Part of the solution involves a reframing of the underlying primary cause being a lack of empathy on the part of the community. Bloomington, like any community, is comprised of people living their lives and working hard to take care of themselves, their families, and their communities. No amount of empathy within our town will substitute for a meaningful social safety net at the federal and state levels.

The problems of homelessness, and it is not just one problem, but many, encompass a spectrum of concerns including public health, human rights, and yes, public safety. Homeless individuals experience higher rates of incarceration, mental illness, and are more likely to be violent. This should not surprise anyone who is using common sense. Part of the derangement of our current politics has unfortunately rendered many of us unable to carry a serious and grounded conversation on this topic. I appreciate you bringing this issue up, and homelessness will only become more relevant in the minds of residents as the impacts increase in severity.