Joanne Gowen praises Irving's efforts to improve homeless situation on Main Street

During the recent Irving City Council meeting on July 10, 2025, community concerns regarding homelessness on Main Street were brought to the forefront. Local business owner Joanne Gowen, who operates Glory House Catering, expressed her gratitude for the city's efforts to address the issue, highlighting significant improvements over the past years.

Gowen acknowledged the challenges faced by both the homeless population and local businesses, emphasizing the need for collaborative solutions. She noted that the situation had worsened over the past 11 years but praised the increased police presence and the city's proactive approach in seeking both short-term and long-term strategies to alleviate the problem.

A key point of discussion was the potential return of benches to Main Street, which Gowen argued could exacerbate the situation. She observed that the removal of benches had led to a noticeable improvement in the area, suggesting that many homeless individuals spend a considerable amount of time on these benches. While the city plans to reintroduce benches with modifications, Gowen urged the council to consider the implications for both the homeless community and local businesses.

The meeting underscored the ongoing dialogue between city officials and community members regarding homelessness, with a clear call for continued innovation and cooperation to ensure that both the needs of the homeless and the vitality of local businesses are addressed. As the city moves forward, the discussions from this meeting will likely shape future policies and initiatives aimed at creating a balanced approach to this complex issue.