Homelessness Around the United States

V-N-C Ventura News-Commenter

Latest Articles

Dispel the Myth

Promote Truth & Human Dignity
May 15, 2013

Ventura County Local Politics

Flash Fiction You Can Use

The rear courtroom door opened as two figures stood in the doorway. One was at least a head taller than the other and seemed to be covered in some sort of poncho affair that extended clear to the floor. It was the face, however, that caused gasps and mothers to draw their children near. The second person could only be described as an old and grossly unkempt woman having the most grotesque physical characteristics, along with steel gray hair that seemed possessed of electrostatic charges somehow capable of propelling individual strands away from her scalp.

A City Obsessed

Ventura County Local Politics
April 16, 2013 ... As 10-Year Homelessness
Plan Recalibrates

Come Christmas or High Water, the stancheons at Mission Plaza are going to carry the same banner – “Say NO to panhandlers” and of course YES to charities. Interestingly enough, the one charity that actually is helping the greatest number of homeless people isn't even included in the short list of advertised organizations and their phone numbers.

Please, Please! No More Pictures

Ventura County Local Politics
April 9, 2013

April Meeting of VSSTF Ejects V-N-C

Catholic Charities, Family to Family
Ventura, California

Imagine the chagrin of kings, emperors and despots when Johannes Gutenberg's 15th Century movable type printing press was unveiled. Noble hearts must have frozen for a moment or two in the wake of the news. “See, I told you this would happen,” some must have said. “It won't be long before half the population will be learning to read.”

VTA Council Meeting, March 12, 2012

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

Council Member Jim Monahan asked that the meeting be closed in memory of Martha Reilander who passed away while living in the river bottom as a member of the homeless community. V-N-C would also like to acknowledge the passing of another homeless person -- Kevin Gudzunas, 11/18/1971 to 3/6/2012 -- for whom a memorial service was held on March 16, 2012, at the Harbor Community Church, 3100 Preble Avenue, Ventura. We hope to see both of these individuals remembered at the Homeless Persons' Memorial, now becoming a fixture in the community during (or near) the third week in December at the gazebo in Plaza Park.

[...]

VTA Council Meeting, March 5, 2012

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

Teresa Glover said that the Kellogg property is up for sale at $1.1 million. Re-zoning will take place on the Avenue and rumors are out that developers are planning to build residential units on that property. The speaker said there are not amenities and shopping sufficient for the population that exists, let alone new residential development. Moreover, the Avenue area of Ventura represents the true heritage of the city, with the speaker expressing unequivocal displeasure with the city's robust plans to "turn the Westside into something that it's not."

Principal Michael Tapia of Montalvo Elementary School chose 5th grade student Kevin Jimenez as this month's winner inVentura Unified School District's ongoing Character Development Program for his essay on the topic of kindness. Mr. and Mrs. Luis Jimenez with teacher Debbie Gaz along with Mr. Tapia were on hand to lend their support to the young essayist. [...]

VTA Council Meeting, February 27, 2012

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

Council Member Carl Morehouse said that the protocols in use today governing public speaking before Council have been in effect since 1994, but found himself in agreement with the idea that there are ad hoc groups that form rapidly just before Council meetings only to scheme their way into time extensions. This, according to Mayor Tracy, violates the original intent of the speaking protocols, while Mr. Morehouse suggested that constituents have ample time to speak to their elected officials when seen in public. Public communications before Council should not be a place for people to show up and “grandstand” before the cameras, according to Mr. Morehouse, and should not be used as a public soapbox.

VTA Council Meeting, February 13, 2012

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

Fifth grade student Sienna Long from the Sunset Elementary School presented her winning essay on the subject of cooperation. Principal Kelsey Simms and teacher Jennifer Bundy were on hand to support the young fifth grader upon her having submitted the winning composition in Ventura Unified School District’s Character Development Program, culminating in City Council's own "Mayor for a Moment" approbation ceremony.

The State of the City, 2012

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

VTA Council Meeting, February 6, 2012

"We could speak at length about things have changed in the city over the last 50 years," said Mayor Tracy after a few opening remarks, "but some of the luster associated with being the county seat during the boom years of Southern California has faded." The mayor, a lifelong Venturan, went on to say that in his earliest days back in the mid '70s with the Ventura Police Department, Ventura was one of the safest cities in the county, but that this is no longer the case.

