Why neighbors are suing the City of Phoenix over a homeless encampment

A group of 15 neighbors with homes and businesses in an area of downtown Phoenix are suing the city over a large homeless encampment, which easily has over 1,000 homeless people living in the Arizona heat.Show more

I spoke to multiple plaintiffs in the lawsuit who say some of the homeless people suffer from serious mental health conditions and addiction. Their businesses have been vandalized, urinated on, and in some cases, irreparably damaged. There are major safety concerns, with crime happening in broad daylight.

But here's the interesting part - while they're suing, they aren't seeking damages. This isn't about money. This about trying to force the City of Phoenix to take responsibility and implement overdue solutions.

The city told me, "While we can’t speak on the specifics of pending litigation, the City of Phoenix is committed to addressing the needs of all residents and property owners as we work with local and regional partners to address the complex issues surrounding those experiencing homelessness. The City developed Strategies to Address Homelessness and in the last fiscal year, dedicated nearly $50 million dollars on solutions including shelters, increased affordable housing and mental health services."

Phoenix homeless resources: https://www.phoenix.gov/phxcares

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