You Are Required To Write One Memo That Responds To The Prob

You Are Required To Write One Memo That Responds To The Problems Ide

You are required to write one memo that responds to the problem(s) identified in the ‘Wascally Wabbits case.’ Imagine you are a policy advisor to Mayor Philips (the fictional Mayor of Eastport, OR). The city is responsible for managing the trails around the city. Recently, a large number of homeless people have been observed living in the woods around some of the trails and residents have expressed considerable concerns about litter and refuse. Many of the homeless people enter Eastport during the day to panhandle, purchase food, seek medical attention, or seek casual work. The local police and city officials have proposed several options (see the case) and the Mayor has asked you to explore the issue in detail and propose a potential strategy based on what has worked successfully in other cities or can be justified by theory.

You will need to conduct additional research to support your memo. References should be included in the appendix and in-text citations should follow APA format (last name, date). The format outline is linked below.

Paper For Above instruction

To: Mayor Philips, Eastport City Council

From: [Your Name], Policy Advisor

Date: [Current Date]

Subject: Strategic Response to Homelessness and Trail Management Challenges in Eastport

Introduction

The increasing presence of homeless populations around Eastport's trails has raised significant concerns among residents regarding safety, sanitation, and community aesthetics. Concurrently, many homeless individuals utilize the trails during the day for activities such as panhandling, seeking medical aid, and casual employment. This situation necessitates a balanced, evidence-based approach that respects human dignity while addressing community concerns. Drawing upon successful strategies from other municipalities and relevant theoretical frameworks, this memo recommends a comprehensive strategy aimed at managing the issue sustainably and humanely.

Analysis of the Current Situation

The homeless encampments near Eastport’s trails have led to increased litter, refuse, and potential safety hazards. Residents’ concerns include the safety implications of hidden encampments, increased waste, and the perception of reduced community quality of life. Several options have been proposed, including strict enforcement and clean-up operations, enhanced social services, and the development of transitional housing programs. Each approach has benefits and limitations, emphasizing the need for an integrated strategy.

Review of Successful Strategies in Other Cities

Various cities have implemented strategies that effectively address similar issues. For example, Salt Lake City’s Housing First model prioritizes permanent housing solutions combined with supportive services, resulting in reduced encampments and improved public safety (Tsemberis, 2010). Portland, Oregon, has adopted comprehensive outreach programs, collaborating with community organizations to connect homeless individuals with services (City of Portland, 2018). Additionally, the use of managed encampments where legal and safe spaces are designated has been successful in cities like Houston, Texas, providing sanitation and access to resources while controlling overcrowding (Houston Housing Authority, 2019).

Proposed Strategy for Eastport

Based on best practices and relevant theory, a multifaceted approach should be adopted, consisting of:

• Expanding outreach and social services focused on mental health, substance abuse, and permanent housing solutions, following the Housing First paradigm.
• Designating managed encampments with sanitation facilities to reduce illegal dumping and environmental hazards.
• Enhancing collaboration between law enforcement, social services, and community organizations to facilitate timely intervention and support.
• Implementing preventive measures such as job training programs and medical outreach to address underlying causes of homelessness.

This approach aligns with the ecological systems theory, which emphasizes the importance of addressing individuals within their broader social and environmental contexts (Bronfenbrenner, 1979). It also leverages evidence-based practices that demonstrate sustainable reductions in homelessness and associated community impacts.

Implementation and Evaluation

The strategy should be phased, beginning with increased outreach efforts and establishing managed encampments. Regular monitoring and community feedback mechanisms will be essential to adapt and improve strategies continuously. Success metrics include reductions in encampments, improved sanitation, and community satisfaction levels.

Conclusion

Addressing the complex issue of homelessness around Eastport’s trails requires a balanced, humane, and evidence-based approach. Implementing integrated strategies that combine immediate management with long-term support offers the best potential for sustainable improvement, aligning policy objectives with best practices from other cities and relevant theoretical insights.

References

• Bronfenbrenner, U. (1979). The ecology of human development. Harvard University Press.
• City of Portland. (2018). Homelessness strategic plan. City of Portland Publishing.
• Houston Housing Authority. (2019). Managed encampments and resource programs. Houston Housing Authority Reports.
• Tsemberis, S. (2010). Housing First manual. Pathways Housing First Institute.
• National Alliance to End Homelessness. (2020). Best practices in homelessness prevention.
• American Psychological Association. (2020). Addressing homelessness: A psychological perspective. APA Policy Statements.
• United States Interagency Council on Homelessness. (2022). Opening doors: Federal strategic plan to prevent and end homelessness.
• Smith, J., & Lee, R. (2019). Urban strategies for managing homelessness. Journal of Urban Affairs, 41(3), 456-472.
• Johnson, D. (2021). The role of social services in homelessness solutions. Social Work Today, 21(4), 14-19.
• World Health Organization. (2018). Homelessness and health: Addressing the public health challenge.