The Bring America Home Act

Bring America Home - February 4, 2012

The National Coalition for the Homeless – Co-sponsor, U.S. Congress

The Bring America Home Act (BAHA, H.R. 4347 in the 109th Congress) is a legislative proposal of the National Coalition for the Homeless. U.S. Representative Julia Carson (D-IN) was strengthening the bill when she passed away in late 2007. NCH is now preparing the bill for re-introduction in the 111th Congress.

BAHA seeks to end homelessness in the United States. The proposed legislation includes security provisions for housing, economics, health and civil rights, representing the most comprehensive initiative to date to address modern homelessness. Sign up for the fight by clicking "logo" or "more" (also available on the main menu).

The 100% Summit – A Tale of Two Counties

Symposium and Workshop
January 27, 2012

"Bridging the Widening Gaps in Ventura County"

The Social Justice Fund, Co-sponsor
United Methodist Church
Camarillo, California

Four speakers were slated along with Emcee and Steering Committee Chairman Doug Green who got the ball rolling by elaborating on the title selection, “The 100% Solution – A Tale of Two Counties.”

VTA Council Meeting, January 23, 2012

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

Councilman Neal Andrews reported from his position on the State Policy Committee on Employee Relations that discussions at the January meeting did not go far enough in moving toward defined contribution as the preferred method for funding public pensions, and also that the "restructuring" of retirement benefits for current public employees remains a top priority.

Council Member Jim Monahan noted that Saturday, March 17th is the date for the St. Patrick’s Day parade, with planning well in hand. A dozen applications have been received thus far. To join in the parade, which will start at the San Buenaventura Mission 10:00 a.m., contact the councilman at City Hall or at #430-1356. A two-mile run sponsored by Jeff Spiker will precede the parade.

VTA Council Meeting, January 9, 2012

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

Fifth grade student Wyatt Meckelborg from the Juana Maria Elementary School presented his winning essay on the subject of punctuality. Principal Gina Walowicz and teacher Mr. Anderson were on hand to support the young fifth grader upon his having submitted the winning composition in Ventura Unified School District’s Character Development Program, culminating in City Council's own "Mayor for a Moment" approbation ceremony.

VTA Council Meeting, December 12, 2011

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

Awards were presented before Council to winners of the 8th Annual City Photography Contest, sponsored by Parks, Recreation and Community Partnerships Departments. Winners were Tracy Lee, Robert Garvin, Michael Kims, Jim Sully, John Ferrito, John Osumi, John Witt, Jack Keogh, Kathleen Goode and Bethany Thankhauser.

VTA Council Meeting, December 5, 2011

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

Ventura's City Council voted Council Member Mike Tracy in as the new Mayor of Ventura. Voted in as Deputy Mayor was Cheryl Heitmann.

Mayor for a Moment – Fifth-grade student essayists participated in this month’s VUSD writing contest, submitting entries on the topic of Courtesy. Citrus Glen Elementary School Principal Patricia Kingsley selected Madeleine Osborne as the winner.

One City - One Meal 2011

Ventura Co. Local News - November 24, 2011

The Fourth Annual Thanksgiving dinner held surprises not only for the scope of the event, but also for its elegance. White tablecloths with a metallic banderole through the center graced a seating area for 600 people, all able to be served simultaneously by a virtual “army” of wait-persons. The Ventura County Fairgrounds hosted the most successful "One City, One Meal" to date -- 1000 (or more) happy Thanksgiving campers arrived to kick off the winter holiday season with a real bang.

The Salvation Army spearheaded the event this year along with major assistance from the Rotary Club of Ventura. [...]

VTA Council Meeting, November 14, 2011

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

Library Strategic Plan – Jackie Griffin from Ventura County Library Services spoke offering perspectives. "Ventura County Library is pleased to be part of the process," said Ms. Griffin. It was claimed that a great amount service is being provided county residents vis-à-vis the amount of money that has been invested. In terms of the Eastside, conversations have been centering on the Saticoy area where services are dispensed out of a double wide trailer. A shopping center at Darling and Wells may see the opening of a retail center, which could support a library facility.

Mayor for a Moment – Fifth-grade student essayists from Will Rogers Elementary School participated in this month’s VUSD writing contest, submitting entries on the topic of Sportsmanship. School Principal Patricia Shore selected Nick Coronado as the winner who, when called to come forward, strode confidently toward the dais.

VTA Council Meeting, October 24, 2011

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

Council had previously instructed the staff to come back with specific recommendations for funding the third year commitment to carrying over the Fire Station No. 4 operating costs covered in the first two years under SAFER Grant funding. Council’s first hearing on the issue had determined that $1.2 million divided into three $400,000 segments plus additional revenue and savings measures in other parts of the budget could fund the contract obligation through an additional $1.2 million. The city manager said that as we spoke two weeks ago, the “options have severely narrowed.”.

