Following years of debate and delay, the city council in Chico moved vigorously on homelessness — approving “Simplicity Village” and launching efforts for a round-the-clock ‘low barrier’ shelter.
The proposed village — a series of simple cabins arranged around group cooking and bathing facilities, was actually approved a month ago, but the conservative majority balked at the proposed location.
With a new liberal majority, it wasn’t as heavy a lift. The proposal, with its on-site manager, tenant selection process and 55 minimum age sailed through with former mayor Sean Morgan the lone opponent.
Concerns varied from taxpayer liability and possible permanence to sex offenders, drug users, pit bulls, criminal activity and lawsuits alleging violation of the Fair Housing Act.
Asked for input, Police Chief Michael O’Brien noted that Chico Housing Action Team, the group that would operate the cabins has been subletting homes to the homeless, with few issues.
“We don’t know, meaning my staff does not know; police department does not know where most of those homes are, which means, that people are not complaining, they are run well, and we’re not having issues there.” O’Brien said.
Councilwoman Ann Schwab attempted to reassure opponents, saying operators have staked their organization’s reputation on the project.
In other homeless-related action, the council voted 5 to one with one abstention to allow city officials to pursue discussions and negotiations aimed at creating a 24-hour so-called, low barrier shelter. Currently, local shelters turn away those who appear under the influence. Such people may cause disturbances or become victimized themselves.
Seed money for the proposal was provided by Walmart. Laura Cootsona, Executive Director of the Jesus Center tried to dispel concerns similar to those raised about the cabins.
“This has to be good, ‘cause if we don’t do this right, there will be no renewal center with a low barrier shelter, but we don’t have the heft in the real estate marketplace today without the city’s help.” Cootsona said.
In another sign of change since the election, the council voted 5-2 to discuss cannabis related businesses at their first meeting in February. Many north state communities have declined to liberalize marijuana rules despite passage of Proposition 64, with Shasta Lake and Dunsmuir exceptions.