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Overcrowding has led to a rise in unsafe conditions, with some residents witnessing the development of more permanent structures—like two-story wooden tents—that pose fire hazards. Conflicts have occasionally erupted, and residents seeking peaceful recreation find their access restricted or obscured by the encampments.
The City’s Approach and Its Complexities
The city's approach involves giving advance notice before clearing encampments, sometimes over a month in advance, as was the case with the Legions Park incident on September 10. Despite efforts to connect people with shelter beds during these operations, many remain hesitant to enter shelters due to fears of theft, exposure to pests like bedbugs, and concerns over personal safety.