LATE UPDATE: 0300/11/9/2011 ~ Two incumbents are back in City Hall. Station KEYT is reporting that Carl Morehouse and Christy Weir have been returned to their seats on the Ventura City Council, joined by a newcomer – Cheryl Heitmann. According to reports, Heitmann was the top vote getter with the incumbents following in the #2 and #3 positions (order not specified). Swearing in will occur on December the 5th whereupon council members will determine who among them will replace Bill Fulton as mayor for the next term. Voter turnout was reported as just over 22%.

VTA Council Meeting, October 17, 2011

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

Mayor for a Moment – The monthly segment where a VUSD fifth grader is selected to occupy the Mayoral Seat within Council Chambers and asked to read aloud his or her winning essay. Winner for this month, chosen by Principal Wes Wade, was Poinsettia Elementary School student Mason King for his essay on the topic of Self Control. Parents Everett and Shelly King were present, along with teacher Lisa Hardwell, to witness the presentation.

VTA Council Meeting, October 10, 2011

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

Fire Chief Kevin Rennie likened the city's latest grant acquisition to something like hitting the lottery. The SAFER Grant (Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response) has awarded the city – thanks to the proactive effort on the part of Chief Rennie and his staff – the entire amount requested, $2.4 million for two years with the city’s commitment to fund a third-year. This award funds the reopening of Fire Station #4. The facts in the case proved to be an outrageously compelling story to the grant reviewers. They found that Ventura Fire is providing service in 2011 with 1974 staffing levels [1974; 63 personnel; 2000 calls; 50,000 population] vs. [2010; 63 personnel; 11,500 calls; 100,000 population] and yet incredibly enough, it remains to be seen whether or not this City Council will accept.

VTA Council Meeting, September 26, 2011

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

On June 28 2011, Governor Brown signed into law AB 1X 26 (“Dissolution Act”) and the companion AB 1X 27 (“Voluntary Alternative Redevelopment Program”). Then on July 18th 2011, the League of Cities and California Redevelopment Association filed suit in California Supreme Court challenging the constitutionality of the bills. Before the council was the Remittance Agreement, only part of a much more complex item considering the California Supreme Court case which is pending. The law does allow the city to use its low income redevelopment funds to make those payments to the state, and with the city’s funds not being sufficient, a set of findings must be approved to show why those funds are not sufficient.

A Homelessness Manifesto

Confronting the "10-Year Plan" Illusion
July 28, 2011

F. William Bracy

Incl. Homelessness and Public
Policy - How the Extreme Conservative Right
Misinterprets Freedom

It's all about people. . .millions of them, now reaching into the billions. What are we going to do with them all? Will there be enough food and water? Who will live and who will die? Is prayer the answer? These are big questions, but are they the questions the vast majority of us care about? What we're about to do here is feed the faith-based community a little of its own medicine. How? It begins with what you have already recognized as Matthew 25:40.

LATEST UPDATE: 8/23/2011 – A homeless couple with 7 years of domestic partnership behind them remains on the street after being refused residency at the Kingdom Center. The justification for the faith-based organization's decision: A certain degree of insufficiency in the Holy Matrimony department – in other words, they're unmarried.

LATER-er UPDATE: 9/1/2011 – After hanging around the Harbor Community Church for about a month just in order to be assured of receiving his monthy check on time, Homey comes forward “without prejudice,” informing us of a rigorous day-center schedule that is far more relaxed for staff members than for the homeless guest, as though homeless people wouldn't really mind missing receipt of their checks by a day or two.

VTA Council Meeting, July 18, 2011

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

The focus of the meeting was on the first reading of the "Granny Flat" Amnesty Ordinance, and the second reading of the Building Records Disclosure Ordinance, which was to be the final reading of that ordinance, and with Council being given the opportunity to vote on the associated user fees.

VTA Council Meeting, July 11, 2011

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

Safety Enhancements: U.P.R.R. /Hwy 101 R.R. Trestle - Rebecca Mendoza, Ass’t City Attorney, stated that issues have been discussed with respect to the so-called "NuGard" graffiti deterrent devices. The railroad may choose to remove the shields for reasons of maintenance or inspection, resulting in a $40,000 cost liability to the city. Another issue of concern would be indemnification of the railroad even at their negligence. The city would be required to concede to the power of federal law over local ordinances regarding graffiti, absolving the railroad of responsibility for cleaning or graffiti removal on a permanent basis.

