During a recent city council meeting in Grand Junction, community members voiced escalating concerns regarding the impact of the local unhoused resource center on neighborhood safety and local businesses. Speakers highlighted a range of issues, including increased drug use, property damage, and a decline in tourism, which they attributed to the center's proximity to downtown.

Derek Winstanley, a local disc golf club board member, reported a significant drop in usage at the Watson Island Disc Golf Course, citing safety concerns related to homeless individuals living on the course. He urged the council to address the situation, emphasizing the negative impact on families and community members who wish to enjoy the sport.

Portia and Chris Silverberg, local business owners, echoed these sentiments, describing the resource center's current operations as detrimental to neighborhood safety and local tourism. They advocated for the center's closure, suggesting a collaborative approach to develop more effective solutions for both the unhoused community and local residents.

Danielle Zimmerman, owner of the Hotel Melrose, shared her experiences with confrontations involving homeless individuals, which have affected her business and the safety of her guests. She questioned the appropriateness of the center's location, suggesting it detracts from the city's appeal to visitors.

Naina Anderson, a small business owner, raised alarms about rising crime and open drug use in the area, warning that these issues threaten the local economy and the city's reputation. She called for immediate action to address the situation before it escalates further.

Ben Van Dyke, who operates a car wash near the resource center, criticized the management of the facility, stating that it has failed to maintain safety and accountability. He expressed concern that the center has become a haven for drug dealers, exacerbating the challenges faced by vulnerable individuals seeking help.

Russ Dawson, a recent resident of Grand Junction, lamented the deterioration of the downtown area since the resource center's establishment, fearing it could lead to a decline in tourism similar to experiences in other cities.

Tad Hatter, representing the Grand Junction Elks Lodge, emphasized the urgent need for action, stating that the current situation is harming local businesses and community safety. He called for the relocation of the resource center to a more suitable area.

Jeremy Sheets, also from the Elks Lodge, highlighted the financial impact on local businesses due to disruptions caused by the resource center's location. He urged the city council to take decisive action to protect the economic vitality of the area.

The meeting concluded with a consensus among speakers that while the need for support services for the unhoused is recognized, the current location of the resource center is problematic and requires reevaluation to ensure the safety and well-being of the broader community.