During a recent city council meeting, discussions centered on community concerns, particularly homelessness, as highlighted by Marvin Broadwater Sr., a local resident. Broadwater, who resides at 3004 Slippery Rock Court, addressed the council with a call for attention and empathy towards the growing issue of homelessness in the area.

Broadwater emphasized the importance of engagement, urging council members to put down their cell phones and focus on the discussion at hand. He expressed appreciation for the council's previous actions, particularly their decision to investigate practices at a local animal facility, which he deemed a significant step forward. However, he shifted the focus to the pressing issue of homelessness, referencing a recent presentation by Pat Frey from the United Way that revealed alarming statistics regarding the rise in homelessness.

The resident voiced his concern over comments made by an elected official regarding the criminalization of homelessness, stating that no one chooses to live in poverty. His remarks underscored the need for compassion and understanding in addressing the challenges faced by the homeless population.

The council's response to Broadwater's address and the broader implications of homelessness in the community remain to be seen, but his passionate plea highlights a critical issue that requires immediate attention and action from local leaders.