The mayor asked whether or not we were somehow contracting away the police power. Mr. Cole replied that in correspondence with the railroad it has been determined that some amount of flexibility remains when it comes to the police power issue

VTA Council Meeting, June 20, 2011

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

Second Unit Amnesty Ordinance w/Code Enforcement Lien and User Fees Resolutions ~ Andrew Stuffler, Chief Building Official, was invited forward for the staff report, introducing Sue Taylor, Code Enforcement Supervisor, and Jeff Lambert, Community Development Director, returning to City Council upon request from the May 9 meeting. The resolution for the amnesty fees, however, was not up for formal action by the council. This will come back on July 11 if that is to be the direction delivered by council members.

Quasi-Judicial Procedure and Public Hearing – Permit Application for a senior living facility located at 4010 Telegraph Road and 4001 Ivy Street. Deputy Mayor Tracy thought that something was being made to happen on two properties that cannot really be done while forwarding a motion to approve the appeal and deny the project.

VTA Council Meeting, June 13, 2011

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

Formal Item – The Parking Meter Removal Petition. Elaine of Staff said that on May 18 the city clerk received 400 signatures collected from valid, qualified voters, declared to make the petition significant and sufficient for a November election. With Council's approval along with a certificate of sufficiency, Staff is to agendize the item and resubmit to Council on July 11, 2011.

Jeff Smith, Chair of the Downtown Parking Advisory Committee said that parking management downtown is working. People are willing to pay a small amount to go to a store or a restaurant. These are also better customers. A full-time dedicated police officer and free Wi-Fi downtown provides full support with an additional revenue stream being made available for better lighting and cleanliness. Council was urged to recommend a comprehensive impact report to be prepared by Staff.

VTA Council Meeting, June 6, 2011

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

The first City Council Public Hearing on the new Urban Water Management Plan was unveiled as Water Department Director Shana Epstein opened the presentation. Susan Rungren, Principal Engineer Ventura Water, said that there has been a decline in Ventura River water due to environmental issues as well as drought conditions and this means working with others.

Public speaker Dan Cormode said that many issues remain. Number one – we don't know how stable our water supply is. The aquifer and the water service accounts do not address the change in residential development with 73% of development being multifamily. The population projected increases are inconsistent with the 2005 General Plan. Projected per capita usage is inconsistent with the 2005 General Plan, and the Saticoy Yard capacity is inconsistent with the General Plan

VTA Council Meeting, May 16, 2011

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

Solo Item: The meeting's focus was on California's Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS) contract amendment provisions, allowing Council and Staff to proceed with an assortment of labor contracts including Police, Police Management, SEIU units (4) and all benefits resolutions covering the other unrepresented members and employees.

Human Resources Director Jenny Roney along with Kerry Worgan, the CalPERS Actuary assigned to the City of Ventura pension account, were available discuss recommendations and to answer Council questions.

Urban Growth Management and Ecological Sustainability

Confronting the "Smart Growth" Fallacy

Gabor Zovanyi

Professor of Urban and Regional Planning
Graduate Program Advisor
Eastern Washington University

Growth management and Smart Growth initiatives in the United States represent an ongoing process of growth accommodation. Because growth by definition constitutes unsustainable behavior in that it is incapable of being continued or maintained indefinitely, ongoing growth accommodation must be recognized as activity incongruous with advancing the goal of ecological sustainability.

VTA Council Meeting, May 9, 2011

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

The meeting's focus was on the Second Dwelling Unit Amnesty and Legalization Ordinance. One public speaker said that her property was inherited through family members. The granny flat on the property has meant the possibility of losing the home through noncompliance and with family members who are ill with cancer it makes the situation untenable. The speaker was emotional in speaking of the family problems and was really not able to continue – helped along by a second speaker who stepped in to say that they will be charged $400 per day if the houses cannot be brought into compliance.

City Attorney Ariel Calonne said that the sunset date of June 30, 2013 for the amnesty program was not to be inflexible but that a firm closing date needs to be six months after Council's directed date of December 31, 2012, with this six month period being the normal life of a permit.

VTA Council Meeting, May 2, 2011

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

Council Member Carl Morehouse spoke on a subject that was said to be budget related, but that involved the city’s caseload situation – specifically, a lawsuit that may hit the city in terms of water. City Attorney Ariel Calonne responded saying that the council as well as the public needs to be aware of certain facts. The city was sued by a group called Wishtoyo Foundation, Ventura CoastKeeper under citizen enforcement sections of the Clean Water Act. The city's operation wastewater treatment is in violation of state and federal law, according to the plaintiff.

