Attachment B- Feedback on Homeless Plan.pdf

City of Phoenix — Land Use and Livability Subcommittee (2020-09-30)

View PDF Meeting page

Extracted text (via pymupdf) 697083 characters
Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
1
0.1.4 Increase job opportunities and training available, including some at the 
housing site. 
1.4
2
1.1 should specify the shelter include pets with the homeless.  They are in many 
instances partners.
1.1
3
Action column in which you tell residents what has been accomplished 
4
Add in mental health. Homeless people become homeless for many reasons and 
you need to help them in all situations 
5
Add measures of success and 5-year-plan with goals
6
Add Outreach contracts to be awarded to MAT providers who regularly outreach 
and treat this population
7
Add rent control so landlords cannot keep increasing our rents far above any 
possible wage increases.
8
Add that the proposed additional housing options not encroach upon or damage 
the quality of living in established residential neighborhoods
9
Add what measures will be used to determine success, failure and finally sunset 
date that plan was met as well as % budget of each subsection from overall 
budget with overall budget known to public
10
ADD: 1.  Survey unsheltered people to see what their priorities are for 
assistance. 
2. Identify criminals who are part of unsheltered population and arrest them.
3. Identify approaches to successfully addressing unsheltered people used in
other cities, states, countries, and create pilot programs to see if they would work
here
11
Add: increase availability of drug addiction services.
12
Added: In the homeless community, as you know, people with sex offenses on 
their record are probably the most marginalized within the homeless community 
itself, and these folks struggle the most to get work and housing.  Targeted 
outreach efforts, shelter beds, and housing strategies are needed particularly for 
this group.
13
Added: increased services for those transitioning from jail or prison into the real 
world
14
Adding a section addressing substance use disorder resources to help the 
homeless population that struggles with addiction 
15
One thing only: After conducting a life skill set of the 7,000+ homeless population 
camping in the city of Phoenix, organize them into brigades with the 
understanding that they are in charge of their future. Assign ground-level, 
supervisor, and captain roles for those overseeing groups of 10, 100, and 1,000. 
Give these leaders the ability to get matched with low-cost housing initiatives, 
with onsite one-year residential contracts renewable every January, and zero 
tolerance for drug use and promotion. If you put the skilled homeless in charge of 
other homeless, give them something to prove and something to lose if they don’t 
do a good job, it is more likely that they will fight to keep what they have than to 
keep on offering more services they already refuse. If the city keeps offering no-
strings benefits packages for the homeless, the numbers will grow, and we will be 
the next Portland or Seattle. 
16
Much seems like an outline than an actual plan.  Missing the actual plan that 
would make it successful.  Also needs to include the areas being focused on as 
in businesses and neighborhood leaders. They should've been included from the 
beginning.
17
oversight of expected results and outcomes. Alternative housing options like 
structured campsites and mobile home parks.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
1
Attachment B

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
18
Children aging out of the foster care system should be included in this list. Many 
become homeless for lack of resources.
19
Mental health and drug services are EXTREMELY important for the homeless 
population. Teen Challenge should be a major partner in connecting and 
providing services for the homeless. The City of Phoenix should not be involved 
in providing major services, they should contract it out to experienced providers 
with proven track records. Phoenix C.A.R.E.S. is very impractical from the 
standpoint of sending out contact teams, but never giving notice at homeless 
camps that they have been there if contact is not made. It is a wasteful of time 
and money. Unreal! The City should not be exploring additional homeless 
housing, that should be up to non-profits. Again, Contract with reliable mental & 
d
i t
i
ti
20
clarify that this is a regional situation with housing needs through out the state 
requiring the state and county participate in formulating solutions and ensuring 
that communities have a voice in the solutions.  A funding plan must developed 
for this strategy.  Nothing can be accomplished during the heat and pandemic.
21
Meet people where they are. Consider stable pop up/mobile outreach 
opportunities in areas where individuals experiencing homelessness exist, e.g. 
every MWF having a mobile unit on site in X,Y, Z locations
22
Create a tent city for homeless who do not want permanent housing
23
create a way for the homeless to earn money so they do not have to beg on  
every corner in the  exsteme heat for money ...
24
Develop a more streamlined system to ensure clients are getting their needs met 
most appropriately, Veteran housing exists and they are not always connected as 
quickly as we would like to see. Additionally, reduce the emphasis on substance-
use free mandates, harm reduction is the most equitable and successful 
approach. Housing first initiatives show great impacts around the country! 
25
Develop partnerships to create temporary housing for families/individuals that 
may not be able to live in small communities. 
 
Develop multi-faceted teams to address the various needs of homeless 
individuals to foster successful assimilation. 
26
Another long-term strategy is to develop planning and zoning strategies to 
incentivize affordable housing production
27
Diverse job and training opportunities need to be part of the plan to offer people 
the opportunity to seek better employment opportunities and improve their 
economic situation.  Funding for shelter stays need to allow for flexibility in the 
length of stay if a person or family is complying with program outcomes of 
seeking job training and or employment.  
28
Employment isn't addressed at all.  I think a Pick up PHX program that would pay 
people to pick up trash would benefit business owners, the public, the 
environment.  
29
Employment skills/help.  Life skills counselling/help.  Undocumented residents 
needing legal advice.
30
Enact rent caps in all residential areas, requiring landlords to house homeless for 
free in empty units, requiring a percentage of ALL rental housing be low income, 
even in new development.  Explore programs to allow homeless to skip credit 
checks and rental deposits and fees to help the working poor get into housing 
they can afford.
31
Explore harm reduction strategies for those struggling with drug addiction, 
medical treatment for those unable to get insurance
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
2

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
32
Explore permanent community housing with shared space, such as kitchens, 
showers, recreation.
33
Exploring various housing should actually be increasing/adding affordable 
housing options and shelter space.  Increasing the availability of mental health 
services should be more specific- many mental health services are in short 
supply or out of reach for folks.  Please be more specific about what data is being 
collected and what it will be used for.  
34
Have a Mobile Community Resource Center available for individuals to support 
their needs. 
35
I like the Finnish approach to this: just give the homeless a small apartment. 
Doesn't have to be fancy, just a studio where they can sleep and shower and 
charge their phone, and where social workers and parole officers and their 
families know where to find them. 
36
Housing Options - This was explored in Kansas City (I think) but I don't know if it 
has been implemented or not is the following:  Identify an area that could be used 
for a small housing complex and initially create small housing for homeless 
veterans. Veterans would be used for the labor needed to build their own small 
homes. Materials, Instruction, and Support would be provided by willing partners. 
The initial focus on Veterans should help mitigate the 'Not in my Backyard' issue 
on locating the village. Having the Vets build their own small homes, of which 
they would be the owners, would be a way to teach new skills, instill pride and 
dignity that would flow from seeing the results of their efforts, and would be a 
strong incentive to maintain and keep the community clean and a good place to 
live. I think that with the abundance of plans for wonderful, yet very small, homes, 
the many possibilities for partners to donate materials, and for partners willing to 
provide instruction and training in the building process this could be a wonderful 
option, initially for Vets, but potentially able to address homelessness in general. I 
would liked to see language in this section addressing this as a possibility. 
37
Identify what costs could be shifted to state or federal instead of the city 
taxpayers being responsible.  For instance, additional benefits for veterans 
should be paid for by federal dollars.  If it's mental health issues, then there's 
state or federal help available.  City can't even take care of tax paying residents 
so it's not reasonable to assume responsibility for costs that could be shilfted to 
other state or federal agencies/services.
38
Include outreach to organizations that can help with addiction problems.
39
Include strategies to insure physical health assessments and treatments. Include 
strategies to encourage and reward working, even if in community service 
placements.
40
Remove everything except 0.1.3 Increase the availability of mental health 
i
1.3
41
Increasing funding and affordable housing units needs to be added.  Maybe that's 
in another category.  How about interviewing 100 persons experiencing 
homelessness so that the CURRENT pulse and needs of the individuals can be 
concretely obtained?
42
Increasing the availability of Mental Health Services and improving the conditions 
for our Veterans is a must, but I think something should be added to address the 
drug and alcohol problems that so many of our homeless are facing. I haven't 
seen anyone offering rehabilitation services to homeless drug addicts. More 
people need to be trained on how to work with these individuals. There are just 
not enough services available.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
3

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
43
I'm from a very small town.  We have homeless but its rare to see.
Since moving here and seeing how it is its had me shocked.
I spent 2 years on the streets and I feel the pain they go through everytime we 
drive past them.
I've notice theres alot of abandoned buildings and houses here in pheonix. I think 
the state should buy them and have then flipped over so they can turn them into 
funded houses and shelters for the homeless and they can even be program 
housing for addiction and trauma treatment.
44
All the points are valid.  The trouble is that doing all dilutes the effectiveness of 
doing any one point.  A certain percent of our population wants to live a homeless 
life. Let’s help them to stay safe, but concentrate most effort to eliminate the life 
events that lead to homelessness.  Let’s work to promote a living wage.  In 
Phoenix let’s limit corporate home ownership because its inflationary effect on 
housing (pricing low and middle class folks out of the market) which puts too 
much housing cost burden on these classes. making it too easy to lose their 
homes. 
45
Library should reverse all late fees for homeless and let them check out books 
again, . . .  without fees.  Kansas City did this successfully!
Free Bus for all homeless.  Kansas City did this successfully!  I believe they 
made it free bus for everyone, which makes sense because only the poor ride it.
46
more affordable housing around the valley, no more shelter beds in downtown
47
More battered women's shelter housing 
48
Need easier methods for homeless to reach out for help, maybe libraries, stores 
etc could be places for homeless to reach for support.  Info boards be at places 
where they can be seen to give phone number or address for help.
49
O.1.3 A better definition of what is "mental health" deficiency, of Chronically 
Mentally Ill, or Seriously Mentally Ill, is an absolute.
O.1.2 Those in O.1.2 who do not fit in O.1.3 need a SINCERE evaluation of 
DESERVED helping hand, with an END to the NUMBER of 'helping hands' and 
LEVEL of help offered. IOW, HELP cannot be over and over and more and more.
1.2, 1.3
50
on 0.1.3 add : programs to improve mental health services, detailed step by step 
mental health rehab programs
1.3
51
I think that one of the Long-Term Strategy Objectives should be to increase the 
availability of job preparation programs. Programs can include resume/interview 
workshops, "libraries" or discount closets of interview attire, and access to 
computers to search for employment. I would also recommend apprenticeship 
programs specifically for formerly homeless people (e.g., apprenticeships for 
building maintenance, business, landscaping, food service, etc.). All of these 
programs would work toward the objective of improving employment outcomes 
for the homeless and people transitioning out of homelessness. 
52
Outreach to other cities with successful programs/history in reducing 
homelessness.
53
Outreach/Navigation should include tracing the contributing sources of 
homelessness in the area and liaising with agencies which address issues which 
lead to homelessness.  For instance, if we're seeing that teen homelessness is 
rising faster than other categories, then let's do more with DCS/DES to meet 
those needs before they result in homelessness.  Outreach/Navigation should 
also include more public education and awareness as well as volunteer 
coordination.  If I'm a concerned citizen who wants to help the homeless, it 
should be easy to put my hands to work.  Let's lower the barriers to community 
engagement!
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
4

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
54
Possible relocation to safe housing and New Laws to prohibit Panhandling
55
the answer to homelessness is to provide housing for homeless folks at little cost 
to them. It will cost municipalities. Yet,what is spent now with no solution at all.
56
Research and development of a team to focus on children in homeless families.  
If we are going to specifically look at pets and veterans (both of which are 
excellent points to concentrate on), kids seem like a group that should also have 
its own focal point.
57
Resource centers and mentors to help those in need.  We can include medical, 
behavior, and other services in the centers and place them through out the valley 
for homeless people and others to access easily.  
58
Service for helping homeless sign up for disabled and government assistance 
programs.  Shelters generally have high crime and incificent funding for healthy 
environment, that's why most homeless stay on the street. Setup a camp similar 
to US humanitarian aide does for immigrants, nice tents, food, water.  New 
homeless ground is immerging w pandemic, they will stay in tent rather than 
chance a shelter poorly ran. 
59
Short term gap loans to help people avoid homelessness or the trap of payday 
loans. Sometime two weeks of hotel bills keeps someone off the streets. 
60
should include employment of people who have largely recovered from 
homelessness and/or mental illness as peer workers in outreach and navigation.  
Difficult to evaluate long-term strategies when funding is not assured.
61
Small shelters,with populations under 100 , targeted for special needs, spread 
throughout  Phoenix and surrounding municipalitys. Not one gigantic shelter in 
central Phoenix  but specialized shelters for the mentally ill, the drug addicted and 
the aged conically homeless.
62
Specifically add additional Case managers/Services to identify all Homeless SMI 
...Seriously Mentally I’ll and assist them to obtaining the services that they already 
qualify for but are unable to obtain on their own. These mentally ill people are left 
to care for themselves instead of being cared for. They already have mental 
health insurance Which provides them a Case manager but without an advocate 
they cannot make the proper contact with their case managers to even get the 
help they need. There should be a On Site Group of Case managers assigned on 
Site at the Homeless Encampment on Jefferson where all their other services are 
provided. Instead of requiring the Mentally I’ll to find their way to the case 
managers at another location. Casemanagers then should have a system of 
checks and balance in accountability to include time frames that the mentally is 
processed and provided all the services they need. 
63
spend more money on mental health services including 24/7 outreach sites for 
ongoing health services to drug and alcohol persons who cannot or will not stay 
ay shelters
64
Suggestion: Remove anti-homeless additions to free public amenities (i.e. park 
benches)
65
The City of Phoenix has A Lot of Empty Buildings? Such as The Saint Lukes 
Hospital. You Could change it into Apartments for The Homeless? And Have 
Classes, Health Care and Social Services for it's Residents?
66
The communication of these services to the people they serve seems like it 
should be a key objective. 
67
The creation of a network to allow service providers across the county to more 
easily share information and locate the appropriate services for individuals. 
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
5

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
68
The old "Tent City" that used to house prisoners should be turned into a safe 
place for homeless people to live until they are back on there feet.  All of the 
homeless resources should be available at the site with the opportunity to work at 
the site such as preparing meals, maintaining the grounds, etc. 
69
There needs to be more SECURE housing for the SMI population who make up a 
significant portion of the homeless population. They are a danger to themselves 
and possible others because they are persistently and acutely disabled. They 
cannot manipulate the system on their own and often don't even know they need 
help. 
70
There should be specialized navigation and outreached services for historically 
under-served groups: Youth involved in Juvenile justice and child welfare, people 
who have been trafficked, LGBTQ, non-gender conforming, HIV/AIDS, pregnant 
or parenting youth, MH and racial and ethnic minorities. Also in general, there is 
an opportunity to address homelessness in the City from a Race Equity 
framework.
It would be great to see in the plan some protocols around the collaboration 
between the PD and outreach teams, since the passing of the policy that enables 
the PD access to a shelter availability portal - we don't want to see the 
criminalization of homelessness
Data is key - there is reason to believe that there are unsheltered folk who are not 
being inputted into HMIS (E.g refusal to engage in services). This is tricky as 
HMIS requires consent, however thought needs to be put into this to ensure we 
are counting every homeless individual 
71
Housing should always be first, also we have ton of programs that cater to mental 
illness, addiction and parents with kids. There a is a lack of programs for physical 
disabilities, and people over the age of 24 but under the age of 55 with out kids. 
In addition to that tje programs at best house some on for a year but on average 
only 4 months. To be truly successful, you need a housing programs for 2-5 
years in length or until there is funding to provide that individual with a permanent 
residence ( I'm talking about giving a person a literal house so they will have a 
place to live outside of a shelter of temp housing for the rest of their lives) of their 
own. 
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
6

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
72
What Fort Worth Texas found, by giving the homeless a job to go around and 
pick trash up in the city, they got a resume built up. Lot of times they were really 
good workers its just private businesses were extremely nit picky they never got a 
chance. Truth is some of these homeless in Phoenix are great workers, contrary 
to the typical belief that hard work gets ahead in the US. Some of them may have 
gotten screwed over by a trashy employer. Or they had onset of like bipolar 
manic episode and had no coping skills at the time. Years later when they 
understand the disability better they could like work really well. They just may 
need a few days off here and there.. and occasionally a week off to get meds 
adjusted. Its not that they couldn't be great workers, its that the US is so 
egotistical that it doesn't adapt to help with certain disabilities. Harsh thing to say, 
but its true. I've known a few bipolar people who were great workers for a 
company, but the company was flexible with them to give them a chance. A lot of 
employers don't bend, which comes from the belief they are educated when their 
just good at repeating. It doesn't help with social security rules, where they get 
punished to try. Now on paper it sounds nice, but in terms of human psychology, 
for example someone with bipolar could fill they could work for awhile but then 
will have a bad episode where they need time off. So there for example only 10% 
of Americans ever leave disability. Fort Worth Texas found giving homeless jobs 
and building up their resume, they were not so lazy, not so mentally ill, not so 
much a drugie, but were good workers that the system destroyed. Not going to be 
all homeless, but some, it would be great and they would love a guaranteed job 
opportunity, even if its just going around the city and picking up trash. 
73
work with temporary work agencies to get homeless willing to work a job!!
74
young adults should be added to include recreation 
75
0.2.1 and 0.2.2 does specify these “specialized teams” very vague.
2.1, 2.2
76
I question the need for the Veterans component.  Should be handled by VA.
77
Not sue the Veterans section needs to be included. Unless it is there to ensure 
the steps taken by the city work in conjunction with (and do not conflict with) 
services and resources provided by the VA.  
Also, I think there needs to be NATIONAL leadership in planning and policy 
development. It seems that current policies are very NIMBY driven and designed 
to just move the homeless around to other cities without addressing the sources 
of the problem.
78
I do not agree with the 100 person minimum. I believe there should be a 
specialist team for each group of applicants, but everyone should and must go 
through the educational side of the system to help better themselves in a self 
t i i
lif
79
I wish we could rank importance of each subsection listed above.  For instance I 
think determining the resources for serving the Veteran homeless population 
ranks higher than pursuing creation of shelter opportunities for pets.
80
Financial Assistance programs. Caseworkers for a group of homeless persons. 
Outreach to family members/friends of the homeless.
81
funding for social workers or counselors that specialize in understanding the 
issues surrounding homelessness and have the skill set to help the homeless 
people
82
Details, description or examples of "additional housing options for the various 
needs"  
Define what would constitute a "specialized team" (i.e. drug counselors, women 
outreach, mental health outreach)?
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
7

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
83
Add (or describe in more detail if it is already part of the plan) training for case 
workers to know all resources available.  Also, train these case workers to 
engage with each person who is homeless to identify what their specific needs 
are so they can best match up the person who is homeless with what they need 
to not remain homeless in the long term....identify and solve the root cause, case 
by case.  The way the plan reads, it is like a 'factory line'...processing people who 
are homeless through a factory line of resources that may address external 
needs but not necessarily help them heal from the inside out.  All case workers 
should be trained to take a holistic and humane approach with each individual 
person who is homeless.
84
Outreach for individuals who choose to remain unsheltered
85
I'm not sure what the specialized teams refer to.
86
"Single women" should be included as an addition to the youth, singles and 
families already included. And not just single women who are victims of domestic 
violence.
87
Perhaps a definition or example of a specialized team...(i.e. police?)
88
Community engagement teams to distribute information about homeless 
resources in the community.
89
All these services are great and necessary, but a challenge for anyone to 
navigate. Could the City sponsor a few homeless outreach events where 
representatives from all agencies are available under one roof? Perhaps include 
Social Security, driver’s license services as well. 
90
Should add a section for solutions for homeless individuals refusing city services.
91
More explicit action to proactively house the homeless.
92
Housing is a very important piece, in helping someone who is homeless. As a 
person who has been homeless and was in my addiction have home was a major 
part of my recovery. I also think holding people accountable once in housing is 
another piece that should be looked at. House and IOP services are much 
needed here in the Phoenix area. Mental health , health screening and access to 
apply for AHCCCS is another piece. A centralized place where one can go to get 
access to all their needs is important 
93
Long term housing options
94
More housing 
95
What other housing options are you exploring? 
96
Specifically (where more women can seek shelter in a place that is safe of rape, 
abuse (verbal and physical). 
97
A housing-first policy to reduce homelessness. It's the cheapest and most 
effective way to do so
98
More affordable housing and apartment's for people.
99
Build shelter now.  Do it in all 8 Districts.  
100
Expand housing opportunities for homeless families with children
101
I'd like them to build a housing unit for homeless families, elderly, Veterans, and 
Mentally ill.
102
community housing with tasks assigned to those who use it
103
Create more permanent supportive housing, section 8, income based, housing 
options. 
Create realistic income/ education assistance.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
8

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
104
There needs to be a focus on housing the unhoused. Continuing to allow 
developers to come in and make high rise apartments that are thousands of 
dollars a month in rent, is ridiculous. As a homeowner, I am paying less now than 
I ever did in rent when it came down to it. It is ridiculous and not sustainable. 
105
Too vague!  Set a realistic easily identifiable goal. Not just talking points. What I 
want to see is blueprints for shelters and housing that have room to breath in.  
We have a giant city in a giant state. We have land so just build it !
106
Shelters for families.
107
Separate living space for families, women, children, and Veterans.
108
Increase the availability of shelter for homeless PEOPLE....We do not have 
adequate shelter for them in the valley, let alone Phoenix.  Even if they had a 
couple sides and a roof is better than nothing.  We need them away from the 
sidewalks and in front of the stores.
109
shelters that allow pets to stay with their owner
110
“Explore additional housing options” must not be meant as “toss some porta-
potties into a fenced asphalt parking lot in the middle of summer and leave 
people there to die.”
111
Remove the affordable housing options as this usually makes the situation 
worse, and also decreases property value
112
Needs to be specific as to where additional housing will be.  We already have 
more than enough homeless/transients at the Victory Inn & Motel 6 in our area 
and that congregate at the Walmart at 19th Ave. and Bell Rd.  Too many 
"incidents" in the area and we are tired of it.  Nothing else above sounds detailed 
enough and here we go again with teams and teams of people, money spent and 
wasted and this problem will go on.  I remember growing up near Detroit, MI and 
all the housing built and within a year or two all trashed and that was years ago.  
It goes on and on. Ensuring that people have jobs, even cleaning the streets and 
parks, woring on national park projects, anything then obtain the "free" items.  Try 
to have people be more responsible.  Like kids having chores to obtain what they 
need not what they want.
113
Added to: Explore additional housing options for the various needs
114
High emphasis on additional housing options for various needs and outreach 
contracts with specialized teams.
115
Commitment to housing all homeless people within a set period
116
long-term permanent housing
117
Exploration of blended housing and scattered site housing projects 
118
Low Barrier Shelter needs to be prioritized
119
A section relating to eviction prevention and how to stop homelessness before it 
begins.
120
Shelter services for those with criminal backgrounds that make people ineligible 
for services elsewhere (SO)
121
Affordable housing options are MOST important. If he have to prioritize, we 
should prioritize housing.
122
It should include doubling the number of available shelter beds in this area and 
on the Human Services Campus to shelter all unsheltered people in the area. 
123
Increase affordable housing- right now, even clients with vouchers are having 
trouble finding a place
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
9

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
124
There HAS to be an emphasis on finding appropriate housing options, especially 
those connected with healthcare services! The biggest problem right now is that 
housing insecure individuals tend to gather in small areas, which increases the 
spread of COVID, then there's nowhere for them to get appropriate medical 
attention, let alone isolate from other people. 
125
Special attention to adding more shelter beds in the Phoenix community. 
126
Under additional housing opportunities, we should be planning long-term how to 
dismantle inhumane, "anti-homeless" architecture and create more safe 
(unpoliced) spaces for unhoused populations to seek shelter. I think one thing 
that will be be important moving forward with long-term projects is fostering a 
culture of care where housed populations are better informed about 
homelessness and how they can aid unhoused populations. Anti-homeless, 
victim-blaming rhetoric is unfortunately prolific in the metro (see Scottsdale's 
"Hand up, not a handout"  signs designed to push unhoused populations out of 
wealthier areas). Abandoning this rhetoric at the local government level is a start; 
the next step is being transparent and compassionate when informing the 
community about issues affecting the community. 
127
Subsection 0.1.3 should be removed, Mental health services should not be 
expanded with City of Phoenix funds. Housing and economic assistance 
programs more directly target the issues that cause homelessness. Healthcare 
spending has a very low social ROI compared to other possible areas of 
investment. Currently mental health providers do not even offer clinical guidelines 
on how to end chemical dependency on benzodiapienes, neuroleptics, etc. nor 
are they trained on recognizing adverse side effects such as akathisia or tardive 
dyskinesia.
1.3
128
Increase Mental Health Services O.1.3 
Increase Veterans Affairs for Homeless O.3.1 
Increase in exploration of housing options O.1.2
1.2, 1.3, 3.1
129
Assist these individuals who have drug problems
130
The mental health component and substance abuse component are the two 
primary issues regarding homelessness. Yes, there are other issues, but these 
two likely comprise the extreme majority of homelessness.  Substance 
abuse/help needs to be added to this program.  You will find, as I'm sure most of 
your experts have seen, that people will refuse assistance.  As a retired police 
officer (no not with Phoenix PD) I can tell you the reason is because most people 
do not want the restrictions placed on them with regards to not being able to use 
drug/alcohol of choice.  Mental illness and addition go hand in hand- for the most 
part.  Both issues need to be addressed.
131
Drug and alcohol addiction services.  Major focus on mental health and include 
the previously incarcerated, with a focus on social emotional supports.  Also, 
oversight so the housing opportunities are appreciated and not abused.
132
They should separate the mentally ill from the currently experiencing 
homelessness. Two totally different problems. 
133
Does mental health also include drug assessment/ rehabilitation?
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
10

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
134
Inreased mental health availability should be removed..its not the healthy that 
need help....also a requirement for people who receive ssi and ssdi should be 
added to say that they should immediately find places to live...there is no real 
reason for them to be out in the streets or in shelters taking resources that are 
meant for people who have nothing
135
The main focus of any homeless initiative should be mental health.
136
Increasing availability of mental health services should say  use involuntary 
treatment if a homeless person is deemed to be SMI and refuses help due to lack 
of insight. 
137
City should work with nonprofits and those impacted to push for change in law so 
that people who are clearly in distress and mentally ill are not left on streets. This 
is moral and inhumane and the city should take a lead role in promoting a change 
in law so families and friends can make sure people get the help they need.
138
There is no mention of drug and alcohol rehabilitation services. If the root of the 
issues is not treated, then they will remain homeless Drug treatment programs 
are very expensive and none of these people could afford it. Furthermore, stop 
letting in undocumented individuals, our homelessness problem is growing as are 
the number of illegals. Tell the Mayor to stop fighting ICE on this issue! 
139
We should have a mental institution , like the one we had at 24th and Van Buren, 
before.
140
Mental health services should be front and center in this planning document. 
Untreated mental health issues is a chief cause of homelessness and the 
criminalization of the homeless.
141
Add addiction to substances 
142
It is very broad and will be hard to measure as-is. There is nothing here specific 
to addiction, which is a component to the mental health as many homeless self-
medicate. 
143
Drug abuse centers and clean use sites 
144
Outreach directed at addressing opioid and othe substance related disorders
145
Giving more emphasis to providing mental and medical assistance to the 
transient population. Lastly, special considerations should be made for 
LGBTQIA+ transient folks, particularly trans women of color, who are most at 
risk. 
146
Mental Health services need to be increased for ALL residents of Maricopa 
County.  These are services that grossly ignored yet are absolutely necessary for 
many residents who are living and working every day and are living on the edge 
mentally.  Hence, increased  domestic violence, increased suicide, increased 
child abuse.  
147
addiction rehab/recovery and support
148
Add - Increase services for drug and alcohol addiction. 
149
Veterans should be added to. 
The availability of mental health resources should be added to. 
Both of these are high priorities, especially in the covid era.
150
Remove the people who stole the 14.7 billion annually for mental health 
..because there are A LOT of disabled out on the streets even now. THERE ARE 
MANY JOBS OPPERUNTIES IN MENTAL HEALTH.. I see people in wheelchair 
on the streets daily.. where are their case managers? Please get people who take 
out lives seriously like I take my own.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
11

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
151
I’m not going to be specific. However there needs to be some type of a “another 
committee” That is not known to the homeless to find out just exactly how many 
of the homeless really want help and would change their lives and which ones are 
just absolutely 100% happy where they are excepting all the free help that they 
can get panhandling on the streets. I am a former AR Dept of Human Services 
worker that did food stamps & Medicaid for 15 years. I also worked for a mental 
health institution doing the food stamps and Medicaid for their members who 
many of them out of 13 different counties learned how to care for themselves. 
Take their medications properly, became employed and actually got their own 
apartments re-incorporating into society. However the stipulation was they had to 
return for reassessment every three months. If they were ever arrested or thrown 
out of an apartment they went back into the institution and went through the 
process again. They were treated more fairly than even the elderly are in this day 
and age. If you have any other questions or want more information give me a call 
602-486-6450 & my name is Georgia 
152
Substance abuse should be added as it's a major factor in individuals being able 
to hold and keep a job and housing. Substance abuse services and shelter is 
extremely important and lacking in this survey.
153
More resources for mental health, and for the homeless vets!
154
The focus should be on mental health.  This is the MAIN reason so many people 
are homeless.  I worked as a cop for 25 years and many of the homeless 
*wanted* to be homeless because they didn't have the mental state of mind to 
envision anything different.  So, instead they were a nuisance to society.  They 
need help.  Deinstitutionalization killed us decades ago when we, as a country, 
decided that the mentally ill no longer need to be hospitalized.  AND we gave the 
mentally ill the right to refuse treatment even though that wasn't in their best 
interest because they don't realize they need help.  
Mental Health has to be the #1 focus here. Nothing else will work.  
155
I am not sure what is meant by "specialized teams" but I don't think teams of 
people aimed at helping with pets is necessary.  I am also not sure what the 
strategy is for increasing the availability of mental health services.  We have a 
fairly robust mental health system and I am not sure how the city could make it 
il bl
156
Mental health is key 
157
Emphasis on mental health services, including insuring that people experiencing 
homelessness can obtain medications and receive support to continue taking 
them.
158
What is being done to battle addiction?  This should be addressed as well.
159
Something specifically related to substance abuse outreach
160
Should also include drug treatment programs alongside mental health services.
161
I believe though getting mental health support also includes assessing whether 
an individual is competent to make own decisions. If not placement is required. I 
doubt if any homeless individual will allow their pets out if their sight. 
162
More focus on Mental Health
163
we need mentally hospital care or detox care
164
Employment coaching & drug addiction programs.
165
Healthcare services/mental health therapies
166
Mental health/addiction services as people with mental health issues often have 
addiction problems also (I speak from experience with my son)
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
12

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
167
I don't see specific strategies for addressing addiction related homelessness
168
Mental Health care should be a short term solution, as well as long term.  People 
experiencing mental health issues should be removed from the street 
immediately and placed in a mental health facility or rehab.  You need to get to 
the root cause of the problem.  Putting people with issues into housing only 
moves the problem.  We need to bring back mental health institutions.  
169
Only the increase in mental health in-patient services/hospitalization is important 
170
Screen homeless for SMI benefits and SSI to enable income for low housing 
171
Partner with local and state law enforcement to enable better understandings and 
practices of handling homeless individuals w/&w/out mental health issues.  
172
Live up to the plan, especially in the area of mental health services
173
DRAMATICALLY increase the availability of Mental health services. It's hard 
enough to get assistance when you're not not homeless and have good 
insurance. I cannot imagine how difficult it must be for someone who is homeless 
and has no support system.
174
Housing and mental health service are critical from what I have seen in my 
neighborhood
175
Substance use, remove the one selling and trading drugs.
176
Mental health services need to be emphasized and made more readily available 
without stigma.
177
Emphasis on mental health resources!
178
Set up jobs so these individuals can feel some self-worth.  Maybe start a shelter 
for stray pets that could provide housing and food for the "homeless" that work 
the shelter and care for the pets.
179
Job training and opportunities for the homeless
180
Job training and help finding employment
181
Job Training
182
very little assitance should be provided unless someone very sick.  folks need 
jobs like cleaning streets, whatever they are qualified for.
183
Creating more wellness programs and have healthier food choices available for 
people experiencing homelessness. Pay people who work within these social 
service programs better so that people that need healing care such as veterans 
and homelessness will be treated better. Treating employees with respect 
enriches programs to be more valuable resources for our entire community. 
184
I may have missed the broader context here but I did find it odd that outreach 
does not include asking those most affected to find out what their needs are. 
Don't we need to better understand each individual's needs? For instance, the 
emotional connection to one's pets and having to give them up may not be 
optimal for every individual or family (or maybe I misunderstood the intent of 0.1.1 
as currently written), especially during a time when they might be losing 
everything else. 
1.1
185
Actual updates, notes, phone numbers and locations for these Services.
186
There needs to be an accountability for these groups to work together. They all 
seem so mission based and don’t look at totality of the picture 
187
How many shelters do we need to address homelessness?  
How many large buisiness are willing to donate yearly to substain a homeless 
shelter?  
How can we get a proposed tax on the ballot for All cities in Maricopa?One penny 
tax to increase in Maricopa County for homeless shelters. 
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
13

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
188
analyzing the data seems superfluous since the community partners can 
probably tell you right off what specialized teams are need. data analysis always 
takes took long to just confirm what was already known
189
Identifying and quantifying those that choose to be homeless 
190
Given the extent of the data presented, 7k+ homeless and %51 unsheltered, it is 
impossible to know what a good strategy looks like. We should do the work to 
understand the population further. What percent needs mental health services? 
What percentage are on the street due to recent eviction? What percent are 
using hard drugs? What percent would take a bed if one was available? 
191
add a section where ALL factors are captured as of the reason why they are 
homeless to help determine if other services might be needed to be implemented 
192
Emphasis on data to determine special needs area, not just mental health. 
Seniors, youth and victims of violence
193
O.1.1 good to include pets 
O.1.2 This is really vague 
O.1.3 The entire mental health system needs to be overhauled. It is so 
ineffective.  
O.1.9 What shelter is this objective referring to? 
O.1.11 These opportunities need to be senior-friendly, such as no/limited stairs, 
grab bars installed, food accomodations, medication storage 
Outreach is much more effective when there is immediate response with tangible 
resources. A Phx CARES outreach team making contact with someone 2-3 days 
later to tell someone shelter is full is pointless. People are declining to speak to 
outreach teams because they are not able to offer solutions.  
O 3.2 What is the purpose for the gender specification? What if someone is non-
binary? 
1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.9, 
1.11, 3.2
194
Keep all but 0.1.1. and 0.3.1. 
1.1, 3.1
195
Nothing at I can see.. 
196
Resident input once needs are better defined
197
more details about concrete actions to be taken. How will additional housing 
options be secured? How will mental health services be made more available? 
Who are specialized teams? Where is additional funding coming from?
Input from people experiencing homelessness should be pursued more 
aggressively. Their lived experience can provide insight into what needs are and 
are not being met. 
198
How to. What difference can one person make. 
199
The time for stratagizing should be in the past, the time for action needs more 
attention. so which ever points flow simply on strategy should be removed.
200
More information needed. 
201
nothing I don't think 
202
Dont know that the gathering data for specialized teams needs to be added -- 
That's a given 
203
Availability to educational resources.
204
Que serían equipos especializados? Áreas por necesidad ?
205
The points of contact for outreach
206
ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!!
207
nothing
208
Remove all
209
Instead of adding to the objective refine and redistribute 
210
I think all of it needs to be included in our approach to help these people in need. 
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
14

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
211
nothing I can think of. 
212
Actually do something vs just talk
213
Please see notes at question 23.
214
Using existing buildings
215
Nothing yet
216
Not sure 
217
Nothing should be removed 
218
Not sure at this time
219
Nothing
220
Nothing
221
Health concerns/ availability/ resources
222
Aumentar la disponibilidad de programas para abuso de sustancias y empleo.
223
I am excited to see these issues included - it is very much needed.
224
no changes
225
The Funding for outreach...where is that money coming from and how much? 
226
Use data from the Continuum of Care to inform the Long Term Strategies. And 
set clear goals. Are pets really a barrier, or is that a perception? Work on cross-
sectional teams across geographic boundaries. No one living in the Valley only 
spends time or accesses services in one city; why is Phoenix writing this plan 
alone? Outreach alone does not end homelessness. Simply telling Veterans 
about services will not ensure they receive housing. It's nice for the City to say 
that the VA needs more staff, however what can the City actually do about it? 
Has the VA provided input to this "plan"?
227
"We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEY'RE 
 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS" 
228
Too vague, more details needed and transparency is expected. Prioritization of 
homeless pets over homeless humans receiving housing is appalling. What kinds 
of mental health support are going to be made more available? Who will the 
"specialized teams" be made up of?
229
These objectives are incredibly vague and there is a lack of description of how 
and what you plan to implement in order to appropriately address homelessness 
in Phoenix. There needs to be more information provided and we demand full 
transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and an extension for 
the public comment meetings until they’re accessible to people experiencing 
homelessness. 
230
We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEY'RE 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS.
231
We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
an extension for the public comment meetings until they're accessible to people 
experiencing homelessness. 
232
"We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEYRE 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS"
233
What are the metrics to measure success for this plan?  This survey is sadly a 
bad design, seeking confirmation bias instead of genuine public input. 
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
15

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
234
Please redesign the survey to discuss each policy item.  This is designed to limit 
the transparency of the public and to provide generic feedback.  It is very hard to 
navigate back and forth between the 30 page documents.  The research does not 
address costs in any way.   It also should be written to allow for those with basic 
reading ability to understand the principles.
235
Many will not seek services or will not be familiar with the services available. Can 
the City of Phoenix cause the VA to add head count?
236
Looks good
237
Nothing. All of these are vital to addressing the needs of unsheltered people.
238
just as is
239
2.1 Be careful to NOT create/fund a group without absolute goals and 
measurements: time limit, no bureaucrats. 
3.1 is not voiced as an exploration
3.1
240
Investing in addressing factors pressing to homelessness. Advocating for 
compassion rather than force. Encouraging community investment
241
A component to measure effectiveness and innovate from feedback
242
The Government icon - funding for social services can come through grants.
243
Number of homeless elderly is growing.  It should be addressed.
244
Officers to patrol the neighborhoods, keeping people out of bushes/yards.
245
I’m not familiar with everything about the plan but I’d say shelter and mental 
health/therapy most important. My brother was homeless and is doing great now 
b/c he got housing and counseling that allowed him to stabilize and find work. 
246
Housing options, mental health care, and a focus on Veterans are the most 
important aspects of this section. Critical to lessening this issue.
247
the results of these actions should be shared. I've seen similar programs but the 
homeless people in the areas of town that I live, work and play do not change. 
(Central Phoenix, South Phoenix & West Phoenix)
248
There needs to be services to help the homeless become productive citizens.
249
This fails to recognize that some people are homeless by choice. If someone 
doesn't want to work, they should receive nothing. If they are mentally 
incapacitated, we should commit them to an institution and give them treatment. 
If they want to work, we should help them with temporary housing and work 
opportunities. Also, this is not a good strategy for a city level project. What is to 
stop homeless people from other cities coming here? Nothing. 
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
16

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
250
I think homelessness starts at home well before people find themselves on the 
streets. There needs to be change that allows people to raise their families the 
way they believe. Example if I had a daughter who became pregnant and the 
father or my daughter couldn’t afford or want the child they should have the right 
no hassle to have an abortion.  
 
