Urging The City And County Of Honolulu And Honolulu Police Department To Address The Ongoing Houselessness Crisis And Develop Solutions For Providing Care And Services For These Individuals While Ensuring Community Safety.
The resolution requests the establishment of HONU service sites in each City Council district on Oahu, as well as an extension of the operation time for these sites. Implementing such measures aims to enhance access to transitional services for unsheltered persons, contributing to a more structured approach to addressing the multifaceted issue of homelessness. The resolution also indicates a growing concern regarding violent crime among the unsheltered population, highlighting the necessity for effective strategies.
HCR155 is a resolution urging the City and County of Honolulu, along with the Honolulu Police Department, to tackle the ongoing crisis of houselessness in the region. With Hawaii having one of the highest homelessness rates in the nation, the resolution emphasizes the need for comprehensive solutions that provide care and services for homeless individuals while also ensuring public safety. A notable mention is the Homeless Outreach and Navigation for Unsheltered Persons (HONU) program, which operates as a mobile facility connecting individuals to long-term shelter options.
Overall, HCR155 addresses the pressing challenge of homelessness in Hawaii, advocating for coordinated efforts between various stakeholders, including law enforcement and community organizations like Weed & Seed Hawaii, Inc. By establishing additional resources and safety measures, the resolution aims to create a more sustainable environment for both the houseless population and the broader community.
One of the contentious points in the resolution is the proposed 'three strikes' program, allowing police to detain individuals with a history of violent crimes. This aspect raises discussions about balancing law enforcement actions and the treatment of homeless individuals. Critics may view this as a potential criminalization of poverty, while supporters assert it could help protect communities from violent incidents.