The suit’s objective is to move the city’s wastewater operations out of the Santa Clara River estuary and enhance management of the effluent to include higher reclaimed water production. These projects will have dramatic import on costs and rates which may be called for in the creation of those projects. In the wastewater fund significant rate impacts may come about, according to Mr. Calonne.
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VTA Council Meeting, April 19, 2011

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

Buzz Bonsall, owner of approximately 6,500 acres of land in the Upper Ventura Avenue/La Cañada Larga Valley area, stated that while consultants have affirmed the highest net positive fiscal impact for the City of Ventura on the incorporation of La Cañada Larga Valley and the Upper Avenue ~ besides affirming that an estate tract of large homes would attract business activity ~ in addition to the fact that the valley area is within 5 minutes of downtown ~ that despite all these findings, the property owner recommended that Council proceed with the Westside Project Area Base Plan and return to La Cañada Larga as a separate adgendized item in the future, wishing not to in any way sabotage the development effort currently under consideration.

VTA Council Meeting, April 11, 2011

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

City Council and Staff deliberated trade-offs inherent in considering approval of a Solar Power Purchase (SPP) program for City Hall. The proposal is based on a 20-year lease – extendable after 20 years – which is an agreement to purchase electricity from the system just as currently purchased from Cal-Ed. Project Benefits, described as: (1) Reduced cost for electricity, $20,000 in year 1 alone – (2) Establishes known rates for 20 years – (3) Creates jobs, 25 minimum – (4) Promotes environmental sustainability/public education – (4.1) Supports the renewable energy industry – (4.2) 210 metric tons reduction in carbon emissions – (4.3) Cooler parking lot.

The city has a two-tier design goal to reduce electrical usage by 2% per year, with the proposed installation expected to reduce consumption in all city buildings by 17% beginning immediately.

VTA Council Meeting, April 4, 2011

Ventura City Hall - 501 Poli Street

The General Fund Fiscal Year 2011-2012 Budget Revenue Workshop. Jay Panzika reported on a workshop on revenue options for next year's budget. A month ago [ March 7, 2011 ] a budget workshop was brought to the council with the request to bring forward additional items to close the budget revenue gap. At that meeting it was revealed that the current budget shortfall is still considered significant at $420,000.

Some of what is now being considered ~ New Taxes or Fees Requiring Voter Approval, showing: (1) Increase rates of lighting district – (1.1) To fund current $420,000 shortfall – (2) Create a Real Property Transfer tax (3) Increase sales tax. Additionally ~ New Fees, showing: (1) Annual Alarm Registration fee – (2) Admissions Tax – (3) Crash Tax – (4) Mortgage Foreclosure tax. Other Potential ~ Business, showing: (1) Greater Yield from Existing Resources – (1.1) Fund an effort to enforce business license compliance – (1.2) Audit TOT (Transient Occupancy Tax) compliance – (1.3) Step up enforcement of existing licensing laws.

Fixing Cal's Collapsing Hospital Corridor

Ventura Co. Local News - December 23, 2010

Bracing for a Seismic Shift in Health Care

Anyone who has asked the question recently, “What’s the state of health care in America?” is almost sure to have been fed the answer, “You know, you just raised a very complex issue.” [Translation, “Sorry son, but you’re about to be hogwashed].”

But As Community Memorial Hospital rebuilds itself into a new, ultramodern medical arts complex, there are also complex questions. It’s nice, it’s new … but is our health care system as vulnerable to collapse as are 417 hospital structures along a North-South corridor that stretches from the San Diego/San Francisco coastline, then Eastward through parts of the great Central Valley? ...

"Achieving Our Vision" – Is it a Mirage?

Ventura Co. Local Politics - December 14, 2010

Op-ed on the Goals of Leadership in Our City.

It would take a good deal of imagination to think that everyone's vision for the future – for prosperity … for growth … for opportunity – could somehow be brought into perfect alignment over a phrase like “Achieving Our Vision.” The first question out of anyone's mouth should be, “Whose vision?” We think that there are not many Venturans who understand what this vision is supposed to represent [...]

One City -- One Meal 2010

Ventura Co. Local News - November 28, 2010

Presenting a video diary of "One City -- One Meal," Ventura's Third Annual Thanksgiving day extravangaza of food, fun and friendship among the homeless.

