Therapy Plus warns Roseburg city council over homeless camp safety issues

In the heart of Roseburg, city council members gathered on January 13, 2025, to address pressing community concerns that echoed through the chambers. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as local residents voiced their frustrations and hopes, highlighting the challenges faced by both businesses and vulnerable populations in the area.

One poignant moment came from a representative of Therapy Plus, a facility dedicated to improving the lives of its patients. With a heavy heart, she described the transformation of their once-peaceful surroundings into a hazardous environment due to nearby homeless camps. “Our backyard has become a dangerous zone,” she lamented, detailing the alarming incidents that have unfolded just yards from their doors. The representative recounted how the presence of these camps has not only threatened the safety of staff and patients but has also posed significant environmental risks, with reports of waste being dumped into local waterways.

Despite recent cleanup efforts, she expressed skepticism about their effectiveness, noting the recurring nature of the problem. “We have seen the cleanup and the return countless times,” she stated, emphasizing the need for a more permanent solution. The representative made it clear that the safety of their patients and staff must take precedence, urging the city council to take decisive action. “We will not be quiet,” she warned, hinting at potential legal action if the situation does not improve.

In a contrasting yet equally passionate plea, local entrepreneurs from Serendipity Roseburg sought approval for a permit to sell wine and beer at their upcoming establishment on Jackson Street. With a shared vision of enhancing the community's charm, the trio of native Oregonians expressed their eagerness to contribute positively to Roseburg’s reputation as a welcoming small town.

As the meeting unfolded, it became evident that the city council faces a delicate balancing act—addressing the needs of businesses striving to thrive while also considering the complexities of homelessness and public safety. The discussions highlighted a community at a crossroads, where the voices of residents and business owners alike called for action and understanding in the face of ongoing challenges. The council's response to these pressing issues will undoubtedly shape the future of Roseburg, as they navigate the intricate dynamics of community welfare and economic vitality.