Houselessness – The main concern I hear from residents and for very good reason is houselessness and its accompanying effects. It is the number one issue facing Lacey and Olympia residents, and to a lesser degree, Tumwater and Yelm. The current strategy of round them up, move them along, “not my problem”, or incarcerating them has proven ineffective time and again. The problem continues to grow and mount. More affordable housing options, smaller home footprints, and supporting the Regional Housing Council will help to ensure an adequate supply of housing and the creation of generational wealth.
An ignored problem only grows worse with time. We need to address this issue head on! As a community with a civic mindedness, compassion, and thoughtfulness. The houseless are members of our community. Many of whom have suffer significant medical, mental health, or substance abuse problems. Studies by the National Low Income Housing Coalition, National Institute for Health, and Washington State Department of Social and Health Services demonstrate the benefits of that providing housing confers.