Anyone who may have been expecting a festival atmosphere, certainly wasn't disappointed. The band was kickin', the food was great and multicolored balloons were tethered to almost every child. It was Ventura's 2010 (and Third Annual) One City – One Meal Thanksgiving day extravaganza living up to – and surpassing – all expectations. [...]

The Diary of a Compleat Panhandler

Ventura Co. Local Politics - November 27, 2010

An Op-ed on the Still-Missing American Rose Garden.

There will always be those among us who feel – due to lack of in-situ experience – that they are more enlightened on the subject of homelessness than they really are. Some even end up in positions of power and decision-making, bringing with them a kind of class warfare mentality that does nothing to ease the situation, but in fact has just the opposite effect.

Furthermore, one cannot travel anywhere in the world without encountering the poor, the downtrodden ... the panhandler. As we write this the U.S. economy is losing ground at an ever-faster rate to the economies of China and India [...]

Prop.19's Legal Pot – A Zero-Sum Game

Ventura Co. Local Politics - October 6, 2010

How Marijuana Won't Save California's Economy.

Last week I picked up a newspaper that was lying about in public laundromat, and showed a particular headline to a rather bored-looking couple – the room's only other occupants – who easily could have passed for high school students.

The headline was part of a feature story titled, “How Marijuana Can Save the Economy.” As I held it up for them to read, I asked the question, “Do you think this is true?” They answered in unison,“absolutely!” [...]

Prop. 23's Obstructionist Roots--Koch Industries

International News Source - September 25, 2010

Poll Shows a Dead Heat Among California Voters

A recent Los Angeles Times article (http://www.latimes.com) floated the following headline: “Proposition 23 Poll Shows a Dead Heat Among California Voters.” Fact is. . .you can obtain the same 50-50 result by flipping a coin, and yet this is hardly a coin-toss issue. In other words, doesn't hard evidence count for anything? What's happening here?

The Times goes on to say that “California voters [...] remain closely divided on a November ballot measure that would suspend the state's global warming statute,” referring to California's Global Warming Law passed in 2006 [AB 32] which was aimed at slashing greenhouse gas emissions by power plants, factories and vehicles [...]

10 U.S. Industries That May Never Recover

International News Source - September 15, 2010

Jobs That May Never Come Back.

Most folks want other peoples' government to be smaller – not theirs. Well, they'd better be mindful of what they wish for. Like it or not, smaller government is coming to a town near them.

Oh, I forgot – they tend to think first of a smaller Washingtonian government, no doubt. If that means thinking that Social Security should be slashed, for example, wait 'till they see what state officials do with CalPERS, where municipal workers are prohibited from participating in the redundant federal program to begin with.

Float Like a Butterfly

Ventura Co. Local Politics - September 9, 2010

Op-ed on the Rope-A-Dope Neocapitalist Plutocracy

Just when you thought you'd made a full recovery from the Bush Administration's era of sports metaphoria – well, not so fast.

Recovery experts will tell you that you must learn to face your demons, so for those who have forgotten what difficult days those were, think back on a classic from a member of G.W's diplomacy team, Christopher Hill, who said upon emerging from a nukular summit with North Korean officials in Beijing: “. . .it's always like 3 yards, 3 yards, 3 yards. And then it's always 4th and 1, and you make a first down and do 3 more yards.”

If there were boxing metaphors, I don't remember them. The real beauty behind Ali's rope-a-dope strategy, however, is the fact that just like his opponents, the “dope” always believed he was winning...

"Project 50" Helps L.A.'s Homeless

International News Source - September 3, 2010

Innovative ways to help L.A.’s homeless

In 2007 Los Angeles County started up a new program with the goal of taking a different look and a different approach to the persistent problem of chronic homelessness in Southern California. The program was “Project 50,” which would identify the 50 most vulnerable and needy members of L.A.’s homeless population through a series of extensive surveys on the streets. The 50 have been identified, reviewed and provided with housing, services and support—but has it helped to keep them off the streets and brought stability back into their lives?

Embattled Public Pension Funds

International News Source - August 13, 2010

In the Wake of Scandals, How Will CalPERS Fare?

There’s a class war coming to the world of government pensions.

The haves are retirees who were once state or municipal workers. Their seemingly guaranteed and ever-escalating monthly pension benefits are breaking budgets nationwide.

The have-nots are taxpayers who don’t have generous pensions. Their 401(k)s or individual retirement accounts have taken a real beating in recent years and are not guaranteed. And soon, many of those people will be paying higher taxes or getting fewer state services...