Video games should be band in homes with children that have extreme violence. 
 
 
Change welfare rules reducing benefits. Too many people have figured out 
increasing the number of kids in the household with parents separated they get 
more money and food stamps.   
 
Mental health is on the rise.  Keep these people in institutions so they get daily 
treatment instead of releasing these people out on the streets. Wake up 
people! 
 
251
We should be focused on lessening police interactions and increasing mental 
health/crisis team interaction with people living on the streets. Affordable, safe 
housing is the answer. 
252
Find root cause of why they are homeless, and design program to address it !!!
253
There needs to be more connection and involvement by engaging the faith 
community in helping with this effort.  Homelessness is a spiritual matter and 
needs solutions from that perspective, such as does programs like Phoenix 
Rescue Mission. There needs to be a healing then return to contributing to 
society not a continued dependence on society to meet their needs. 
254
We have enough shelters.  The complaints of guests is safety, noise and smell. 
255
Reaching out to local professionals for support services, for example Architects 
and Landscape Designers. 
256
It's an overview to provide some structure for what is to be done or being done to 
identify the homeless population, their needs, and specific services to help them.
257
How to address homeless who refuse help/services but continue to be a burden 
to society. 
258
Contracting out services can mean they are the first to go.  I prefer that true 
commitments are made. 
Also pets, no kill shelters, right?
259
Plan to address crimes of sleeping rough and loitering 
260
Anything that adds compassion, takes into account those that aren't ready for 
help, those with pets and families.
261
More support for people suffering homelessness and less criminalization for 
homelessness
262
Free access to shelter for all those experiencing homelessness. 
263
concerns for individuals out of correction facilities to re enter society, as you know 
housing and jobs are hard for this type of person so they end up living on the 
street and back in the penal system.
264
Research/study historical data to determine root cause to be more proactive to 
prevent homelessness
265
Cycle of poverty 
266
More information and scientific resources
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
17

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
267
resource offices ,  
Clean living facilities for those who qualify with getting a job , staying sober 
268
Some of this is Very important:  Mental health options, and additional support for 
Veterans.
269
Add to data collection:
Looking at/Visiting successful programs in cities throughout the country, such as 
Chicago, San Francisco.  Especially look at religious nonprofits, such as Pacific 
Garden Mission in Chicago, and others that receive minimal government funds.
270
Places to get food/eat.
271
The focus is comprehensive, yet does not address the individual needs and 
remedies for the people who are homeless. 
272
Assistance to families experiencing homelessness due to sudden economic 
changes & assistance for the children for schooling during a time of 
homelessness.
273
Under veterans affairs I think it should state that we should pressure the federal 
government to do its responsibility of caring for veterans. If that turns are on the 
Street homeless there must be a deficiency in our military system. just like 
prisons who release prisoners with no resources. Is the military releasing people 
with no resources?
274
Plans to determine affordable housing. Plans to increase base income pay.
275
Without know much about programs to aide homelessness, adding safe spaces 
in the summer and winter would be an interest to me
276
More support for veterans, animals, and those who are care about and are trying 
to find meaningful work. This is pointless for those who only want to live off others 
and have no sense of self-respect and don't care if they live on the street or in 
some vacant hotel. 
277
Depending on the part of the city different areas may have different needs.  Also 
the impact of programs on other cities might need to be addressed.
278
General health care and follow up for chronic and acute medical conditions. 
Programs for children and maintain their education and social needs
279
None or only housing for the pets. By providing free aid for homelessness will 
end in an increase which is why California has over 50% of the United States 
homeless population. Free services force tax increases and doesn't encourage 
those utilizing the services to better themselves and work towards becoming 
independent. 
280
Drug addiction help for veterans, and require it to receive services
281
holistic, alternative, complementary medicine for both people AND pets
282
Removing homeless from neighborhood.
283
Financial management/literacy programs
284
drug testing needs to be a part of the process otherwise you're basically enabling 
the behaviors
285
Providing safe, sanitary locations for homeless population, including facility 
showers, food and medical assistance.
286
Identify ways or programs to help people get out of homelessness. Not just a 
temporary shelter or food. Set them up for a future off the streets. 
287
Social services agencies for persons "just above the line" of homelessness
288
To help Vets
289
identify ways individual citizens can contribute time or resources to help solve this 
problem
290
Explore specialized/best practice housing options for young people (18-26). Work 
towards a goal of NO homeless families. 
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
18

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
291
Before new services are made and paid for in Phx, all available resources and 
non-profits should be cataloged and used. I know this is a hard task and "all" is 
not possible, but most agencies should be able to be on this clearinghouse type 
list. Then, we can see what is truly needed in Phx. The goal should be no gaps or 
overlaps in providers. 
292
Contacting the schools of families experiencing homelessness to get them in 
touch with their McKinney Vento coordinator. 
293
remove 0.1.1
1.1
294
O.1.1-homeless people often have pets for comfort, they love and support their 
pets and I’m sure would find a way for their pets to be cared for if needed. Taking 
pets away for rehoming does not support socio-emotional well being
1.1
295
Not sure shelters for pets should get part of the limited funds available. I would 
classify 0.1.1 as 'not so important', while realizing that some homeless do attach 
to pets while on the street and lack of a place for the pet may keep the person on 
the street.
1.1
296
remove O.1.1 pets should be put up for adoption if you're homeless.  If you can't 
afford to support yourself, you certainly can't afford a pet and that will hold you 
down when it comes to getting back on your feet.  
1.1
297
Should O.1.1 of the plan be to separate homeless persons from their pets? While 
pets should be addressed as part of the question, I'm not sure task one is to 
place the pets of the homeless into shelters or rehome them. It seems like it 
would undermine the outreach by engendering distrust amongst the homeless 
community.
1.1
298
Not a fan of how this survey groups wildly different items under one question.  
How can you tell anything from the survey results based on the information you 
are gathering? 
 
Mental health O.1.3 is extremely important. The others less so.
1.3
299
Remove all but 0.3.1
3.1
300
O.3.1 is not written in an objective format, I suggest adding the word "identify" 
before "Additional" to read as, "Identify additional...." 
3.1
301
Point 0.1.1 - Pets are important to the homeless. Often, they are support animals. 
Don’t find ways to take them away from them. 
Point 0.1.3 -Very important 
Point 0.1.2 Yes... 
0.2.1 Vague. Only if those teams are janitorial, cleaning teams. 
Point  
0.2.1. Vague 
0.2.2 Vague 
0.3.1 Veterans are budgetted by veteran’s affairs  
1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2.1, 
2.2, 3.1
302
The formatting is off between 0.1.2 and 0.1.3.  The order of importance seems off 
putting pet fostering before people and Vets.  It doesnt look like a plan  just 
talking points.
1.2, 1.3
303
It appears some of the terms/phrases used in the detailed plan are still 
ambiguous. What are "the various needs" that have been identified for exploring 
additional housing options (O.1.2)? What mental health services are currently 
available and need to be made more available (O.1.3)? Additionally, will Phase 2 
of this plan identify how these strategies and objectives will be accomplished, and 
included an implementation timeframe and the expected results?
1.2, 1.3
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
19

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
304
Emphasis on 1.2,1.3,3.1
1.2, 1.3, 3.1
305
remove city from all but O.1.3 and O.2.1
1.3, 2.1
306
The pets part is not the top priority of this section and could be removed.  The 
mental health aspect needs to put up higher as is the Veteran's part...though both 
go hand in hand.
307
Some clarification on the first bullet point would be helpful. Members of the 
community greatly value the bonds they form with their pets, and caring for those 
animals is important. However, to have the creation of opportunities for the care 
of pets as the first point seems to indicate it is the most important factor. Perhaps 
this is true, in which case some clarification on the necessity of this change 
(aside from the general desire to assist animals) may be helpful. 
308
I am hesitant on the pet shelters.  I understand pets are therapeutic, but this is an 
expense that would be taking away from humans.
309
Pets need to be cared for as well.
310
i am not that concerned for the pets, but if someone is suddenly homeless, it 
would be beneficial  to have the pet who is comfort for them
311
This is so general OF COURSE, COP should be doing this. OF COURSE, COP 
should do more. WE HAVE A CRISIS FOLKS! These are key areas of need. 
312
It is dehumanizing to list animal welfare above the welfare of humans 
experiencing homelessness. Regardless of whether the order of items listed 
indicates priority of the item, the implicit message being communicated in the 
above list is that pets are of greater importance than people. 
313
People before pets.  Looking at all the report photographs only one person out of 
dozens wore a mask.  Having a mask and using it should take precedent over 
animal shelter. 
314
Taking in pets should be by volunteers only.
315
Pets should be removed. 
316
Other jurisdictions must be required to share cost and responsibility. Other 
problem is survey has included too much in this section to fairly comment and 
judge.
317
We need to stop analyzing, exploring, and studying. We need action
318
This is a terrible survey so far. You mixed "care for pets" with "help 
veterans"?Portions of this section are very relevant, others, not so much. I 
wonder if this was intentional.
319
I feel that people are more important than pets
320
These items are not actionable objectives for a plan. Wording such as "Pursue 
creation of..., Explore additional housing options..., Analyze available data..., 
Identify available funding...) are the pre-planning efforts needed to formulate this 
plan. Two items, pets and Veteran Affairs, are better served as separate complex 
issues. and this plan should remain focused on general homeless issues. There 
already is a separate plan to eliminate homelessness amongst the veteran 
population (unless the funding has dried up for it). The problem of abandoned 
pets is not only coming from the homeless population, and whatever limited 
funding available in this plan needs to be limited to the human population.
321
Addressing the pets is great.  I know many homeless people have a pet and they 
cannot go into a shelter because it doesn't take their pet.
322
It seems like most of these need to be a short term goal. What is preventing 
these objectives from being short-term goals? Also I don't see heat deaths being 
addressed. The numbers are astronomical and will only get worse. The lack of 
mention on this survey is frankly disturbing. 
323
Humans are more important than pets
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
20

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
324
The option for pets should be of minimal importance within the context of the 
additional needs. 
325
People should not be asked to separate from a pet that has been their only 
companion and protection. Many will refuse a shelter bed rather than give up a 
pet.   Homeless strategies need to allow for keeping pets with persons. 
326
It needs to be written and simplified to be clearer.
327
Homeless folks should not have their pets taken away. They already lost their 
homes, and you want to take away their pets? Rather than foster care for pets, 
perhaps have pet friendly places the homeless can stay. 
328
Remove Pets... 
329
Veteran Affairs has plenty of resources available for homeless veterans. I believe 
that more resources should be allocated for the general population instead. I 
agree that increased mental health services and pet resources would be 
extremely helpful. Also, there is a lack of services for homeless needing a higher 
level of care, which do not qualify for ALTCS. 
330
Creation of facilities that allow participants to keep their pets, perhaps using the 
welfare of the pets to keep persons engaged in services-offer veterinary care and 
pet food. Consider green space/small gardens as necessary parts of 
shelter/housing. 
331
Instead of creating shelters for or fostering pets, find ways for those experiencing 
homelessness to keep their pets with them. Pets are an irreplaceable source of 
comfort. In addition, provide services for those pets: veterinarians, groomers, 
sitters.
332
Vets are reasonably well sought and assisted. there is probably a dozen groups / 
organizations that do that dedicated to vets. a state of the state address 15+ 
years ago promised we would get vets off the street.. its still a problem but not for 
lack of trying. NEXT concentrate on seniors or women..  
333
Instead of trying to take pets away from homeless people, create more 
opportunities for them to be able to adequately care for their companions. Taking 
away that emotional connection is cruel.
334
pets are unimportant and in reality a small portion of whatever barriers are 
believed to exist at shelter
335
Community input and impact. There is no language about including the 
community in solutions, impact on neighborhoods
336
Allow shelters to have some availability for individuals with pets and for the pets 
to stay with the individual. 
337
provisions for homeless families should be addresssed here
338
Not sure about addressing housing for the pets.  Would like to focus on people 
mostly.  
339
Needs more detail on cost and intended outcome in order for me to answer this 
correctly 
340
work with homeless person to determine if "pet" is an assistance animal.  
Develop plan to connect homeless person with medical personnel to address 
legally requiring assistance animal. (Assistance animals play a very large part of 
a person's mental health.  To separate them can be detrimental to any plan to get 
the person off the street, get clean and enter into supportive housing.)
341
I don’t agree with removing people’s pets from them. Why not provide shelter for 
people instead of a asking away their pets and giving the pets shelter? 
342
Option should be included for people to be house with their pets, not separate 
from them. 
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
21

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
343
I am not sure why those with pets are listed as the first priority. 
344
Leave out the pets
345
this Is a lot to read and comprehend for a short survey
346
Pet shelters
347
I believe we also need temporary shelters that allow pets.  Some individuals view 
their pets as their children and could never imagine being separated from them.   
I know someone who chose to live on the street instead of going to a shelter 
because he couldn’t imagine leaving his dog with someone else.  Imagine asking 
a mother to give up her baby.   
348
Shelter where pets can stay with their family. 
349
Help for pets and mental health services should both be increased.
350
WHY IS THE FIRST THING ADDRESSING THE NEEDS OF P E T S???  
Veterans, mental health and data analysis appear to be the most pressing needs.
351
Consideration of transportation available to homeless and their pets - consider 
options for bus pass
352
Pets shouldn’t be prioritized over people
353
Democrat policies continue to fail
354
It sounds like you are going to give hard earned tax payer money to private 
businesses and organizations to build these "teams" that will end up being 
unaccountable and waste millions of dollars.
355
Pets should not be home separately from their owners if at all possible. 
356
sometimes homeless people need their pets it is the only thing helping them stay 
mentally healthy.  Many times people will stay on the street if it means they don't 
have to give up their pet
357
We need action not just government meetings and talk
358
Shelter options for pets of people experiencing homelessness is not a priority.
359
I don't think pets should be a priority.
360
I do not think we should include pet care for homelessness.  
361
Always place human life above animals. I wonder if non-profits can assist with 
animal needs. Let's get resources to humans 
362
I used to live and work downtown (now work only) as well as serve the homeless, 
i was amazed at the amount of dogs they have.  They were willing to put 
someone before them which showed a caring nature.  There's definitely a mixed 
bag in the homeless community (mental health, drugs etc) This seems to 
address many of them.
363
remove section on pets
364
Pets should be kept with the owners as often as possible. The pets are often the 
owner's highest priority and can serve as service animals. To try to take the pets 
away as a first option is cruel. 
365
All seem very important. Thank you for including pet placement.
366
pets are a priority-but a lower one because you have animal selters but not 
enough for humans
367
It all seems ambiguous and open ended
368
Remove the pet section.
369
I believe most of the long term strategy objectives should become short-term 
strategy objectives. 
370
Remove the pets.
371
remove the pets. if they can't take care of themselves they shouldn't have 
pets!!!!!!!!! no housing if they have pets. no money waswted on pets instead of 
people
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
22

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
372
Opening the restrooms at all city parks.  It is shocking that Phoenix has no public 
restrooms available other than at trailheads.
373
programs should focus on people keeping their pets instead of fostering them to 
new people 
374
What is missing in the strategies is interviewing HOMELESS people.  This is 
necessary to properly identify how the city can help.  Also, it appears many areas 
of this report could be reduced in scope and save money if the initial homeless 
intake process was better executed.  Why are the areas around the shelter so 
filled with homeless people?
375
Send them to California where they came from
376
Remove pets, unless they are approved and documented service animals.  
Current VA needs more support and training, there does not need to be an 
additional resource.  
Analyze the data before you implement these changes.  
 
377
All of the points need to be removed. The ONLY section that matters is the 
veterans outreach and taking care of the men and women who served our 
country and need the help. Pets are a luxury and Arizonan resident tax payer 
money should NOT be going to feed or house a homeless persons pet. 
378
pets need to be removed. 
379
Explore ways to keep pets with their owner is shelter
380
Pet care should be changed or removed since the focus of the strategic plan is 
human-centric.
381
I'm sorry but I just don't think pets are that important. House the people first, then 
worry about their pets.
382
No Pets in shelters!!!!! Phoenix Cares must be defunded as they just drain 
resources
383
Pets should not have line item prioritization over Vets 
384
looks like a lot of override of areas  -  who is going to take in the animals -  at 
what cost to other animals that are not identified with homeless  -  how long is 
their care 
385
Remove Pets and vets 0.1.1 and 0.3.1
386
Why should we pay for homeless people's pets??? Vets before pets.
387
More shelter beds should be more of a priority than shelter options for pets
388
Add resource for pet food. 
Specialized teams - not sure what it is. It seems to focus on individual, when 
resources may be better spent on masses. 
389
All of these objectives already exist as community resources and services
390
My initial response is with a problem so big we cannot worry about an issue like 
pets right now... that’s easy to say. However, I’ve seen a pet time and time again 
positively effect the mental health of a resident. The goal is long-term 
stabilization, self-sufficiency, so if a pet helps provide a better mindset to gain 
that, then we need to include pets in the plan. 
391
While important for getting people into housing, housing for pets shouldn't be the 
first thing listed here. 
392
It is odd that the first item is about pets. Also, not sure that the goal of removing 
pets from homeless owners to a foster situation is always the best plan. Pets may 
provide emotional support. 
393
"explore additional housing needs" should be its own objective. 
394
Veterans and pets section should be removed. 
395
Pets
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
23

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
396
Pets are a big issue.  For many of  our homeless they are  a primary  source of 
comfort and physical touch!  As much as possible people and pets need to 
remain together.  Pets often support recovery  by providing an external focus. 
 
Define specialty teams.  To do what and for whom.   
 
Housing should not be contingent on acceptance of MH services.  Housing first.
397
I might be off-base, but I'd like a plan to totally solve the homeless problem. One 
of our mayors who went on the US House of Reps had a goal to solve the 
problem.  What happened to that? I want housing, work, medical and mental 
health for all who need it.  It appears to me that this plan provides the strategies 
to do a little better in each area.   That's better than no improvement. But this is 
the time for bold moves. 
 
I helped with the annual homeless count.  My sense is that we are doing better 
with homeless vets than with the general population of homeless. If this is true, 
can't we apply the vets solutions and strategies to everyone else.   
 
It would be nice if we could take the funds dedicated to cleaning up after the 
homeless, evicting them and sending the police after trespassers, and taking 
those funds and dedicating them to eliminating the homeless problem.  
398
Fostering of pets is not a good idea.  Homeless people are very attached and 
provides a source of security.  Pet-friendly housing is a better alternative. 
399
Remove pets.  Pet needs are a pretty low priority, you have it first on the list.  I 
barely can afford my pet care.  Veteran Administration already spends heavy 
amounts on homeless vets.  Is it realistic to expect more Vet dollars?  In these 
difficult government funding times, is it rtealistic to come up with more funding for 
this nice to do thing?
400
I would change "availability" to "accessibility" of mental health AND substance 
use services.
401
It seems that each of these items is part of a strategy in another section.  The Pet 
strategy is really part of finding the right housing for someone with pets, Strategy 
5.  Mental Health has its own Strategy.    
402
I wouldn't lead with pets; that is a lower priority. Reference or attention should be 
paid to subpopulations in addition to vets such as those that experience 
homelessness at higher rates (Black, Native)  and families and youth.  There also 
needs to be a way to incorporate the efforts of the many outreach efforts being 
done by volunteer organizations. 
403
Make sure Phoenix Police are not involved with the care of homeless people
404
Don't respond to Mutual Aid groups with police violence. This makes people 
experiencing homelessness distrust assistance for the sake of their safety, which 
makes it even harder to help.
405
Education for police officers on homelessness including the barriers it puts into a 
persons life like the amount of things it because even harder to obtain because 
you don’t have an address. It also should just be additional access to mental 
health care, more funding is needed. Social workers are needed. Training officers 
in mental health routinely is needed. Trained crisis response teams are needed, 
increase the funding for the Phoenix fire crisis response team to be able to help 
and support the homeless community
406
Make it clear that it may be a city responsibility but not police responsibility.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
24

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
407
There should be expansions to current homeless shelters that allow for pets to 
stay with their owners. 
 
Also, O.1.2 and O.1.3 should be massively funded to ensure that every homeless 
person has access to mental health services, if needed, and access to housing.
1.2, 1.3
408
Need to know how this is all funded. If it is funded through Sales Taxes OK.... If it 
is funded by property taxes not ok.  
Property Taxes are hurting all of us. As a person close to retirement my property 
taxes have almost doubled in 4 years. 
You are going to make me and my wife Homeless if you take from us to give to 
the Homeless. 
409
Specific dedicated funding sources need to identified or else this is just another 
plan that will be ineffective.
410
I believe the city/government should diversify funding and not put all funding into 
the same top 6 non-profits. There are any non-profits in the community that do 
just as much work and do not get the funding or recoginition
411
as long as all the money is not spent on studying this and studying that.  Too 
much time studying the issues and not enough time doing something about it
412
Need private organizations, 503cs to assist and not burden of taxpayers as slot of 
these people are addicts and need to be responsible for actions. No supplying of 
needles etc
413
Add all other Phoenix Metropolitan Cities as Partners. This is a Metro Phoenix 
problem, not a Phoenix problem. They bring their prison releases and dump them 
at the CASS campus. They need to be forced to be part of the solution and stop 
being part of the problem.
414
0.1
0.1
415
0.1.1 is not important
1.1
416
2.1 may be somewhat necessary, however I feel that a lot of attention to this 
component has already been reviewed and achieved at this stage of the process.
2.1
417
I recommend keeping 3.1 and removing the others. 
3.1
418
Prioritize 0.3.1
3.1
419
Pets of homeless individuals should not be “sheltered/fostered” elsewhere (i.e. 
taken away from them). 
14
420
I cannot personally speak to the effectiveness of a strategy to create shelters for 
animals of those experiencing homelessness, but I wonder if this would be 
accepted by those experiencing homelessness. I am curious about the level of 
interest and support the City received on this strategy from the homeless 
population given the companionship and protection that can be provided to those 
experiencing homelessness from their pets. 
14
421
0.1.2 & 0.1.3 are the critical parts of this section. They aren't equal to the others, 
they are higher priorities.
1.2, 1.3
422
I agree with 0.1.2-0.1.3 and 0.3.1
1.2, 1.3, 3.1
423
This section needs to be more concrete and less vague in its wording. Having an 
action plan isn't just guessing what to do, it's having a solid plan of what to do. 
This seems like a rushed and poorly thought through section. For example, 
"Increase the availability of mental health services" - how? What services and 
how will you ensure those resources are not only available but actively being 
pushed to help our homeless community members? This feels weak and also 
dangerous with wording like "specialized teams" because the City of Phoenix has 
no problem deploying police to incite violence on homeless community members. 
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
25

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
424
Its incredibly vague and talking about huge line items that need to be given more 
detail.
425
Add current state, next steps. 
426
substance abuse treatment,  post incarceration assistance. 
427
Strengthn the Veternas Portion. 
428
Programs for folks with criminal records-added 
Programs for seniors-added 
More veterans programs-taken away 
429
No pets
430
especially mental health care. 
431
involve the nonprofits who actually are on the streets working with these 
individuals not just CASS and CBI etc.  These organizations really are out of 
touch with what goes on in the outlying communities.
432
Hello- My name is Vivienne Gellert and I am the Executive Director of a SDOH 
navigtaion and trasnportation company, Elaine, based out of the Human Services 
Campus. I think I may be helpful in discussion around navigation, if needed. 
Please feel free to email me: vgellert@elaineaz.org
433
I did not see verbiage in the plan regarding response times for neighborhood 
calls to PhxCARES or the police for reports regarding illegal homeless 
encampments. This is a common problem in our neighborhood, how does the 
plan improve response times for reports of homelessness?
434
Does the plan increase response times for PhxCARES?
435
It would be productive to report to Phoenix Cares if it was funded appropriately. 
Based on the homeless needs which is hugely funded , you have not committed 
or designated any additionaly funds to help the neighborhoods therefore. Why 
call.? We need a proactive response to help the neighborhood impact which is 
just as huge!
436
How is information regarding Phoenix CARES disseminated to neighborhoods? 
How are people discouraged from calling the police and instead encouraged to 
seek supportive help for homeless individuals?
437
Does the plan bolster the CARES program? I have contacted them more than 
once only to be told they were so overwhelmed with calls and had so few staff 
members that they didn't know when they could check on the person I called 
about.
438
Strategy 4 Addresses Feeding in City Right of Way and on City Property. The 
ability to prohibit serving food to those experiencing homelessness within City 
Right of Way or on other City property is framed as a “Gap.” Is there a willingness 
to discuss this as an opportunity as opposed to an enforcement gap?
439
From the plan there is a discussion to have one central number to call for 
housing availability. Instead of people having to call several places.
Outreach and Navigation Chapter
26

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
1
I don't see where it's a priority to create free or low cost long-term housing 
solutions as a first step. In other words, when people don't have to worry about 
their housing and safety, all outcomes are improved (health, ability to focus on 
other things like improving skills to land that next job, getting clean, etc). I may 
have missed it but I hope there is a recognition of the built and natural  
environment and its affects on health outcomes. In other words, having open 
green spaces is really important to building resilient communities where these 
long-term housing solutions are provided. Given the current food supply chain 
and crisis we have witnessed during this pandemic, having space for gardens 
would help support food security and provide access to healthy foods in what can 
often be food deserts where lower income housing exists. 
2
Do  not believe additional laws for tenant protection needed.  We are landlords 
(three modest properties) and fortunately have not had any problems collecting 
rent.  However, the length of time it can take to evict a nonpaying tenant can be 
too long.  Would prefer to see marginal income/no income folks helped by govt 
programs such as this.  Freeloaders/people who take advantage of the law 
should not have loopholes to prolong the process.
3
Get rid of the whole thing.   Let us heed Benjamin Franklin's quote "I am for doing 
good to the poor, but...I think the best way of doing good to the poor, is not 
making them easy in poverty, but leading or driving them out of it."
4
While offering assistance to slow down evictions, also include some protections 
for landlords rights. Offer them assistance to be able to work with tenants having 
difficulty paying rent.
5
BUILD MORE AFFORDABLE APARTMENTS FOR PEOPLE WHO WORK BUT 
ONLY GET MINUMUM WAGE!!!!
6
After reading various articles, vouchers seem to work the best, not Low Income 
Housing Credits-removal of this might help. Reducing regulatory burdens on re-
developing abandoned motels/hotels and apartments might be more effective. 
Use existing laws already in place for tenant rights and evictions. Avoid new 
legislation if possible. Find out what the constraints and incentives would be of 
help to non-profits. 
7
Remove all the measures for additional tenants’ rights - these are already well 
established. Put the veterans in charge of developing partnerships and 
expanding the voucher program with vacant property owners, fast-track their 
clearance levels as process servers, and have them inform the owners of vacant 
properties that they have a two-year statute of limitations on empty or unused 
hotels/motels. If they do not rehab it or propose a plan for renewal by September 
2022, the city will pay them $1 per square foot and establish ownership via Quit 
Claim Deed, or it will be declared a health hazard, scraped, and rebuilt by the 
formerly homeless who have graduated from an internship program in 
coordination with the many construction and staffing companies eager to gain 
visibility by doing good in the community. 
8
see above.
9
"We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEY'RE 
 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS" 
 
Housing Chapter Comments
27

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
10
H.3.2 should be removed or changed. Funds for this program should not take 
away from AHCCCS/HC community housing funds.
H.3.2 
11
Much too vague to even comment on. More details are needed especially on 
transitioning community members to "less supportive housing"
12
concrete deadlines/goals for meeting proposed long term objectives. 
Input from people experiencing homelessness should be pursued more 
aggressively. Their lived experience can provide insight into what needs are and 
are not being met. 
13
Library should reverse all late fees for homeless and let them check out books 
again, . . .  without fees.  Kansas City did this successfully! 
Free Bus for all homeless.  Kansas City did this successfully!  I believe they 
made it free bus for everyone, which makes sense because only the poor ride it.
14
City of Phoenix should follow Housing First models and best practices with 
partnerships with external organizations.  We need more details on each of these 
items.
15
AHCCCS funding for housing should not be tied to abstaining from substance 
use, it is important to recognize success in reduction of use. H.3.1is very 
important to me, I would like to see an exploratory study completed on Metro 
Center (or similar property) becoming a shelter. 
 H.3.1
16
Need affordable housing options near public transportation 
17
These objectives are incredibly vague and there is a lack of description of how 
and what you plan to implement in order to appropriately address homelessness 
in Phoenix. There needs to be more information provided and we demand full 
transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and an extension for 
the public comment meetings until they’re accessible to people experiencing 
homelessness. 
18
Place beds and privacy walls in large industrial buildings. Get support from 
businesses
19
when older, low cost housing is replaced by higher values, tax revenue producing 
housing it will be very hard to replace when said housing is needed. legislating 
around this is not entirely a panacea.
20
Like the part about the hotels, etc.    
21
Consider zoning laws that would allow for increased housing density along public 
transit lines.
22
remove H.1.1 (not fair to mom and pop landlords); remove H.3.1(causes blight in 
low income neighborhoods); remove H.4.4 and H.4.5 (causes blight and crime in 
low income neighborhoods and reduces the chances of low income 
neighborhoods to be revived.  I will not support this campaign if these are not 
removed.
H.1.1
H.3.1
H.4.4  
H.4.5
23
There must be legislation capping the amount of rent that can be charged by 
landlords, while also ensuring that landlords are providing adequate services on 
home maintenance.  How about taking currently unused or foreclosed homes and 
renovating to support homeless families, rather than allowing them to remain 
vacant in neighborhoods.  Restrict Section 8 vouchers to neighborhoods that fit 
the income level, rather than placing in expensive neighborhoods like Litchfield 
Park, Scottsdale, etc.  Build in structure and accountability to the program, 
because currently people are taking advantage and not making attempts to 
become self sustainable.  Programs that address homelessness must have 
expirations and considered a stepping stone to improving lives, not a forever fit.  
This is not sustainable, and it continues the cycle instead of repairing over time.
Housing Chapter Comments
28

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
24
H1.1 and H1.2 need to be removed.  People sign contracts saying they need to 
pay rent in order to live in a apartment/house, etc.   People know they can not live 
somewhere for free.  They know they need to pay their rent.  If then don't pay why 
should the person or company renting to them be penalized.  Now you are taking 
money out of their pockets.  You don't know the landlord's situation. Maybe that 
money is keeping them in their home.    People need to be accountable for their 
actions.  Continued handouts and "letting it slide" is not the answer
H1.1 and H1.2
25
Important because we're talking about people, but when it's just talk, as I'm sure 
you'd heat if a homeless person was asked, he or she would say "talk is cheap, 
an it doesn't feed the baby".
26
H1.1 - Remove.  concerned of impact to landlords and eventual reduced housing 
options, utlize H1.2 instead.
H4.1 - very important!
H1.1
H4.1
27
H1.1 Not all landlords are preying on tenants. 
H3.1 & H4.5 we need an exit strategy here. What will these structures be when 
the crisis is resolved.
H1.1 
H3.1 & H4.5
28
Identify "specifically" what the impact to the taxpayer would be.  Do the above 
strategies impose new TAXES on State/County/Municipal" services directly to 
taxpayers?
29
All are designed to unfairly impact rental property owners 
30
We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEY'RE 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS.
31
I feel that eviction laws that allow landlords to throw a former tenant's 
possessions out on the street, where they can be destroyed or stolen, needs to 
be addressed. This draconian law means that someone who may be just "hitting 
a bad patch" - because of a medical crises or loss of a job - will much more likely 
become permanently homeless. Landlords should be required to provide low-cost 
moving and storage to the tenants they evict. 
32
Simple concept: Universities costs for housing skyrocket. Homeless need 
attentive care and students need practice in their fields. Apply for free housing 
from colleges to live and help homelessness causes. Students live for free 
through college, homelessness get combated by the up and coming healthcare 
generations which would be used towards post-grad schools. Like I said simple 
solution that could knock two birds with one stone. 
33
H1.1 After having been a landlord, I do not support adding more tenant rights 
because I feel these are abused already--along with squatter's rights.  
H1.3  I am unsure about this because I do not know the resources available if the 
threshold is changed, and if that is in line with other cities and human services 
programs.  It seems like if you increase one thing, it will impact another program 
and more increases to thresholds of other programs. 
H3.2 Again, I question this just like the above statement for H1.3.  It depends on 
what the experts say. 
H4.6 "Discrimination" needs defining. Landlords need to be able to secure 
tenants who are working and able to pay the rent.   
H1.1
H1.3
H3.2
H4.6
34
Recommend removing entirely. 
Housing Chapter Comments
29

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
35
Again, you're making this extremely hard to support without full transparency and 
loose wording. These little snippets sure do seem nice but I want more concrete 
information, a real plan. Words like "explore," "expand," and "utilize" truly mean 
nothing if you can't tell us how. I'm struggling to understand how you will do this 
because measures like more legislation for tenant rights is important, especially 
during times of crisis - whether national or personal.
36
Penalizing landlords will result in stronger laws to protect landlords and eventually 
penalize renters with large deposits.
37
I'm concerned if the plan puts to much pressure on landlords the unintended 
consequences will be not not allow persons of suspect income level to rent from 
them.
38
I love the idea of helping people. We have all been in a position of needing help 
in one way or another. And it’s a beautiful thing to give back. However, there is a 
fine line between helping and enabling. By providing extensive resources and 
assistance, I truly believe there needs to be strict drug testing enforced. 
39
What is needed is the ability to get to the root of the problem? Homelessness is 
not one bucket in which everyone fits. If someone is a convicted felon and 
running from the law and living as a homeless person, that is very different from a 
family who is down on their luck.  One size doesn't fit all.  How will this be 
40
The Mayor needs to immediately come up with a viable plan to OPEN 
BUSINESSES, so people are not vulnerable to evictions. Get the economy going. 
Do NOT create even more reliance on government!
41
Emphasis on getting more partners in the mix of providers do not rely on the few
42
We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
an extension for the public comment meetings until they're accessible to people 
experiencing homelessness. 
43
Holding banks and owners accountable. Forcing employers to pay a wage 
relative to cost of living if they intend to do business in Arizona
44
more affordable housing around the valley, no more shelter beds in downtown
45
Refurbishing a hotel into housing for homelessness seems like a great idea!
46
More information needed. 
47
"We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEYRE 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS"
48
This is a waste of questions. Who put these out here? Typical survey monkey.  
Everyone's time is worth more than this.  Your too City of Phoenix enployees
49
i dont know how long the eviction notice is but i have heard of people staying in 
homes for a long time not paying and that seem not right for the holder of the lien- 
not sure of a good alternative 
50
This section is very important but you can't get to the point of offering housing 
until the mental illness issues have been thoroughly addressed.
51
Owner - needs to be able to address needs of tenant - Tenant who cannot pay 
rent should EITHER be able to get assistance or 90 days to move. Phoenix has 
so much VACANT land - that the cost of various size tents, water, food, toilets - 
portable - would not exceed City of Phoenix Monies and would work -  except 
summers?? 
52
More permanent supportive options added for people with SMI and other chronic 
disabilities. 
Housing Chapter Comments
30

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
53
I don't agree with all of the sections. I think landlords, especially elderly and 
individual with small properties need to be protected from unethical renters who 
may be trying to work the system. My mother is retired and has one rental 
property which gives her income in her old age, if the renter doesn't pay and she 
cant evict them, she cant pay for her medicine or bills.  
54
Transition tools to help address the challenges of transitioning from the streets to 
a home.  It is learning a new way of life.  
55
Changes to Fair Housing protections should be evaluated post COVID-19 and 
subsequent unemployment rate increases.
56
What are the metrics to measure success for this plan?  This survey is sadly a 
bad design, seeking confirmation bias instead of genuine public input. 
57
The eviction portions are a concern for those that have rental income as their 
own income.  It is a domino effect.  I do believe some of the other options in this 
section are more viable.
58
eviction process due to pandemic may be of special interest.  there may need to 
be a stop gap for a period of time on evictions. 
59
This section looks like a list of what COP can do to defer its responsibility to 
others. YES OTHERS NEED TO STEP UP: County other cities, State. Yes it is 
important. We have a crisis situation. If you can do more of it DO IT. We need to 
do all this and more. H.3.1 seems like an area where COP has had success 
recently. Good Job COP getting our homeless off the street. 
 H.3.1
60
Owners of rental properties have rights and bills as well. The eviction process 
has its purpose and there is no need to slow it down. The entire country has been 
in crisis for 6 months. Eviction should be no surprise if the tenant is not paying 
rent. Again, there is no reason to slow down the eviction process. Landlords have 
bills too and there are renters available who will pay the rent. 
61
Utilize vacant buildings/warehouses and partner with non profits to supply 
services. 
62
Landlords should not become the victims due to any policy or program to assist 
the homeless.  The focus should be on helping people PAY their rent versus 
slowing down the eviction process.
63
Shelters should be opened. Absolutely NO tax money should be paid for anyone 
to shoot up drugs or continue a habbit. Classes to get people working again are 
needed. 
64
Given what will happen in the coming months, I would suggest building on city 
land some sort of semi-permanent tent encampments with port o potties on 
excess city land near the river to allow for those who need a place to stay but 
aren't going to abide my rules/dictates of converted motel housing.  If you plan to 
kick people off the canals, I don't think this addresses where will these people 
end up.   I'd rather have them live in the canals/washes rather than paying for 
them in prison.   This doesn't seem to address actual funding for mental 
health/homeless patrol.   Given the track record of the police and their lack of 
training in social services, I am hesitant to call for more clearing of homeless 
encampments.    Increase funding for housing vouchers.   If you are pursuing 
criminalization, please create a diversion program for those arrested or cited in 
encampments.   Please redesign the survey to discuss each policy item.  This is 
designed to limit the transparency of the public and to provide generic feedback.  
It is very hard to navigate back and forth between the 30 page documents.  The 
research does not address costs in any way.   It also should be written to allow 
for those with basic reading ability to understand the principles.
65
anything that limits an owners rights to evict is bad
Housing Chapter Comments
31

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
66
Landlords have rights and an eviction process should be efficient. Do not create 
legislation that allows for lengthy eviction processes when tenants are damaging 
or delinquent. 
67
Poor question.  
68
Landlord rights and issues must be acknowledged as well as housing for 
homeless
69
Add rent control policies to keep rent prices from rising so much each year. Also, 
the city has far too many luxury apartments which are driving up rates. 
70
Small group or one-on-one with people previously homeless who are now 
successfully not homeless. 
Also, ID those that simply want the "freedom" to not pay for housing. We call 
these people homeless, but that is their preferance.
71
The main focus of this plan should be to create low barrier, supported, long term 
housing solutions with available financial assistance. Get people experiencing 
homelessness into housing first. Finland has had wild success with this program 
and I think we could too! :)
Learn more: 
https://ysaatio.fi/en/housing-first-finland
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukKbSNXXMhk
72
This is the most important section yet you neglect to say how you will increase 
the supply of affordable housing. The city must commit to finding and creating 
funds to create more affordable housing. Use the Phoenix IDA for low interest 
bond funding. Consider a future housing bond. Use every financial incentive tool 
to encourage developers to build affordable housing. Most importantly focus on 
housing for those at 30% AMI or below where our greatest gap is.
73
Tenant rights often means restriction on property ownership.  No landlord should 
be forced to keep tenants who act in ways that historically have been considered 
evict-able.  Immediate effort should be targeted to those who are homeless 
because of the covid-19 outbreak.  
74
Ensure good landlords don't pay for problem tenants. 
75
We strongly agree with utilizing vacant hotels for housing homeless. Also 
referrals from health care, veterans agencies, and other community agencies 
should definitely be utilized to identify need. We don’t not support making eviction 
proceedings more difficult for landlords. We need a plentiful market of rental 
housing and complicating the process of removing a delinquent tenant will 
discourage those who want to have rental property.
76
what does paragraph H1.3 mean?
H1.3
77
Do not include H1.1  - there is already a lengthy process for eviction. Landlords 
are not the enemy- they would have to pay out of their own pockets longer.  No to 
H1.2.  Using vacant hotels, the move-on program, help for chronically homeless 
are all great ideas.
H1.1 
H1.2
78
The ENTIRE premise of the section is WRONG. The focus needs to be 
programming that reduces homelessness, not encourage homelessness. Must 
address the root CAUSE.
79
Reduce H1.1, H1.2, 
Increase H4.1
H1.1, H1.2, H4.1
Housing Chapter Comments
32

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
80
Raising awareness so the community knows what services the government 
provides when these situations arise. Either through landlords or mortgage 
companies.
81
Again, too much is included to fairly judge or comment.
82
Eliminate H1.1   Landlords weather single family or multi family have to maintain 
their properties. If this is implemented, blight will get worse in many areas.   
H1.1
83
YES! to "keeping people housed is a key strategy in preventing homelessness" 
In the gap it states current programs are assisting too few households. Is that 
what H.1.2 is addressing? Not super clear.  
Idea: Require landlord to provide assistance info when the 5-day Notice of Non-
payment is issued.  
H.2.4 If the mental health system operates this, I am doubtful it will be successful. 
 
