From: Eileen Bill
To: Mary Gourley; City Council
Cc: Eileen Bill
Subject: Safe Parking
Date: Monday, January 17, 2022 10:42:31 PM
Dear Members of the Sebastopol City Council:
I was deeply crestfallen when I heard that the SAVS Safe Parking project might be withdrawn. Having helped to monitor a Safe Parking community in Santa Rosa which held up to 20 cars, I know the great value it holds for the participants and the greater community.
Sebastopol now has the opportunity to support around 20 individuals, to have a solution to the parking issue on Morris Street and to give the participants a chance to improve their station in life.
The letter to the editor of the Press Democrat that was written by Gary Bachelor describes the Safe Parking program that he supports at the Community Church on Gravenstein Hwy North. This letter describes his program and states clearly and strongly how beneficial, successful and safe it is.
By providing a safe, secure space for individuals who do not have traditional housing, they are better able to concentrate on moving forward. In such a setting, they won’t be hassled by outsiders but will support each other.
Since this is a pilot program designed to be at the site for about a year, it is a chance to prove to Sonoma County that these programs work very well. Also, since it seems nearly impossible to find a good location for these programs, having this one established is a gift. It has already been charged that each district must have some type of homeless support. Please let this one flourish!
Thank you!
Eileen Bill
Santa Rosa CA 95405