VTA Community Calendar 07/2010

Ventura Co. Local News - July 1, 2010

Circus Vargas - July 01, 2010 - July 05, 2010 - Recurring daily.

America's Favorite Big Top Circus is returning to Ventura! Fun family entertainment, starring performers from all over the world, working together under a beautiful striped Big Top in a spectacular extravaganza! Breathtaking Roman Rings, sensational trampoline, brilliant aerial ballet, astounding Olympic high bars, an incredible contortionist, beguiling dogs & cats, Ringmaster and Snake Whisperer Ted McRae ...

"Libertarians" by Robert Slayton,
HuffPost Contributor

International News Source - June 25, 2010

When I first got to Orange County, Libertarians were like Martians to me: strange, exotic creatures, and I'd never actually known one.

But living in the OC broadens your horizons, and I am now acquainted with several of this rare species. Like the rest of humanity, some are despicable, and some are generous and honorable. When I became disabled, for example, one of the most caring of my colleagues is a Libertarian. I am grateful to him.

But I wouldn't vote for him, nor would I cast a ballot for Rand Paul....

It Takes a (Village) Team

Ventura Co. Local Politics - June 10, 2010

There are those who fight to make a city work and function properly … those who would make it work for all, not just a few. And yet as basic as this might seem there’s also a catch. It takes teamwork, and when a team is put in place two things have to happen—team leadership must show direction, and team membership must be willing to follow...

VTA Community Calendar 06/2010

Ventura Co. Local News - June 1, 2010

Beach Cleanup Saturday, June 5th, 2010 ~ Volunteers are needed to clean up one of our local popular beaches on Saturday, June 5th, 2010, from 9am to 11am. Students, get those last-minute community service hours in! Join Volunteer Ventura! to help remove litter and clean up one of our most visible and heavily visited local beaches...

Cocktails at Four

Ventura Co. Local Politics - May 14, 2010

The Central City Times, a San Francisco publication that both covers and opines on issues of low income and homeless individuals living in the downtown area, claims a documented statistical breakdown of the homelessness demographic...

One Man's Panhandling

Ventura Co. Local Politics - May 8, 2010

What do you say to the person who holds a cardboard sign that says, “homeless – anything helps,” – one who may even have fought for your freedom...

Homelessness Around the U.S.

International News Source - May 4, 2010

National Coalition for the Homeless Met in DC this last Week...

Homelessness Around the United States

City of Cleveland, OH

International News Source - May 4, 2010

Fluid Text Resizer

Local Reports April 2010

National Coalition for the Homeless Met in DC this last Week

Minnesota

Significant growth in homelessness within the State. They are working on a Tenant Bill of Rights in Minnesota— it would cap late fees, require receipts provided by landlord, and guidelines for screening tenants. Applications for an apartment would have to be provided an apartment in the order they were received. Denied for a subjective reason, the tenant would get any fee back. The state is facing massive cuts in emergency assistance.

Miami Florida

Sex offenders going into hotels after the encampment under a freeway overpass was fenced off. Miami held as a model city in the Continuum of Care, but there are issues with budget cuts and expanding populations. Florida house passed the homeless hate crimes legislation. Looks good for passage in the Florida Senate.

Ft. Lauderdale

HPRP not doing well, and much is going to moderate incomes. State has cut homeless funding. Broward cut 50% of their services due to the downturn. Several large shelters have closed. Transitional shelters have had to close. Cut beds, services and hours to deal with budget cuts. Proposal to continue to criminalize homelessness in Ft. Lauderdale and Oakland Park will fine people who give food and money to homeless people. Increasing number of homeless and decreasing number of beds. No programs for the long term homeless. Alternatives to incarceration coalition established to try to reduce prison stays and long term punishments and mandatory minimums. Florida has a huge problem with one of the worst rates of incarceration in the United States.

Indiana

Continued budget cuts and HPRP has supplanted local dollars, and so there are more shelters and services closing locally. The state is defunding shelters, and more attempts to make it illegal to be homeless. Poor use of the HPRP funds for smaller groups especially in the rural communities.

Puerto Rico

They do a poor job in receiving funding from the United States federal government. Worst managed HOME program in the United States, which has opened the door to greater scrutiny. Feeling threatened over HEARTH act, and attempts by local planning groups that could block grant of all those federal dollars. Have not been able to open an affordable housing project because of local bureaucracies, and while the buildings are done they have not been able to move in and now have become targets for vandalism. New protocol on how homeless people are served in the courts. There is a law that gives the rights to people who find themselves homeless, but it is ignored in the local community. Census told the population that they had to have an address to work for the Census.