H.2.6  A vacant lot is NOT shelter.  
H 3.2 Tap those funds for operating costs AND services 
Strategy 4 gap: clients are staying in PSH because it's unaffordable to move 
anywhere else, low income makes it difficult to save money for moving expenses, 
they have established their support network around their home. It is 
PERMANENT housing afterall.  
H.4.1  There is already a Move-on strategy implemented within the CoC. 
Phoenix, Mesa, Glendale, and HAMC all dedicated vouchers for this strategy. I 
don't think most front line workers are aware of this and Mercy Care and ABC 
Housing were not receptive to pushing out the information.  
H.5.5 Eliminate the red tape that innovators have to spend their time and energy 
navigating.  
H.5.9  Education campaign about what? What is the purpose and desired 
outcome?  
Mayor Gallego please implement rent limits!
H1.2
H2.4
H2.6
H3.2
4 gap
H4.1
H5.5
H5.9
84
Remove strengthening tenant rights
85
Review the section 8 plan currently in place make changes on length of time 
residents receive services. Work with families to help them identify their needs 
and goals. Help them find ways to volunteer and take care their 
home/community. Include section 8 recipients to participate in changes. 
86
Long term rental vouchers based on income for all Phoenix residents. This 
should be an entitlement in order to guarantee stability for residents. 
87
H.4.6  What kind of legislation?  Landlords would want to know if a potential 
renter has the income to pay monthly rent.
H4.6
88
All new multifamily housing should include affordable housing units!
89
Everything in this section is relevant, but you got it wrong. The eviction process 
already favors the tenant. I smell an agenda...
90
The Landlord Tenant Act in Arizona needs to be revised and updated. Currently  
it favors the landlord. I live in an apartment  where the landlord is renovating while 
tenants are living in the apartments.  The renovations will benefit the new tenants 
that can afford $1500 a month for a one bedroom.  Meanwhile, we live in 
apartments with holes in the walls and ceilings because of the renovation, no 
water and electricity, and our apartments are left open during the day for 
workmen to have access.  The landlord is violating the lease, but an attorney said 
the tenant's only option is to move out and then end up with a judgment on your 
credit report.  
Housing Chapter Comments
33

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
91
Landlords should be able to discriminate (choose) to rent to a tenant they know 
will be paying the rent and avoid having to deal with evection. 
92
Once again incredibly vague. Using buzz words without going into strategy. Try 
laying out all of these plans in detail in an easily accessible format for the public.
93
H.4.6 should be removed.
H4.6
94
H2.1 I see the need to increase these beds but the number in each community 
needs to be limited so one neighborhood doesn't get 50 and another 
neighborhood gets 1!! Even distribution needs to be considered. 
H2.1
95
I'm actually pretty infuriated at the suggestions above. You can't force landlords 
to rent space to homeless people, that's unconstitutional. The suggestions are 
outrageous and overly focused on 'helping' them by giving them things for free, 
rather than helping them find work. 
96
The city of Phoenix should be an involved partner within this section. 
97
I read there's a Costco closing in Phoenix. Could the city buy it and utilize it for 
homeless? 
 
Are there any plans to provide training to the mentally stable homeless to update 
their skills so they can obtain employment?
98
Esta completa ..seria bueno que se les diera viviendas pequeñas para personas 
solas considerando que muchos de ellos no pueden trabajar por lo que traen 
consigo(Mental. adiciones ect)
99
Keep H.4.1. Eliminate the rest from the plan. If you tip the scales between 
Landlord rights and Tenant rights in favor of problem tenants you will make it 
harder for low-income people to find landlords who are willing to provide 
affordable housing.
H4.1
100
Only if it applies to families that have ounce themselves in this situation due to 
the COVID-19 crisis and children are affected by it and either at risk of becoming 
homeless or taken away from their parents. 
101
If people are having trouble making it on their own perhaps they should consider 
moving back home with other family members like we did during the depression.  
102
FAST TRACK this - if you don't, because of COVID, homelessness in this city is 
going to explode. 
103
Making it more difficult for landlords to evict will mean that landlords will be 
pickier about who they rent to.  This will just make affordable housing more 
difficult to get.  
104
incent landlords but  dont hinder their rights of selecting the most qualified 
prospects. dont slow eviction process. landlords must have the ability to keep 
their investments afloat. if not, investment in housing slows which is a major 
lifeblood of AZ.
105
People should receive enough money from whatever form of aid they are on to 
be able to pay the median rent in their area. Mental health services should 
provide the appropriate health care for those that are SMI and our laws should 
reflect that. People who are unable to live alone should have the availability of 
some kind of supervised living. Forcing these costs onto landlords by making 
them not evict people misses the mark completely. 
106
Inculcate into the heads of the homeless person that they have to take action to 
address why they are homeless ( down deep they do know) and do something 
about it! As a taxpayer I'm getting very tired of helping support those individuals 
who  don't want to help themselves.
Housing Chapter Comments
34

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
107
I think there might be a written mistake in the section H41. Where it states, 
“transition stable residents to less supportive housing” I think it was suppose to 
be the other way around.
H4.1
108
Big concern about city focused so heavily on 19th ave light rail extension. This is 
unfair and really bad practice. We know that stacking lower income people in high 
rise projects in big cities was a disaster so what makes you think putting them all 
along the tracks will be different? It's not like there are lots of job opportunities 
nearby. Housing is needed CITYWIDE. Stop dumping all lower income units and 
projects around 19th ave
109
Long term housing projects for stablization
110
Make sure Phoenix Police are not involved with the care of homeless people. Do 
not provide any additional money to Phoenix Police, Deflect any increases to 
resources in our city. Provide better resources that prevent this kind of tragedy 
from happening again by not spending so much on Policing and more on 
schools, before and after school programs, health and healthcare disparities. 
111
ABSOLUTELY NOTHING
112
The question for me is what is doable in the quickest way for those with moderate 
needs.  The others have dire needs which takes in housing, medical treatment 
including psychiatric, some aspect of job training. I believe that there is an 
intermediate level of need that needs to be defined. 
113
Describe the possible Section 8 housing incentives.
114
This seems to just shift the problem and prevents landlords from evicting non-
paying tenants. They will then lose the property to the bank. It is very difficult to 
evict a non-paying tenant as it is, the idea isn't to squat in apartments owned by 
others and financially ruin the landlord, this is ridiculous and not a solution. 
Terrible leadership!!!! 
115
If person/s are offered housing through this program, they are required to accept 
help/support with employment training or job assistance program
116
H1.1 is something which I am very much against. Tenant rights stop when they 
cease to pay their rent and/or fail to maintain the property. 
H1.1
117
only use vacant hotels. too many hotel owners are losing their hotels to the 
homelessness issue
118
None of what you have on this section
119
I think the eviction process is too long as it stands right now.  If you make the 
process longer, it might deter landlords to no longer offer rentals or an incentive 
to take care of the property creating bad neighborhood conditions.  If the tenant 
can no longer pay, the landlord can no longer pay the mortgage either.  
120
You forget that some Landlords that own a home or two that rent it out do so to 
earn a living in retirement. When you slow the eviction process down or cancel 
rent... the Landlord has no income has to maintain the home, pay taxes, maint 
etc. Basically taking from one family and giving to another.... it's dead wrong.... 
Not all rentals are owned by big companies and if they are the investors are Mom 
and Pop shareholders. You don't get this?????
121
We don't fix homelessness unless we create affordable housing.  PERIOD.  PHX 
rents have skyrocketed.  There is NO rent control, which I find to be obscene.  
122
It should also consider the landlords not just tenants In H1.1 & H4.6- it’s a 
business for landlords 
H1.1
H4.6
123
I think the city already has strong tenant rights in place. I don’t think we can 
expect private businesses to shoulder the burden of having tenants in their 
property not paying their rent.
Housing Chapter Comments
35

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
124
H1.1. should include information about the tenant eviction process and housing 
alternatives. 
H1.1
125
Remove all.
126
I love the ideas to use vacant properties for housing. We need to use more than 
a few % of the federal Covid assistance funding. Slowing down the eviction 
process can be beneficial but is akin to putting a bandaid on an open wound if 
eviction is technically legally necessary. There needs to be more effort to instead 
prevetn the eviction. 
127
See previous answer
128
There are some good points to this section, but as a whole still fosters the sick 
remaining dependent! Those in need must display a desire to participate in their 
return to society. If not, we have forever dependent people who have no incentive 
to participate in their deliverance. This is of no help in delivering these folks!
129
The section is the problem.  Each individual proposal should be look at on it's 
own.  Landlords should not be victims.  Veterans should not be assumed to be 
victims.  How about we get everyone who needs assistance a clean place with 
some food to stay off the streets.  Get them some counseling and job training. 
130
Remove H1.1  Property owners have mortgages also.  They can't be expected to 
float those that don't pay for extended periods of times.
H1.1
131
Add any violation to the rules/agreements by such tenants is cause for immediate 
termination of lease/rental agreement 
132
H.4.6
H4.6
133
1) We need to work with other municipalities and throughout the city to develop 
shelter (and housing) more regionally. 2) Need more support for folks once 
they're IN housing - not only for PSH but for almost everyone exiting 
homelessness. 3) Perhaps call this section "shelter and housing" or have a 
separate "shelter" section.
134
Landlord has all rights; this needs to be reviewed and scaled. Rental increases 
are significant (20%) and come with short-notice. ZONING, DEVELOPER-
regulations, and other steps by City & County
135
It is important to also protect the landlord. Policies should also consider the 
hardships, financial and others, they face when the tenant can't meet their 
obligation to the lnadlord. 
136
Consideration of past criminal history for minor offenses and impact on housing.
137
We need more vouchers for the homeless to have access to. We also need more 
affordable housing. We see all the high rises going up and many luxury 
apartments being built, but let’s be honest how can anyone afford them especially 
during these difficult times. Housing is extremely important when someone is 
trying to better there life. We need clean and SAFE spaces for those seeking 
help and who are really trying to better their lives.
138
Reaching out to local professionals, for example Architects. 
139
Group home and or shared housing options would be helpful. VASH will be 
overspent on vouchers with the new project sites opening this year, so I don't 
think that more referrals for VASH is a barrier. 
140
I believe that ahcccs funding should remain committed to healthcare. I think that 
things like legislation preventing income discrimination and slowing the process 
of eviction could be most effective without using funding initially intended for a 
different purpose.
Housing Chapter Comments
36

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
141
Consider county-wide requirements for developers to create a certain proportion 
of smaller and affordable housing-not just for apartment buildings. Building new 
housing on the desert fringe isn’t the only solution, why not include infill of 
unsightly vacant lots, or derelict buildings, empty storefronts? Add rooftop 
greenspace to reduce the heat island effect. Add public art to buildings, walls, 
etc. Art-filled areas are desirable to spend time, draw tourists, walk-around, etc. 
142
Apartment should be available to those who pay rent. Once a tenant refuses to 
pay or leave an apartment there right should end. I believe that property owners 
have a right to who they want to live in there rentals.
143
The whole Section 8 process is a JOKE. Wait lists of a year or more, lack of units 
to rent, etc.
144
Looking at ways to rehab empty commercial buildings to house people
145
The emphasis on housing should be directly placed on vouchers that can be 
used to support at least median rental prices in Phoenix. A sole focus on low 
income housing support has a tendency to perpetuate cycles of chronic 
homelessness and poverty. 
146
“Slow down the eviction process” — how will landlords be involved in this?
147
Protect landlord rights.
148
It provides an overview of tentative goals or plans for people who have been 
involved with housing and specific programs to utilize.
149
Rather than slowing down the eviction process to allow for representation, 
establish/support programs of representation that can be quickly and even 
preemptively implemented (i.e., programs that can allow tenants to get 
assistance in negotiating with the landlord before the eviction process begins). 
Efforts should not be overly punitive to landlords because smaller scale would-be 
landlords who may be more willing to work with tenants will be discouraged from 
renting their properties. If the eviction process is prolonged, protective measures 
must be available to the landlord in the event there is probable cause to believe 
the tenant will damage the property. "Income discrimination" should not mean 
that landlords cannot take into account the tenant's income relative to the rent 
charged. Would this mean that a landlord cannot consider that the rent would 
constitute 60% or more of the tenant's income? It would be foolish not to take this 
into account, as such a tenant is likely to have significant difficulty paying the rent. 
This sets everyone up for failure. Would this mean that landlords would rely 
solely on FICO scores in evaluating tenants' ability to pay rent? This would be 
another mechanism that would prejudice small scale landlords, since they would 
need to subscribe to a credit checking agency to assess potential tenants.  
The Section 8 incentive provision should take into account the problem of large-
scale investor landlords who buy large numbers of properties in communities, 
rent them to Section 8 voucher holders, and then fail to ensure that their tenants 
maintain any community standards (e.g., engaging in criminal conduct in the area 
and violating HOA regulations). If these incentives are to be provided and 
potentially encourage this conduct, community members should have a 
mechanism whereby they can complain and challenge the incentive eligibility.  
The other provisions of this section should be kept and are important. 
150
N/A
151
The Justice Court system favors landlords and is brutal to renters. This must be 
corrected by oversight and regulation. Consider tiny house villages as an 
important and vital form of housing.
152
Support for landlords impacted by limitations on evictions and late payments.
Housing Chapter Comments
37

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
153
wrap around services for SMI
154
we will no be able to voucher or subsidize our way out of homelessness. We 
have to waive development fees.. allow one-day permitting for projects that meet 
standards, change zoning to minimize NIMBY and develop other incentives that 
make it economically more feasible for developers to develop affordable housing
155
The Phoenix metro desperately needs to confront (1) luxury housing property 
development and (2) short-term leasing companies like AirBnB and Wanderjaunt. 
The number of luxury housing projects (often unoccupied and left to "sit" until 
investors see profit) continues to grow while the pool of affordable housing 
shrinks. Moreover, landlords have seen considerable incentive to convert housing 
units to short-term rental spaces, as these can potentially be much more 
profitable than long-term rentals. Tenants need much more protection than they 
currently have; protection against short-term rental unit conversions is one 
protection missing from most discussions. 
156
Create more inclusive affordable housing options. Eviction and record friendly. 
157
remove H1.1 And H1.46 
H1.1
H1.4.6
158
Provisions to incentivize and protect landlords who participate in providing 
affordable housing to address costs associated with housing tenents who may 
not have adequate living skills to properly maintain housing.
159
There should be language about accountability and providing information to the 
taxpayer about the costs and outcomes of the services proposed. Language 
about effectiveness, long term reporting regarding effectiveness. Language about 
community input about results 
160
Need to allow rights of both tenants and landlords to be balanced.  
Remove objective H.4.6 income discrimination by landlords. Landlords should 
have the right not to accept a tenant if the tenant does not have the ability to pay. 
H4.6
161
I think objective H.3.1 is very important. I think the objectives that focus on 
changing landlord behaviors are also very important, because right now it's an 
incredibly unbalanced power dynamic. The housing market in Phoenix is out of 
control, and landlords get too much power to choose money over community.
H3.1
162
Further actions should be taken to protect tenants from exploitation by landlords, 
including considering rent control measures, and encouraging organizations such 
as tenant unions. 
163
  protection for landlords as well
164
Rent control
165
Protection for landlords is important, too.  However, the lack of affordable rented 
spaces in Phoenix is a real concern. 
166
promoting education and prevention for tenants. Its not enough just to find homes 
but they need life skills to keep the homes. Also include job training and former 
foster youth and youth adults. 
167
Section needs to reference specific dedicated funding sources to achieve these 
objectives.
168
Add the possibility of job opportunities with sustainable efforts such as, recycling 
programs, food delivery for families in need from non profits. 
169
Remove H1.1. The current eviction process keeps tenants' rights fully intact and 
is onerous enough for owners.
H1.1
170
How we actually intend to remove the homeless from down town. Not vague talk 
and unactionable talk
Housing Chapter Comments
38

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
171
Increased housing options are extremely important, but the means to allow 
people to choose housing (once available) is also paramount.  Restrictions that 
traditionally keep unsheltered folks from choosing to shelter (i.e. can I bring my 
pet with me, can I bring my belongings with me, am I allowed to use 
alcohol/substances, etc.) need to be addressed.  Ultimately, unsheltered folks 
need to feel like they have agency in their lives in order to choose to improve their 
situations, then be able to choose to get help for things like mental illness and 
substance abuse if they need it.  Let's be honest -- the unsheltered population 
that is causing "problems" in the community is much more likely to suffer from 
these kind of issues and as a result, less likely to choose shelter if offered.
172
Representation must be available for persons with disabilities.  Persons with 
respiratory impairments caused and exacerbated by exposure to tobacco smoke 
and e-cigarette vapor can not share the same facilities with smokers because 
exposure to Third-Hand Smoke (THS) residual smoke causes asthma attacks 
and activation of chronic bronchitis.   
173
Decreasing the Section 8 waitlist by filtering people through more efficiently or 
some form of objective to address the long Section 8 waitlist should be added if 
not already addressed in the City's Affordable Housing Strategy. Perhaps also 
consider the addition of an objective that would implement rent control at the City 
or State level.
174
Expand the program to individuals who are homeless such as elderly, empty 
nesters, young adults. Many programs only cater to families with young children. 
Adding incentives for apartment complexes and landlords who provide a number 
of units for low income professionals based on income sliding scale (background 
check approved) to limit gentrification, promote diversity and allow those in 
transition to live near areas that have a high concentration of solid well-paying 
jobs/long-term career opportunities. 
175
Utilizing vacant motels/tapping ACCCHS for funding and supporting income 
discrimination by landlords should be removed. 
176
If someone is honestly trying to make ends meet and not "working the system" 
they deserve a change and possibly an occasional hand up.
177
3.2 & 4.5 removed
H3.2
H4.5
178
Keep in mind that "slowing down the eviction process" will only serve to alienate 
landlords.  For every month you allow non payment of rent, the landlord goes 
without income.  Not all landlords are large apartment complexes. A tenant gets a 
30 day notice, and many notices of late rent. A bad decision to start talking about 
the problem on the court date, is not the way to work out the problem.
*** Educate tenants NOT TO IGNORE THE COMMUNICATION.  bad decisions 
just make it worse.  Tenant education is of utmost importance in keeping the 
relationship professional and productive.  
Landlords provide a needed commodity, but it has to be profitable for them. 
Renters can cause very costly damages, that the landlord must pay for. At the 
end of the day, it is all about income.  If a renter is not paying rent, the landlord 
needs to evict and get a paying tenant in the unit. 
179
Differentiation between larger ownership and property management groups vs 
smaller landlords.
Housing Chapter Comments
39

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
180
Controls should be in place to ensure these resources are not abused or taken 
advantage of...ensure that root causes of the the person's homelessness status 
are being addressed to help them get back on their feet rather than consuming 
these resources indefinitely. 
181
Halt evictions. 
182
Make it illegal to “evict” a homeless person. Finding a place to sleep wether it be 
in a shelter or on the street should not be illegal, it’s a basic human need 
183
More affordable housing and apartment's for people.
184
Designate specific neighborhoods within downtown/central Phoenix that will 
benefit from such legislation, and ensure that suburban neighborhoods (such as 
Ahwatukee) within Phoenix will NOT be impacted by such legislation.
185
some type of expectation from individuals to work toward the goal of self 
preservation
186
H1.1 could hurt landlords. Many landlords are regular working-class people. I/we 
should not have to have increased stress because someone cannot pay their 
rent. I am fortunate- I do not have mental illness and I am not addicted to 
substances. I have sacrificed for decades building my financial stability. I have 
volunteered years of service to the homeless and those with disabilities. I should 
not have to pay their rent by allowing them to stay for free in my apartment. 
H.4.6: descrimination - if a person does not have enough income to pay monthly 
rent- I would be setting them up for failure and putting myself in danger. 
H1.1
H4.6
187
alot of confusion needs plain language JUST VOUCHERS FOR RENTAL 
ASSISTANCE
188
I like the hotels idea.  More beds now.  
189
Rent control legislation. There shouldn’t be any reason why landlords should 
raise the rent year after year with long term tenancy. Wage increases do not 
cover inflation. Pet rent needs to be eliminated. If a tenant is required to make a 
$200 to $500 deposit upon signing a rental agreement, there shouldn’t be an 
added cost of the pet living under that roof. This causes extra strain on already 
under paid worker to afford housing.
190
leave as is
Housing Chapter Comments
40

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
191
Section 8 is like throwing money at the slum lords that create all the problems to 
begin with. And a lot of homeless in Arizona seem to come from California. 
California will buy them bus tickets to export their homeless to Phoenix. I believe 
that a lot of black people would be awesome home owners. For example the 
federal goverment gave the so called 'elites' 0% loans to stuff people into 
appartments.. but a lot of these awesome creative talented black men and 
women if they got 0% loan to be a home owner, instead of loan discrimination, 
they would make awesome creative houses. They wouldn't be like these new 
yorkers like Trump, who is a typical wealthy new yorker, who are taking 0% loans 
to stuff people in appartments and not build one solar power roof. Black men and 
women give that oppertunity and the US government investing in them as real 
people, it would be extremely rewarding for the community. Possible 10 fold 
return on the money spent. And they would be creating more sales for solar 
power and etc..etc.. they wouldn't be so lazy. So the Paradigm of stuffing 
homeless into appartments is in my opinion a lot of reasons the whole problems 
exist in the first place. Its basic math, if person X owns their home and person Y 
rents.. Person Y is increadible inflation prone, their rental prices always increase, 
where person X is inflation resistant. Inflation is harming those prone towards 
homelessness, and the bad guys know that. But the more home owners in an 
area, that is more income they have to buy goods around town, which provides a 
lot more jobs the homeless could be filling that is much more flexible. That is also 
a lot more sales tax revenue to the city to fund mental health resources and 
education. 
192
Keep Vet's in. Not sure about the other esp H4.4. 
Delete h1.1
H4.1
H1.1
193
I do not think utilizing vacant apartments/hotels is a good idea especially if they 
surround other businesses.  I think more thought needs to be put into where 
these areas are located.  With downtown phoenix already struggling due to covid 
errors in these locations can harm businesses that are already struggling to stay 
open.  For example, the heat relief shelter that was placed on Madison and 
central right next to the Marriott.  It is not helping to bring back any business or 
travelers to phoenix when they do not feel safe in the area.
194
Housing ideas presented in this section fall short. 
195
I think H4.5 should be a priority.
H4.5
196
Lobby for a portion of property tax to fund these programs 
197
Most of it. Homelessness is not a housing issue. It's a mental health issue, and a 
drug/alcohol dependency issue. There are already enough freebies out there for 
low income people - food stamps, Section 8 housing, free cell phones, on and 
on. 
198
The more government layers, the more abuse, delay, and lack of direct benefits. 
Find the needs, fill them, and deal with the legalities later. Humans need help. 
Let’s do that. Instead of the courts, can’t we have an ombudsman system to bring 
people to a table to discuss compromises. Seems a more human way to deal 
with housing issues.
199
Remove all suggestions negatively impacting landlords.  Especially remove 
language about income discrimination!  How are landlords supposed to rent to 
those who can afford it?  That would be like not requiring proof of income when 
taking out a loan!
Housing Chapter Comments
41

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
200
all these these things address one of the the most important human needs, 
shelter.
201
Prevention strategies are critical to reduce number of families falling into 
homelessness. More detail needed on what it means to tap AHCCCS funding - 
this funding serves a population with specific unique needs. Would need to 
understand more about intent before supporting. Better coordination is always 
good.
202
There is no housing available for people with a criminal record. There are no jobs 
available for people with a criminal record.
203
Remove H1.1, H3.1, H4.6
H1.1
H3.1
H4.6
204
Remove H1.1 and 4.6. Landlords have rights to receive income from the 
properties they rent.
H1.1
H4.6
205
Seems a bit vague 
206
Funding should go to housing and economic assistance, not failed or corrupt 
health care systems. Zoning laws should also be examined to prevent 
discrimination against low income housing. Enforce and expand the existing laws 
on housing discrimination against Section 8, educate and fine landlords who post 
new listings publicly saying no Section 8. 
207
Remove slowing down the eviction process and focusing on tenant’s right.   The 
process already takes too long, is too costly, and places tenant’s rights above 
property owners.
208
A better control over how quickly rents rise, and what maximum rents can be 
need to be included!  Right now common rents are 60% to 80% of ones income, 
especially if one is on minimum wage.  Please, control the rents, at least a little!
209
Chances are I’ve missed something. (comprehensive reading) Is living in an 
automobile, rather operative or not, considered homelessness. Also the issues 
associated with motor vehicle.
210
Not sure that it is fair to landlords to slow evictions; they need the income on their 
properties to meet their own needs.  We must balance the needs of all... not just 
the homeless.
211
It looks good. 
212
this is a ridiculous survey
213
4.1 
4.1
214
In protecting tenant rights, it is important that property owners are also protected.  
Critical to make sure that accurate information is available and representation is 
also available.  
215
don't know enough to venture an opinion
216
Why should landlords be punished? Who is going to pay their mortgage 
payments and expenses? 
217
Landlords should be able to remove tenants that don’t pay after several months.
218
Provide Free Mandatory Drug Screening test for homeless. If positive for Elicit 
drugs automatically disqualify for help but offer rehabilitation for 3 months, then 
repeat process on drug screening for Housing/Shelter help.
Housing Chapter Comments
42

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
219
Beware of making housing and other benefits too attractive.  Incorporate 
incentives so that homeless persons in transition (not chronically homeless), will 
seek ways to become more self-reliant.
220
differentiate what level of government the action is directed towards. Federal, 
State, County, municipality
221
I think the plan has to address out-of-state property owners who are increasing 
rates without considering the consequences for our city.  There should be 
immediate legislation that protects tenants from having their rents increased 
unreasonably beyond inflation.  I am greatly concerned by the lack of affordable 
housing.  
It can also be difficult to travel to support services (wellness, mental health, 
employment, etc).  As was mentioned in Strategy 4 of the report, these services 
need to be in the same building (low income or temporary housing). I would 
recommend expanding this.   
222
I am concerned about slowing down the eviction process, because I know 
landlords need to pay bills also.  I think it should depend on how long the tenant 
was there.
223
*Section 8 needs funding! It has been unavailable for far too long.  
*Vacant Malls can be utilized as assistance centers.
224
The chronically homeless are that way more than likely because that’s the way 
they wanna be. The only ones I would worry about would be the elderly, veterans, 
and those with children. Why are these people not being checked for drug habits, 
or what I would call welfare bunnies been on food stamps and Medicaid since 
birth and so are their parents and their grandparents which culminates and so are 
their children. Stop helping those who really don’t want help & are only using the 
system.
225
Remove Section H1-1.   I do not own rental property but if I did I think that this 
proposal is a danger to a community with apartment or rental units.  
H1.1
226
What type of protection and enforcement will be present to the homeless in these 
converted buildings? If there is no enforcement in these buildings, drugs and 
violence can become a problem which could either deter others from wanting to 
go to a shelter also resulting in citizens not wanting these shelters in their 
neighborhoods. 
227
Slippery slope on this one. Anyway you slice it, people are going to need shelter 
and food. Let's cut the red tape and provide it. 
228
Same comment as the preceding. It is another "government solution" that will 
cost much, but will benefit those implementing it financially, but not the "victims".
229
Hotel vouchers only for those willing to seek substance abuse services.
230
it seems complete to me. 
231
Just do it. Less talk
232
Enact rent caps in all residential areas, requiring landlords to house homeless for 
free in empty units, requiring a percentage of ALL rental housing be low income, 
even in new development.  Explore programs to allow homeless to skip credit 
checks and rental deposits and fees to help the working poor get into housing 
they can afford.
233
multi-story apartments as temporary shelters, Give homeless jobs
234
Why is HOTEL property the only type that his specifically addressed?  
Should/could this we broadened?
Housing Chapter Comments
43

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
235
expand transitional housing programming for survivors of domestic/sexual 
violence
236
Explain why you think tis section will make thing better
237
Due to certain physiological, mental, and emotional conditions, a distinction 
should be made between temporary and permanent housing.  Some housing 
situations might include case management  on site for those who are still getting 
healthy while others who are more independent and healed could live in a more 
independent environment.
238
I do not appreciate and do not believe that providing assistance without requiring 
participation and contribution from those benefiting from the 
services/money/favorable treatment or laws should be allowed.  This section 
seems to indicate that benefits should be given to those with low/no income by 
requiring others to providing assistance (landlords, courts, private businesses) 
without ANY requirement for those receiving those benefits to contribute back to 
the community.  This only encourages taking of responsible taxpayer monies 
without requiring those who are benefiting to be engaged in contributing to their 
own welfare and their wellbeing.  It is very much like giving them fish and not 
teaching how to fish for these people who are homeless.  I don't see how the 
homeless are being encouraged/required to make better choices and decisions 
that would benefit them far more substantially than just simply giving them 
benefits.  
239
Please see notes at question 23.
240
Remove Section 8 housing - H.4.4
H4.4
241
H1.1 and H1.2 should be removed
H1.1
H1.2
242
remove all giveaways.  sickening
243
Our homeless aren't getting evicted out of apartments.  Our homeless are drug 
users and the mentally ill.  period.
244
I can't think of anything.
245
Immediate pro bono  legal representation for tenant to assist with eviction issue.
246
Too much involvement in government and private housing is doomed to failure. 
There are too many variables and too many pitfalls. Unscrupulous landlords will 
always take advantage of susceptible tenants. Housing should be regulated 
either by the government itself or by nonprofits with deep pockets and proven 
track record. Accountability is crucial.
247
Without this section, the cycle of homelessness continues.
248
 Look into increasing other affordable housing. Add ways to increase base salary 
pay. 
249
The first item on tenant rights should be focused solely on the tenant's financial 
hardship issues. Landlords still need the ability to remove tenant's for a host of 
other reasons.
250
I think there is evidence that permanent housing is THE most important predictor 
that a homeless person will avail themselves of services: food,medical,etc.
251
It seems like everything may be covered.
252
A program like New Journey works, for the homeless.  
253
Nothing yet
254
Not sure 
255
Failed policies
256
Nothing. Keep as is
Housing Chapter Comments
44

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
257
H1.1 - slowing the eviction process will put a financial hardship on Landlords. 
They still have to pay their bills weather or not the Tenant pays the rent. There 
needs to be a different solution. 
 
