Responding to Homelessness Concerns

Letters

Liz Alpert is a candidate for Sarasota City Commission District 2

It was wonderful news this week to learn that Sarasota City Manager Tom Barwin has stepped up the City's response to the homeless people living on our streets, by essentially re-presenting to the City Commissioners the 2014 homeless plan devised by Dr. Marbut.  The plan would add nearly 50 temporary beds for the homeless, as well as 500 long-term homeless housing units, and a similar amount of affordable, transitional housing options. 

Having spent the last three months talking with Sarasota residents, business owners, city leaders and the homeless themselves, I've listened as time after time, concerned citizens expressed their deep concern about the plight of the homeless in Sarasota and the effect the issue has on visitors, residents, business owners and taxpayers. It's a relief to know that the voices of the people have been heard and that some movement on the issue is being made by the City.

Our current Commission has been slow to support the Marbut plan.  In fact, my opponent in the runoff election for District 2, has frequently publicly opposed a shelter in general, and specifically discounted the Marbut plan. 

My emphasis on solving the homeless issue and my willingness to work with the county to solve this issue is key to why my campaign for City Commission District 2 has been endorsed by a bipartisan cross-section of our city, including:  Realtors Association of Sarasota and Manatee; the retired Firefighters Association; the retired police; Ruth's List of Florida; and Equality Florida Action PAC.

 I will work with both City and County leaders to find solutions to the homeless crisis and implement them as quickly and efficiently as possible. The people of Sarasota deserve nothing less than that we give this matter our fullest attention. I plan to do just that once I am elected. 

 

Liz Alpert is a candidate for Sarasota City Commission District 2

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