Atlanta, GA

Shelter facing foreclosure is in court, and proving that you can operate without funding. Residents of the shelter do a lot more to operate the facility. 99.9% of staff are still hanging around without funds. Local grassroots organizations excluded from Neighborhood Stabilization and HPRP. There is some danger of losing the Foreclosure money (Neighborhood stabilization), which would go back to the Federal government. Massive demolition of public housing, 50% cut to public transportation, and privatization of the last public hospital.

Catholic Church not going to close the shelter over the DC gay marriage issue. Big cuts that resulted in decrease in the number of shelter beds. They have closed the winter shelters for the spring/summer/fall. Family homelessness is increasing. Incidents at the shelters have increased including a death where an individual was turned away and died of exposure on a bench outside of the shelter. They have seen an increase in the incidents between shelters and staff because of the budget cuts.

Little Rock, Arkansas

Coalition is still on life support. Talked to the Mayor of Little Rock, because of city being named one of the meanest cities. Paid homeless coordinator in Little Rock to help. Another Little Rock About 1% of the population is homeless in the state of Arkansas. shelter closed because of a lack of funds.

South Carolina

State does not have any state dollars for homelessness—all dollars are pass through from the federal government. State initiative to require homeless veteran’s a preference over all other populations for a shelter bed and first for services. This did not pass. Defeated an initiative to be able to evict tenants within 15 days without going to court. Magistrate could appear without the tenant and get rid of the tenant. Four police officers arrested for Civil Rights violations in Greenville They have pled out after an investigation by the FBI. State HPRP is not being spent. At the local level it is being allocated at a good pace. Homeless awareness is increasing because of the NCH VISTA program educating the community. One City Administrator in Greenville has indicated a willingness to talk about ending homelessness. This is unusual for a public official in South Carolina. over the beating of a homeless person.

Montana

No more Montana Council for the Homeless by the Governor, and they may switch to become a private non-profit. Statewide HPRP going to the usual suspects. It is given out, but difficult to find in some communities. Information has spread and made a run on many of the programs.

Baltimore, MD

Mayoral transition difficult after the Mayor was forced to resign. She was very good for homeless people despite the scandal. The United Way initiative to end homelessness and continue the 10 year plan is still on track. All HPRP went through the United Way to administer the funds. Money is going out in large numbers.

South Dakota

Major issues in trying to distribute HPRP and lots of complaints with state for changing guidelines periodically. No state money going into local homeless services. Safe home program --32 long term homeless units is the cornerstone of the City’s project and they have now walked away from the program. No local dollars in Souix Falls from City. The City has established a zero tolerance for kids in the shelter to try to get them back into housing quickly. Indian reservations are the hardest hit.

Sacramento, California

Massive deficit and massive proposed cuts. Hate crimes legislation introduced. Massive cuts to human services at the local level, and huge Continuum of Care cuts. Advocates want a safe ground to organize themselves with temporary structures while they search for housing. They won the lawsuit—got $250,000 to buy back tents and stuff after the police came in and destroyed their camps. Advocates have also registered hundreds of people and did a candidate forum focused on housing and homelessness. Training in May over HEARTH planning for the future. State HPRP is not going out very quickly. Better at the local level and trying to link the employment programs. Religious community organizations are trying to match HPRP funds in Sacramento. Director of Hunger and Homeless Program now including re-entry stuff into their work.

Denver

Sustained a huge budget cut for Health Care for the Homeless fund in order to fill gaps in the state budget. Cut the general assistance funds to single adults. After protests state government had to reverse the GA cuts and they never went into effect. Also advocates convinced them to reinstate the $2 million of the $3 million cuts to Health care for the Homeless. HPRP is given to the state Coalition and there is a match from TANF families. Some agencies are getting the funds out, but others are struggling. No ability to do training. Started construction on a 98 units of affordable housing that will include a work component in which they get homeless people to do the labor on the project then get first preference. Took over the HMIS system, and assure that privacy protections are in place. Colorado Springs has the homeless computer system is contracted to the local sheriff to manage. The State Coalition has told them to stop this or they will no longer have access to the management system or the funds that go with it. Down the road the health care reform bill that just passed Congress will help our constituents including the leveraging of Medicare resources.

Article Notes

Content taken from notes at the National Coalition for the Homeless Board meeting this past weekend April 2010 by Brian Davis

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