H4.6 - Landlords need to be able to rent to people who have the financial ability to 
pay the rent. Owning a property costs money. They depend on the rent to sustain 
the property. If they can't rely on the rent, then People will stop renting out 
properties and that will create a housing shortage. 
H1.1
H4.6
258
Landlords charge whatever they want and do whatever they want, so we need 
Tenants Rights. Using vacant hotels motels and other not used areas is a 
GREAT IDEA
259
remove all but H.1.1 and H.4.1 remove government from all sections
H1.1
H4.1
260
Please keep to existing structures like vacant malls, office buildings, etc
261
Landlords have bills as well too pay and when they aren’t paid they can’t pay 
there bills. We should not enable anyone as they will never change their ways. 
262
You are addressing the increased costs to us taxpayers of persons who will only 
require more and more money to help keep themselves and their environment 
sanitary, safe, and livable. Many will likely will not treat any subsidized place with  
respect any more than they would living on the street. Then we have to go in and 
clean up after them. Maybe do this for those actively seeking employment - not 
those who have given up. Putting a mentally ill person in a hotel with others is 
inviting trouble for all involved.
263
Out of 7419 people who are homeless with only 20 million that is equal to 
$2700/person! Wouldn’t it be better to prevent them from becoming homeless in 
the first place by covering them for a month or two of expenses than letting them 
go homeless in the first place? Also got those who are homeless rather than 
those who are never seeing any of this money why not remove all the programs 
and give this money to pay for first and last months rent on an apartment and get 
electricity and water set up for a few months? Those with serious mental illness 
need the Medicare IMD exclusion removed which would allow for permanent 
housing to be paid for. 
264
Tenant rights are extremely important when we look at how predatory landlords 
can be. Some will not even give you notice without kicking you out. Not all are this 
way, but many are. Given the current pandemic, we can expect to see a rise in 
homelessness strictly due to the LOW and quite frankly disturbing amount of 
unemployment pay in this state. 
265
Any partnership with the veteran affairs will fail.  It is an anti people bottomless 
pit.  Have the churches and temples work with you!  Tax the rich. Appeal the the 
vanity of the rich.   Name the buildings after them if they will invest.
266
While providing housing can help to a degree, it’s more important to focus on 
mental health services and rehabilitation and reintegration
267
I don't necessarily support the section about evictions being too fast and tenants 
needing time to find representation.  Changing the rules will disincentivize 
landlords from being willing to take vouchers and Section 8.  Eviction extensions 
and moratoriums add risk to the riskiest tenants (from their perspective).
268
H.3.2 Funding should be tapped into elsewhere 
H3.2
269
i'm wary of using AHCCCS for operating costs. this seems like a way to hurt one 
underfunded program to support another underfunded program
Housing Chapter Comments
45

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
270
Focus on creating semi permanent dormitory style housing for people and 
families experiencing homelessness. Redefine what housing looks like. Consider 
modeling corridor dorm housing. Small square footage private sleeping areas, 
shared bathroom, kitchen, social, and laundry spaces.
271
Prioritizing tenant rights, especially non-paying tenants is not good.  You would 
be penalizing landlords to support bad behavior and decisions by tenants.   
272
Prioritize families with school-age children when assigning housing.
273
Date of votes, what Services,and who voTed to approve And who voted No. 
Date services are effective and where, who,how to contacT for services.
274
there should be a legal cap on how much money a landlord should charge for 
rent... rents are so high that one person that only earns mininum wage with a full 
time job can not afford to live in a decent low crime area without having to share 
a place with someone...
275
on site police presence to help keep area safe. Should also have social workers 
or mental health people with them and should be non confrontational as possible
276
Depending on the families income there should be some type of rent control, so 
families will not become homeless
277
For same reasons as above—we are limited to working within a fixed budget.  All 
of these are nice to haves but most of the core effort needs to engage 
businesses and business owners to pay a fair wage so their employees don’t risk 
a catastrophic expense effectively losing their housing.  
278
You all put a lot of wording to be inclusive....how much effort is applied once you 
get in approved.  Sure seems like a lot of BLAH> BLAH  BLAH...  Hire more 
people to implement your desires
279
Prioritize the need for housing of women and children.
280
remove H.3.1.
H3.1
281
I applied for rental assistance in March and April and received no response or 
confirmation. No one answered calls, responded to emails, or sent confirmation 
to indicate the application had been received. Repeatedly the online 
application/uploading process failed to complete. Obviously I did not receive 
assistance and had to move out of my apartment and in with family. I  was forced 
to pay three months' rent for breaking the lease, or face collection. There was no 
protection for lease breaking. Legal Aid advised against fighting. 
282
I'm hesitant about extending tenant rights re: eviction, but I know we will soon be 
in unprecedented times
283
Not sure I agree with slowing down eviction process, however, I like the moving-
on component to thise piece.  They should have a set time in a place but also 
know they need to carry their weight. The homeless need to be held accountable 
for their actions unless mental illness plays a role
284
Some consideration needs to be made for landlords, who are in business to 
make a living, not to provide free housing for people who can't or won't pay the 
rent. If the eviction process is to be slowed down, then agencies need to be 
funded to provide reimbursement to landlords for lost income, for repairs and 
cleanup for damaged property, and for legal costs involved in eventually 
removing non-paying customers. 
Housing Chapter Comments
46

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
285
landlords have private property rights as protected by our constitution.  They 
should not be expected to bear the burden of fixing the homelessness problem by 
limiting their ability to evict non-paying tenants or by being required to rent to 
persons without sufficient income to pay the stated rent.  If the city wants to help 
the homeless, and its citizens support the cause, then the burden must be shared 
by all, not the hapless property owner.  Fiat measures like this will ruin the low-
income rental market by limiting availabiltiy.  
286
Don’t use hotels for homeless. 
287
Add work requirements for all able people. 
288
For H1.1 - tenant and landlords should both be engaged in this process for 
fairness.
H1.1
289
leave as is-housing solves half of the problems people have
290
giving tenants more rights than t he landlord produce slums. Landlords and 
property owners have the right to remove anyone not following laws and 
guidelines living in THEIR property needs to have the saw. 
291
these sections should be un-bundled so you can provide feedback on each 
objective.
292
short-term and mid-term strategies needed.  Like idea of rehabbing abandoned, 
bankrupt or low use hotels, motels and apartments with government providing the 
capital and NGO's providing operating services, including supportive services.  
Need to be more clear about how much capital is available or needed and how 
NGO's will pay for operating costs.
293
animal and pet rights
294
This isn't really the problem
295
Again too broad in its descriptions seems vulnerable to abuse. 
296
By providing tenants more rights given current socioeconomic conditions; we can 
potentially cut back on those families and individuals that would be entering into 
homelessness
297
All the Above?
298
Long term objectives should become short term objectives
299
City should not be taking money from landlords through slowing eviction 
processes.  
300
Put a cap on rental costs. It has become very expensive to rent anywhere in this 
city. Low income, section 8, and other rentals adhering to low income policies 
should cap rent costs. The application for landowners or landlords should be 
simplified regarding qualifications to be able to offer low income rents.
301
they need basic shelter in a shelter. not a motel room, nothing I couldn't afford 
and I live on air,. veterans should b e priority. mental ill who accept meds,. all 
others, too bad
302
Open the restrooms at all city parks.  
303
Exploring the use of vacant housing should be a priority. Studies show time and 
time again that housing the homeless is cheaper for taxpayers than leaving them 
on the streets.
304
Create incentives to produce more affordable housing options in Phoenix. Create 
rent control policies. 
305
Please add, create new laws to prevent old evictions from preventing applicants 
to qualify for safe housing. Some landlords go back forever. You can't live there if 
you have EVER got evicted. This should be illegal or at least limited to 3 years 
ago. 
Housing Chapter Comments
47

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
306
I think the city puts undue burdens on landlords when individuals cannot pay rent. 
The landlord is still required to pay up keep and sometimes utilities without 
having income coming in from the tenants. If the city slows down the eviction 
process, they should pay for income lost to landlords to maintain the property.
307
Focus on providing Apartment Leasing centers with information to help identify 
early on individuals/families with potential homelessness concerns.  The 
apartment leasing offices are the one's who can identify if rent is not being paid, 
etc.  This allows for early intervention.
308
remove H1.1 and H4.6, eviction is already a lengthy procedure if done legally, 
enforcing current laws and monitoring large corporate landlords is more 
necessary.
H1.1
H4.6
309
Obtain more referrals for VASH from the VA.  The VA conducts extensive 
assessments and collaborates with SSVF providers to progressively engage 
Veterans into permanent housing.  Currently the VA has the necessary staffing, 
vouchers and SSVF funds to address the Veterans on the By Name List.  For 
effort needs to focus on the hard to reach Veterans with severe mental illness 
legal issues and severe behavioral issue requiring a higher level of care.
310
We need more free and low income housing. This is the most important factor in 
transitioning people out of homelessness. 
311
Increase availability of low cost  housing.  
312
After all the above has been done and if there is still a need, how about Tiny 
Homes?  Can they be air conditioned?  It would be better than a sea of tents 
along the side of the streets.  
We need to do more than slow down evictions.  Fewer need to be filed.  More 
landlord education.  Work with legislators to penalize landlords who repeatedly 
file baseless or legally deficient evictions.
313
Ensure money for AFDC is not used for homeless individuals
314
Remove ALL except 4.4. These measures will NOT solve the problem and 
instead incentivize people to be homeless. Do you want us to turn into 
california???? These are the same measures they put in place!!!! 
4.4
315
What do some of those Acronyms mean?
316
Many again are too wide open for abuse and waste.  Our area does NOT want 
more misusage of hotels at I-17 and Bell Rd.  NO more prostitutes at Victory Inn 
and Motel 6.  NO more drug usage and deaths.  Our AHCCCS system is already 
abused.  The gal down the street from me does tatoos at her house.  Only takes 
cash - at least $50.00 a hour and always busy.  Two kids, unwed.  She only has 
to pay rent to her parents who own the house.  Does not pay taxes, who knows 
what else she is "entitled" to and is on AHCCCS while we pay oave $500.00 for 
insurance. She does drugs at time, her boyfriend comes and goes  and makes 
good money while most of us pay taxes, etc etc.  AND, this is not the only person 
taking advantage of the system.
Housing Chapter Comments
48

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
317
Families with children need to have stability and security.   
These services will not be advantageous unless there is safe housing and 
rigorous effort to address the reasons for homelessness.   
Some who are experiencing homelessness will require, and appreciate long 
terms solutions to their plight.  Habitat for Humanity has the right idea.  People 
need to be invested in their homes through "sweat equity" so they will take pride 
in their home.  Then they need to be invested in their community and by assisting 
with the construction of neighborhood homes they develop a sense of community 
in which they can take pride,  
Others, who choose to be on the street, have serious issues with addiction and 
mental health.  Homes for them will, most likely, be more temporary.  Their needs 
seem to be  more for shelter type residences that are temporary.  These should 
also have safety and security as priorities.    
  I'd like to see clear delineation of the two: long term, or permanent housing and 
short term, temporary housing.   
318
Send them back to California 
319
Housing is not always the answer for people with drug addiction or mental health 
issues.  They need long term help.  Moving them into apartments or housing will 
only endanger neighbors unless they get the help they need in an institutional 
setting.
320
H3.1
H4.3
H4.3
H4.4
H4.5
These are programs worth investing in, but they must be implemented in a way in 
which the individual or family finds value in the program and respects the 
property. 
It's important to find a safe home and eventually transition the responsibility back 
to that person. They should not continue to live on the program forever. 
H3.1
H4.3
H4.3
H4.4
H4.5
321
People need to pay their bills just like everyone else. I don’t want my taxes going 
up to pay the housing someone who doesn’t work as hard As me. 
322
Homeless tenants may have voucher but another of times the homeless or 
former homeless tenants cause a lot of problems with safety to themselves and 
other tenants. Evictions are already very slow and difficult for problem tenants. 
More and more landlords are not willing to work with vouchers due to lack of 
communication and support.
323
The vast majority of those wh avoid shelters and help are mentally ill and or drug 
addicted. They need to be funneled into permanent hospitalization or mandatory 
drug treatment as applicable 
324
There isn't enough affordable housing.  Prior to COVID I was earning the median 
salary for the city and 50% of that went to rent. Many of the homeless I've met 
have not been successful in school and do not have the skills to obtain a job that 
pays a living wage. They need housing support.  Developers should be required 
to allocate 25% of their inventory to low income persons. Further, inventory and 
services need to be better distributed throughout the city. 
325
Regulations to protect property owners from damages done by tenants. Many 
residences are destroyed by tenants
Housing Chapter Comments
49

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
326
All of them should be removed, mostly operation overhead with no substantial 
contribution in to the solution.
327
Add use of abandoned hospitals 
328
Remove slowing down evictions, as this would negatively impact landlords 
financially. Develop a housing option for registered sex offenders who are 
homeless. They don't have many options.
329
Given the extent of the data presented, 7k+ homeless and %51 unsheltered, it is 
impossible to know what a good strategy looks like. We should do the work to 
understand the population further. What percent needs mental health services? 
What percentage are on the street due to recent eviction? What percent are 
using hard drugs? What percent would take a bed if one was available? 
330
This allows for Federal incursion in our state!!!
331
Consider spelling out landlord rights to gain support of the plan. Work with 
community organizations to support those close to losing a home so they don’t 
become homeless.
332
Build tiny houses for homeless or invest in CASS and add additional space with 
job assistance department and social workers 
333
Is it possible to include potential costs of each line item?
334
H.3.1 and H.4.5 seems extremely important, but the other items less so.
H3.1
H4.5
335
ADD ways to increase supply and variety of shelters and affordable housing 
stock and ways to pay for them.
Add more public restrooms and shower facilities and budget for regular 
maintenance.
336
what about the landlord's who still have mortgages to pay?  what about the 
damage to the vacant hotels?  who manages them?   who manages the 
destruction and also violence? 
337
I am not sure about H.4.6. Shouldn't landlords be protected to some extent?
H4.6
338
We need to also think about the landlords and be careful not to give lazy people 
opportunities they do not deserve
339
High emphasis on nonprofit partnership, long term funding, expanded service 
delivery.  Service delivery for specialized populations also essential for asylum 
seekers, refugees, recently arrived immigrants, etc. due to specialized language 
and cultural components.
340
looks like fluff.   a lot of administrative exploration but little intervention.  large 
amount of the homeless population don't pursue or are unaware of these 
interventions.  Maybe split the topics homeless prevention and homeless 
mitigation.
341
We should not slow down evictions. That just hurts property owners 
342
None of those seem to focus on a "step up" system, seems more of a "handout" 
which deters an investment and creates a dependency. 
343
Not having read the full plan I would hope action steps are outlined.
344
During pandemics, no evictions. If they cannot work because the employment is 
closed by state/federal law, they cannot pay their rent. 
345
Housing for this segment of the population is extremely important. However, in 
our area, we have seen evidence of ongoing Section 8 violations that -appear- to 
correlate with increased crime and blatant drug activity. Landlords are either 
hesitant to evict for various reasons, or the process to evict is onerous due to the 
burden of proof. Are there protections or programs/incentives for landlords who 
want to ensure they are positively contributing to communities/neighborhoods by 
opening up their properties to Section 8 applicants?
Housing Chapter Comments
50

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
346
4.1- I do not agree with the Move-on strategy especially for people with mental 
illness who will move into Section 8 and if they decomp they could lose their 
housing. Section 8 does not give second and 3rd chances like Permanent  
Supportive Housing
H4.1
347
H1.1 & H1.2: What is the financial constraints for the landlord/home owner? 
H3.1: would residents occupying these  dwellings would be required to follow 
strict guidelines? I.e. no illegal drugs, no fire arms, no prostitution, etc. 
H4.1: I love it!!!! I would want to help with this part of the program. 
H1.1
H1.2
H3.1
H4.1
348
Remove vets H.4.2
H4.2
349
Re: Section 8 landlords.  They need to be better held accountable for vetting 
prospective tenants and for mitigating the criminal activity occurring on their 
rental properties. This is a major issue, especially when the landlord is out of 
state.  We have had lots of Section 8 homes here in Laveen where criminal 
activity was occurring and negatively impacting the neighborhood, and it took 
forever for the property owners to deal with it.  
350
Remove Sec.8
351
I really like the idea of utilizing vacant hotel, motel and rental properties to support 
the housing insecure. A web based app would be terrific to identify availability. 
352
Section 8 Housing should not be life long housing UNLESS there are situations 
of disability or Senior needs.  Families/Individuals in Section 8 or other subsidized 
housing need to be encouraged to pursue better employment options through 
training and given an opportunity for employment through the City , County or 
State.  There should be a pipeline for people to seek those opportunities through 
specialized outreach programs,
353
I am opposed to supporting junkies with any tax dollars. I am fine with supporting 
Vets--we owe them. What happened to people getting a job, even a job beneath 
them or that pays less, to support themselves and their families if they are 
physically able? This needs to be monitored. Definitely no tax money to support 
illegals or people who come here just for financial support. We are being taxed to 
death and it needs to stop. Some of these services can be provided by charities 
that are funded by wealthier people who have money to spend after their taxes. 
Government should not be responsible to fund everything for everyone.
354
Commitment to eliminate homelessness
355
It would be great to see the city of Phoenix partnering/mirroring programs like 
Housing Works.  (Housingworksca.org)
356
What majority of homeless want a home and willing to maintain it? Some 
homeless autonomy & no authority.
357
Affordable low-income housing needs to be part of the solution. 
358
Housing options and tenant rights already exist under AZ statutes
359
This is about homelessness. We need to address the people that ARE currently 
homeless and have no where to go.  They are camping on public right of ways 
and that is concerning the for disabled population.  They are also making it 
uncomfortable for people to pass by the area.  Trash is also collecting in these 
"camp" areas.  
360
the first section is more important.  Mental health needs to take priority 
361
item 1  - all residents of housing should be treated the same and fairly; many 
housing clients have been afforded more ways to obtain any "emergency funds" 
vs anyone in conventional  housing already
Housing Chapter Comments
51

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
362
There are important components to the section, but creating legislation forcing 
landlords is not the answer! We have seen it fell in other states California is just 
one easy example. I believe in affordable housing, managed responsibly it’s very 
lucrative and you can give back to your community. It’s all about better education, 
being able to speak from both sides of the fence - conventional and affordable. I 
understand the ideas behind some of these thoughts, but I work with owners and 
developers more than I see my family; people of this caliber in the private sector 
do not appreciate legislation. You will kill deals for AZ that can make sense for 
everyone involved. 
363
Remove slowing of eviction section H1.1 and H4.6. eviction prcesses are already 
sufficiently slow and lengthening that process would only cause the landlord to 
suffer further financial losses. As a landlord who owns multiple houses, I refuse 
to do section 8 because of the damage done to the property. For H4.4 to stay 
The plan should add: The city shall insure section 8 voucher holders in the event 
they damage the property and the city will pay for the damage and lost income to 
the landlord.  
 
by taking over abandoned properties and hotels, and turning them into housing 
you will just be creating a centralized area of high crime and drug use. 
H1.1
H4.6
364
Property owners rights
365
Section 8 housing is a disaster.  That should be gradually eliminated and 
replaced by purchase and rehab of properties - maybe something akin to Habitat.
366
Exploring target population  partnerships for housing example housing 
partnerships with Transitional Youth Services Providers
367
Prevention is key here. There is opportunity to address the issue to accessing 
justice in the eviction courts. Rental assistance is great, but tenants also need 
more education and support in court. There is opportunity to fund mediation, 
tenant representation and to provide educational outreach to tenants, case 
managers and other support staff - the eviction process in AZ is little understood 
and tenants ultimately fail. 
 
Diversion is key also - the community does not have enough resources or 
capacity to fund diversion. However, when adequately supported, Diversion 
programs can be incredibly successful in helping people to quickly resolve a 
homeless crisis, as opposed to losing a home and entering the homeless system. 
The City may consider partnerships to obtain flexible funding, diversion training 
and funding to coordinated entry sites for diversion specialists.  
 
We need more low-barrier shelter beds. How may the City support the HSC 
request for rezoning to allow the additional capacity. Can the City create 
partnerships with other cities to increase bed spaces region wide and reduce the 
density in the DTPHX area  
 
RRH is a proven and inexpensive strategy - how can the city partner to expand 
this offering? Is there opportunity with philanthropic organizations?  
 
Has there been a cost analysis on the public cost of homelessness at the City 
level (E.g PD interactions) that could be addressed with more funds into housing? 
Could there be opportunity to redirect funds into housing and other essential 
services? 
Housing Chapter Comments
52

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
368
H41mis the most important solution and should be the main focus
H4.1
369
There should be a plan to help transition homeless individuals from government 
provided housing or housing assistance to independent living with little of no 
assistance. In other words, a hand up.
370
More psychological counseling rather than hand outs. Teach the people how to 
be successful on there own without expectations. Provide a life coach. 
371
How much of this is already included in legislation?
372
Programs are provided by the state. The city should not be involved in any of this 
373
you tend to forget landlords also have rights.  If people aren't paying their rent, or 
are causing problems for others that live nearby , it shouldn't take so long to evict 
them.  eliminate h.1 and h.2, h.4 and h.6
H1
H2
H4
H6
374
Drug testing should be required 
375
Be careful with extending evictions. This can put the owner of the property in 
financial peril and that is not fair to the owner. If more and more housing is 
provided, more and more homeless will come to Phx. Look at case studies in 
other cities. 
376
This section is too broad.  What about the owners of property who haven't been 
paid rent.  Are you going to just ignore them with your proposed legislation? If 
that's the case, property owners will just increase the requirements for anyone 
renting and will only make it more difficult for people with questionable credit to 
find a rental.  More Section 8 housing?  Where????  In the same depressed 
areas that already have Section 8 so that home values in that area decrease 
even more?  You are willing to help the homeless but your proposals go against 
hard working individuals and homeowners.  If you convert hotels, who is going to 
take care of the maintenance and support for the long term?  These are already 
in my area and attract homeless but who is going to maintain in the future?
377
N/A
378
Support zoning efforts for organizations that want to provide tiny homes in the 
Phoenix Area
379
Needs more. There have to be areas to provide housing that aren't on this list. 
380
People facing eviction need assistance with getting to court and mediation  
appointments AND they need support and advocacy at those meetings.  The last 
time I checked the ADOH eviction program did not provide this and seemed 
woefully understaffed.
381
We need more housing.  The report said we were short 177,000 units.  We need 
bold plans to provide the housing needed.  Otherwise, we have a band aid 
approach.   
 
It seems like the voucher system could be improved.  The idea that some 
landlords don't want vouchers because they lag the regular payment schedule.  It 
takes a month for the landlord to be paid because the vouchers don't provide a 
timely payment. That sounds like unnecessary bu•reau•cra•cy.
382
Increase supportive services funding to address behavioral issues that prevent 
many from maintaining stable housing.  For instance, the military has discharged 
its members with less than honorable conditions to people that exhibited bad 
behavior and this prevents them from accessing any type of veteran support.  
Housing Chapter Comments
53

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
383
H1.2, H4.6  If you are going to block or delay evictions, why do you want to 
prevent landlords from doing research to make sure tenants can afford a unit?  
The biggest eviction issue is lack of payment of rent.  Is it good to pass laws to 
encourage people to rent units they can't afford and then let them live a long time 
in the unit without paying?  H 3.1   
Do not further concentrate more low income housing in areas which already have 
the crime and lack of employment of existing low income areas.  You make life 
worse for the low income [people already living there and for the new low income 
residents.
H1.2
H4.6
H3.1
384
Why not increase funding for actual housing costs such as rent/fees, rather than 
"support" or "identify." These objectives dance around the issue of lack of 
affordable housing kicking people into homelessness. There's hardly any action 
identified. 
385
We need to create a curriculum for homeless individuals who are using 
substances or have used substances to attend classes for a certain number of 
weeks that educate them on substance abuse and how to keep housing. I believe 
this would help the ones that want housing earn it. Otherwise as any provider can 
tell you housing is like a revolving door and no matter how hard we work to help 
someone, it never works. 
386
With the proliferation of high rental properties, there should be a provision that in 
order to secure approval by each city, there should be a requirement that a small 
percentage of living areas must be included in each project.
387
Look into what can be done to eliminate discrimination for background issues 
(felonies, etc,) for those seeking housing
388
Definitely support tenant rights and stop income discrimination. Mixed income 
housing and making sure that new projects do not further segregate the city are 
super important.
389
no changes
390
Build three story or higher buildings on the East, South, West and North side of 
the County to assist those in need and have a resource center inside with 
medical and behavioral assistance to help those in need to get on their feet.   
 
Also, have Community meetings (survey, on computer, and in person) to collect 
data to assist those in need.  Each side of town (East, South, North and West) 
should have these meetings and it should be advertised well in advance on T.V 
news so all can be alert.
391
Need to address the shortage of true workforce and mixed income housing. 
Older units are just slapping a coat of paint on an apartment and charging the 
price of luxury new builds and it's pricing the average person out of affordable 
living options. This 
392
The lack of affordable housing needs to be addressed further. 
393
This is also extremely important as long as it is done while simultaneously 
increasing shelter beds. It is unacceptable to say the plan is housing, but to leave 
people unsheltered while we are all "working on" improving affordable housing 
conditions as this section of the plan suggests. If these affordable housing 
initiatives are done without increasing shelter beds in the HSC area and also 
regionally, then they won't accomplish much and they will deny the fact that we 
allow our unsheyfriensa to live in sub human conditions every day. Continuing to 
allow people to stay unsheltered when the HSC has capacity to take them all in is 
immoral and unacceptable.  Phoenix is and should be better than this. 
394
Doesn’t even big to scratch the surface. This feels like a bandaid
Housing Chapter Comments
54

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
395
In addition to slowing down the eviction process, we need to address the 
discrimination faced by renters who have an eviction on their record.  Once they 
have an eviction they face a challenge trying to rent in the future.
396
Rent should be protected. My rent has increased $600 in 2 years without any 
changes made to the property. Our city needs rent protection to lessen the 
homeless population. Empty hotels, apartments, business buildings should be 
occupied to provide housing for those in need. Rent vouches should also be 
made available to protect our community. These are small inexpensive changes 
that can be made that will in the long run improve our city by having less people 
in the street, hospitals, shelters, ect. 
397
Rent breaks for those who have been affected by COVID are a MUST. There's 
no reason someone should be punished for following the recommendations of 
our public health officials and taking steps to keep themselves and the people 
around them safe. This is an unprecedented time; we have to treat it as such. 
398
I think this should be addressed to more homeless people since this is about 
them and their lives, not mine.
399
More intervention on behalf of section 8 to aid homeless peers.  
400
Longterm solutions to homelessness, like creating more shelters and facilities. 
401
Do the homework on AHCCCS funding; it's not available to do what this plan 
says without other levers being moved. How do any of these long-term strategies 
tie to the newly approved City of Phoenix Housing Plan? What are the goals for 
these objectives? How will progress be measured. There is a lot missing from 
this section. It all sounds nice and has no teeth.
402
get the federal govt out of it.  Keep it with the local govt. Governors office and 
mayors offices.
403
Perhaps providing clarity on what the city means when "support legislation" - 
does this mean the city will actively advocate at the state/federal level including 
providing testimony or showing up at hearings?
404
While short-term options are needed, I hope the wealth we have in this 
community can be directed towards more long term solutions. I walk around 
downtown and see the extreme wealth gap and have not seen positive results 
from trying to incentivize builders to provide "affordable housing." I believe 
government should be taking a more active role to invest in longer-term solutions 
such as free or low cost housing rather than short-term.
405
How do we go about it? Increase funding.
406
This is a very strong component.
407
Get rid of everything except H.2.4.  Let's help the mentally ill.  As for the rest of it, 
let's take seriously Benjamin Franklin's quote "I am for doing good to the poor, 
but...I think the best way of doing good to the poor, is not making them easy in 
poverty, but leading or driving them out of it."
H2.4
408
Seriously mentally ill persons need to be placed in more restricted environments, 
not just being housed in the community. Mentally ill persons are not always 
capable of making informed, responsible decisions due to their mental illness. 
Even if they refuse treatment at some point the larger community must be 
considered.
409
Due to costs and the increasing demand on government resources, I think it is 
extremely important that both the city and the county develop private-public 
partnerships to help tackle this problem in a more equitable manner.
Housing Chapter Comments
55

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
410
Section H5.2 and H5.7 sound interesting. More needs to be known on how these 
would be achieved. H2.4 sounds like it may be actually getting at one of the root 
causes of homelessness. This seems to be a good place to concentrate effort. 
Government should find out what incentives will work best for non-profits and 
developers and then facilitate this but not get into the business of building and 
maintaining "affordable housing."
H5.2
H5.7
H2.4
411
Do not allow companies to buy affordable houses and transform them into 
unaffordable houses in marginal communities.
412
Delete everything but H.2.2. All of the other proposals are more of what we 
already have. 
H2.2
413
see above
414
"We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEY'RE 
 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS" 
415
H.2.3 should be removed or changed. Funds for this program should not take 
away from AHCCCS/HC community housing funds.
H2.3
416
More details necessary. The prioritization of "mixed income" housing is 
confusing.
417
More transparency and details regarding H.5.1   H.5.3.   H.5.4.  H.5.5.  H.5.9.
Input from people experiencing homelessness should be pursued more 
aggressively. Their lived experience can provide insight into what needs are and 
are not being met. 
H.5.1   H.5.3.   
H.5.4.  H.5.5.  
H.5.9.
418
Library should reverse all late fees for homeless and let them check out books 
again, . . .  without fees.  Kansas City did this successfully!
Free Bus for all homeless.  Kansas City did this successfully!  I believe they 
made it free bus for everyone, which makes sense because only the poor ride it.
419
Development of new housing on City of Phoenix property by external partners 
need to get community input, which has not been done in the past (ie approval of 
CPLC mixed use development that will displace low-income folks and they did 
not actually meet with the mandated community organization to address 
concerns).  Mixed income housing is best practice but it also displaces so many 
residents, leaving them no other affordable housing options in their 
neighborhoods or surrounding areas.  Gentrification has serious repercussions 
for our folks.  Lack of shelter space has been a huge issue already (even prior to 
2015 when the overflow shelter closed). City of Phoenix has refused to address 
this lack of space since the closure, so make sure increasing shelter space is an 
actionable item and follows appropriate pandemic guidelines when open.
420
H.5.2 is the most important and leads to what we see in the tent areas north of 
the Human Services Campus. 
H5.2
421
Removed 5.2 and 5.3
H5.2 
H5.3
422
REMOVE Amend zoning ordinances
423
These people need to help themselves...plopping them in communities where 
they are the problem and neighbors are terrorized by them being there isn't good 
for a community. 
Housing Chapter Comments
56

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
424
These objectives are incredibly vague and there is a lack of description of how 
and what you plan to implement in order to appropriately address homelessness 
in Phoenix. There needs to be more information provided and we demand full 
transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and an extension for 
the public comment meetings until they’re accessible to people experiencing 
homelessness. 
425
Eliminate the Education Campaign.
426
Consider "housing first" programs that have shown success elsewhere. Change 
zoning laws to allow for "tiny homes" and/or accessory dwelling units (i.e. 
backyard tiny homes).
427
Move H.5.3 to the top.  Remove H.2.2 and H.2.3 (These devastate low income 
neighborhoods). Remove H.5.2
H.5.3, H.2.2,  
H.2.3, H.5.2
428
I'd simply say we need to go for it, many of these points are ACTION points and 
so they will help on the front line of homelessness.
429
Again.... What impact does this have on the taxpayer?  Using vacant 
hotels/motels, etc., has proven to be dangerous in other States.  Who's going to 
"police/regulate/inspect" to ensure that those facilities don't become ISSUES that 
affect property values negatively.
430
I keep thinking tiny houses can be part of the solution for either temporary or 
permanent housing. 
431
Housing shortage is a huge contributor for homelessness. We need an incredible 
focus on affordable housing. Maybe specifically reference in this section the nine 
strategies in the city's affordable housing plan in this section.
432
They are all evenly punitive to areas of the city 
433
Amend the zoning restrictions to allow for accessory dwelling development on 
single family residential parcels to address affordable housing shortages.
434
We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEY'RE 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS.
435
Fund long term housing for SMI homeless in conjunction with ongoing treatment 
by licensed mental health professionals.
436
H2.3 Again, not sure what impact this has on AHCESS and/or other human 
services. 
H5.8 I'm frequently wary of legislation due to the process of passing something 
and how it gets warped, changed, ignored, or fought over.
H2.3
H5.8
437
Once again, a lack of transparency and attention to detail. For example, H.2.1 - is 
this just another flat plot of hot asphalt with no shade and some portable toilets? 
Because apparently, the City of Phoenix defines that as shelter, which is totally 
inhumane. The homeless community members of Phoenix need actual shelter, 
they need a safe space and they need to not be harassed by Phoenix PD. It's 
also important to not gentrify existing community with things like H.5.3. All of this 
is so loaded and vague that this could easily turn into a danger for our homeless 
community members. 
2.1
5.3
438
I'm very strongly opposed to modifying zoning laws to support different types of 
housing in areas that are not currently zoned for it. People have purchased 
property in reliance on current zoning. 
439
H.5.2 Need to be careful as to not force homeless facilities in area where they are 
not welcome and/or meet with protest.  Can't forget those doing well.
5.2
Housing Chapter Comments
57

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
440
Once again, we can give give give. However there needs to be limitations. 
Opening vacant hotels is a wonderful idea. But, there needs to be restrictions. 
The hotel is not a free place to shoot heroin. And I say that from a place of 
honesty. I truly want to find a way to help people, but they can not be using if we 
are spending money on them. 
441
Again, providing affordable housing to someone who has serious mental issues 
and "chooses" to be chronically homeless should be treated differently than 
someone who doesn't have mental issues, but has financial challenges. 
Changing zoning laws doesn't seem to make sense to me as the City should 
have a plan for affordable housing already. 
442
H2.4 is the ONLY part of this section that makes sense. Partnering with the state 
to provide transitional shelter to seriously mentally ill. Otherwise, the City has not 
business in the rest of this. 
2.4
443
Must obtain more partners must look at regional options
444
We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
an extension for the public comment meetings until they're accessible to people 
experiencing homelessness. 
445
Be honest with ourselves and others - the majority of this could've been avoided - 
but we chose convenience and profit over human rights.
446
Cost saving shouldn’t be a priority when we’re talking about lives here
447
The agencies need to follow up with the citizens using the programs to make sure 
they are complying. If this is not done, then they fall to the waste side and create 
a nuisance (drug/criminal activity) for the neighborhood they are in leaving the 
residents trying to figure out how to fix the problem.
448
We need to acknowledge that some people will never transition to independent 
housing. A facility for mentally ill homeless people is a GREAT idea. 
449
Ensure schools can support additional influx of people
450
More information needed. 
451
"We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEYRE 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS"
452
ughhb
453
i work in healthcare and delays in getting patients out because they cannot get 
patients placed who are homeless.
454
H.2.4 should lead directly to H.2.2 , use the vacant buildings to offer rehab 
centers to help with mental illness issues.
2.4
455
Remove H.5.4 - public/private partnerships create too much opportunity for 
conflict of interest and cronyism.  
5.4
456
Remove education strategy, replace with readiness assessment
457
Phoenix has a long-standing issue with unavailable beds in shelters. Did we just 
open up the Civic Center?
458
What are the metrics to measure success for this plan?  This survey is sadly a 
bad design, seeking confirmation bias instead of genuine public input. 
459
Utilize vacant motels and hotels! This is naturally occurring affordable housing 
and you don't have to build it from scratch. 
460
emergency access for domestic violence victims
Housing Chapter Comments
58

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
461
I think all the items in this section are good, but I would suggest a special 
emphasis on affordable housing developments. These developments should be 
near public transit access where possible, and should have on-site offices for 
support staff (e.g., job training programs, physical and mental health services, 
etc.). 
462
Sections 2.1 to 2.4 is good focus. We need to regionalize homeless shelter 
support. The State and County need to step up and provide rural or safe 
locations for mentally ill and low barrier housing support.  
We need more help (shelter and professionals) for mentally ill. 
2.1
2.4
463
Metro Center has recently been closed. That facility could quickly and easily be 
converted to housing and provided services. Support services on the first floor. 
Housing on the second. Education in the theatre. Don’t waste that space
464
If there's mixed income housing, there should be behavioral expectations. No one 
in a good neighborhood wants their area turned into a ghetto or 
dangerous/unsafe, noisy area. HOA's have expectations, there should be rules 
like no blasting car stereos with bass that can be heard for blocks, no 8-10 cars 
per residence, kids/residents will not be permitted to trash or steal from 
neighbors' homes. Graffiti and tagging will not be tolerated. No drug dealing. No 
prostitution. Extra assistance should be revoked from anyone doing these things. 
Good neighborhoods don't need to turn into horrible, scary places. This isn't 
Portland, Seattle, or Minneapolis. 
465
Add a section to use funding intended for police spending to instead be used for 
homeless support (social workers, job programs, drug rehabilitation, etc.)
466
Affordable housing will be critical. 
467
what type of legislation for fair housing?  I don't think relying on legislative action 
as a solution.  I think building low-income housing especially for those with 
residence.  My aunt lived in a housing project in Oak Park Chicago for long-term 
residents of an area is very important.  If you are going to give away tax breaks to 
every building south of McDowell, we should require each of those "new 
buildings" to house a certain percentage of disabled/elderly residents.  I would 
also encourage looking into ways to stop destroying old buildings and to partner 
to convert them into public spaces for those of limited means instead of using the 
public library as ground zero.  Please redesign the survey to discuss each policy 
item.  This is designed to limit the transparency of the public and to provide 
generic feedback.  It is very hard to navigate back and forth between the 30 page 
documents.  The research does not address costs in any way.   It also should be 
written to allow for those with basic reading ability to understand the principles.
468
H.2.2 Has proven to be a bad idea in test locations like Los Angeles and San 
Francisco
2.2
469
This needs to have a temporary support structure. One in which people are 
supported for a limited amount of time not indefinitely. 
470
I have reservations on including these subsections listed above because I 
wonder what the impact would be to existing communities:  H.2.4 (seriously 
mentally ill transitional shelters) and H.5.2 (changing zoning ordinances).
2.4
5.2
471
Less emphasis on the macro (that everyone wants to work and get housing) to 
the micro - who are the ones that have mental, drug, alcohol issues?  this latter 
group needs to be looked at differently than someone who has had bad 
circumstances dropped on them.
472
Yeat again you are forgetting those who are physically disabled or living with 
chronic conditions. People also between the ages 24 to 55.
Housing Chapter Comments
59

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
473
Create low barrier, supported, long term housing solutions with available financial 
assistance. Get people experiencing homelessness into housing first.
474
The long term plan should be to add more permanent, supportive affordable 
housing for 30% AMI or below, not create more shelters and transitional housing. 
It is only thru permanent housing that we can end homelessness. Also, do not 
focus on “mixed-income” housing. Data shows that our greatest need is housing 
for 30% AMI so our resources and energy should be spent with this group.
475
There's a lot in this section.  It's impossible to comment on them as a group.
476
Ensure solutions are directed toward affordable housing, not just more housing. 
477
Choices regarding zoning and hotel occupancy must be done with regard to 
safety of other residents and surrounding community. A hotel used for this 
purpose should be entirely for this purpose. A duty of care is owed to low income 
travelers and tourists.
478
what does H.5.2 & H.5.7 mean
5.2
5.7
479
H2.4 - helping the mentally ill is EXTREMELY important.
2.4
480
The ENTIRE premise of the section is WRONG. The focus needs to be 
programming that reduces homelessness, not encourage homelessness. Must 
address the root CAUSE.
481
Sounds expensive and government mismanaged waste
482
Just a general thought: The most efficient way to utilize workforce housing is to 
keep it in proximity to where the jobs are.  Second most efficient would be placing 
it along public transportation.  I would really like to see the city to encourage 
development of affordable and workforce housing in a distributed manner, rather 
than clustering it in one or two areas of the city and then rely on everyone to drive 
to jobs on roads that are already overloaded.
483
I additionally think to all sections making sure in the language that these 
resources are offered to all AZ residents no matter race, gender, sexual 
orientation, religion
484
Again to much to fairly judge or comment on in one section and what does 
conduct an education campaign mean?
485
Affordable housing should not be placed in affluent areas.
486
We need immediate housing options to get homeless of the streets more quickly. 
487
Seems good
488
Put responsibility on individuals and families.  Why should government provide so 
much when many do nothing to help themselves/family members?  We need to 
quit giving handouts!!!!!!!!!! 
489
Phoenix should eliminate Single Family Zoning in order to encourage lower cost 
forms of housing like duplexes and triplexes. This would also make it easier for 
non-profits to actually build housing for everyone. 
490
h.5.2 should only be zoned for more affordable housing for low income or no 
income residents, not more overpriced housing in general. 
5.2
491
I am not in favor of rezoning ordinance amendments. That's jumping way too far 
ahead in the process. There's far too much emphasis on long-term housing. 
Homelessness should be a short experience for the able-bodied. Those who 
suffer from drug dependency or mental issues need special treatment, not just 
warehousing.
492
H.5.6.  It's very important to work with Developers for affordable housing.
5.6
493
Provide new housing in Phoenix in areas easily accessible to the Lightrail.
494
5.2 is objectionable. The last thing established neighborhoods need is a 
homeless shelter, halfway house, whatever, popping up.
5.2
Housing Chapter Comments
60

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
495
Affordable  housing is definitely needed in Phoenix.
496
Once again incredibly vague. Using buzz words without going into strategy. Try 
laying out all of these plans in detail in an easily accessible format for the public.
497
Private public partnerships sometimes waste stats money by giving it to 
corporations. Concentrate on housing people. It saves money from police and jail 
budgets in the long run. 
498
See previous H2.1 comment. Additional - not sure what H5.2 means - does this 
mean an office building can be come a housing unit or what? H.5.3 Yes to this 
any City owned land should be used for what is necessary for housing. H5.9 is 
REALLY IMPORTANT for those needing housing and for the neighborhood 
changes that may happen. H2.2 and H3.1 is a great idea - especially partnering 
with non-profits to run and operate.
2.1
499
No, if you build more housing, you will just attract more homeless people from 
other cities. What is to stop homeless people from Peoria or Gilbert from coming 
to Phoenix? You'll be back asking for more money and more housing the next 
year.  Only the mentally ill should be treated as if they don't need to work. They 
need to be committed to an institution via a guardianship proceeding. I would 
support funding a mental institution to house only these kinds of people. 
500
Add a section of public school education course about homelessness in their own 
community, how to prevent it and how to find resources when it does happen. 
Educate children so that it can make an impact in future generations.
501
Security at homeless shelters. When I worked in vocational rehab at the VA, 
many veterans would not go to shelters because there's a big security risk from 
other homeless people to harm them or steal what little they had from them. Also, 
they did not want their kids subjected to sexual assault or harm from the shelter 
inhabitants.  They felt safer sleeping under bridges with their kids in tow. There 
needs to be separate quarters for homeless with children.
502
Remove sections H.2.2, H.5.2. H.5.3, H.5.8, and H.5.9. I don't know what is 
meant by H.5.7, "preserve existing housing stock", but if it means the status quo 
conditions of blight and substandard housing then remove this section too.
2.2
5.2
5.3
5.8
5.9
503
Create institutions that we support where people in need having mental issues or 
drug issues so they are separated from legitimate cases where people may have 
lost everything because of the pandemic or bad luck. These initiatives need to be 
divided into categories so that the right organization is handling what we see 
exploding in our community with homelessness. 
504
These services should be performed by the non-profit sector, not the city.
505
Will changing zoning effect businesses? I'm not in favor of mixed income 
housing. It de-values property.
506
There should be no "transitional" housing. The person should be well enough to 
live in permanent housing. It is discriminatory to believe otherwise. I am a 
homeowner. If I get sick and/or get hospitalized, nobody puts me in "transitional" 
housing. I come home. That's how it should be for everyone. "Transitional" 
housing passes the buck and it's not fair. 
507
More options for SROs and granny flats in single family districts. 
508
Teaching budgeting in the community, schools, senior centers, hospitals. 
509
Handouts seldom work. The receivers seldom get stronger but rather get more 
dependent. The right kind of education can help as long as it doesn't promise a 
reward for being lazy, or non-committal. "The Lord helps those who help 
themselves."
Housing Chapter Comments
61

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
510
“Redevelop city owned land with mixed income housing” should be changed to 
“low income housing“ Let’s start there. I think mixed income housing can be 
misleading. Developers say mixed income housing but too often that turns out to 
be a young professional who makes money well above the poverty line to an 
upper middle class individual.That’s not the priority in providing affordable 
housing. Let’s just focus on low income housing right now. 
 
