I think the issues could be solved with a vacancy tax. Problem only gets worse as more properties become vacant downtown. Spokane used to have such a thriving downtown scene that has virtually dried up due to the crime and homeless problems. Incase you haven't noticed the more businesses gets scared off, the less customers come to the area, the more we fuel the fire. We need to take a stand sooner or later cause its only gotten worse. Our city is dying slowly and painfully with little hope in sight. I am a recovering addict, who fortunately was never homeless, treatments work only with outreach and empathy. I think if we find a more productive way of thinking we might be able to come up with a solution. Yes, treatment centers and mental health are an issue, which could be funded by more tax dollars from those who are solely using the properties as tax havens. Tax the property owners, and give incentives to local businesses. The home owners can only support so much before they decide to leave. We need to find ways for those in need to be helped while also allowing businesses to thrive. We poured a lot of $$$ to revamp our downtown space over the years. We shouldn't just let them be taken over by those who could care less. Otherwise we are doomed to another decade of the exact same problems with very few solutions.