From:
To: Mary Gourley
Subject: Public Comment on Agenda Item 4 - Emergency Declaration Incomplete? Date: Saturday, November 18, 2023 8:42:06 PM
I continue to oppose the Emergency Declaration but feel as if there are three solid votes that will not be changed by any argument.
Given that it is not supporting the ballot measure but would be used by the Vice Mayor to seek contacts with those in higher political offices in the County and the State or to seek grant funding, it should at least list the items that is more likely to be funded or areas where significant grant money exist.
Suggest:
WHEREAS, the County using state funds purchased the Sebastopol Inn to create homeless housing facility named Elderberry Commons. Removing Sebastopol's only downtown hotel reduced annual TOT revenues by approximately $200,000 contributing significantly to Sebastopol's current budget emergency.
WHEREAS, like other cities Sebastopol faces a growing problem with the Homeless.
According to the latest Homeless Census we have three times the number of homeless per permanent resident as any other city in the county. Nearly half are reported to be sleeping outdoors. Daily patrols identify individuals who have spent the night on the steps of our library, city hall, senior center and local parks. The burden of providing police, medical services and cleaning up after nightly homeless encampments places burden on our already stretched budget. .Lee