Secondly, I am unsure what “prioritize new housing in areas of opportunity 
means.” It feels like code for gentrifying struggling neighborhoods.
511
Big concern about city focused so heavily on 19th ave light rail extension. This is 
unfair and really bad practice. We know that stacking lower income people in high 
rise projects in big cities was a disaster so what makes you think putting them all 
along the tracks will be different? It's not like there are lots of job opportunities 
nearby. Housing is needed citywide. You are hurting established and middle 
income households and driving them away which will ultimately lead to NO 
MIXED HOUSING and in 10-20 years you'll all be wondering what went wrong. 
Please think citywide and long term and ask this question: How could this hurt the 
area and/or current residents and new residents? Stop only thinking 'We must 
add more". Be smart and strategic and compassionate. Thank you.
512
A way for the homeless to afford these options and to get the homeless to 
participate.
513
ABSOLUTELY NOTHING
514
It's important enough to be put into the plan, however, it may take much longer to 
implement.  Considering the limited financial resources of city, state and federal, 
it may be easier and faster to help those with fewer needs and then concentrate 
on those with greater needs.
515
The idea isn't to turn Phoenix in to a slum! The solution is not to build projects all 
over Arizona but to stop the influx of illegals as they are the majority of our 
homeless and help our residents and citizens to get back on their feet. I will fight 
this tooth and nail if Phoenix City Council thinks they can just turn our city in to 
slum city. I can't wait until the election and the Mayor goes, these so-called 
solutions illustrate her determination to ruin Phoenix! 
516
I think the housing options that are available now need to be reevaluated as far 
as what they provide.  Are they at full capacity?  Are they helping rehabilitate to 
get homeless back on their feet?  Adding more shelters may not be where the 
money should be spent but giving homeless or on the verge of being homeless 
better and more opportunities to be a productive member of society.
517
Remove partner with Non-Profits only, as there are many low profit organizations 
who are AHCCCS funded that do amazing work, not led by profitability but by 
doing what is right for the consumers. Change to partner with established 
organizations who work with this population to operate/provide services.  By 
excluding low profit organizations you exclude companies that do amazing work 
for these folks
518
I am very much opposed to H.5.2. The recent plan for zoning changes seemed to 
address only the availability of single family housing without regard to multi-story 
apartment buildings. Moreover, there is nothing that says that Phoenix has to 
accommodate more people. This is a big Country, and our State has areas with 
less density and lower housing prices that can absorb those who cannot afford to 
live here. 
5.2
519
Remove all of it
Housing Chapter Comments
62

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
520
do not involve hotels/motels for housing.  As seen in other parts of the US, this 
has only created another problem--drugs being delivered to homeless etc.
521
Phoenix should consider banning or reducing the trend for corporations and 
investors to buy up all the available single family homes.  This nasty trend 
nationwide had already greatly diminished the availability of affordable housing. 
Target corporate landlords and investors buying up available single family 
homes.
522
The Homeless I have personally spoke too do not want shelter. The Shelters in 
place require them to get up early do chores and look for work. They DON'T 
WANT TO WORK!! 
523
Addressing homelessness caused by mental health issues is essential. Low 
barrier shelters are essential.
524
I don’t think we should start utilizing vacant apartments or hotels. This is a short 
term solution. I think the damage that would arise would bring new problems.
525
H.2.2 Rather than limiting housing to vacant hotels, etc, we should consider using 
larger spaces, e.g. malls, warehouses, etc. to transitional housing. 
2.2
526
Remove all
527
Supporting affordable housing legislation will require confronting SB 1487 and SB 
1524. Don't just partner with developers, even those claiming to support 
affordable housing, as they tend to inadequately serve the community. Public 
private partnerships can minimize risk for the public, but these developers aren't 
publicly accountable and by definition exist to generate profit. If their work is 
inadequate or unaffordable in practice, like with CPLC's proposed plan for the 
Henson Apartments, then you aren't doing anything except facilitating 
gentrification while the people that have lacked resources like those in South 
Phoenix get shafted. I have a couple of degrees in mechanical engineering and 
research energy efficient housing design so I appreciate the nod towards 
innovation, but also fear that it's used as a buzzword while costs are cut with 
shoddy craftsmanship. We also can't rely on technology, as this can only be 
adequately addressed with political solutions.
528
Simplify
529
NO, and NO!!!! Where people live is a product of their choice. If they want 
something different they should be required to make choices that give them 
different options verses simply giving them something for which they were 
completely uninvolved in achieving for themselves. I am completely against 
"hand outs" verses "hand ups". For instance what happened in this pandemic 
with the large unemployment benefit. I heard more than once, "I make more on 
unemployment than I do when I worked". These people did not want to go to 
work. And these were people who had homes. What do you think happens when 
homeless are incentivised to stay living off the system with no participation 
required from them in order to change their situation!!!!
530
H.5.3 - no need to redevelop land, just improve on what's already there. Why not 
preserve older structures and provide for the homeless in one swoop? 
5.3
531
Remove H.5.2  While zoning should be reviewed, wholesale changes should not 
be made without community involvement and neighborhood consent.  
5.2
532
Add housing and/or other facilities will not be located within a 5 mile radius of any 
schools and/or residential neighborhoods 
533
Vetting shelters by surveying the homeless individuals that use them. There are a 
handful of PHX shelters that have reports of abuse against their stakeholders 
534
Expand on H.5.3 and H.5.7
5.3
5.7
Housing Chapter Comments
63

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
535
Shelters designed for age and need - elderly, with pets, working, etc. 
536
Affordable housing options are needed. Care and maintenance of these housing 
options must be enforced to protect the neighborhood from the "blight" 
associated with Community, Chapter 8, etc. types of housing options.  Include the 
residence in caring for there homes.  
537
There is much inaccuracy about who exactly are PEOPLE who are 
homeless...being portrayed as the sex offender/addict//lazy.....  We often don't 
seem that these are people, with families, hopes, dreams, problems just like us.   
We tend to forget the person/the individual/knowing their name ..we tend to 
dehumanize this group of individuals...making them a "problem" to be fixed rather 
than as a resource to be developed....
538
Provide safe spaces for people to shower. 
539
More housing stock and SMI housing is very important. 
540
Sections h.2.1, h.2.2, h.2.4, h.5.2, h.5.4, h.5.5, h.5.6, h.5.7 should be kept and 
the others disregarded
h.2.1, h.2.2, h.2.4, 
h.5.2, h.5.4, h.5.5, 
h.5.6, h.5.7
541
H.5.5 sounds like empty words-‘increase efficiencies and innovation’, so 
nonspecific. The mentally ill folks who are seen on the same street/spot, day after 
day, doing repetitive movements—emergency services/housing is needed. One 
man swings at an imaginary baseball all day, another stands- 2 feet from shade-
in the sun all day. These folks are not hard to find, many are seen wearing partial 
hospital scrubs/gowns, and obviously need somewhere to go. Perhaps a focus 
on hospital discharge directly into shelter would be useful.
5.5
542
Phoenix needs AFFORDABLE rental properties that are in good physical 
condition with livable square footage. In addition, these units need to be away 
from areas where high poverty and high crime invite people recovering from 
homelessness to participate in illicit activities. I've seen this first hand way too 
much.
543
Protect the integrity and stability of existing neighborhoods. 
544
I would need to know more about the proposed "affordable housing legislation" 
and how "affordable developer representation" would be increased. Otherwise, I 
support these sections, and they are important.
545
I'm skeptical of further public private partnerships. We don't need more money 
sucked out of the system for profit margins
546
Amend current zoning is vague and should be in more detail.  Placing shelters in 
neighborhoods without neighborhood input can create another dangerous 
situation.  
547
N/A
548
Housing First! Lack of housing is a symptom. More affordable, income-based 
housing for workers. Moratorium on over-priced housing. Convert unused existing 
housing stock in to homes for low income persons and families. Create land 
trusts that prohibit exorbitant prices for housing.
549
wrap around services for smi
550
Add current state, next steps
551
Has anyone thought of turning Metro Center into a massive homeless outreach 
center? It could provide housing, education, mental health/substance abuse 
assistance, community outreach, job training, and food all under one roof. And 
since it wouldn't need that giant parking lot, you could grind it up and turn it into a 
community garden.
552
Build Tiny home communities.
Housing Chapter Comments
64

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
553
We do not need more beds downtown and could not be effective in one giant 
facility
554
Who are you educating? If homeless good if public we already know this is a 
prob! 
555
Again addictiin related services as well as mental health service availability to 
those in subsidized housing.
556
Again - no community input or evaluation language
557
I'm from a very small town.  We have homeless but its rare to see. 
Since moving here and seeing how it is its had me shocked. 
I spent 2 years on the streets and I feel the pain they go through everytime we 
drive past them. 
I've notice theres alot of abandoned buildings and houses here in pheonix. I think 
the state should buy them and have then flipped over so they can turn them into 
funded houses and shelters for the homeless and they can even be program 
housing for addiction and trauma treatment.
558
Expand funding for mental health (shifting from policing, as prisons house an 
oversize number of mentally ill individuals that would be better served by mental 
health providers)
559
H.5.2 and H.5.3 need to get homeowners' and business owners approval before 
re-zoning for an area.
5.2
5.3
560
DO NOT INCREASE THE BED COUNT AT CASS.  THE CURRENT BED 
COUNT IS STILL TOO HIGH AND IS DESTROYING THE INTIMIDATE 
NEIGHBORHOOD WITH CRIME, TRASH AND HUMAN WASTE
561
H.5.4 through H.5.8 are much too broad to be considered objectives. I know 
these are considered "long-term objectives" in the literature, but these are way 
too huge.
5.4
5.5
5.3
5.7
5.8
562
The rising rents and destruction of viable housing by developers to create 'luxury' 
housing has decimated affordable housing with the result of creating 
homelessness. Rent control is also needed as markets do not in fact police 
themselves. 
563
Having developers who concentrate on affordable housing is a great idea. Using 
City owned land to do it is also a good idea. 
564
Mixed income housing is a horrible idea. Look what it has done to CA. 
565
Affordable housing is key. Some kind of rent control could be mandated so the 
homeless can keep up with inflation and the cost of living.
566
No, if these actions would reduce the value or safety of impacted locations and 
those living there prior to changes to help the homeless.
567
This section needs to reference the specific dedicated funding sources to 
achieve these objectives.
568
Abolish single-family zoning, which makes it ILLEGAL to build anything other than 
a single-family detached house on land that you own. This artificially reduces the 
housing supply, driving costs up astronomically.
569
Establish tent city outside the core city limits and move transients to an area less 
conducive to littering and crime 
570
Persons who are seriously mentally ill who are a danger to themselves and 
others must have secure facilities and they must be available in emergency 
situations and they must be supervised.  
Housing Chapter Comments
65

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
571
Auditing & reporting process to report on cost-effectiveness of individual 
measures.  
572
See response to question 6.
573
Tapping AHCCCS for funds and motels for lodging/housing should be removed. 
574
If you are low income and can't afford housing.... or have to choose between food 
or AC....options need to be out there for those who are really trying to improve 
their lot. I fear there will be those who take advantage and hope those who really 
need the assistance can find it. 
575
especially h5.3 and h5.7 
help communities re-build instead of gentrification
5.3
5.7
576
Too much ambiguity in this section and too many causes for dispute instead of 
action here...
577
Like the idea of using motels for shelter, especially in hot weather.  
578
be cautious with H.5.2., changing the zoning.  My neighborhood has Collins 
Court.  this is a CASS housing project that started out with good intentions to 
house a formerly homeless population, made successful with 24/7 onsite staff 
and programs. CASS pulled the 24/7 onsite staffing and this place has become 
just another collection point for homeless people. Even the tenants complain 
about the onsite mess it has become.    Phoenix and CASS promised the 
neighborhood this would be a positive addition to our neighborhood, and then 
they left us high and dry. CASS needs oversite.
5.2
579
Regarding the seriously mentally ill, I understand that the goal is to house people 
in the least restrictive environment.  Do you have psychiatrists, psychologists and 
social workers available to determine if a seriously mentally ill (SMI) person is 
able to live alone or in a group setting?  What if the person has schizophrenia or 
multiple disorders which make him/her a threat to others?  What happens to 
those individuals?  
580
Emphasize all parts of the plan work together to help the person who is homeless 
eventually be able to stand on his/her own feet.
581
Concerned about the potential zoning changes
582
Since the city can’t seem to build shelters for these people, stop developing the 
spaces they have to reside in, all you are doing is making it increasing more 
difficult to come out of homelessness
583
SMI Homeless should take priority for Services and placement for housing as 
these people are disabled and cannot Work in most cases nor provide shelter for 
themselves. The majority of these people are disabled and qualify for Social 
Security Disability and that is all they will ever have to live on and is not enough to 
pay for shelter.
584
Remove ; Conduct a educational Campaign!
585
Designate specific neighborhoods within downtown/central Phoenix that will 
benefit from such legislation, and ensure that suburban neighborhoods (such as 
Ahwatukee) within Phoenix will NOT be impacted by such legislation.
586
I think places like old St. Luke hospital could be a source for many levels of care 
including housing, grocery store,pharmacy and provide jobs for many that would 
be living there
587
Remove H.5.2 & H.5.3
5.2
5.3
Housing Chapter Comments
66

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
588
H.5.9.: vague and more than likely a waste of money. Unless you are going to 
educate people in north Scottsdale, and Ahwatukee areas. I know many 
personally and they do not have a clue and do not care about the situation 
"downtown" because they can afford to live in gated communities. 
5.9
589
DO IT!
590
If you require community input and support, this won;t get done.  Must consider 
how to bypass.  
591
Remove H.5.2 and H.5.3
5.2
5.3
592
no changes
593
Delete H5.2 and H5.3
5.2
5.3
594
see previous answer.  More thinking--public discussions before opening shelters 
around businesses.
595
Partner with religious organizations to provide shelter and counseling.
596
City owned land is owned by the people, the people pay tax. Therefore it needs to 
be given to the people that need it most. 
597
tax incentives to build and manage housing. Pursuit of federal grants and federal 
lobbying for regional and city grants
598
Keep H.2.4 (mentally ill). Discard the rest.
2.4
599
Please explain what low barrier housing is. I am not familiar with that term.
600
Mental health help is key 
601
You must consider the needs of homeowners who do not want shelters in their 
neighborhoods. They’ve worked hard to attain this American dream, a home of 
their own. It’s unamerican to make them suffer because other people have 
suffered their own misfortunes. What is done in other countries? I think we need 
to study that and find ways to prevent homelessness in the first place: through 
funding education at the classroom level, reducing class sizes to manageable 
sizes, supporting families in distress, teaching parents how to be parents, and 
seeing the whole picture of needs.
602
Use vaccant school property as wrap around rehabilitation for chronically ill 
homeless and partner with the church to find missionaries with a heart to 
dedicate their lives to tending the poor and helpless in our city. In order to be 
successful rehabilitation should meet humans on their level and integrate them 
into sustainable independent living. Let these centers also become a training 
ground modeled after St.Marys Food Bank Community Kitchen. 
Free labor in exchange for verifiable life and job skills for those seeking re-entry 
into the work force. Also maybe consider a small farming initiative as a healing 
module for residents and use the produce for a mobile soup kitchen in the winter 
months. 
603
Only approved if it does not destroy safe communities by forcing low income, 
high crime multi-family units into the middle of them.
604
it is all important and needs to be addressed in the plan. 
605
Lack of specificity makes it difficult to comment but shelter beds are absolutely 
critical to stabilize the current situation before longer-term strategies have 
opportunity to work. Current situation of dismissing crisis as other jurisdictions’ 
responsibility is problematic 
Housing Chapter Comments
67

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
606
I strongly oppose amending current zoning ordinances to facilitate more housing 
options.  If rezoning is allowed to happen low-income & transitional housing can & 
will be placed in residential areas where they do not fit in with the neighborhood 
aesthetics.
607
Should be made more clear what the Education Campaign will address and who 
it will be targeted to (homeowners, landlords, tax-payers, homeless community, 
etc.)
608
I hope think the section plans for far less homeless population than will be 
produced by COVID.  
Perhaps there’s an opportunity to create surging of housing in inclement months 
and reducing in good weather. 
609
Mental illness should not become a defining characteristic for being able to 
recieve help. Convert the newly renovated St. Luke's Hospital into said intensive 
shelter, unless "renovating" it was all a hoax by health care executives to bilk 
taxpayer money. 
610
Addressing Mental health issues is critical.  Caution should be taken to evaluate 
why a person is homeless, prior to looking at ways to distribute these people 
around the valley.  Those with drug, alcohol and mental health issues need to be 
addressed separately from persons and families that are temporarily without 
housing.
611
Nothing. It looks good.
612
H.2.4 
H.5.6 
H.5.8 
H.5.9 
All above should be added to
2.4
5.6
5.8
5.9
613
5.9 (unsure of the target audience for Education?)
5.9
614
Include exploration of partnership with churches as shelter sites.  The IHELP 
program is having good success in Mesa, Goodyear/Avondale, and now 
Surprise.  That model should be included.  It is low-cost and very effective.
615
Reducing construction costs will require to waive the Davis Bacon Act. This is 
extremely important to push to waive for housing for the extremely low population 
616
I think before action is taken,we should find out why so many are homeless.  Did 
hey lose their jobs through no fault of their own,  di they choose drugs or alcohol, 
etc; did they for some reason chose this lifetyle, do they want the help - why,, why 
not, etc  Then one can decide the best way to offer help to those who really want 
it & are willing to contribute with labor or expertise [if they have] of some sort.  If 
it's a mental health problem, housing alone won't help
617
Really help the mentally ill folks. More need court orders to take meds. The 
people running this are cold and heartless.  Speaking as a family member.  Go 
straight to the top!  You are not being told the truth. 
618
Have to get homeless off streets. No freebies for drug addicts though. And don’t 
want raised taxes 
619
Provide Free Mandatory Drug Screening test for homeless. If positive for Elicit 
drugs automatically disqualify for help but offer rehabilitation for 3 months, then 
repeat process on drug screening for Housing/Shelter help.
620
Beware of making housing and other benefits too attractive.  Incorporate 
incentives so that homeless persons in transition (not chronically homeless), will 
seek ways to become more self-reliant.
621
Affordable housing is a huge concern, especially in central Phoenix.  I would like 
to hear more about the building innovations
Housing Chapter Comments
68

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
622
The reason for my answer on this one is the irritation of the fact that you put 
these housing prices in among family residential areas. Many of these homeless 
drug addicts or alcoholics. Alcoholics & drug addicts should never be Put in 
residential areas where there are children nor anywhere near them. Why not use 
vacant warehouse is in a business district instead. In reality even that’s not a 
good idea because of robberies. There’s not really a good answer for alcoholics 
and drug attic’s except support homes where they are watched with people 
Knowing when they come in and out. But then of course you guys don’t want 
them in jail so that will never happen
623
I think that the number of shelter locations should be minimized and defined.  
Isolated encampments should be dismantled and relocated to a defined location.  
Parks should NOT be allowed to be used as homeless camps.
624
Looks like you've got it covered. What may I do to help?
625
In the words of President Reagan, "Goverment is not the solution to the problem, 
it is the problem."
626
nothing
627
H52. H53. Remove
5.2
5.3
628
When talking about mixed-income housing and new housing in areas of 
opportunity, the language and guidelines must be very clear and enforceable, to 
protect existing neighborhoods' property values and to protect the residents of the 
new housing from antagonistic neighbors. Especially important to consider with 
the SMI population.
629
Just do it.Less
630
Enact rent caps in all residential areas, requiring landlords to house homeless for 
free in empty units, requiring a percentage of ALL rental housing be low income, 
even in new development.  Explore programs to allow homeless to skip credit 
checks and rental deposits and fees to help the working poor get into housing 
they can afford.  Require ALL utility companies (including phone and internet) to 
provide significantly reduced rates for low income residents.
631
Not just for homeless but for ALL renters, landlords cannot charge more than 
$800 for rental house/apartment
632
Consider taking some of the police budget, and dedicate it to mental health 
needs.  Would such a change help avoid homelessness from occurring?
633
add 'expand transitional housing programs for survivors of domestic/sexual 
violence'
634
More mental health parts.
635
We at Circle the City have found that with good will collaboration we reach the 
best outcomes for a person's health, options for living in safe places off the street 
and building/maintaining a sense of community that includes our neighbors on 
the street.  The alliances listed in the strategic plan above are fall in that same 
spirit.
636
Again, where is the goal for the homeless to improve their own individual situation 
and make better choices?  I agree there should be mental health assistance, but 
again, why is there NO focus individual responsibilities for those people in this 
situation?  I also don't agree with creating more benefits with no restrictions on 
those who are accepting the services.  There must be some consequence for 
people who are just trying to make irresponsible life choices -- especially if there 
are children/pets involved.  Don't encourage more homelessness by making it 
easier for people to be in that situation.
637
Please see notes at question 23.
Housing Chapter Comments
69

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
638
again, remove all things that are giveaways.  make folks work for thier things. 
thanks
639
More information on amending zoning.
640
I can't think of anything.
641
I am not sure about the education campaign 
642
Be careful of too densely populated developments. Large dense poverty pockets 
can create more problems rather than solving the problem. 
643
Not all homeless people want to be inside a hotel
644
Especially important to have services for seriously mentally ill homeless 
individuals.
645
See my prior comment re: permanent housing.
646
It seems like everything is included.
647
Long term strategies are needed 
648
Consider that prevention of homeless is more desirable than trying to get 
someone off the street.
649
Not just housing for mental health but complex health issues that include physical 
issues,  something dedicated to discharge from medical and behavioral health 
facilities 
650
Not sure 
651
All important 
652
There is too much redundancy in this section. Some areas are good but it 
repeats itself.
653
More shelter beds are need. 
654
remove all but H.5.3, H.5.4 and H.5.5. Remove government from all
H.5.3, H.5.4 and 
H.5.5. 
655
Tiny house community for vets with services to promote healing and support 
656
I think people who live in the area should be able to give input before considering 
changing any existing zones
657
Expand 2.2
H2.2
658
Add vacant malls and offices to be repurposed as well
659
Again, People need to be responsible for themselves. The taxpayers have their 
own expenses snd should not be burdened taking care of those making poor 
decisions
660
If this is offered to those who don't care, and you mix it with those trying to truly 
get ahead in life, you'll get a pot of expensive, never ending subsidies . People 
HAVE to show they are trying to find meaningful employment,.
661
Yes! We need to be using the MANY vacant lots that the city owns to make 
affordable and low cost housing. Affordable needs to be outlined because 
affordable is not the same for everyone. We need numbers. We need to also 
have affordable housing and shelters in places where there is access to grocery 
stores, bus stops, lightrail stations, etc so people can meet their needs.
662
I particularly like the mixed-income housing idea.  We need to foster a sense of 
neighbors within communities.  For instance, the tiny home villages in other cities 
have been successful because the surrounding neighbors have been educated 
and familiarized with the programs, then have incorporated the residents into 
their neighborhoods.
663
H.2.3 Funds should be allocated elsewhere they are already operating at capacity
H2.3
664
should find dedicated funding source other than AHCCCS. don't use the zoning 
reform to push the homeless to already under-served neighborhoods because 
you don't want them around your wealthy neighborhoods/shops.
Housing Chapter Comments
70

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
665
By creating this 'support', it turns into enabling and encouraging (just this week, 
reports about homeless migrating Seattle were in the news).  Housing isn't the 
primary issue, joblessness, mental health, and addiction issues are some of the 
main causes and addressing these is a better use of resources.
666
Just a general comment.  I wouldn't like to see what happened in SF.  Rooms 
trashed, drugs in abundance.  
667
See my previous comments.
668
Remove H.5.2
H5.2
669
I don’t like using vacant apartments, that’s not fair to current home owners. 
670
omit,  H 2.1--H 5.2 & H 5.3
 H 2.1--H 5.2 & H 
5.3
671
Each point is valid.  It’s just a lot of requirements for a relatively small budget.  
672
separate rooms for women and children.
673
FINALLY YOU ARE REQUESTING HOUSING.
674
remove H.2.2.
H2.2
675
Remove 2.2
H2.2
676
I believe there is plenty of educational sources now
677
Seriously mentally ill should probably be in State care
678
Not sure about the hotel room use.
679
Again, what is meant by "amend current zoning ordinances"? Some of these are 
in place to protect the quality of living for existing residents. These protections 
should not be amended away.
680
What are the suggestions to amend zoning ordinances?  In general, zoning is an 
important tool to protect the character of neighborhoods and the investment 
made by citizens buying in a neighborhood.  The homeless can be helped without 
degrading neighborhoods and the safety of their inhabitants.  If Phoenix adopts 
the practices of failing cities like Seattle and San Francisco we can expect to 
suffer not just the same consequences but worse because Phoenix can't boast of 
the natural beauty of those areas.  Similarly, what would affordable housing 
legislation look like?  Chances are that government fiat here, as it does pretty 
much everywhere, will only make matters worse as it imposes burdens that 
exceed any possible good to be obtained.   
681
All of this will be useless if there is no drug-free requirement
682
Include vacant malls as an option for potential housing
683
H.5.2 - while it is important to include housing in all districts, consideration of 
placement should be considered. I've seen housing "forced" into locations just to 
meet a "quote" for a zip code/village. This should not be the case; it must make 
sense.
H5.2
684
mental health sould be prioritiezed so they dont go to jail for being off meds they 
cant afford
685
Take out the amending of housing. Increasing affordable housing just sounds like 
a bad idea, sprawling this in to the suburbs will increase taxes and incentives 
people who are paying their fair share to leave the city.
686
these sections should be un-bundled so you can provide feedback on each 
objective.
Housing Chapter Comments
71

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
687
short-term and mid-term strategies.  need to have some federal funds, and some 
state funds for supportive housing and public housing--capital and operating by 
NGO's.  Difficult to include supportive housing in mixed use housing that would 
some subsidized and some market rents.  Believe homelessness people 
primarily interested in transition housing with supportive services, staging up to 
stability, employment and mixed use housing (subsidized and market rent).  All 
low income people want to live independently and provide for themselves.
688
animal and pet rights, educate on care for pets
689
Many of these items appear to be subject to law suits and wasting time and 
dollars. What is the current practice?  Has anything to date been successful that 
can be expanded. What hasn’t worked. I see a wish list with nothing to compare it 
to. 
690
Allow open access to open beds no matter what entity/non-profit is seeking 
shelter for a client; as long as the client meets the qualifications.
691
All The Above?
692
Getting homeless people with mental health issues off the street and away from 
families is very important
693
have a sliding income scale for affordable housing so that more people have 
access to help and encourage more builders to build affordable housing not only 
for very low income but also for those that are low to moderate income and still 
paying 50 to 70 percent of income to housing 
694
add H.4.6
H4.6
695
Ways to better address and treat mental illness should be included.  A 
Transitional shelter does not seem to be addressing any root cause.  Real 
solutions are needed for the mentally ill.
696
The goal of "long term" low income housing should be to rotate the facilities 
opportunities, not just make families become stagnant for years to come. They 
need to transition off this program through specified job programs which could 
incorporate all members of the family. Skills for making a living are essential. 
697
remove hotel housing. dorms are ok. if that isn't good enough, too bad
698
Open the restrooms at all city parks.
699
We all know there aren't enough beds. this is a fact. the people the 
neighborhoods are complaining about are there, not because they don't want 
shelter, but because there aren't enough beds and there certainly are not enough 
beds to treat people with severe mental illness and substance abuse issues. This 
requires a different kind of approach that current shelter systems don't offer that 
a low barrier shelter would.
700
changes need to be made to income requirements that prevent low income and 
disabled people from obtaining housing. even when individuals do not have 
evictions, criminal history, and proof of income they can still be denied housing. 
701
I'd like to see a much larger increase in affordable housing. Phoenix has seen a 
great amount of development with new LUXURY apartments. We don't want 
luxury, that just means expense and unaffordable. We need safe and 
AFFORDABLE housing options. 
702
Number one, is to increase shelter beds throughout the region, not localized to 
downtown Phoenix. It puts too heavy a burden on one area of the city. The 
shelter beds should be increased in ALL metropolitan cites.
703
Vacant motels/hotels need to be fixed up and used as various transition points in 
the overall plan to living on their own.  Also, a separate mental health motel/hotel 
is needed to separate individuals.
Housing Chapter Comments
72

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
704
It would be amazing if vacant motels and apartment building could be utilized to 
house the homeless. I think it would be helpful if the homeless that are able are 
given the opportunity to help fix up these vacant buildings. When you help to fix 
up the place where you will be living, you take more pride in your home.
705
Beef up code violation ordinance for slumlords (who provide housing city leaders 
would not call habitable) to give it some teeth so people just out of homelessness 
can have decent housing, and add more inspectors.
More caseworkers are needed to help persons who are struggling to end their 
homelessness. And small grants so they can fix their car/pay their past due utility 
balances, avoid eviction, etc.
706
In each new development of more than 50 units, 1% of the units created should 
be for low-income housing.
707
Might be "too much in the weeds" and was covered in last senction?
708
As long as we are not violating individual property rights, these are all OK. What 
we need to do is make homeless squatting unlawful and force homeless to 
disperse or be put in jail. Its sad, i agree, but it must be done. Thats the only real 
fix here. And we can give opportunities to them as well.
709
There needs to be shelters in other communities
710
There's a great importance in dealing with the mentally ill. This should be both a 
govenment and city sponsored project.
711
No, No and no more waste of taxpayers money when the services for 
TAXPAYERS are going down.  We have lived in Phoenix for almost 40 years.  
The city has been greedy and expanded (grew) too much while all services have 
gone down.  Years ago our Parks and Recreation Community Centers were 
beautiful, kept up, offered many classes and were always busy.  Not so now.  The 
centers are okay, never cleaned properly, never offer not attempt to offer or to 
even really attempt to reach out to the community as to what little is offered.  
Maybe that will change with a new Parks and Rec director.  The one that just left 
was not efficient in the resident's books.  I know I am getting away from the topic 
but that is how all is handled in the city now.  Love and respect the police but 
cannot get them to come out timely, some of the community action officers are 
lazy, trash - regular and bulk -  is not the same.  Just this week part of our area 
missed.  Some of our area have alleys and there is confusion there when bulk 
trash as to where to put and how picked up.  And, speaking of alleys, as they are 
no longer NSD's responsibility there is no way of having residents be responsible 
for upkeep which brings in the the homeless/transients in the area to live and 
sleep.  We would rather have our tax money go to the upkeep of alleys or the 
enforcing of having residents keep clean.  
712
Making use of currently existing buildings is important, but when those places are 
not safe or fall below maintenance standards for basic needs, they must be 
reconditioned to accommodate people in acceptable ways.  
When outside contractors are hired to construct housing or even recondition it, 
the people who will live there have nothing invested in it.  I would love to see 
programs that include training and apprenticeships for local people who are 
homeless so that hey can contribute to the solution.  Programs including training 
in plumbing, construction, electrical and HVAC areas.  Bring the locals( 
homeless)  into the project.  Granted, there are those who say these people don't 
want to work.  Incentives for on the job training and participation  may entice 
them.
713
Again, send to California 
Housing Chapter Comments
73

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
714
Phoenix housing in unaffordable for the middle class. Until you address that 
issue, I don't see how this can work.  There is a housing inventory shortage in 
Phoenix and there are too many people coming here.  The governor needs to 
address this instead of promoting Phoenix as business friendly.  We are going to 
run out of water, and the heat island effect from all of the developement is nearly 
unbearable now.  
715
Add H2.1
H2.2
H2.3
H2.1
H2.2
H2.3
716
Housing demand (market demand) creates incentive to develop new housing. 
Remove barriers to and costs of development. Any price controls stifle 
development and reduces housing.
717
I think we need to be careful of the fine line between meeting basic needs and 
encouraging more homeless to come to Phoenix because we take care of 
everything - we do not want to become the next San Francisco for instance.
718
We need better tenant protections. Too many houses in the valley are furnished 
seasonal rentals which hurts the overall rental market. 
719
Remove H.5.2, H.5.3, and H.5.4
 H.5.2, H.5.3, and 
H.5.4
720
Allow property owners to be able to adequately protect their property to be able to 
enjoy it without having to worry about people breaking in or stealing from the 
yards.
721
Interesting how the verbs are different in each category...
722
Adding the ability to add more beds to the Andre House 
723
Adding the ability to add more beds to the Andre House as they are petitioning to 
do would be a good start
724
The charts don't come up and I don't see any separate Phoenix strategies in the 
full report. Please see comments in #6 above.
725
Given the extent of the data presented, 7k+ homeless and %51 unsheltered, it is 
impossible to know what a good strategy looks like. We should do the work to 
understand the population further. What percent needs mental health services? 
What percentage are on the street due to recent eviction? What percent are 
using hard drugs? What percent would take a bed if one was available? 
726
I don’t want more seriously mentally ill homes, half way homes or elderly care 
homes in my zip code 85021. We have flippers buying homes to create cash 
cows. These are inappropriate uses for residential zoning! These are commercial 
uses not residential.
727
Don't you dare change the zoning to allow more trash people in our city!!!!
728
Add incentives for landlords to provide affordable housing with mixed income 
housing. 
729
Offer Phoenix residents vouchers to run homeless emergency shelters for under 
6 residents without permits
730
Add mental health screening and services for all housing.   
Simply calling for diversifying housing stock in zoning is tricky and you will need 
to make low income subsidized housing and those living there better neighbors 
by providing residents with more services and keeping them crime-free.
731
Seriously mentally ill people should be institutionalized. A 'transitional shelter is 
but a very thin band-aid on the problem. 
732
allow HSC campus to increase the CASS beds
Housing Chapter Comments
74

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
733
who pays for these developments  -  what about surrounding neighborhoods - 
impact on them 
734
I'm not sure about H.5.3
H5.3
735
High emphasis on amend zoning ordinances to allow for more housing options.  
Enhance public private partnerships. Increase number of emergency beds.
736
Boring...same ole same ole
737
We don't need to build more houses, we need to use what's already built
738
Please add new loan programs for people who want to start up a new business to 
house homeless
739
Net zero or passive solar construction 
740
Affordable housing must be mandatory as a piece of any new development. 
"Affordable" also must be clearly defined
741
Building  expenses for Affordable Housing Projects should not add cost to the 
project -only current and relative requirements should be associated with these 
builds.  Reexamining some of the building requirements to be realistic is 
necessary-building projects that represent the needs of the community they will 
serve. Example-requiring a specific number of parking spaces when the clientele 
is made up of people who will no own a vehicle , making sure there is access to 
mass transit needs to be a part of the building plans as well.
742
Why should we fund housing for those able to work? People should be 
responsible for their own well being. The mentally ill population needs help. Help 
vets. I do not think we need housing for Susie and Johnny to move out of mom's 
house. Definitely look for partnerships with companies and organizations that 
want to help. 'building cost savings' should already be in place.
743
Create avenues and education for business owners and entrepreneurs who want 
to serve the homeless population 
744
Keep utilize vacant motels - to provide basic services, ability to receive mail & 
phone (disability checks, employment call backs, stimulus refunds), able to keep 
pets.
Not sure existing residents want H.5.1 - H.5.3 in their neighborhoods.
H.5.1 - H.5.3
745
Espeially important to amend zoning
746
These programs already exist
747
H.2.1., H.2.2., H.2.3., H.2.4., H.5.4., H.5.8., H.5.9 should be included
H.5.2 should NOT BE INCLUDED. 
H.2.1., H.2.2., 
H.2.3., H.2.4., 
H.5.4., H.5.8., 
H.5.9 should be 
included
H.5.2 should NOT 
BE INCLUDED. 
748
more housing options, more density, and more beds for homeless in need are 
needed.
749
More electronic acceptance vs papers being mailed/delivered  H.5.4 and H.5.5 
would be also helpful 
H5.4
H5.5
750
I’m very excited to see the education component, who doesn’t want to make 
money and give back at the same time! I like the reuse of any vacant buildings 
but only if it makes sense; we need to consider on micro shelters. 
751
remove H5.3
H5.3
Housing Chapter Comments
75

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
752
H.5.2 down should be removed.  Trying to insert low income housing anywhere is 
always a battle.  We would be better off building transitional, low-income housing 
communities with services to help residents become tenant or owners in any 
community they can afford.
H5.2
753
Remove H.5.4 through H.5.9.  The topic is changed from what is more towards 
helping homeless to housing.  I believe these should be separated as the 
transition is done in steps to get a person from homelessness to a home.
Remove H.5.4 
through H.5.9.
754
Like the vacant hotel/apartment with providers
755
H24 should be the main focus
H2.4
756
Not a function of the city should be handled by the state and county 
757
As long as the housing is spread out into different areas or areas where they will 
not ruin neighborhoods.  One neighborhood should NOT get all the affordable 
housing, section 8 etc.  Our neighborhood has way more of this than most 
neighborhoods.  When i see this at the biltmore or Paradise valley, then i will feel 
you are being fair.  You cannot keep punishing taxpayers who invest in their 
homes.  eliminate 5.2,5.3, and 5.8
H5.2
H5.3
H5.8
758
Housing needs to be near bus lines and job hubs. The light rail is just a to and fro 
line. 
759
The Education Campaign should be further defined. What are the topics and 
audience for the education outreach? 
760
I understand that the City's ability to require affordable/workforce housing is 
limited by state law. Can that be addressed? 
761
Support services for children who are aging out of foster care.
762
Combine with the section for "housing." they fit together too closely to separate. 
763
H5.5 is very important because I’m developing a building design for homeless 
applications that operates 100% off the grid
H5.5
764
SMI population can live in PSH with appropriate support services in place; most 
SMI adults I interview do not want to be in shelters and transitional situations as 
they do not find the conducive to recovery with either their MH symptoms or 
substance use issues (often both).  Transitional situations may be most 
appropriate for individuals discharged from inpatient psychiatric or medical care 
with the understanding the goal is a return to independent living.
765
When we are 177,000 units of housing short, do all of the above initiatives add up 
to solving the problem? 
 
