During the City Council Meeting on September 3, 2025, a poignant call for action regarding homelessness in Roseville was made by a resident who shared their personal experience living without shelter. The speaker emphasized that survival is not solely about having a bed but also about maintaining hope. They urged the council to consider establishing a low barrier tent city—a safe, managed space where individuals can rest, access services, and work towards stable housing.

The speaker highlighted the success of Placer County's mobile shelter in Auburn, which currently serves around 45 people and has received positive feedback from the community. They pointed out that a recent count revealed 260 individuals experiencing homelessness in Roseville, with 73% of them unsheltered, translating to nearly 190 people sleeping on the streets. The situation is similarly dire across Placer County, where 711 unhoused individuals were counted, including 296 who are chronically homeless and face significant barriers such as mental illness and disability.

While the speaker acknowledged the importance of permanent supportive housing—citing that over 538 people have been housed through recent programs—they stressed the urgent need for immediate solutions. They proposed that the council fund a pilot program and collaborate with community groups to create a managed low barrier site, describing it as a compassionate bridge rather than a temporary fix. The speaker concluded by urging the council to act with both compassion and urgency, emphasizing that the safety and dignity of their neighbors depend on it.

The meeting also featured additional speakers, including another individual experiencing homelessness, indicating a growing concern within the community about the urgent need for effective solutions to address homelessness. The discussions from this meeting reflect a critical moment for Roseville as it grapples with the complexities of homelessness and seeks to implement strategies that prioritize the well-being of its residents.