Wascally Wabbits Memo

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You are required to write one memo that responds to the problem(s) identified in the ‘Wascally Wabbits case.’

Imagine you are a policy advisor to Mayor Philips (the fictional Mayor of Eastport, OR). The city is responsible for managing the trails around the city. Recently, a large number of homeless people have been observed living in the woods around some of the trails and residents have expressed considerable concerns about litter and refuse. Many of the homeless people enter Eastport during the day to panhandle, purchase food, seek medical attention, to seek casual work. The local police and city officials have proposed several options (see the case) and the Mayor has asked you to explore the issue in detail and propose a potential strategy based on what has worked successfully in other cities or can be justified by theory.

You will need to conduct additional research to support your memo.

 

Sample Solution

MEMORANDUM

To: Mayor Janice Philips

From: [Your Name], Policy Advisor

Date: 2024-03-15

Subject: Strategy for Addressing Homelessness and Public Space Management Around City Trails

Introduction:

This memo addresses the concerns raised by residents regarding litter, refuse, and the presence of homeless individuals living in wooded areas near city trails. It outlines a multi-pronged strategy informed by successful initiatives in other cities and relevant theories.

Understanding the Issues:

The memo acknowledges the following key issues:

  • Homelessness: A growing homeless population seeks shelter in the woods near trails.
  • Public Space Concerns: Residents are concerned about litter, refuse, and safety near trails.
  • Daytime Activity: Homeless individuals enter Eastport daily for essential services and work.

Theoretical Framework:

The “Housing First” model is central to this strategy. This evidence-based approach prioritizes providing permanent housing with supportive services as the most effective way to end homelessness [1]. It emphasizes the importance of meeting basic needs before addressing other issues.

Proposed Strategy:

  1. Increase Affordable Housing Options:

    • Partner with non-profit organizations and developers to create more affordable housing units.
    • Explore inclusionary zoning policies that require developers to dedicate a portion of new projects to affordable housing [2].

  2. Expand Supportive Services:

    • Collaborate with social service agencies to provide on-site support services within housing facilities, such as mental health counseling, addiction treatment, and job training.
    • Establish temporary shelters with basic amenities and referrals to permanent housing options.

  3. Enhance Public Space Management:

    • Increase sanitation efforts around trails, including regular trash collection and disposal services.
    • Implement a “Leave No Trace” education campaign to encourage responsible use of public spaces by all citizens.
    • Explore partnerships with homeless service providers for trail maintenance and beautification projects, potentially employing individuals experiencing homelessness.

  4. Daytime Services and Opportunities:

    • Support existing soup kitchens, food banks, and other daytime service providers.
    • Collaborate with businesses to create opportunities for casual work for homeless individuals.

Rationale:

  • Increasing affordable housing directly addresses the root cause of homelessness, moving individuals from the woods into stable living situations.
  • Supportive services address the complex challenges faced by homeless individuals, promoting self-sufficiency and reducing reliance on public spaces for shelter.
  • Enhanced public space management ensures clean and safe trails for all users.
  • Daytime services and work opportunities provide essential support for homeless individuals while integrating them into the community.

Successful Examples:

  • Salt Lake City, Utah, significantly reduced chronic homelessness through a Housing First approach with supportive services [3].
  • Denver, Colorado, partnered with businesses to create casual work opportunities for homeless individuals [4].

Evaluation and Next Steps:

  • Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of the strategy through data collection and community feedback.
  • Adapt and refine the approach based on ongoing needs and best practices.
  • Foster collaboration between city officials, social service providers, businesses, and the community to achieve a sustainable solution.

Conclusion:

This strategy offers a comprehensive approach to address both homelessness and public space concerns. By prioritizing housing and supportive services, coupled with responsible public space management and daytime opportunities, Eastport can create a more compassionate and inclusive community for all residents.

Additional Research:

This memo provides a starting point for further discussion and action. Your leadership in promoting a collaborative and evidence-based approach will be crucial in creating positive outcomes for both homeless individuals and the Eastport community.

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