The above plan appears to an incremental approach, when we need a bold 
approach.
766
Increasing the number of housing units and affordability is key to addressing the 
long term issue of homelessness.  It is also important to provide supportive 
services of all kinds, including legal services.  The city should use all of its tools 
to create long term affordability including deed restrictions.   Public resources 
need to be protected and leveraged.
767
H2.2 Use vacant motels, apartments, buildings only if they are outside existing 
low income areas with few jobs, poor public schools and high crime.  This helps 
no one.  Bad situations just get worse.  H5.2  H5.8 This is fine as long as these 
good developers don't make oodles of profit building instant slums.  What does 
education mean? 
H2.2
H5.2
H5.8
Housing Chapter Comments
76

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
768
H.2.4 Terros Health had a shelter at the Human Services Campus housing 
individuals with an SMI diagnosis, is this plan wanting to bring that back when it 
was the City and Terros that decided to close it years ago??  
 
Overall, there's hardly any action in this section... "Support affordable housing..." 
is not the same as, "Create affordable housing solutions." Your phrasing is 
performative. 
H2.4
769
Expand on what is meant by "cost savings."
770
Vacant hotels is a huge opportunity but to include beds available to those who 
need non-emergent medical needs. For example, hemodialysis - all the individual 
needs is a ride to the appointment but dialysis is often the reason the person is 
denied for shelter placement. 
771
Include Community meetings and locations of meetings well in advance before 
you all come up with these ideas.  I don't recall being informed just got this 
information.  Who is writing this all up.  I have been requesting the State 
Government (ADOT and Governor) for years to have a community meeting for 
ideas and suggestion improvements, but never got a response.  We want to be 
included in all these ideas.
772
In addition to increasing affordable housing developer representation, all 
developers should include a number of units at workforce prices. Not just 
"affordable" section 8 housing. The rental options are disappearing for those of 
us in the middle. 
773
But emphasis on ensuring that neighboring cities are also contributing to this 
particular strategy.
774
Yes, this is excellent PROVIDED region wide does not mean we are going to 
simply scatter and shoo away the people outside the HSC because there is are 
far away "regional" shelter beds. That is wrong. If people are here, they should be 
sheltered. It's a both / and, not an either or. We should double the shelter beds at 
the HSC AND open more shelters across the valley. If we do that, then working 
on housing simultaneously makes sense. If we continue to let people suffer and 
die while we work on the housing plan described above, we are being morally and 
humanely negligent. 
775
If we do increase shelter beds it needs to be in concert with an increase in 
housing options.  Shelter is supposed to be temporary.  There is no use bringing 
more people into shelter if there is nowhere to transition them to.  Also, the 
shelters have to be scattered across the city, not all centered in downtown.
776
Less privatize partnerships
777
Utilizing vacant spaces to house homeless, that will improve their health and 
safety. Protect renters rights, we need rent control in the City of Phoenix. 
778
The description of what constitutes a "shelter" needs to be significantly edited 
and standardized. If there is going to be an initiative to open more shelters, which 
there absolutely should be, these shelters must meet a certain standard in order 
to address the needs of the homeless population and to begin decreasing the 
number of homeless individuals in Phoenix. Providing beds is a start, but its 
simply not enough. Data has shown that there is a marginal increase in the 
number of violent-crime charges among sheltered homeless individuals 
compared to street homeless individuals, and it has been contributed to 
insufficient training in de-escalation for staff at these shelters, as well as the 
overall rise in stress levels when an individual enters a shelter. Anecdotally, many 
homeless individuals are hesitant to stay in shelters because they perceive it to 
be less safe than being on the street. 
Housing Chapter Comments
77

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
779
Remove H.5.4
H5.4
780
Look to immediately relocate those who are living in the tents at the temporary 
“housing” in the downtown area
781
Again, how do these Long-Term Strategies tie to the City Housing Plan? None of 
these things will lead to success on its own. How will the City ensure there are 
additional shelter beds in other parts of the Valley? Again, these are nice 
statements. Hard to believe they will be achieved.
782
Each of these plans should be accompanied by a project timeliness with 
milestones to track progress!!
783
Get the federal govt. out of it and keep it at the local level.  Governors office and 
mayor, nonprofits only.
784
I'm not seeing community member engagement or feedback loops - this should 
be done at both the general level and project specific.
785
NO where is shelter mentioned in the 9key areas. We need to examine new 
models of shelter and not rely on ten year old philosophies
786
In this slide, does "housing" inlude shelter?
787
What about RRH?
788
Specifically, will the City of Phoenix support source of income protections? 
Meaning, restrictions on landlords' ability to opt out of voucher programs?
789
Thank you. We should also be sure to coordinate landlord recruitment and 
incentivization efforts between various voucher programs (all the HCV programs, 
HOM, etc.)
790
the tiny home idea would be great for an investor willing to build as part of section 
8 housing
791
Thank you for hosting this forum. How aggressive is the City of Phoenix in 
leasing or buying properties from commercial real estate firms? Due to the 
current COVID-19 outbreak, there are many vacant facilities that could possibly 
be converted into livable spaces. Are there an adequate number of firms who are 
willing to offer their properties to help mitigate homelessness? Is there a plan in 
place to enter into more leasing or purchasing agreements?
792
how about mobile homes
793
Do you engage with all Phoenix apartment leasing offices? The leasing offices 
could provide early warning if residents are having difficulty paying their rent to 
avoid possible homelessness. This would be a good intervention time.
794
Is there long term housing included in this plan, where there is a stablization 
factor for them?
795
I know that receiving help is voluntary. However, I spend one week in a facility for 
depression. I refused to take 50 miligrams fo their medicine because 10 
miligarms was working for me. I was told that if I ever came back I would be 
forced to take the medication they recommended. Then why can you not force 
the homeless to accept housing assistance?
796
I know that receiving help is voluntary. However, I spend one week in a facility for 
depression. I refused to take 50 miligrams fo their medicine because 10 
miligarms was working for me. I was told that if I ever came back I would be 
forced to take the medication they recommended. Then why can you not force 
the homeless to accept housing assistance?
797
I know that receiving help is voluntary. However, I spend one week in a facility for 
depression. I refused to take 50 miligrams fo their medicine because 10 
miligarms was working for me. I was told that if I ever came back I would be 
forced to take the medication they recommended. Then why can you not force 
the homeless to accept housing assistance?
Housing Chapter Comments
78

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Housing Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
798
What county or city land is available for a short term housing development? If 
there is land available, what is the process to put together a plan asking for it?
799
If we had a housing first approach... we would have a much higher engagement 
rate. That is a fact many other municaplities across the planet have proven. So 
hopefully housing first is the plan.
800
How can we work with the weekly suite extended stays to lower their prices so 
people arent working these minimal wage jobs just to provide housing?
801
What county or city land is available for a short term housing development? If 
there is land available, what is the process to put together a plan asking for it?
802
What does "to be housed" mean? Is this temporary housing with a time limit? Am 
wondering about a more permanent solution and where Phoenix stands on that.
803
In the plan, why is there no mention of shelters and shelter locations? It seems 
you are dependent on the current concentration of shelter downtown.
804
Rapid rehousing is one aspect of Housing First, I was referring to low barrier/high 
tolerance permanent supportive housing
805
How many housing first units does Phoenix fund?
806
Can people continue to use drugs in housing first?
807
We need non-section 8 options, please.
808
Here is an example of non section-8 funded housing 
https://shalomcommunitycenter.org/programs-and-services/housing-first-crawford-
homes and https://www.csh.org/2013/09/crawford-apartments-open-in-
bloomington-indiana/
809
Encanti Pointe IS a housing first model!
810
Encanto Pointe - run by Native American Connections.
811
How can we make the funds bigger to help more of the population, and when will 
people really be housed?
812
how does City coordinate emergency housing opportunities among various 
nonprofit providers?
813
Hi all- thanks for the update and this great plan. Section. 5.2 is a Summary of 
Long Term Objectives. It would be good to have a summary of the short term 
objectives
5.2
814
Does the plan address day respite strategies during non-shelter hours?
815
Strategy 5 addresses emergency day respite for those experiencing 
homelessness. Is there a longer term strategy for an approach that might 
address the need for day respite as a long term strategy, i.e. a Day Resource 
Center?
816
Affordable definition, would be nice. According to the plan affordable housing 
means that the individual is only spending 30% or less of their total monthly 
income.
817
Definition of Affordable Housing - what would be the average cost for say a 2 
bedroom apartment/house.
Housing Chapter Comments
79

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
1
It has been my observation that the number of people 65 and older is increasing 
and safe affordable housing may be more important than a job at this stage.
2
Provide positions for employment in community service. Provide positions for 
upkeep of all housing projects so residents may take responsibility and pride in 
the maintenance and upkeep of where they are living.
3
Support legislation to remove the checkbox asking if people have a convictions or 
some type of variance that allows for people with criminal records to gain 
employment without being discriminated against. I understand this is a sensitive 
issue and I may not be using the right words to address concerns from the 
employer's perspective. My intent is to identify a path forward for those with 
criminal records to have a chance too. 
4
This is a critical support service.
5
There is no chance the government will fix the homeless situation.  The 
government and the homeless have been around for a long long time and yet 
they both just keep on growing.
6
I not only think this is an important component of the plan, but also the city needs 
to work with partners to find the necessary funds to: 1. Ensure each non-high 
school graduate person earns a GED; and, 2. Empower each participant age 18 
or older to complete a maximum of two years of education or job certification 
training in order to achieve long-term sustainability.  I admit I do not know enough 
about what the WIOA program pays for, but my point is that at a minimum, as a 
society, we should all want and would benefit from ensuring everyone has at least 
a high school diploma or equivalent, and some sort of professional certification 
education program or associate degree program, such as HVAC, automotive 
technician, or RN .  My understanding of of WIOA funding is that it pays a 
maximum of $4,000 for a professional certificate.  While there are some 
professional certifications that fall into that category, $4,000 will not pay enough 
for someone to go to Phoenix College to become an RN, nor will it cover the 
estimated $10,000 for someone to complete an associate degree program in 
auto mechanics.
What has been put forth here is a good start, but it has to serve as the foundation 
for the type of educational supports and interventions that are necessary to 
achieve long-term sustainability.     
7
Again, are there already workforce development opportunities that exist, such as 
certification programs, online education, community college, mentorship 
programs that can be utilized for this? Direct individuals there. Find out from 
business owners what skills are needed instead of item W1.4. Government 
should be supportive but not be in the business of providing workforce training.
8
Work with Landlords, suspend taxes on these homes, to allow people who have a 
job and just waiting to go back to stay there.  Encourage banks to suspend 
interest on loans for these properties.
9
Using W1.1., pick a block watch captain from Maryvale and put him in charge. 
Tell the Phoenix Chamber of Commerce to actually contribute by picking a past 
president and assigning him to the job of W1.4. as his civic duty. 
W1.1
W1.4
10
just sort out a plan to provide housing. Do a pilot program. It will succeed. People 
will be off the streets, and that includes addicts, alcoholics and the mentally ill.
11
"We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEY'RE 
 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS" 
 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
80

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
12
I would hope the vast majority of the funding would go to services as opposed to 
a fat paycheck for the liaison. 
13
Long term strategies will be necessary elements, however immediate needs to 
our downtown homeless population is vital now. This section may be more 
closely reviewed and determined at a later date, in my opinion.
14
details of concrete steps to take towards these goals, and a timeline for goals.
15
Library should reverse all late fees for homeless and let them check out books 
again, . . .  without fees.  Kansas City did this successfully! 
Free Bus for all homeless.  Kansas City did this successfully!  I believe they 
made it free bus for everyone, which makes sense because only the poor ride it.
16
More details need to be provided.
17
Develop training opportunities with local community partners, Human Services 
Campus used to have an informal partnership with Home Depot to teach entry 
level skills to clients. Create community buy-in by tapping into the resources such 
as locally owned business but DO NOT allow wage discrimination. Ensure that 
clients are treated appropriately and paid a fitting wage. Absolve the informal 
relationships with day-labor entities and discourage such practices as they are 
predatory. Employ folks through the city to assist with labor and other such tasks 
and pay them accordingly. Ideally, this would also earn credit for 
probationers/parolees. 
18
Obtaining ID, phone number, email, address and stable housing are critical to 
solving housing gaps
19
These objectives are incredibly vague and there is a lack of description of how 
and what you plan to implement in order to appropriately address homelessness 
in Phoenix. There needs to be more information provided and we demand full 
transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and an extension for 
the public comment meetings until they’re accessible to people experiencing 
homelessness. 
20
the intentions seem honorable
21
Remove W.1.1 (Do not create any new positions).  This service should be 
handled by current staff.
22
This sounds good in theory, but reality. Again, until a person's mental illness  
and/or addiction is addressed there is no way these people will even start to look, 
never mind be responsible enough to hold a job.  That is part of the reason why 
they are homeless. There are plenty of jobs out there available in Phoenix 
W.1.1
23
I believe that there could be an opportunity for an incentive to be offered to 
businesses that hire persons experiencing homelessness. A lowered tax burden, 
some type of grant, or something along those lines that is granted based on the 
number of persons employed by the company that experienced homelessness 
within the past year could be helpful. The grant could start of at a value and 
decrease over time or be a set value that is granted at one point in time per year. 
24
Again ACTION points that take the bull by it's horns and moves forward.
25
W1.1 will be a trap for bureaucratic abuse: no decisions, waste of funds.
W1.1
26
Don't impose new taxes on taxpayers to pay for all of this.
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
81

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
27
This section feels underdeveloped and in places, vague. A more structured 
pathway from job training through to employment would be more successful in 
changing the employment dynamic. 
Would the city of Phoenix commit to considering these individuals if they have 
completed a specific kind of training? 
Are apprentice programs being considered? 
As a suggestion, it would be great if the city could partner with a non profit to 
create a specific jobs portal that reflect opportunities for employment available 
with those employers that are interested in hiring folks who have completed 
training. 
28
We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEY'RE 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS.
29
"Job training" programs need a lot more regulation and oversight. These 
programs are often little more than taxpayer-funded kickbacks to corporations 
that can certainly afford to recruit and train the employees they need. These 
programs also often use taxpayer money to pay these companies to "train" 
people for unskilled and episodic (day labor) jobs that require little or no actual 
training. I am especially concerned about "job training" programs that are 
targeted to addicts and parolees. Many of these programs are nothing more than 
a scam to force people in these vulnerable people into unpaid labor. 
30
Self care/ health/ and routine should first be addressed before a return to work 
should be confronted. It would be a set-up for failure if we did anything but that. 
31
This section sounds very good and doable.
32
These services sure sound nice but there feels like, again, there is a lack of 
transparency. I'd really like to know what the community input on services like this 
have been and currently are. You say grant funding will be used but you don't say 
how much. How will this service be sustained? These seem like some pretty 
common sense things to include. You gave Phoenix PD a $25M raise and you're 
using an undisclosed amount of grant money for this program. Come on. You 
know where to get the money from, just do it. Defund Phoenix PD so you have a 
solid budget for these projects that will help to actually provide resources to the 
homeless community instead of continuing to criminalize them, causing them 
more harm. 
33
The city should have positions to be filled by the homeless. 
34
Yes, yes, yes! Helping people get back into the work force. This is probably the 
most helpful part of all. 
35
I am hoping someone is determining what resources are needed for different 
types of homelessness.  Where are the checks and balances? How will we know 
what is effective and what is not? How will these programs be able to adjust and 
change to be more effective as time goes on?
36
This section makes sense. Give people experiencing homeless the dignity of 
working their way out with supportive resources.
37
We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
an extension for the public comment meetings until they're accessible to people 
experiencing homelessness. 
38
Again, let's be real, these problems are consequences of our collective 
selfishness
39
People need help getting and keeping their IDs and help with using the computer 
to apply for jobs. 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
82

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
40
Provide training to employers
41
More information needed. 
42
"We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEYRE 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS"
43
Utiilize an agency like St. Joseph the Worker instead to creating another staff 
position at the City of Phoenix.
44
if the person is not willing to work, i don't feel that they should be given a choice, 
either work or no assistance.  
45
This is paramount-if they can't get and keep a job, the cycle continues on and on 
and on.
46
add: extensive training on how to deal with the homeless population for 
organizations who offer services.
47
Very important when handled correctly.  Consider becoming very creative with 
employment.  Consider an opportunity to explore jobs on a rotating basis.  Starter 
employment at  different employers rotating to learn where a candidate can excel 
and where they struggle.  Also encourage volunteerism.  Sometimes giving a few 
hours a week while you are struggling helps an individual realize they are not 
alone and builds self worth, confidence, and overcome the feeling of always 
being in need. 
48
An overview of SNAP & ET services
49
What are the metrics to measure success for this plan?  This survey is sadly a 
bad design, seeking confirmation bias instead of genuine public input. 
50
potential tax credit for employers who employ those in transition from 
homelessness to more stable housing
51
These sections again look like COP patting themselves on the back. All of this is 
necessary and I assume being done. WE HAVE A CRISIS. If you can do more, 
DO IT. But without metrics or a way to evaluate the efficiency of a system this is 
all lip service to a crisis situation. WHAT WE NEED IS MORE HOUSING AND 
MORE HEALTH PROFESSIONALS TO HELP PEOPLE. Stop planning and DO 
SOMETHING. 
52
Check with careerconnectors.org. Jessica Pierce helps with job training. 
53
W.W.I. - The construction of the sentence makes what this does unclear.   If you 
are adding staff/divisions, I think you should discuss the cost. 
 
Please redesign the survey to discuss each policy item.  This is designed to limit 
the transparency of the public and to provide generic feedback.  It is very hard to 
navigate back and forth between the 30 page documents.  The research does not 
address costs in any way.   It also should be written to allow for those with basic 
reading ability to understand the principles.
W.W.I.
54
No need to create more government bloat with yet another full-time position, 
utilize existing staff
55
Teach the man to fish  do t give him free fish. 
56
Create incentives for businesses to employ and support individuals with lived 
experience of homelessness.
57
Isn't a lot of this already in place?
58
The pride of working and getting "that" cannot be underestimated.  Those with an 
entitlement mentality are unreachable.  In other words if government or other do-
gooders have coddled them, then we have enabled, likely lifetime dependence.
59
Job path ways need to be accessible, livable wages for work provided and a clear 
path for upward movement.
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
83

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
60
Once people have a roof over their head and are stable they are fully capable to 
access existing workforce programs. Focus on stable housing in this housing 
plan!
61
This is a difficult time for employment and special effort is required to transition 
through it.
62
Deal with training and mental issues that may be barriers to employment. Get 
employer support for training and treatment programs. 
63
A special division focused on education and job training for homeless could be 
valuable. But we have existing programs, both government and nonprofit, dealing 
with these issues. These should be united and adapted in this effort.
64
W.1.1?
W.1.1
65
Extremely important to help people start to get ahead in their lives. When they 
are at the bottom it is very difficult to even start on their own.
66
This absolutely should be implemented. The implemented system MUST be 
prepared for VARIED results, INCLUDING those that the designers do not 
want/expect. There are a LARGE number of homeless who do not want help 
(mentally ill, addicts). And there MUST be requirements of people to be "helped."
67
Increase all 
68
Outreach to businesses to educate and promote employment benefits and 
opportunities for those experiencing homelessness 
69
You need to focus on HOUSING FIRST
70
This is not the COP's responsibility
71
A part of our homeless community are convicted felons. Some lower level felons 
that make mistakes as we all do should not have it so hard they can not get a job 
to support themselves or families.
72
Have some housing set aside for people in workforce development programs.
73
Seems good
74
The homelessness plan should address housing first. 
75
This should be removed because if we are not giving someone to rest at night, 
then it will be so much harder for a person to train/get/keep a job.
76
You got this one right.
77
nothing 
78
Employment  opportunities are key to keeping people from being homeless.
79
Once again incredibly vague. Using buzz words without going into strategy. Try 
laying out all of these plans in detail in an easily accessible format for the public.
80
Specific language about programs to incentivize the hiring of felons to keep 
previously incarcerated people off the streets. 
81
w1.4 This is what will keep people from returning to homelessness and give them 
value. Get them trained. And then teach them about go money management.
W1.4
82
It's not perfect, but I like this. To add, the City of Phoenix could fund a work 
program to pay for food housing for homeless people who will do manual labor 
such as pick up trash and clean and revitalize the City. This would be the 
absolute minimum required to receive food and housing from the City. 
83
This is crucial for the homeless to qualify for jobs.
84
Homeless people should be kept busy.  If they can survive in the streets and be 
resourceful, it shows that they are smart to work or volunteer.  The worst is to not 
have them do anything because that is an excuse to commit crimes.  Internships, 
volunteer work, apprenticeships, etc will make them fee useful and valuable.  
85
Once we’ve identified what category a case falls in the people working to position 
a client should be fully educated about what state or city service can help. 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
84

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
86
Don't you think this is addressing symptoms of homelessness rather than the 
causes of homelessness? I would think it would be more important to address 
causes of homelessness to get any real lasting change. Causes such as 
systematic racism, compassionless capitalism, criminal justice oppression, etc. 
Ask any social scientist.  There are so many more impactful ways to address the 
issue than job training. In my opinion, its inclusion is short sighted and perhaps 
even a little tone-deaf, especially considering the large number of people who are 
homeless AND EMPLOYED. Starvation wages isn't an oxymoron, it's the reality 
when you have one of the lowest minimum wage rates in the nation. Redirect 
funds to address these issues and stop this disgraceful exploitation of an 
increasingly desperate workforce. 
87
These services should be provided by non-profits.
88
Please look into the "There's A Better Way" Program that was piloted in 
Albuquerque, NM and is being implemented in cities across the nation. Link here: 
https://www.hopeworksnm.org/programs-and-services/theres-a-better-way/ 
89
This helps to get people out of homelessness, get them back on track to normal 
lives.
90
Housing first but if you are not willing to participate after 60-90 days, give housing 
to someone else who really wants to better themselves and if and when that 
person is really ready, they can come back 
91
its ok as is.
92
Aren't there enough groups and nonprofits that do this? I fear the city is repeating 
and wasting resources.
93
Maybe tie the job training to earning long term housing credits
94
Previously stated
95
One other major barrier to homeless job seeking is that many have felonies for 
drug charges on their records, and this prevents them from being chosen or 
allowed rentals. We need to removed such felony charges from housing 
applications, only leave the ones for violence or child abuse.
96
The only aspect of this plan that is helpful at all is to have individuals to help 
homeless find jobs, to give them training on how to seek a job. 
97
Add provide assistance free of charge to obtain state recognized ID's
98
This section helps people help themselves.
99
A mental institution like we had at 24 Th street and Van Buren
100
do not do things that further make this a lifestyle.
101
They do not want to work.... sad reality... sorry....
102
No way you get off the streets without a job.
103
Not sure about W1.1 and W1.2
W1.1 and W1.2
104
Helping individuals transition from homelessness to shelter and employment is 
important. I don't see that as a direct theme in this section but the idea should be 
a major component of the plan
105
We need to help people help themselves this is very important. 
106
Homeless ID issues are huge and should be included.
107
Reduce interactions between people experiencing homelessness and the police. 
108
It’s largely unintelligible 
109
NO MORE GOVERNMENT!!!!! NO MORE GOVERNMENT!!!  Rather work 
within the faith based community and other non-profits to see if there can be a 
coming together to help and solve for this situation.
110
W1.1 is government speak.  Just say what it really is that this new position will be 
responsible for.
W.1.1
111
Collaboration with non-profits (eg, St Joseph the Worker) 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
85

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
112
DES does this well; let's not recreate the wheel. 
113
Ensure accountability throughout these programs.  Applaud those participants 
that succeed (individuals & employers). 
114
Access to help address prior felonies should be added. We also need to help 
address a way for prior felons to pay off  past fines and debt with community 
service or some sort of work programs. One of our goals is to  help the homeless 
population, but we need to address all the issues. How can one be self sufficient 
if they have housing but can not Get a job because of their pay record. Access to 
paying fines and homeless court needed to be or accessible. We need program 
to help this community be able to expunge their records so that they have the 
opportunity to find jobs and be successful. How can we expect this population to 
thrive and be successful when they have court fines they are unable to pay them. 
We need more programs That will help address these issues.
115
Detailed education program information. 
116
This would be helpful, but a lot of the time homeless are not able to start working 
until they have housing, transportation, etc. They are not able to address 
unemployment until stably housed. 
117
i would like to see a funding in organizations working directly in the community 
rather than it becoming part of the government and becoming corrupt
118
Until people are stably housed, mentally stable, etc. how is a job in the private 
sector even remotely possible? Consider the city/non-profit employing homeless 
folks to pick up trash/tend a garden/area—everyone wants to feel useful and 
valued, and it could be a way they help keep the city clean, grow food for 
themselves or others, and earn money. 
119
Most of the homeless are either mentally ill or drug addicted. Those issues 
should be a priority and addressed before any kind of employment would be 
appropriate.
120
Two things stand out: when I was in CASS, I should have been able to take any 
part-time or contract temp work. (I'm an RN who ended up homeless after a 
years-long bout of multiple medical problems during which I had to use up all my 
retirement savings. I couldn't work because of the illnesses. I also couldn't qualify 
for disability coverage.) At one point I was offered a job lasting forty-five 12-hr 
shifts in a row paying $37/hr.  I could have bought my way out of the shelter, but 
neither CASS nor St. Joseph The Worker would pay for the Express Bus pass 
that would have picked me up two blocks from the shelter and let me off right in 
front of the nursing facility offering me the temp job. In addition, even though I 
had my own laptop, St. Joseph The Worker wanted me to use their questionably 
secure desktop computer, make cold phone calls, etc. These job search methods 
are 20 years behind the times. They also wanted me to take any minimum-wage 
job I could find. I quit working with them because they were absurd. I think their 
"help" finding jobs for CASS residents should be audited and completely 
overhauled. Kick them off the campus if they can't get it together for a present-
day job search.
121
Removal of boxes on applications asking if applicant has a felony
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
86

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
122
Identifying people's experiences and skill set and what types of jobs might be 
suitable is helpful to individuals who are homeless.  People coming out of prison, 
folks without much work experience, etc. need opportunities to learn some of the 
basic behavior necessary to keeping a job, e.g. punctuality, ability to take 
directions, willingness to ask for information if they don't understand something, 
etc.  Such things can be taught in a life skills for success class which includes AV 
materials, role-playing demonstrations, etc. Keeping a job can go a long way to 
building one's self-esteem and self-image.
123
Jobs are important for self-esteem and to create housing stability
124
What good is employment without housing. This puts the cart before the horse. A 
person needs an address to apply for a job, and not an address at a shelter. 
Housing First!
125
The city should contract with Voc Rehab
126
Working will not end someone’s homelessness. They need affordable housing. 
127
W.1.1 No more creation of positions. Find or promote from within. 
W.1.2 - If they haven't figured it out by now, replace them with someone who can 
get the job done. 
W.1.3 - Absolutely yes. 
W.1.4 - Identification is not enough. Seek a coalition of employers and let them 
figure it out. Trust me, they will do better than any government agency or 
department.
W.1.1
W.1.2
W.1.3
W.1.4
128
Create tax and other incentives for employers willing to hire homeless individuals. 
Loosen state regulations to reduce barriers to employmemt for individuals with 
non-violent felonies, substance use disorders and or other barriers such as 
transportation and housing.
129
Expanding access to housing and transportation, as access to employment 
education is useless if you don't have the safety and security of housing in order 
to make it to workplace regularly
130
W.1.1 & W.1.2 could be removed from this section.
131
Ensuring that positions that aim to employ transient folks pay a liveable wage, 
provide robust benefits, and offer workplace protections. Positions that are 
created with the intention of hiring vulnerable workers have a tendency to be 
exploitative of workers, which must be taken into consideration. 
132
I like it
133
There needs to be coordination with MAG across all city boundaries. Maricopa 
County should lead in this effort to create better cooperation and sharing of 
resources.
134
Giving homeless people skills and support to gain employment is very important.  
135
Partner with job sites to help ppl with job placement. The current nonprofits dont 
do enough to help those looking for work. They're all just there for show.
136
As previously stated, job opportunities for sustainable efforts, extensive recycling 
programs, food delivery for families in need from non profits, using unused land 
to create community food gardens, etc. 
137
Plan needs to address how you intend to Progressively run down spending on the 
homeless. 
138
Consider increasing the role of public/private partnerships with non-profits in 
identifying and utilizing companies/organizations that specifically hire and train 
folks from the unsheltered population (like those that serve released prisoners). 
139
Provide child care so single parents can receive job training.  Perhaps they could 
live in a group home a group home situation with support services.  
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
87

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
140
Address the unique barriers to unemployment that may differ between certain 
populations of those experiencing homelessness; i.e. differences in challenges 
between homeless Veterans versus homeless young adults or homeless 
immigrants.
141
Training, education, attempts to break the cycle....all important.
142
provide opportunities to the public for folks to work and for community to hire day 
work. they did this in McKinney TX with success
143
This needs more detail so it could be better answered
144
W.1.1 - please re-read before publishing.  what does W.1.1 even mean? 
W.1.2 - do not use undefined acronyms.  What is WIOA?
145
Working and earning a living is the only way to become self-sufficient.  Liaisons 
between the employers and potential employees is crucial. 
146
Training and providing employment to homeless is so important! 
147
Emphasize that the case workers with this Department/Division play the 
extremely critical role in determining the success of helping people overcome 
homelessness.  My experience is that municipal workers become lax in their 
roles due to the 'stability' of City employment.
148
Housing and resources should be available to people whether or not they are in 
the process of looking for employment.
149
There should be a division (not the police) that handles any calls to emergency 
lines regarding unsheltered people. 
150
TRAINING SHOULD BE EXTREMELY IMPORTANT NEEDS MORE 
ATTENTION THIS IS A HUGE PROBLEM IN PHOENIX THAT I HEAR FROM 
SEVERAL PEOPLE, OUR DES IS INTIMIDATING, RUDE, INSENSITIVE 
TOWARD OUR HOMELESS THEY NEED SENSETIVITY TRAINING
151
Unemployment was at 3%.  This is not about jobs.  It's about beds and mental 
health.  
152
leave as is
153
I wonder if this is duplicative of other agencies' work.
154
Work with companies, and colleges to obtain skill based classes or programs for 
folks experiencing homelessness. 
155
Apprenticeship programs with local employers 
156
Homelessness isn't about jobs.
157
Do you really need to create a new position to act as a liaison with employers? 
Isn’t it the function of Workforce Development to develop relationships with 
employers? The Homeless Division should train the Workforce Development 
staff on the special needs of homeless job seekers.
158
St.Marys Food Bank Community Kitchen is a fantastic example of this highly 
successful, can't stress how important this is in eliminating relapse into 
helplessness.
159
Must be coupled with required financial literacy instruction for homeless.
160
I think we need to keep all options open and vigilant to any changes or additions 
as needed.
161
As someone who works with the homeless weekly, the job force seems to be the 
least of their worries. First getting detox/rehab. Housing, counseling, case 
management for day to day support. paying jobs have not been hard to come by. 
They are fairly easy to find and begin employment. 
162
Add: identify and partner with other agencies that focus on successful job 
placement, e.g. YWCA Works
163
Develop incentives and protections for employers to reduce barriers to hiring the 
homeless.
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
88

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
164
Are you really expecting the homeless to be able to get jobs before having stable 
housing? Who the hell is writing these working for taxpayer money? 
165
In my experience, the state-run employment finding services are best described 
as "sad", and the entire edifice of same needs to be thoroughly overhauled.
166
Not initially. 
167
I think this could be very helpful, however I think those entering such a program 
should be held to strict criteria, again ensuring those with alcohol or drug issues 
have addressed such issues first.  Also, grants need to be utilized wisely, this is 
our tax money that is being spent. 
168
Nothing. looks good.
169
W1.4 is not clear. Client training?
W1.4
170
Social service providers should’ve working with police departments in 
collaboration to address chronic homelessness. Police and jails should not be 
temporary housing nor the equivalent of services to this population 
171
employers need to be able to assess the trustworthiness of someone who applies 
for a job.   While it's possible to change, today's climate of mob rule makes if far 
more difficult
172
Stop throwing money at a problem.  Money is not the answer. Cut off benefits if 
consumers not following the rules. They need to have some skin in the game. 
We have a mess here. Try tough love.
173
Provide Free Mandatory Drug Screening test for homeless. If positive for Elicit 
drugs automatically disqualify for help but offer rehabilitation for 3 months, then 
repeat process on drug screening for Housing/Shelter help.
174
Provide support to people in applying for and obtaining disability income if 
appropriate.
175
Frankly, there should be more than one person working as a liasion
176
The problem is they may want to help with the time but what about later. I’ve 
never forgotten about several years back when a gentleman in New York I 
believe it was had an outstanding invoice. They got him an apartment hooked 
him up with someone who could help him with a career in singing. After a few 
months he walked. It was too much work. It was easier for him to go stand on a 
street corner and play his guitar and sing for money. Let’s face it folks many of 
these people are panhandlers and then make 20 to 30,000 a year. Why in the 
world would they want to take and go to work settle down to an apartment when 
they can go panhandle on the street and make more. Am I joking no not hardly. If 
government could find a way to tax them it would help government. I actually 
while in Little Rock Arkansas watch a man with a sign that had been soliciting 
panhandling come down off the bridge from the overpass stuff is sign behind the 
Coke machine that was in the area a couple blocks away, cross the street get 
into the Cadillac and drive away. He also had a job. How much are these people 
being checked into? I think government is just wanting a way to waste more 
money. Worry about the veterans and more importantly the elderly who cannot 
even find a reasonably priced safe place to live in this day and age. You guys will 
not change the laws or put a cap on raising rent and peoples Social Security does 
not go up that fast. We may get a “raise“ every year but that race goes to part B 
of Social Security and we never see it. However, almost every year our rent goes 
up. Well I happen to live we still get the antiquated boiler for for running heat 
through for 40 buildings & a chiller to run the AC through 40 buildings. If you want 
to spend money help the elderly as this is going on all over the city.
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
89

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
177
You need input from homeless people, specifically a few that have confidence in 
agencies that can have a positive effect beyond spending funds without 
improving the situation.
178
Workforce not so important.  You have to get the individuals sober, clean, and 
mentally fit first before they can get housed and employed.
179
looks good
180
There should be emphasis on seeking training for jobs that provide living wages 
and allow the (formerly?) homeless persons to rise to their own potential. In other 
words, better than dead-end, no-skill jobs for persons capable of more.
181
Just do it. Less talk
182
Add more public transportation destinations and fully fund fare-free public 
transportation. Raise the state minimum wage above the cost of living.  Explore 
legislation requiring employers to reduce barriers to employment, such as 
encouraging sick workers to stay home on paid leave, providing full health and 
retirement benefits to part time workers, and increasing remote and part-time 
work opportunities, especially for workers with families. Explore legislation to 
increase paid family leave.  Explore legislation to require employers to provide 
consistent schedules so that workers’ child care and medical needs can be met.
183
all homeless must go back to work
184
Item 4 might be implemented faster with tax incentives to employers
185
add fair and predictable scheduling legislation
186
People need something to do. Give the homeless something to do. Everyone 
needs a purpose.
187
What do these words mean:  To lower barriers for those with lived experience of 
homelessness?  What are the barriers that are currently present for employers?  
If you are speaking of a mailing address, okay, but if you are referring to the 
barrier that employers want employees to be responsible, on time, friendly, 
diligent, etc., then -- no, those barriers need to stay in place for the safety of the 
community and employers.  So much of this section is nebulous. 
188
Please see notes at question 23.
189
W.1.3 should be removed
W.1.3
190
remove all liberal giveaways and put work incentives in.
191
Again...jobs won't matter if we don't address mental health.
192
We should take the example of Germany who does not allow a student to leave 
high school until they have a secure employment position. Students should be 
tracked as to their employment success by school. Just as trade schools track 
their successful graduates from there respective programs and provide their 
graduates with continued support in job placement. It should be kept in mind that 
people do leave Arizona often to return tracking should continue. Many schools 
taught their "lifelong Learners" motto and we should track students way into 
adulthood.
193
Especially 1.3 and 1.4
194
Should be a secondary support, not part of the main plan
195
Only if the position(s) created are filled by those who are/were homeless.
196
Add ways to provide an address and phone number dedicated to homeless job 
seekers. Add more than one liaison position
197
The position identified in the first item shouldn't be grant funded unless the grant 
is long term.
198
How are you going to get employers to participate in this program?  Are there any 
incentives?
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
90

