In November 2022 Measure O passed. It was designed to form a solid partnership between City and County to create a clear process for helping those in need on the streets into shelter and services.
A majority of businesses and neighbors passed this measure. To see more details from the Sacramento City Chamber: https://metrochamber.org/news/measure-o-what-is-it-and-what-can-we-expect#:~
As of June 21, 2023 Measure O went into effect. People in favor of the ordinance said it will help connect unhoused people with services and move them into shelters. It will also support safer, cleaner public spaces like business corridors, parks and neighborhood walkways.
The city recently launched a new app for citizens to call and request assistance for homeless camps in public space. Unfortunately, the frustration continues as the app does not currently provide the results citizens were promised. Here is a June 2023 news story on the effectiveness of the new app: https://www.abc10.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/to-the-point/sacramento-measure-o-system/103-26c9130c-f47c-4d17-b281-0eafd92fe327
A discussion around Measure O happened at a Sacramento City Council 12pm special meeting on Tuesday, June 27th. Tim Lutz, Director of Health Services for Sacramento County spoke (1:32) about how the county’s HOT team (Homeless Outreach Team) works with the city’s DCR (Department of Community Response) to help move the homeless to services.
Mr. Lutz reported there is no wait list for substance abuse treatment and there are open spots as of this report. To review the full video https://sacramento.granicus.com/player/clip/5618?view_id=22&meta_id=738134&redirect=true&h=e97fd01374b1f819b7d83f88ce36b83c
Here is a recent news report about the process the HOT team goes through to help educate and support shelter-resistant people to accepting services: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLLEeRZvK1Q
At this meeting, our District 7 City Council representative, Rick Jennings proposed some ideas to help the city move forward and fulfill it’s part of the obligation regarding how to create a successful process around Measure O. Per the City Manager, the city has fulfilled its financial obligation for this measure. It has yet to complete it’s obligation around a City/County partnership process to successfully help people.
Why did the LPCA write a letter?
Measure O was passed by the voters, including Land Park neighbors and business owners. Like other neighborhoods, Land Park has seen an uptick in camping and drug use around the park and businesses. Children going to and from school are experiencing safety issues. The Broadway corridor is considered an unsafe environment for several neighbors and local businesses are struggling because of this.
Frankly, we’d like to see more outdoor cafes and local businesses along Broadway instead of several shuttered buildings!
Part of the LPCA mission statement is to advocate for a quality of life for all. We believe Sacramento has an abundance of resources to help those in need. We also believe public safety is key to a better life for Sacramento citizens in all neighborhoods, of all income levels. To view our letter to the city of Sacramento on Measure O: Measure O city_county ltr 2023.06.27
LETTERS FROM SACRAMENTO JUDGE AND DISTRICT ATTORNEY ABOUT MEASURE O COMPLIANCE
The lack of compliance around Measure O also impacts victims and their families seeking justice at the downtown courthouse. Here are two recent letters for June 29th and 30th describing the issues and request for compliance.
29 JUN 2023 Letter to Mayor Steinberg
DA Request for Consistent Enforcement of City Code and Ordinance Violations