with the OEC’s goals
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Identify actions or initiatives to achieve the goals
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Direct funds collected thru the meter donation program to
appropriate organization to implement
Evaluate and Report Back:
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Review progress with feedback from RAC and OEC
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Report back to Council after a year with recommendations
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Meters were installed in September 2010
Pilot Program Results
Revenue Collected -$5000 Sponsorship
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$2032 Meter Donations
Resort church conducted fund raising project to
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feed the meters
Significant reduction in panhandling observed by
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merchants in the 17St area
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Reduction in panhandling summons from 9 in 2010
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to 3 in 2011
City staff received requests from 3 cities
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requesting program information
Public Reaction
Numerous television reports and print articles written on meter
donation program. WVEC news clip:
Recommendations
Extend program for 2 years
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Maintain the existing 8 boardwalk meters ( move to
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new locations if necessary)
Add an additional 8 meters if necessary to address
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similar issues outside the resort area
Develop initiatives for churches, city school service
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clubs and other organizations to support meter
donation program
“Power of Change”
Pilot Funding Program to Address Behavior
and Homelessness
Questions?