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
199
This section is a vital component to helping residents transition from homeless to 
independent living.
200
Include focus on changes in workforce within the Valley and offer training and 
development that helps in job sectors that need workers.
201
Provide mental health advocates throughout the region and set up camps for the 
homeless to sleep sorta like how Joe Arpaio's set up his camps to jail people. 
202
Nothing. Very important 
203
Allow funding for the purpose of research to learn "why" people are homeless. All 
these programs you want to implement are wonderful. But isn't just putting a 
band aid on a wound that isn't healing. You need to find out why people are 
homeless. Then you can go about solving the problem.
204
Remove government from all sections. Delete section W.1.1
W.1.1
205
Provide a homeless mail lock box system so everyone has an address and can 
register to vote 
206
I think there are already programs in place for job training so let's not duplicate 
207
A man who does not work should not eat. 
208
A lot don’t want to work.  There have been Programs for years to assist. 
209
I don’t believe adding another division will help the homeless but take more 
money from helping the homeless. I believe finding employers and job training for 
those capable is prudent and justified. 
210
Yes, and we also need to discuss those barriers to employment. Do you have a 
plan for childcare? Transportation? Interview clothing? A shower? etc. These are 
all reasons that unhoused folks may not be successful in this.
211
Reducing barriers to employment is the MOST critical piece of the whole plan.
212
get them safe and housed first. employment follows later.
213
We have so many unskilled labor jobs available in construction. Stop allowing 
people to collect social benefits when jobs are available.
214
1.3 & 1.4 yes.  1.2 maybe.  1.1, probably not.
215
Identify incentives to encourage employers to hire homeless workers.
216
Most people that are recently homeless because of cv or just happenstance want 
to work.  Retraining, maybe through Asus or the community college or tech 
schools should be investigated.
217
See my previous comments.
218
Remove W.1.1 and W.1.2.  These seem like a waste of money.
W.1.1 and W.1.2
219
leave as is as long as participants commit fully to the program
220
Keeping our residents employed in good. stable, well-paying jobs is the best 
prevention.  
221
Those that can provide their own assistance vs those that are unable to assist in 
lowering the cost of a meal.
222
Opportunities for daily work through the city.  The City of Albuquerque has 
successfully implemented a plan to offer daily work opportunities to homeless 
residents.  Perhaps looking at their model and successes can offer some insight 
into short term opportunities.
223
Support w1.3/14
224
Mandatory hiring of individuals should not be implemented. They should have to 
earn a position by being the best to fill the open slot instead of companies forced 
to hire someone based on legislation regardless of their qualifications. 
225
if unemployment levels were higher, yes.  But with current, non covvid, numbers I 
think the main issue is a large percentage of the unemployed is by choice
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
91

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
226
I saw a story about a mail carrier who was homeless and living in her car.  She 
was never late and was a very valued employee..unfortunately there was no 
affordable housing in the city she lived in.  Phoenix is a big city, why can't we give 
building incentives to assist in  affordable housing?
227
Require negative drug tests
228
Add destigmatizing training for potential employers. Also add ways to help those 
who don't have proper identification (state ID/birth certificate) to regain these 
documents so they are eligible for work
229
find a way to protect the workers that come from this program so they arent 
ostracised at work
230
Most homeless don't want to work. 
231
these sections should be un-bundled so you can provide feedback on each 
objective.
232
No short-term solutions in the report.  Need short-term solutions.  Long term 
strategies should be broken down into mid and long term.  Should be sure to 
include CPLC, Urban League and Arizona OIC.  Emphasis should be placed on 
step-up training from wherever the person is.  No current funding at any level for 
upgrading the working poor and poor, leaving them in a vulnerable state for 
struggling or going homeless.
233
These services exist; why reinvent the wheel? Collaborate with existing 
organizations and entities and make it happen. 
234
Most of the Homeless People are People from the Vietnam War or Solders from 
past wars? Need counseling and 
Human Compassion?  
235
more supportive systems for homeless seeking jobs such as access to showers 
and clean clothing to be able to job search
236
Workforce development is a separate issue from homelessness that parts of the 
state government already address, why not use existing work force development 
programs?
237
Some job training programs are superficial. All training should have a personal 
goal for individuals, not a blanket approach.
238
qualify for employment or not. too many people struggling who deserve the jobs 
on their merit. homeless should NOT GET Priority
239
Open the restrooms at all city parks.
240
Currently, the regime of homeless people working with security guards is not 
working. It’s frustrating to the homeless that they have to be “monitored” as they 
are coming and going in their own space. In addition, these security guards are 
preventing donations as much as they can and are being aggressive with 
community members about drop offs. 
241
Include a felon or criminal record worker plan. Many homeless people have 
criminal records which prevent them from getting jobs and staying off the street. 
They stuck in this cycle, go back to jail, homeless again, rinse and repeat. Maybe 
create incentives for employers to hire these people, maybe if they complete a 
work program to prove they are ready. 
242
If the process is well defined from initial homeless contact, funds could be 
diverted from this section and used for training.  Also, the city should be hiring 
these retrained workers along with other businesses in the community.
243
attention also needs to be given to preventing homelessness by implementing 
many of the listed items for those requesting emergency assistance with rent and 
utility payments
244
The City is contributing funding to this, correct?  It should.
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
92

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
245
These are great ideas!!!
246
If the housing is supplied to able-bodied individuals, then "free" housing should 
be based on work, when work opportunities are there.
247
NO more new grants where money it spent on studies and more studies.  Get 
more interns/college kids that need the voluteer time to help out but jobs for 
homeless/transients are important along with the responsibility before more 
freebies.
248
Exactly!!!!
249
Send them to California 
250
Add w1.4 
There are already several workforce programs available. Coordinate services!
W1.4
251
These are not the primary long term homeless population.
252
Some simply need a hand up and helping them obtain a decent job can be a life-
saver. Others need more supportive services more urgently. I do not feel this is 
as important as services and housing. 
253
Not all of the homeless are willing to work.
254
Add sections that provide opportunities for homeless to also work for the state 
and/or city
255
Sounds like wasteful spending with no real outcomes
256
Add: cross checking employers with physical locale that is beneficial to potential 
homeless laborers; no point if the employers are not within vicinity of affordable 
housing area. 
257
Create a centralized directory of homeless-friensly employers and keep up-to-
date details on job openings at those businesses.
258
Given the extent of the data presented, 7k+ homeless and %51 unsheltered, it is 
impossible to know what a good strategy looks like. We should do the work to 
understand the population further. What percent needs mental health services? 
What percentage are on the street due to recent eviction? What percent are 
using hard drugs? What percent would take a bed if one was available? 
259
It will inevitably fail since no one can hire opioid addicts
260
Add education to the public on how providing jobs for homeless leads to a 
change of homeless status.
261
Job fairs onsite CASS 
Provide clothing for interviews 
262
It’s important to get people working again 
263
I don't know anything about this.
264
risks to businesses  - who addresses those  - what if because of drug use or 
mental illness they cannot get jobs -  who is this section target to?   -  the younger 
homeless seem to just want to sit on street corners and beg or ride their bikes 
around.   Large population has no desire to work
265
There are City of Phoenix employees that are homeless and they are unaware of 
these interventions, nor are supervisors/hr are aware.  
266
Focus on getting homeless people jobs will be the fastest solution to end 
homelessness 
267
A section to address proper clothing arrangements, interviewing skills, etc. Start 
to finish through recovery. 
268
I would also like to see then box removed for felony convictions that keep many 
people from getting jobs that pay well. It should not just be a minimum wage job it 
needs to e a LIVING wage job
269
This is the path out of homelessness. Connecting with employers to support this 
effort is very important 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
93

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
270
We need to make the homeless population more away of opportunities available 
to them.  Actually go tent to tent and provide informations to people who do not 
have access to resources.  
271
Wording in first section is awkward, unclear. What does ‘lived experience’ mean?
272
Employment is the best antidote for poverty. Working with employers to facilitate 
entry or re-entry to work is key. 
273
The City of Phoenix needs to make adjustments in their hiring practices to make 
a way for people working to end their homelessness.  The City should be on the 
forefront of this measure to move people from unemployed to employed with 
growth opportunities within the City.  Entry level positions within the City should 
partner with Community Agencies to help connect people to these employment 
opportunities-with the City understanding that they need to make a real way in the 
door for people.  Starting with a model that offers Temp Status during the 
probationary period so that people can earn an income, grow and learn the job, 
take ongoing training to advance into a Full time position within the City.  There 
are models of this system and this would also help identify a pool of potential 
employees for the City.
274
People who want to have a better life and are willing to work for it should be 
helped and preferably on an individual basis. If they are not able to pursue this 
they should be redirected to another program and not take up space for years 
while 'trying'. To me the best programs are the ones that get motivated people 
and produce results, not those that develop a dependency on handouts.
275
Should focus on moving funding from law enforcement to lawlessness prevention 
via social care
276
Partnering with or mirroring Carachicago.org  
277
Suggestion: Talk with therapy organizations (occupational therapy mostly) about 
creating specific programs for homeless. OT helps patients with money 
management, socialization, copping strategies and much more, which could be 
life changing if the population had more access to those services. 
278
Need training & services for homeless to find jobs and mailing address & phone 
service (e.g. utilize vacant motels for no frills.) But assume die hard homeless will 
have no interest.
279
Education, and trade, opportunities need to be part of the conversation. A 
minimum wage job is not going to lead to financial security for individuals or 
families. 
280
Employment training asnd subsequent services already exist. Only a minority of 
homeless individuals engage for extended periods of time to benefit from existing 
programs 
281
I dont have any experience with this realm
282
great program 
283
Long term self-sufficiency is the end goal; employment is key - but only after 
barriers such as mental health & wellness can be properly addressed. 
284
remove W1.1. lowering the entry barrier will effect other workers. if the barrier is 
lowered for all then that is a different story. 
W1.1
285
No more liaison positions.  More training - more supportive living conditions that 
support ability to get and keep a job.
286
The clients need help find employers who will hire people experiencing 
homelessness and locating a job.  Not the human service department, they can 
do in housing training without using funding.  That money needs to go to more 
important needs.
287
Not a function of the city. Should be handled by the state and county
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
94

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
288
as long as one position doesn't turn into a whole other department
289
Give services to those that are willing to accept them. Focus on mental health 
issues 
290
The person in this position can ensure that before new services are made and 
paid for in Phx, all available resources and non-profits should be cataloged and 
used. I know this is a hard task and "all" is not possible, but most agencies 
should be able to be on this clearinghouse type list. Then, we can see what is 
truly needed in Phx. The goal should be no gaps and no overlap in services. 
291
N/A
292
Enhance and support programs designed for children who are aging out of foster 
care
293
To minimize the homeless issue, mental health and human services are needed 
as well as training  and job assistance shown here. Potential employers should 
be offered tax credits for hiring individuals who have successfully participated in 
training
294
Staff providing employment support really need specific training in providing 
shoulder to should individual placement and support (IPS) and supported 
employment.  To often "one stops" are poorly staffed with little direct assistance 
that leads to face-to-face contact with employers that  are hiring.  Advocates of 
Human Potential provides  excellent training in the principles of IPS and 
supported employment; staff training and having the right  person in the position 
is key.  This is not a job for a wallflower or an introvert (sorry introverts).
295
What percent of the homeless population is placed in employment?  If all of the 
above was implemented as stated, what percent of the homeless population 
would be placed in employment opportunities?  I'm questioning whether the 
Workforce Development plans would make a significant difference.
296
This section needs to be strengthened.   
1. All vendors doing city business should be required to provide entry-level jobs to 
graduates of Homeless Services. 
2. The liaison position should be with the non-profits that already do the case 
management.  The city can provide a funding source.  For instance, the US 
Department of Labor has training and reentry funding programs that can be 
accessed to support these positions.
297
W.1.1 While it's sounds great to hire this position, why not reallocate these funds 
to affordable housing or towards funding to help with eviction prevention?? That's 
a whole position (40K - 50K) that could go directly to the community. What a 
shame. 
298
Funding for transportation and clothing or necessities for the job like work boots 
and maybe gift cards to McDonalds to help keep them fed until their first pay 
check
299
Need to find employers who are willing to give a second chance, at a decent 
income
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
95

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
300
employment for the homeless population will take more than a liaison between 
WIOA or other training program participants and employers.  In order for the 
homeless to get and keep employment their basic needs have to be met first.  
Without safe shelter conducive to good sleeping, fulfillment of daily healthy food 
requirements, ready access to a shower, clean work clothing every day, and 
reliable transportation, a liaison between participants and employers is useless.  
Also, how about facilitating access to jobs that don't require "certifications and 
credentials".  If we're talking about WIOA requirements when referring to 
"certifications and credentials", my experience has been that some of the 
requirements make the program unsuitable for a fair number of people and that 
would be particularly true of the homeless population
301
Identify how those with mental illness would be included in workforce 
development
302
Again, invite the Community in for ideas and suggestions before writing this all 
up.
303
This is important but I think that this shoudl really just be a resource that is 
provided to those who are capable of holding a job. I dont think a position should 
be created just to be liasion to this immediately. I believe that there is a workforce 
development within the city already that could probably offer guidance or consult 
to those individuals who want to find a job. If using that team proves to be 
successful in placing a few individuals with a permanent position/job, then that 
merits an acual position.
304
I believe it is more important that those who actually work with people 
experiencing homelessness inform the city and state rather than the city or state 
guessing what is most important. Therefore, someone working in a job created by 
the city may not be the most effective way to use resources.
305
Yes, with the same caveat as before. There cannot be a hook/condition that 
amonts to "if we offer services in far away places (that will serve far fewer people 
than demand/need the services), then we have a right to kick you out of the 
neighborhood around the HSC.". That is underhanded and ethically awful. These 
employment services noted above are essential alongside shelter and affordable 
housing. If you say that if it is offered somewhere in the city and that thus more  
shelter beds are not needed around the HSC, that is grossly wrong and 
contradictory. Again, this is a BOTH AND service alongside more shelter and 
affordable housing in the area AND throughout the valley 
306
We need to proceed with caution on a training program.  While I support training 
and certification, I want to be sure clients are trained for jobs/careers that pay 
well enough to lift them out of long-term poverty.
307
Increase staff for W1.1
W1.1
308
It is assumed that the majority of homeless individuals have some sort of mental 
or substance abuse disorder, however, in recent years there has been a rise in 
the number of capable adults who are becoming homeless. This is extremely 
concerning! It points to a lack of appropriate resources even for individuals who 
are capable of entering the workforce, so these types of programs are important. 
However, there should be no precedent that an individual has to complete a 
workforce development or substance abuse programs in order to be given 
access to shelter. This acts as a natural deterrent and only serves to limit access 
to necessary resources to the individuals who need them most. 
309
Quarterly job fairs 
310
On the job training programs/form partnerships with local business 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
96

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
311
It should not be based solely on grants. The police budget is insane. Use some of 
those funds. this will also free up sources and reduce “crime” and unnecessary 
calls to police for homelessness. 
312
Not sure why current City staffing can’t handle this 
313
Remove the hiring of one person. Has anyone looked at the State and County 
workforce development plans? Have organizations providing workforce 
development services been consulted? And add goals, how will progress be 
measured, what will success look like?
314
Keep the Federal govt out and where is the mental health institutions at.  So 
many individuals are PTSD  and SMI we will be taking care of them for the rest of 
their lived.
315
Employment may need to be tied to mental health/behavioral health services.  Is 
that mentioned later?  The existing programs (like WIOA) are often too 
paperwork process heavy.  I think a user/community member feedback loop is 
needed to determine if programs really meet the needs of people experiencing 
homelessness.
316
As part of the Workforce Development Strategies, what job training and 
certification opportunities will be offered to the participants achieve long-term 
employment and stability.
317
having a criminal background disqualifies you for a sustaining job and housing. 
there needs to be a program for the homeless that they can participate in which 
allows and says to the employeer that they are worthy..
318
you have job training programs but landing a job woth mcdonalds is not worthy of 
sustaining a family- having a criminal background KEEPS US HOMELESS
319
having a criminal background disqualifies you for a sustaining job and housing. 
there needs to be a program for the homeless that they can participate in which 
allows and says to the employeer that they are worthy..
320
you have job training programs but landing a job woth mcdonalds is not worthy of 
sustaining a family- having a criminal background KEEPS US HOMELESS
321
How does the City plan to care for those mentally iull, aged, or handicapped 
leading to lifelong care off the street?
322
How are people who have files for unemployment get a hold of the 
unemployment office is there is an issue with their cases? There is no way for 
people to get through and it just hangs up on the person who calls in. I don’t even 
know if this could be an question that you guys can answer, but worth a shot to 
323
I am willing and am training men with trademens trades. feel free to contact me.
324
I used to work at a Workforce Development Center. Are the workforce 
development centers staffed enough to help so many people in need? Have they 
considered using volunteers to help train job skills?
Workforce Development Chapter Comments
97

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr
Mental Health Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
1
Add social workers as part of the plan. Add enough social workers to lessen 
burnout and pay them accordingly. 
2
Add: fund alcohol and drug addiction specific outreach teams
3
Advocate for insurance carriers to treat mental health as a disease, with the 
same coverage as most other illnesses (or even better coverage).
4
As part of the advocacy and support for the various types of problems people 
who are homeless experience, it would be beneficial to have specific, contact 
helpers who develop a supportive working relationship and get to know people 
individually.  Homeless people who are recovering addicts, have mental health 
issues, or criminal behavior in their past often feel separate and as unseen, 
unwanted outsiders within the larger community.  In order for people to change, 
they need to lose the us vs them mindset which is often reinforced within their 
relationships with other homeless individuals.  Affiliation and inclusion within the 
larger community is necessary for success of the individual.  The larger 
community speaks in monolithic terms of ''the Homeless" who are nuisances, 
bums, thieves, etc.  The individuality and humanity is missed, but each person 
has a story which can change perceptions, if people get to know each other.  
5
Consider group home situations for recovering addicts, released prisoners.
6
We need to decriminalize the issues that lead to homelessness, including mental 
health issues and substance abuse. Prison isn't the right place for someone who 
suffers from these afflictions. Much emphasis needs to be placed on true 
rehabilitation, counseling and outreach.
7
Do more to reduce the number of people in jail who have never been convicted 
but couldn’t afford bail and then lose their job and housing.  
8
Establish Peer Support programs to train recovering persons and employ them in 
all levels of treatment facilities, shelters, outreach vans and libraries. Create club 
houses where people can go during the daytime hours to have coffee, socialize, 
get meals, play games, watch educational videos.  Classes?
9
Expand temporary living placement capacity for homeless discharging from the 
psych hospitals
10
Delete the entire section and replace with an expansion of the MROPS program 
with the involvement of churches, nonprofits, and Phoenix Rescue Mission.
11
We should also fund mental health outreach programs for students in high school 
and higher ed in an attempt to mitigate runaway/homeless young adults who are 
particularly vulnerable to predation when unhoused. 
12
The entire system needs to be over hauled. Clients get lost in the shuffle. There 
is a lack of accountability on clinical teams serving these vulnerable individuals.  
Would you believe there are housing referrals that go UNANSWERED by clinical 
teams?  
M.1.3  Have mental health clinical on HSC with easier access to providers. 
The qualifications for mental health petitions needs to be re-evaluated as well. 
When someone is decompensating and cannot make sound decisions for 
themselves, providers should be able to petition them for their own safety. 
1.3
13
Include need for addition treatment programs, residential and outpatient. Have 
you considered pursuing conservatorship for individuals who are chronically 
homeless and have serious mental heath issues? 
14
Include strategy objectives that will be tailored to the unique mental health needs 
of trans folks experiencing homelessness. Also include special mental health 
services and protections for individuals who have engaged in sex-work such as 
prostitution as a result or in conjunction with experiencing homelessness. 
Mental Health Chapter Comments
98

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr
Mental Health Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
15
Instead of releasing people from prison and jail with a parole officer and or 
probation officer. Release them with a home placement counselor/ advisor/ 
caseworker.
16
Legalize marijuana.  Release and expunge the records of all non violent drug 
offenders.  Use legal marijuana sales taxes to compensate marginalized groups 
who have been harmed by the drug war, and help them start businesses and own 
homes.
17
Library should reverse all late fees for homeless and let them check out books 
again, . . .  without fees.  Kansas City did this successfully!
Free Bus for all homeless.  Kansas City did this successfully!  I believe they 
made it free bus for everyone, which makes sense because only the poor ride it.
18
Mandate addiction rehab/recovery for homeless that are arrested (MAT program 
or something similar to what Rhode Island has implemented.  See "Seattle is 
Dying" documentary available on youtube.)
19
Mental and behavioral crisis teams MUST be the first point of contact, rather than 
the police who are not equipped to handle these crises appropriately. 
Furthermore, data shows that there are significantly higher rates of non-violent 
crime in street homeless individuals as compared to sheltered homeless 
individuals with the same level of cognitive impairment. Housing MUST be 
considered as a necessary part of mental health. 
20
Address mental health issues in a holistic and supportive manner (not through 
law enforcement). Mental health services should not only be available to 
individuals already unsheltered but also to residents who are one episode from 
homelessness (honestly, this is a majority of the population).
Mental Health Chapter Comments
99

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr
Mental Health Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
21
This section is poorly elucidated. OF COURSE, IT IS IMPORTANT. We need 
METRICS. 
2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4: As it stands, drug addicts, can live on the streets, commit 
crimes to support their habit, destroy a neighborhood as they have done near 
HSC, then go to a hospital emergency room to rest and clean up for three days; 
but because they are not considered "sick" they are allowed to leave the hospital, 
are dropped off outside of HSC because it is the best place to buy drugs in the 
city, and start the cycle again. If you need a hospital for self induced drug 
addiction, you should be required to go to a drug rehab program and participate 
in community service to give back to the community you have injured. Example: 
around the HSC Campus. 
1.1: A blanket increase on number of beds at a facility is not a good idea. Metrics 
should be attached to EACH shelter/facility individually. If a shelter can keep 
surrounding neighborhood metrics below or on average of COP metrics then they 
should be able to increase their beds. If metrics near a facility are above the COP 
average, then a facility should be forced to immediately reduce the number of 
beds allowed by 20% until metrics are stabilized positively. Example: for HSC 
facility, until violent crime, neighborhood cleanliness, number of sex offenders 
residing in area are reduced to city average, the HSC should be forced to reduce 
the number of beds they can provide. 
1.1: A blanket limit should be placed on number of beds in a homeless shelter. 
No more than 300 beds should be allowed. If a facility cannot keep its 
neighborhood clean, the number of allowed beds should be less. Based on 
history, no facilities over 300beds have been successful in COP. THE HSC is a 
COMPLETE failure in supplying safe homeless shelter conditions to the 
neighborhood and the homeless and need people who visit their facility. The HSC 
campus SIZE NEEDS TO BE REDUCED NOT ENLARGED. 
EXAMPLE: UMOM facilities seem to be doing well; they seem to keep their 
neighborhoods safe and clean. Perhaps they should be applauded and given 
more funding and support to proliferate their programs if they feel they can do so 
f l
22
MH is very important - offer more therapy access in schools, military, hospitals, 
community drop in centers , senior centers .
23
Organize and fund community-based programs with holistic professional support--
taking into account the intersections of mental health and race, gender, sexuality, 
disability, etc. 
24
Please add provisions for children and adolescent mental health.
25
Provide Free Mandatory Drug Screening test for homeless. If positive for Elicit 
drugs and don't have an Rx for drugs taken this will automatically disqualify 
assistance help but offer rehabilitation for 3 months, then repeat process on drug 
screening for Housing/Shelter help once again. 
Mental Health Chapter Comments
100

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr
Mental Health Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
26
Provide resources for community/neighborhood members on who to call, when to 
call, and why to call if experiencing a negative interaction with an unsheltered 
person.  Then ensure that that team (including police if appropriate) is well-
funded and well-staffed enough to appropriately respond.  A few years ago we 
had a situation where an unsheltered man with apparent mental illness and 
substance abuse issues repeatedly attacked our front door, violently kicking it 
and screaming.  The police were called but did not respond in time before he left, 
about 30 minutes.  He came back two more times and the police were called both 
times -- they made contact with him once when he wasn't acting violently, but just 
sitting on the front porch.  Then a number of days later he broke into a home in a 
nearby neighborhood and murdered a resident.  I can't help but think that there 
had been multiple opportunities for this person to get some help for his own good, 
for our's and our neighbors, and for the person he ultimately killed.
27
Mental health support is key.  The City should create a new facility to take all the 
drug addiction, mental health disorders and try to develop solutions that are 
effective.
28
Often people with metal health concerns have health/legal fees that need to be 
managed and often circulates them back into the judicial system. There should 
be an item that addresses the fees involved in living outside of jail. Often the 10$-
20$ per week/month is more than they can afford. 
29
Two additional objectives, one addressing specifically mental health services for 
LGBTQIA+ individuals, as well as for individuals suffering from drug addiction, 
should be enumerated here. 
30
M1.3 and M2.3 We need to provide a process that makes Mental Health 
treatment mandatory for those who continually come into the system but get lost - 
Through the courts after 3 to 5 involvements there needs to be a mandatory step. 
We are not being kind to those who suffer from extreme mentally ill issues by not 
MAKING them get treatment.  This applies to those who suffer from addition. 
1.3, 2.3
31
When inmates are released from a correctional facility, some have no family or 
friends to pick them up and re-establish them in society.  They are given an 
address for the probation office, but no way to get there unless they have bus 
money.  Since they have served their time, they should have help in getting to the 
next step in their recovery. 
32
Keep only those items that relate to mental health.  Delete all others.
33
Mental health issues seems to be one of the main root causes for homelessness. 
Focusing on this area seems like it would important. M1.2 and M2.2 seem 
crucial.
1.2, 2.2
34
housing is the answer. House people and for the most part, homelessness will be 
controlled.
35
"We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEY'RE 
 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS" 
 
36
The most important.
37
Concrete pathways/ideas about what "Explore additional court diversion 
opportunities" means
38
2.4 may not be necessary to the plan immediately, as a number of agencies and 
mental health professionals may already be handling this activity.
2.4
Mental Health Chapter Comments
101

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr
Mental Health Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
39
details of concrete actions to be taken. Timeline for reaching these goals. 
Transparency regarding where additional funds are coming from.
40
All these are very important but previous efforts have had limited implementation 
or small pilot programs that have only been available to a small number of folks.  
I think we've already identified a lot of the things above, but they need to be 
funded appropriately.  If they haven't been identified yet, that can be part of the 
plan, but there needs to be an action item once they've been identified.
41
Maladaptive Coping skills are utilized by individuals seeking to make it through 
perhaps one of the most difficult periods of their life. Harm reduction, if 
recognized by the City as a more appropriate measure, has the greatest chance 
to impact our communities. Sonoran Prevention Works and Shot in the Dark 
provide such resources already and should be tapped as experts in the field. 
Education on the existing Crisis Response Network capacity, and perhaps 
expansion of such network, is also needed. 
42
We need to address mental health in the community with adequate resources 
and housing needs
43
Placing methadone clinics where homeless come in and out of at all hours is not 
a solution
44
These objectives are incredibly vague and there is a lack of description of how 
and what you plan to implement in order to appropriately address homelessness 
in Phoenix. There needs to be more information provided and we demand full 
transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and an extension for 
the public comment meetings until they’re accessible to people experiencing 
homelessness. 
45
action items, which is what all these tidy little boxes are need timelines or they 
mean little in the long run....
46
Stop using jails to deal with this.  That's a band-aid.  Not a cure.
47
Now you're talking. Only issues I see is adding more beds.  You know there won't 
be more employees hired as this would be an addition expense.  I worry about 
the dangers to participants and employees if you add too many people to a facility 
48
As we are becoming increasingly aware of the impacts that mental health has on 
society, I think it may also be helpful to try and get some type of outreach into the 
communities about mental health, the importance of seeking treatment if 
necessary, and the destigmatization of this topic. I believe that the community 
would be more receptive to mental health resources for those experiencing 
homelessness if we take the time to engage in meaningful and informational 
discussions about this topic. 
49
It can be seen by action that many suffer in many ways, and the mind is very 
fragile. We're seeing how COVID19 is affecting ALL of us and when you add 
homelessness on top of that it can be devastating.
50
If you don't remember, yes You, we in AZ had many of these programs, higher 
limits, institutions until our elected officials abandoned all financing/funding. If I 
recall correctly, funds were diverted to a flex-fuel program that ended up being a 
fraud and cost a politician his job (even though he was set up by our elected state 
representatives).
51
Increase Mental Health Community Advocates-  we need a system that is 
focused on prevention and trauma healing rather than on crisis treatment.  Just 
like there are "downtown phoenix ambassadors" we need community Hope 
Coaches. (health and Wellness Coaching services).
Mental Health Chapter Comments
102

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr
Mental Health Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
52
We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEY'RE 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS.
53
Oh my gosh, YES, YES, YES!  This is so so so needed. Thank you.
54
"Advocate for changes" - seriously? The amount that the word "advocate" is used 
in this section is disappointing. You're the City of Phoenix, do something. Don't 
advocate, do. This is so vague and feels like a wish-list instead of an action plan. 
What is the solid plan? What are the details? How is this all going to be 
achieved? This is section is so important yet you're treating it like a "Well, it'd be 
nice to have" when it's literally people's livelihoods on the line. This is 
unacceptable. 
55
One of the biggest issues.
56
Mental health is the most overlooked issue in the nation. The more help we can 
get for mental health, the better. But, once again- they need to be clean. I 
understand that many mental health patients use drugs to cover their unbearable 
symptoms and then they get addicted. We have to find a way to assist mental 
health while also extinguishing the drug use. 
57
Get rid of M.2.4 Again the City needs to go to the private sector to the experts 
rather than funding their own "mental health outreach" teams. The City / State 
has more programs than they can effectively handle. Do not create more Support 
the private sector.
2.4
58
Mental health and additions must be addressed with a solution plan
59
We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
an extension for the public comment meetings until they're accessible to people 
experiencing homelessness. 
60
Stop treating patients like criminals. Stop treating criminals like shit. Stop being 
selfish and lazy.
61
more affordable housing around the valley, no more shelter beds in downtown
62
There need to be people to follow through with the mentally ill so that they stay 
with their treatment. 
63
More information needed. 
64
"We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEYRE 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS"
65
55% or more of the chronic homeless are mentally ill. They represent 
approximately 40$ of the total homeless population
66
Healthcare is a huge issue. Homeless don't want to be discharged, as they have 
a bed, meals and shower. 
67
Again, if their mental health is unstable how can they contribute to society?
68
change:  M.2.4 should be #1 on top of the list, #2 M.2.3 and #3 M.1.3
1.3, 2.3, 2.4
69
Training of mental health resources and crisis services 
70
This is extremely important
71
What are the metrics to measure success for this plan?  This survey is sadly a 
bad design, seeking confirmation bias instead of genuine public input. 
72
more inpatient services needed for addiction 
73
Remove M.2.2
2.2
Mental Health Chapter Comments
103

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr
Mental Health Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
74
This section is the most important.  I'd also include help people access 
drug/alcohol addiction treatment programs.  I would liked to see more money 
spent on this and more money spent on having actual neighborhood police.  I 
don't think that sending people about in militarized equipment is a good long-term 
strategy.   Please redesign the survey to discuss each policy item.  This is 
designed to limit the transparency of the public and to provide generic feedback.  
It is very hard to navigate back and forth between the 30 page documents.  The 
research does not address costs in any way.   It also should be written to allow 
for those with basic reading ability to understand the principles.
75
Mental health issues are likely the #1 thing to tackle.
76
Assessment of Mental health and contingent actions for health and well being of 
all members of communities, to include surrounding municipalities. 
77
Section M.1.1 seems like it should really be a major focal point.  I have heard 
many stories of people needing help, only for there not to be a bed available for 
them.  Addressing this sounds like an important step.
1.1
78
These strategies are 2nd and 3rd tier issues and should be taken out. Why would 
you list correctional facilities under Mental Health? What matters for a homeless 
plan is TIMELY and ONGOING access to mental health professionals for 
formerly homeless people placed in housing. Apartment managers do not have 
the tools nor training to deal with mental health issues.
79
This should be coordinated with mental health in Arizona generally, not a special 
program.  Partners with existing public mental health services in Arizona 
administered and provided by the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System 
(ACCCS) and Regional Behavioral Health Authorities . 
80
This is the underlying issue in much of the homeless population. 
81
The mentally ill are a big part of the homeless population and they need a big 
helping hand and continued help because they can not do it on their own. 
82
Concern with advocating for facilities with more than 16. Does this population 
need smaller facilities to be more effective?
83
Ever since the 1950's & 1960's it has become "fashionable" to have living on the 
streets individuals who are experiencing a mental health crisis. The population of 
IMD's is SEVERELY, and unrealistically down.
84
The issue is funding. COP taxpayers should not have this responsibility.
85
No section 12 showed
86
One of the biggest things that lead to homelessness is mental health and drug 
addiction. 
87
I would include support from practitioners of Alternative Health Systems as well- 
Nutritionists, Acupuncturists, Counseling Services, Behavioral Specialists, Body 
Workers, Hypnotherapists, Energy Workers- People need to be treated 
Wholistically
88
Funding should also be added for proper and adequate training of those 
providing social services to those with mental illness. More training on mental 
illness and treating those with it humanely is of great importance. 
89
That's two you got right....on a roll!
90
Don't fund it with tax dollars
91
Once again incredibly vague. Using buzz words without going into strategy. Try 
laying out all of these plans in detail in an easily accessible format for the public.
92
It is incredibly important that more services for mental health and addiction are 
available!
93
Yes. This is good. 
Mental Health Chapter Comments
104

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr
Mental Health Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
94
Fund public education to teach about mental health, trauma, addiction, and family 
systems. Invest in the future generations to prevent a lack of mental health 
awareness.
95
The worst thing that ever happened to the homeless community was back in the 
70s, all the locked permanent mental health facilities closed. Some were because 
they believed families were unjustly sending their unwanted relatives away to be 
rid of them. But surely in this day and age there can be safeguards in place to 
ensure that only the truly demented could be committed to these places that 
would be manned by doctors and nurses trained in mental health as a sub-
specialty. There are truly people out there that should not be in jail, but they 
should be in a protected environment and given medications for their various 
diagnoses to manage their care.
96
Búsqueda de profesionales voluntarios para que los fondos permitan 
proporcionar otras necesidades si se crean empleos sólo que el $$ vaya a 
servicios y no a la nómina del personal.
97
The more programs are in place to help and empower those in extremely dire 
situations the better. But keep a balance between support programs and 
empowerment.
98
1. I am concerned by M.2.2 as I do not know if research supports this strategy or 
what case studies have found when it has been implemented elsewhere. Does 
forcing people to seek addiction treatment really help?
2. A greater emphasis on M.2.3 and strategies to meaningfully decriminalize 
homelessness would be great to see
2.2, 2.3
99
Stop dumping mental disease patients on the streets.  Stop dumping criminals 
who are released early due to lack of space on our streets.  If someone lost their 
job help them find anything that they can do just to keep them working.  
Alternative housing can be used for these folks in the short term.  
100
Offering mental health services is way, way overdue. 
101
Include Harm Reduction teams in outreach
102
Again, where is funding coming from?
103
Again, no discussion of involuntary treatment which is absolutely necessary for a 
good portion of those who are SMI and become homeless.
104
OK as is.
105
This section is VITAL!
106
A survey needs to be done on the homelessness to see root cause, our 
homeless in Phoenix may have more addiction than other issues so we can put 
money to better addiction programs. We also need to address SPIRITUAL 
health, by engaging local churches to do reach out programs this may inspire the 
homeless to want a change in their life.
107
How will you protect neighborhoods and families and keep us safe when these 
services are placed in our neighborhood?
108
You need more beds, 16 beds is not enough for mental health.
109
ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!!
110
The question here is with limited resources and personnel to help, a modicum of 
resources may not bring much in results. By putting money where people can get 
some housing, job training and not have serious medical needs, it will open up 
the opportunity to spend the time and money to those who are most critically in 
need.
111
The section on addiction being treated as a mental illness for emergency 
services is key.  
Mental Health Chapter Comments
105

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr
Mental Health Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
112
Mental health is one of the biggest reasons for homelessness.  We’ve got to find 
ways to be preventative and help keep people from becoming homeless.
113
M.1.1. Do not change 
M.1.2  Allow providers to educate the jails/detention centers on the services they 
provide and how to access them. 
M.2.2 instead of advocating for emergency hospitalization make use of the 
facilities already Identified by AHCCCS as 24 hour walk in on demand treatment 
facilities for Drug and Alcohol addiction/treatment. Its the cheaper option and they 
get the specialized services they need.
1.1, 1.2, 2.2
114
We need to get the mentally unstable off of the streets and help them. 
115
also provide rehabilitation centers
116
It all should be removed and fund a Mental institution.
117
We have existing services already.  Expanding and creating more only makes 
this a "homeless lifestyle"  
118
Won't change a thing.
119
We don't fix homelessness unless we address mental health
120
Remove all
121
Work with Sonoran Prevention Works to treat addiction humanely. Please 
understand that emergency hospitalization can be extremely traumatic in itself, so 
I hope you place more effort pursuing alternatives.
122
Simplify
123
You are always treating the symptom and not the cause. 
124
Again, why is every question a section?
125
Add shall be continuously monitored if released from detention center(s) and/or 
correctional facilities and any violations shall terminate services
126
Mental Health Outreach Teams - so important! Thanks for including this. 
127
The sole-provider contract with CBI isn't working. Much broader strategy needed 
with additional providers. 
128
Again, accountability.  Funding is needed.  But if these programs are neither 
effective or efficient then the citizens funding these services will become 
frustrated.  
129
Lack of mental health resources in Phoenix...in all of AZ is criminal.  There most 
be a less bureaucratic more streamlined, efficacious and humane way of 
approaching illness.  Unfortunately, much of the burden falls on Phoenix Police, 
which is unfair to them.   
130
We need to look at what is currently in place and why it is ineffective. There are 
teams that go out and look for Terros patients on the street. What can they 
actually do if they find them and the SMI refuses to get help. NOTHING! Even 
though it would be in the best interest of the SMI person who is baking on the 
street and spiraling into a much darker place mentally. I cannot stress the 
importance of secure treatment/housing for those who cannot understand their 
own dire situation. Leveled treatment. A tier system.  
131
M1.1 and M2.4. Increased bed capacity and increased outreach are needed.
1.1, 2.4
132
Mental illness is rampant in our streets. It is dangerous for our neighborhood and 
it is dangerous for those so mentally ill that they have no idea who they are even 
interacting with. In my neighborhood people are getting hurt and swim person has 
already died. Putting a mentally ill person out on the streets and expecting them 
to behave in a sane way is not even feasible in this day and age.
Mental Health Chapter Comments
106

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr
Mental Health Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
133
I agree with some of the ideas. However, I've worked psych units as an RN. 
Sometimes even 16 patients on a unit can be disastrous. In addition, until there 
are more mental health facilities (and thus, more beds) and staff to work them, 
this is fantasy thinking.
134
16 is nowhere near enough
135
Effective ways to help those who refuse help.
136
Careful regarding expanding 16 bed facilities...those facilities have to staff 
accordingly
137
Provide re-entry programs and services for persons who are incarcerated or 
being held in mental institutions. Releasing people back into society without the 
means to care for themselves and live dignified lives only worsens the problem.
138
Outreach teams are critical. Help during mental health crisis is important instead 
of criminalizing it.
139
I believe ongoing counseling for any addict that is released from a rehabilitative 
program should be mandatory! 
140
M.1.1 - Let the feds handle Medicaid.  
M.1.2 - No. If they are spending time in jail, they know what is available in the 
system. They will seek out programs if they want them. 
M.1.3 - No there are a lot of facilities in place. We do not need city run hospitals 
or behavioral care  / recovery centers. 
M.2.1 - No. If you do not already know them by now, you are wasting our tax 
dollars.Stop trying to build a bigger bureaucracy.  
M.2.2 - What does this even mean. If they require emergency care, they will get 
it. Stay out of medicine. 
M.2.3 - Again, more political mumbo-jumbo. If there are programs, give them to 
the courts and let the judges decide. Stop trying to put more weeds in the city 
garden.  
M.2.4 - We already have these in place. Again - stay out of the medical field. I am 
okay with adding training for existing teams. If you insist on getting into medicine, 
fund training so that at least one member of each team as  certificate as an EMT-
B or EMT-A and one team member schooled in both safety and security. That is 
an effective team.
1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2.1, 
2.2, 2.3, 2.4
141
Mental health services must reorganize to provide holistic wellness approach 
rather than it's current focus on pharmacological treatmemts, reduce reliance on 
medications and restructure medically assisted treatment for substamcw abuse 
to titrate off opiates rather than prolong and increase dependency.
142
This language is very weak: advocate, explore, identify - this is an enormous 
problem and this not very solutions focused. Sounds very exploratory. 
143
Keep M.1.2 objective
1.2
144
The focus on addiction is very important. That's such a big determinant of 
homelessness
145
The tate has failed in this area and it is bigger than one city. Again, Maricopa 
County MAG should be leading here and in cooperation with the cities this should 
be taken up with the state. Gov Ducey destroyed the Division of Behavioral 
Health and rolled it into AHCCCS. It was a huge error and lost intelligence and 
leadership has led to tragic outcomes and loss of opportunities.
146
institutions aren't necessary. Those struggling with mental health issues need 
stability, structure, and compassion. Partner with rehab centers to getblonger 
lasting assistance but only for those who want help. We can't force ppl to get 
healthy we can only offer the service.
Mental Health Chapter Comments
107

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr
Mental Health Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
147
Addressing mental health and addiction are key to the success of any real 
change. Do what is necessary to screen before providing these expensive 
resources. Those committed to real change should be given priority to such 
services. The goal is permanent life-time change. 
148
Based on the current social climate, adding a position or additional training to the 
Police Department that focuses on interactions with the mentally ill.
149
Yes. don't toss the mentally ill in jail. Help them. Find ways to aid addicts...if 
possible. 
150
especiallym2.4
151
Mental illness is one of the primary reasons for homelessness.  This must be 
addressed with adequate facilities.  
152
Increasing the Amount if halfway houses is dangerous 
153
Where is PD inclusion?  PD needs to be included in the planning as they are the 
ones who get to knock on the door of the mentally ill person, or pick them up out 
of a park.
154
Sending drug addicts to jail without appropriate rehabilitation does not work.  
Rehabilitation should be the first "sentence." 
155
FUND MORE SOCIAL WORKERS 
156
add the decriminalization of addiction and mental health
157
ADDICTION IS MENTAL HEALTH...FINALLY PHOENIX FOR ADDRESSING
158
Remove M.1.1
1.1
159
leave as is
160
Getting homeless people with mental health issues is critical, they must be 
removed from the street and more importantly given proper treatment to help 
them become functional again.
161
If I have the numbers correct, at least 60% of those who are homeless are 
experiencing mental illness and/or drug addiction or both so all of this needs to 
stay a priority.
162
Work with Medicaid to form an easier process to those seeking help.  
163
This should be most important 
164
It appears that addiction falls into this category.  While we do have addiction 
services available in our city and the state at large, it seems that the quality of 
these services varies highly.  Are there standards that addiction recovery 
programs must meet?  If not, how could this be addressed?
165
Increase staff to handle the implementation of these increased services. For 
example, increase staff for mental health outreach services or any institutions 
dealing with the mental health homeless population.
166
Only if mental health facilities are properly located.
167
I think we need to keep all options open and vigilant to any changes or additions 
as needed
168
This section should be more explicit about partnering with AHCCCS and it’s 
managed care contractors- Phx should not conduct these activities in a silo but 
should partner and have a voice in coordinating these activities.
169
The section seems to want to expand site capacities, but I don’t feel confident it 
prepares for adequate management at a larger scale to protect safety and deliver 
care. I think either that is outlined for larger sites, or the strategy becomes 
increasing to many more small locations. 
Mental Health Chapter Comments
108

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr
Mental Health Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
170
Increase access to MEDICAL services. Or is the city of Phoenix seeking to 
pathologize homelessness for the benefit of a single clinical specialty? It seems 
that way from seeking to reestablish the "insane asylum" system that the 16-bed 
rule in Medicaid was created to prevent. 
171
In my experience, the homeless fall broadly into two camps; those who are "down 
on their luck" and with some help will rejoin society at large, and those who are in 
dire need of mental health care and will likely need treatment for their condition 
for the rest of their lives.  The second group often presents a physical danger to 
themselves and others.
172
Loss of housing can be devastating, for first timers or when suddden.
173
Mental health issues seem to fall through the cracks and we do not seem to have 
the services available for the average family, not just the homeless. 
174
looks okay to me.
175
the most important section. 
176
Mental Health in general is very important- this should be a priority in helping to 
prevent and minimize homelessness 
177
M1.1 do not support increasing beds past 16 as a good solution 
1.1
178
I am not familiar enough to comment. 
179
;;;needs vary so much & many know how to hide problems that really qualified 
personnel are needed to make an assessment & follow up is needed to see if the 
help is working or an adjustment needs to be made to the type of help assigned.  
 
without follow up - there's no point to any of these plans
180
We need to deal with straight on. The situation has only gotten worse over the 
years.  Tough love. 
181
Provide transparent education to property owners regarding mental health 
concerns. Offer consistent support to those landlords if a concern arises.
182
Mingling of the general public with the chronically homeless who have 
addictions/mental illness should be minimized in commercial areas, public 
sidewalks, parks and buildings.  My daughter who lives in San Francisco must 
walk the last two blocks to work among people peeing on walls or parked cars, 
shooting up, using offensive language, and acting out.  Even Market Street has 
blocks littered with homeless doing the same kinds of things.
183
M.1.1. is tricky. you don't want to overpopulate a space and no one gets served 
well
1.1
184
Mental house outreach should be available even if people are not "in crisis."
185
These people many are homeless because of their addictions to alcohol and 
drugs. It is not a disease! Get over it it never was and it never will be. They 
caused it and they don’t want to stop it and if they do they don’t have the needed 
help.
186
Slippery slope on this one too. 
187
You need to find talented, effective leaders who citizens trust.
188
poor mental health is often the reason that people get into a tough situation and it 
can be hard to get out of, supporting mental health is a very important to 
decrease the chance of people finding themselves homeless again.
189
seems good
190
M2.2 remove
2.2
191
Just do it. Less talk
192
Not sure . Good idea , Maybe/Maybe not. Follow up is always good-but this 
sounds like a lot of paper pushing
Mental Health Chapter Comments
109

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr
Mental Health Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
193
At Circle the City we provide mental health counseling with our Behavioral Health 
Consultants.  Over the past year or two, this portion of our mission has expanded 
due to the need.  Trauma is a regular experience when surviving on the street.  
Having our BHCs has deepened the healing we bring to our patients.
194
Mental health assistance is critical for the homeless; however, your section does 
not give any specific funding amounts, staffing numbers, outcomes for 
expectations, etc.  Again, who knows what you are talking about, what it will cost, 
who it will impact in the community.  I don't support this strategy plan without 
more details, definitions, and information on the specific neighborhoods and 
community it will impact.
195
Please see notes at question 23.
196
Change M.1.1 to account for expansion of bed limit to include proper staffing. 
Don't just create a vast place to hold mentally ill; add in accompanying support 
dependent on size (like childcare certain amount of teacher per # of kids, class-
size, etc.)
1.1
197
We need so much more compassionate and targeted help for homeless and 
addicted.  It's too overwhelming for an addict to find and pursue the help available 
currently when they have a moment of clarity.  
198
too many freebies.
199
Seriously mentally ill (SMI) individuals who used to be housed in institutions are 
now  
on the streets and are now roaming our communities and many end up in jails 
according to the police and sheriff's department. Serious consideration should be 
given to developing a new system for housing SMI patients. 
200
Some homeless need mental institution care. Our biggest mistake was to close 
most of them instead of providing proper care
201
Secondary support not part main plan
202
It seems to be covered in previous sections. 
203
I don't know how many homeless persons have mental health issues
204
This section starts to address addiction, which is great!  I think everything else is 
covered as well.
205
M2,2 is extremely important,  also addressing community stigma around mental 
heal issues including addiction
2.2
206
Nothing 
207
This needs to be the number 1 priority. Arizona has terrible mental health 
support. It needs to be free and readily available. 
208
Outreach teams keeping up with people in the community. Holding them 
accountable to get better.
209
delete all sections except M.1.1
1.1
210
Coordinate with hospitals and jails so they don't release people onto the streets 
211
Connecting resources to GMHSA clientele (and not just SMI population)
212
Unless the person wants help, forcing them doesn’t work. Been in the business 
and know
Mental Health Chapter Comments
110

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr
Mental Health Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
213
The IMD exclusion removes the ability for permanent housing for those with SMI 
and greatly reduces the ability to find housing for those as the wait list is too long. 
 
I believe we could build a community with land and hybrid dorms or tiny houses 
for those with SMI. I believe it could be an enclosed area that looks like a small 
town where they have the ability to go to the movies or have art classes go to a 
library but where they have a clinic available and IPU if necessary for 
exacerbations. I believe if it is hybrid dorms having house parents with psych 
training residing there, cooking, cleaning and ensuring medication is taken. If they 
have the freedom to come and go in an area that looks like a city they are 
protected and will have less criminal behavior as well as protecting the 
community and visual of the homeless for the economy. 
214
We need to have mental health support. It is very difficult to seek out support 
when there are barely any providers or it is so expensive. 
215
I believe untreated mental health is probably the most important aspect of 
homelessness
216
these services would be the place to tap AHCCCS funds if needed. the IMDs are 
woefully understaffed and adding more patients could lead to really bad 
unintended consequences.
217
omit M 1.2 and there needs to be some type of strike rule people can not keep 
going to these programs time after time, if the first two (2) times didn't work or the 
participants left early can not continue in the program
1.2
218
Many of those who stay homeless have mental health issues.  It is unlikely that 
any expense can cure many and many will fight help, saying they are “just fine”.  
So mental health help should probably be limited to cases where a person is a 
danger to himself or other homeless people.  
219
WHY INCREASE THE BEDS BEYOND 16..... HARDER TO MANAGE HUMANS
220
Separate those with mental disabilities from those that can 
221
Since most people on the street are dealing with mental issues...
222
Funding always ends in increased taxes which are already too high
223
I wonder if we shouldn't house severe mentally ill in State care? I'm not as 
educated about the situation
224
There's a huge portion of the homeless that have addiction and mental issues.  
Specialized training would be huge in that field.
225
Don’t treat addiction like other mental illnesses. Require them to get off drugs.
226
leave as is
227
People have to be responsible for themselves and admit to having problems to 
accept help. 
228
these sections should be un-bundled so you can provide feedback on each 
objective.
229
Should have some short-term solutions.  Should stress use of persons who have 
largely recovered from mental illness as peer workers in a variety of services.  
like the strategies in this section, but much of the report relies on undefined and 
poorly defined funding sources.  Given the time-consuming processes of 
government and the current partisanship, funding is not assured.  Need to better 
identify pertinent federal Acts and State programs to reduce homelessness; 
status of funding, and dates for reauthorization. 
230
force employer to address employee treatment and concerns that may seem 
business as usual practices but are actually hurting mentalhealth
231
Increasing IDMs could have a detrimental effect to the quality of care. I’d be very 
careful with this. 
Mental Health Chapter Comments
111

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr
Mental Health Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
232
SMI programs are doing this. Again, why reinvent the wheel and generate funding 
for a new program that is already running? So you can just give the funding to the 
same 6 orgs? Check with CHEEERS, check with your methadone clinics and 
your probation/parole offices. Orgs are coming in and doing preventions; fund 
them. Don't waste time, money and energy re-inventing 
233
Remove funding outreach teams.
234
All The Above?
235
along with allowing for more beds in mental health facilities, make sure there is 
also funding available for more staff to accommodate the higher capacity 
236
Addiction services are extremely for those with mental health issues and they are 
in short supply and often those with addiction issues then lose out on mental 
health resources
237
Follow up with convicts released should have a personal emphasis. Not just, here 
ya go. Have at it. PO's are basically worthless as they don't guide, they are 
impunitive if a person slides back due to lack of guidance.  
Hands on emphasis is key to all of the above. Blanket approach does not work. 
NO ONE CARES, REALLY.
238
meds should be forced . period. it is not their right to abuse the system dn good 
will of others because they want to be crazy
239
1.  Standard refrain: you need to provide sanitary facilities by opening the 
restrooms at city parks. 
2.  State law allows for a petition to a court to involuntarily commit a person for a 
short time; this section should fund the police (or some other city employees) to 
make those requests as needed.
240
Explore ordinances to make it illegal for hospitals and jails to release people 
experiencing mental health crises to the streets. 
241
We need to get rid of possession of drug charges. If someone has an addition, 
they shouldn't be jailed, and they shouldn't receive a criminal record for it. This 
just increases the odds of them ending up back on the streets. 
242
Mental health services are as important as housing individuals. They need 
intervention throughout their stay at the shelter and after they have received 
permanent housing for as long as needed. It is critical to them being successfully 
rehoused.
243
M2.2 - This is extremely important. I have a son with a mental illness. I have been 
advocating for him for years. While working through the Mental Health System 
I've seen a lot of hopeless individuals. Patients with drug and alcohol addictions 
are not getting the services they need. It is known that homeless mentally ill 
patients self medicate with drugs and alcohol, but somehow that factor is 
overlooked.. Mentally ill individuals with drug and alcohol problems do not receive 
the services they need. There behavior is attributed to substance abuse, and they 
are released without having the underlying condition treated. So many of these 
individuals end up in jails and prison, where they do not receive the help they 
need.
2.2
244
We need someone other than police to respond to crimes of homelessness and 
mental health issues so they don’t go to court in the first place. Criminalizing 
poverty, homelessness and mental health problems only worsens the problem 
and doesn’t solve anything. 
245
Legalize drugs like many other countries have done with good results.
246
We need to be careful with M 1.1.  We don't want to be warehousing persons 
with MI and giving them substandard care.
1.1
247
Yes!!!
Mental Health Chapter Comments
112

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr
Mental Health Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
248
All of these cost money that could go to benefit a bigger portion of the community
249
Some things will never change.  Having lived here for almost 40 years have seen 
the same issues over and over.  Having moved from the Detroit, MI area - same 
thing.  Yes, help people but problem will never be solved, fixed, cured, whateever 
you want to call it.  HELP the residents and KEEP up the city for taxpayers so 
more do not leave, enforce blight - not like the joke of house in our neighborhood 
where there are at least 10 violations in the past 5 years and even the inspector 
(who is a joke sometimes) has stated he does not want to deal with the people.  
There are internal city problems that need to be dealt with first.
250
I don't believe additional capacity of IMDs is valuable.  People in these situations 
need care and increasing the number of people in them will reduce the care and 
help each person will receive.  Keeping the environment small and personal is 
more effective.   Otherwise we risk falling into the same traps that gave large 
mental health institutions bad reputations.  Accountability is important.  
251
Same as previuos
252
Finding a way to engage individuals who need the services. Many individuals who 
live outside of the CASS property have mental health challenges. If they were 
receiving services, their lifestyle could look much different. Engagement in the 
process is crucial! How are you going to implement that? How will you respond to 
those who don't participate?
253
Please explain where the funding is coming from. Is it coming from Arizonan 
residents? 
254
Mental health is important, however, I don't believe that there are enough 
services available currently and increasing capacity could overwhelm current 
255
We need a state mental facility capacity to permanently house those who are 
seriously mentally ill. Those that can live with supervision need to be in group 
homes where medication can be monitored.
256
Understanding there are some mentally ill homeless who will never be able to 
care for themselves and should not be subjected to the streets, this needs to be 
focused on rehabilitating mentally ill homeless to an ability and responsibility to 
care for themselves, if possible (not just if they want to).
257
This is the #1 reason for chronic homelessness. 
258
Mental health admissions have been largely self admits. While I am for having 
drug addictions hospitalized, my past experience is that they will go right back to 
drugs after discharge!
259
I think it's very important to address drug addiction as a public health and mental 
health issue and NOT as a crime issue. Definitely provide more resources for 
addicts to seek recovery rather than put them in jail for possession of drugs.
260
Add: state oversight on the licensed professionals and fund usage of this portion. 
261
Bring back involuntary commitment.
262
Prioritize children living with homelessness and expand parent child relationship 
therapy opportunities to prevent attachment disorders and create more exposure 
to specialists in child mental health.
263
Given the extent of the data presented, 7k+ homeless and %51 unsheltered, it is 
impossible to know what a good strategy looks like. We should do the work to 
understand the population further. What percent needs mental health services? 
What percentage are on the street due to recent eviction? What percent are 
using hard drugs? What percent would take a bed if one was available? 
264
People released from Detention centers must be put on County buses and taken 
to other counties. Providing too many services here draws more in as the 
snowbird transients from Seattle and Portland prove.
Mental Health Chapter Comments
113

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr
Mental Health Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
265
Offer group home sort stay for recently discharged inmates and provide job 
seeking assistance 
266
I don't know if I support M.1.1 , but the other items make sense.
1.1
267
ADD: Training for police in dealing with mental health and addiction problems.
268
mental illness is a huge problem as well as addiction 
269
"Advocate" to treat addictio like mental illness?  Seem like fluff, either you do or 
you don't.   Either way it needs to be addressed.  Isnt there social services 
consult upon release from corrections and institutions.  sounds like a follow thru 
internal control issue.
270
I do not support increasing the 16 bed limit for IMD's.
271
Partner with law enforcement with programs to work with and manage mentally ill 
calls/complaints, etc. I believe we need a larger area for those that are 
permanently mental ill.  
272
Is there an objective related to those who consistently refuse mental health 
assistance?
273
Good strategy, but I think halfway house operators need to do a better job of 
notifying and working with communities to mitigate issues regarding impacts to 
the community.
274
The entire state struggles with inadequate mental health services for all people, 
homeless it not. General MH funding to increase overall services for all issues, 
including addiction issues is desperately needed
275
Addiction, in particular, drives long term homelessness. Treating addiction like a 
medical emerges appropriate. 
276
How many people are we talking about? Pretty soon your list will include anyone 
who lives in Phoenix and does want to work. This entire project is too broad and 
as such will fail. 
277
16 beds is pathetic
278
An idea for IMDs is a skilled nursing type setting, institutions limit freedom and 
independence while skilled nursing facilities have more freedom. These facilities 
can be tailored to the populations needs and wants. More outdoor areas and 
possibly ability to have pets.
279
This should also extend to non-homeless people and problem people 
encountered by police - especially repeat offenders in multiple jurisdictions.
280
Good the way it reads
281
Utilize and optimize existing mental health services will him the community and 
correctional system. Reappropriate funding for correction officer training and 
restructure correctional system to handle added mental health services
282
More crowding is not the answer.  Just like schools, overcrowding has become 
an issue
283
Addressing the barriers properly, long term, is the bigger challenge. For the long 
term self-sufficiency to come, first we have to help people cope. 
284
the mental heath outreach in this section should not just be limited to the 
homeless but to everyone.. if mental health was better for the normal population 
and addressed early on then many people would of avoided becoming homeless.
285
Mental illness is complicated by substance use. You can’t successfully treat 
someone who is using other substances and drugs.
286
Seems like we already have all,of this, but it just doesn’t work as currently 
implemented. 
 
Mental Health Chapter Comments
114

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr
Mental Health Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
287
No one should be homeless due to mental illness.  Focus needs to be on finding 
treatments people will stay on and that work.  
288
Money provided to providers to be highly monitor.  Having worked for over 15 
year with three different health authorities I learned ways to keep spending the 
money and clinics practicing unethical tricks to  keep the money rolling.  Not a 
very professional way to describe it but I am certain that directors are fully aware 
of this practice.  
289
Mental health services is the root of many of these issues
290
The municipal court should have a diversion program. The rest should be 
addressed thur the county
291
m.2.3 Please develop a program similar to the one Mesa has.  It has been 
relatively successful.  Nowhere, so far do i see you address the criminal aspect 
on those who choose to stay on the streets and choose to  lead a life of crime.
2.3
292
Especially important for young adults transitioning out of the child and family 
services and foster care system; also anyone transitioning out of corrections.  
Staff will likely benefit from ongoing training  and oversight in principles of harm 
reduction as pertains to working with people with addictions.  Employment 
opportunities (and housing) shouldn't be conditional on abstinence from  D&A (at 
least at no greater extent than the would anyone's whose job does not require  
periodic drug testing, such as person who drives a school bus).
293
I think housing is more important.  Once they are off the street, I think mental 
health could be addressed more easily.
294
I do not support larger facilities for mental health. I support increasing the number 
of permanent housing with supportive services.  I have seen many people do well 
with services as many do not need them daily.    
 
295
This is very expensive.  Does anyone have this kind of money.
296
The combined salaries of the top 5 nonprofit executives in the valley for 
behavioral health such as Southwest Behavioral, Terros Health, etc., can fund 
over half these services. 
297
I am not sure that some of these items should fall within the City's plan
298
Think about dramatically increasing accessibility, in addition to availability. 
Expansion of Mental Health outreach teams is good, particularly if they are in the 
Assertive Community Treatment model and include mobile outreach psychiatric 
evaluators and prescribers
299
Build on partnerships with existing mental health hospitals and treatment facilities 
(within the county) to improve discharge workflow into supportive housing.
300
no changes
301
SMI clinics do not regularly engage with their homeless population. Hospitals call 
to notify but SMI clinic does not quickly come to the hospital to re-engage the 
person in services. Patient may come / go from the hospital multiple times before 
SMI case manager comes to see the person.
302
Again, include the community in the ideas for improvement before writing up.
303
Include strategies to provide low income communities with easily accessible 
mental health care. Normalize seeking mental health care and teaching healthy 
coping mechanisms at the school level. The best way to address mental health 
issues in the homeless population is to work on preventing the crisis that lead to 
homelessness in the first place. 
Mental Health Chapter Comments
115

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr
Mental Health Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
304
I think, before finding a liaison for work development, a liaison for this should be 
considered first. Many individuals are suffering from mental illness which landed 
them in their current situation. Let's take care of the person's well-being first 
before finding them a job. This is better preparation, IMO. 
305
Mental health care at its root would help prevent homelessness rather than 
simply trying to help those who are already homeless because the system failed 
them. 
306
This is very important to address mental health challenges. And once again I will 
say this is only valuable if it's done in conjunction with increasing shelter beds on 
the HSC, as shelter is needed before any true mental health progress can be 
made. 
307
How do we have no state funded mental help system. 
308
There are promising practices in other cities for transitional services from 
detention centers so that individuals are not released without support services or 
self-advocacy skills. 
309
All homeless have mental health issues both because of homelessness or cause 
of homelessness. 
310
Increase service providers. There is too long of a wait for those that are ready for 
help that are vulnerable. There needs to be safer emergency options available 
that can be utilized during a crisis that does not include the police department. 
311
Stress the importance of increasing the number of shelter beds, 
312
A section on this topic should be included, however the above strategies are 
weak. What are the goals? How will progress be measured? Was the State or 
Regional Behavioral Health Authority included to provide expert input? What 
difference will these Strategies make?
313
veterans with disability, PTSD, SMI help
314
Integration with law enforcement including much more crisis training and ways to 
prevent arrest being the solution.
315
Is there a way to look at specific strategies to add to the mental health category? I 
think that section of the plan could benefit from some additional strategies. For 
instance, with the shelter bed portal which lists Phoenix PD as primary users and 
in other instances where police officers are dispatched to engage with people 
experiencing homelessness. I believe it would be beneficial to officers and to 
folks experiencing homelessness to look at other models which include specific 
mental health personnel to respond to calls regarding people experiencing 
homelessness.
316
criminalizing the mentally ill and vulnerably homeless
317
Is addiction issues being addressed under mental health issues?
318
Why are the people on the lots the last people to know about housing and why do 
you have to be SMI to receive services.
319
I also find it concerning that "street giving" is always treated as a "wrong 
response". We work to refer to services and ask how we can direct if needed. 
Our group has always said, when the homeless stop showing up, so will we.
320
Does the plan address the severely mentally ill? Does it address people who are 
a danger to others and themselves? There is a man in the area of 19th Ave and 
Union Hills who refuses help and is aggressive toward others. His clothes are 
literally rotting off his body.
Mental Health Chapter Comments
116

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr
Mental Health Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
321
City police and parks personnel have approached service providers in public 
spaces and required (informally) that providers cease and desist services to 
those experiencing homelessness. These demands are not founded in written 
policy, state, county or other laws but the presence of law enforcement is 
seemingly used to dissuade grass roots services to those in most need. What 
changes will the City make to address the apparent oppositional approach to 
service providers?
Mental Health Chapter Comments
117

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
1
Using limited funds to gate allies and not finding safe places for homeless people 
during the day as well as the night does not fix the problem.  There are homeless 
people living living in the park across the street from our home.
Housing
2
If we are going to add more lighting, I would like to see adherence to Dark Skies 
recommendations (hoods, using lighting colors that do not affect wildlife, etc. This 
section, in this particular point in time, does lend itself to a thoughtful reflection on 
the role of policing and how the City should consider shifting funds towards other 
programs that can address underlying issues without brining in people with 
firearms. 
3
Cameras-NO
4
Additional surveillance and lighting should be removed
5
GET RID OF ALL DRUG TRAFFICKERS ON THE STREET!!!
6
Public restrooms might be a good idea but would have to be monitored 24/7 and 
highly maintained. Abandoned alleyways could have been developed as paths 
with added maintained plantings by the neighboring property owners. Getting rid 
of overgrown vegetation and garbage dumpsters in these areas might help 
mitigate vagrancy. Gating of these areas might have unintended consequences 
such as attracting wildlife and increasing neglect. Homeowners should be given 
incentives to maintain or utilize these areas to create a better environment. Illegal 
dumping and lighting in certain areas should be addressed.
7
Cross Roads UMC has provided portable toilets for use by homeless people.  
Encourage other churches to do the same.
8
I am not so sure about N.1.1, do not think neighborhoods would be called to 
action. Also N2.2 I doubt the expense of installation of camera would be cost 
effective
1.1
2.2
9
Put the Neighborhood Watch groups officially in charge of all of the above points. 
They are accomplishing every instance of this plan already. Offer them meeting 
space in some of those vacant real estate plots, with a five year RTO attached 
(I.e. clear the blight, install and manage cameras with the police and RING, get 
the building). 
10
Housing, and housing and housing.
11
"We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEY'RE 
 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS" 
 
12
I love and welcome the idea of calling neighborhoods to action and taking care of 
our own communities, but  I would like more information on the Gated Alley Pilot 
Program (i.e. cost vs. visible results).
13
N.2.2 should be removed. Gated alleys are a far superior solution to cameras.
2.2
14
Using public funding to install private alley gates and security cameras is 
ridiculous. If residents have issues with unsheltered people, the city needs to get 
to the root instead of continuing to apply expensive cosmetic fixes.
2.2
15
Preservation of human life and shelter is priority over any neighborhood concern 
which can't equate to lives at stake. Also the language "Expand use of illegal 
dumping...congregation, etc." criminalizes homelessness. Homelessness is NOT 
CRIMINAL. Strategy 1 is OK...fine, communicate better. Strategy 2 just seems 
like a cheap ploy to line city pockets. The resources are there. It's not the city's 
fault nor nonprofit/community agencies fault if the neighborhood is willfully 
ignorant. No one should pay for others ignorance. 
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
118

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
16
2.2 may be an expense that is unnecessary immediately, if the other items of this 
section are designated as a high priority.
2.2
17
criminalizing homelessness will not help solve the root of the issue. I'd like to see 
more details about how public restrooms and trash cans can be made more 
available everywhere. Transparency is needed regarding how neighborhoods will 
be educated; what agencies will they be encouraged to call when they have 
issues? Law enforcement or community outreach?
18
Remove the part about illegal dumping.  Don't we want to ENCOURAGE people 
to throw away trash?  Let's find a way to allow all dumping trash, and then push 
people to throw away all their trash.  Any trash can anywhere.
19
All these have implications to further criminalize homelessness
20
This type of language further stigmatizes these individuals needing assistance. 
Enact the rest of these proposals and this deterrence method will not be needed 
as greatly. Too quickly can programming language such as this turn into a broken-
windows type philosophy and that does not create safe and welcoming 
communities. 
21
Remove 2.2
2.2
22
Not for people especially at night loitering around property.....I understand the 
homelssness is an issue but giving them a handout and the communities are the 
ones who suffer crime goes up police funds are cut and what are residents to do?
23
This is basically a call for greater police involvement, no thanks.
24
These objectives are incredibly vague and there is a lack of description of how 
and what you plan to implement in order to appropriately address homelessness 
in Phoenix. There needs to be more information provided and we demand full 
transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and an extension for 
the public comment meetings until they’re accessible to people experiencing 
homelessness. 
25
Partner with churches to help the homeless populations
26
when, when when....
27
If you do the previous parts, you won't need this one.   Not sure what the Gated 
Alley Program has to do with this.   Eliminating alleys and garbage collection is an 
easy fix and should have been done years ago.
28
Gated alley program funds should not be taken from the already limited block 
watch funds.  
29
Who are you kidding. No City department is going to enforce this.  Plus, the 
clientele you are trying to reach isn't going to look out for this information. You 
have to go to them 
30
These measures seem to work to decrease certain activities of those 
experiencing homelessness, but reading the proposed goals, this just seems to 
mean there will be more policing for those citizens. For example, if we put more 
"illegal dumping cameras" that are designed to "discourage congregation in 
alleys," won't there be an increase in police visits to these areas of congregation? 
This may lead to more arrests which does not necessarily seem to address the 
problem. 
31
It's important to keep these thoughts in mind but it seems to me that these are for 
residents not the homeless. If you try to hard to 'balance' how your attacking this 
problem by doing a tit for tat you'll lose the very people you're trying to help. Start 
with them and i believe you'll see the dominoes fall in place as you want them. 
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
119

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
32
N.1.2 - I like this. 
N.2.1 - live in a neighborhood with gated alley pilot - very helplful in reducing 
traffic in and out of alleys
1.2
2.1
33
Establish a rating of neighborhoods by homelessness impact 
Establish community/neighborhood contacts in the communication to and from 
the city. Possibly tie into existing Precinct Committee members or Neighborhood 
websites. 
As I walk around my neighborhood there are a variety of homeless in our city 
parks. What are the best ways for neighbors to help?
34
Any program to reduce NIMBY fears would be helpful.
35
1. Especially in areas with high transient activity, property owners are often very 
challenged with trash, debris, shopping carts, human waste, and drug 
paraphernalia left behind on their properties by people using the space to live or 
hang out. These property owners are victims of circumstance, but are often cited 
many times over for the blight. Like the graffiti busters program, can the city take 
a similar approach for cleaning these heavily used areas vs. citing the owners?  
 
2. In developing holistic plans for neighborhoods, it could be very difficult to 
develop and operationalize those within the current job descriptions and day-to-
day processes. Staff would need room to take that approach. 
 
3. Expanding the gate alley pilot program process city wide (vs. abandonment as 
the only other option) would be really helpful for neighborhoods.
36
How can neighborhoods be helpful?  How can we reintegrate people into 
neighborhoods? Provide jobs? (clean up/tree trimming).  Development of public 
showers?
37
We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEY'RE 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS.
38
Ability to prosecute those seen on camera participating in illegal dumping.
39
These things sound very good but need to be down the list as far as priority.  
MUST get the mental health and more available housing first!
40
N2.2 is abhorrent. We don't need more criminalization of the homeless 
community, we need more resources and security cameras are not more 
resources, it's criminalization. This section is just another reason for the police to 
deploy violence against the homeless community in Phoenix. This is absolutely 
ridiculous. The resources provided to neighborhoods should look like access to 
public services and essential services like water, restrooms, shade, places for 
rest, and shelter. This whole section basically distances neighborhoods from the 
homeless community, encourages criminalization, and doesn't unite our 
community. 
2.2
41
It is important to fund programming that will increase the safety of the city as well 
as walk-ability and bike-ability to enhance the livability of the city. 
42
Include NA on reviewing the impact of these solutions. Possibly quarterly. 
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
120

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
43
Yes. Public restrooms are one of the highest traffic areas for drug use. It’s really 
a shame. I love to walk the park with my two young children. Unfortunately, the 
amount of drug abuse going on is terrifying. The last walk we went on, about 15 
people out of their minds at the bathroom. Two people shooting up right in front of 
us. It’s absolutely horrifying. That’s the last walk we went on in our neighborhood. 
Which is a shame. I own a home, take care of my property and want a clean 
neighborhood for my children. We have people digging in our alley trash all the 
time. Leaving a mess everywhere. We need help from the city departments. It’s 
not fair on our police force to receive call after call after call every day. They have 
real crime to handle. I wish there was a specific task force... that was funded well 
enough to take real action. But once again, the drugs is the base of the problem. 
44
The Mayor already has a Neighborhood Committee, yet no one has been 
consulted on this initiative.  
45
The City of Phoenix Website needs to be easier to navigate. The Mayor needs to 
do a MUCH better job of informing residents of day to day happenings around the 
city. How about taking a clue from the Mayor of Newport Beach with an 
informative Daily Update in social media. Would cost 0 dollars 
https://www.facebook.com/ONeill4Newport/photos/a.209964802690236/1208032
956216744/?type=3&theater
46
Alleys need to be addressed
47
Gated alleys and cameras to discourage congregating should be deleted. Alleys 
are public spaces. Congregating should not be criminalized.
2.2
48
We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
an extension for the public comment meetings until they're accessible to people 
experiencing homelessness. 
49
These, aside from outreach, seen to be reactionary. We need to take action, not 
wait until it's too late.
50
This basically would allow neighborhoods to have more power in disenfranchising 
already homeless people. Gating alleyways would provide even less neutral 
space for them to reside. Garbage cameras are also ridiculous. How often do you 
think these people are digging through garbage literally to just feed themselves? 
51
no more shelter beds in downtown, our neighborhoods are already overwhelmed
52
I think this is very confusing as it is written and I think it needs to be further 
developed so that it is not adversely impacting homeless populations
53
More information needed. 
54
"We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEYRE 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS"
55
A comprehensive booklet with ALL services needs to be made available to 
communities, schools, churches, block watch groups, etc.-the more we know 
what's available the better we all are.
56
N.2.3 and N.2.4 are the most important in this section, probably the only two that 
should be in the section
2.4
2.3
57
The objective of this section is unclear to me
58
Not sure cameras help
59
Consider motion sensor lights in alleyways to discourage dumping and enhance 
order maintenance. 
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
121

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
60
What are the metrics to measure success for this plan?  This survey is sadly a 
bad design, seeking confirmation bias instead of genuine public input. 
61
A mitigation plan to address the impact the neighborhoods are facing and there is 
no mention of shelters and shelter locations.
62
ok 
63
This section focuses too much on punishing behaviors by homeless people that 
they would be far less likely to engage in if they had more resources.  We should 
focus our efforts and money toward giving them safer places to rest and plan, 
which will in turn reduce congregation in problematic areas.
64
I think this section needs amendments. In the full report, it states that more trash 
and refuse collects around the Human Services Campus than in other areas of 
Phoenix, possibly because "personal belongings of persons experiencing 
homelessness are not permitted to be brought into overnight stays at the Central 
Arizona Shelter Services (CASS)". It appears that one solution you are pursuing 
is to install Gated Alleys. I propose that, rather than closing off alleys from 
homeless people to try to prevent them from leaving belongings or trash, you 
could install public lockers for homeless people to store their belongings. Of 
course, these lockers would need to be cleaned regularly, and they would need to 
have locks built into them. Another option is to add more trash and recyling 
receptacles around the Human Services Campus. I believe these alternatives 
would be better than closing off certain alleyways. Gated alleyways would leave 
fewer places for homeless people to leave their belongings, leading to larger, 
denser trash piles or more debris out on street corners or parks. 
65
Remove N.2.1 and N.2.2
2.1
2.2
66
This looks like another opportunity for COP to pat themselves on the back. OF 
COURSE, you should be doing this and are already. WE HAVE A CRISIS. DO 
MORE IF YOU CAN.  
2.3: we need more public restrooms. SHAME ON COP for shutting down the 
public restroom at Hance Park. COP SHOULD OPEN BATHROOMS, Showers 
and drinking water fountains ON THEIR own. The County and State should 
provide more public bathrooms, showers and drinking water fountains on their 
own. YES, IT MEANS hiring people to safe guard them and clean them. HIRE 
SOME PEOPLE to keep our city clean and safe, rather than more police so once 
an area is trashed, you can arrest someone. It’s a no-brainer. People need jobs. 
Hire them to clean our city up and make it more livable.
67
City washes should also be included. They make even more comfortable 
camping than alleys.
68
I like addressing the public restrooms as the one in Washington Park is 
frequently used for drug use. In addition, I highly support expanding the gating of 
the alleys.
69
No gated alley!!! No gated alley!! No gated alley!! Stop that!! Cameras, yes, no 
gated alley program. No bulk trash out front! Just say NO!!! 
2.2
70
Find areas for legal camping for homeless ..
71
Remove gates alleys portion and cameras
72
I think creating resources for neighborhoods is important, as is maintaining safety 
for all involved. I dont think using cameras to monitor illegal dumping is a good 
use of tax dollars and is borderline unconstitutional. 
73
This is much more reactionary and sounds more like policing or criminalizing 
homelessness
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
122

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
74
Please redesign the survey to discuss each policy item.  This is designed to limit 
the transparency of the public and to provide generic feedback.  It is very hard to 
navigate back and forth between the 30 page documents.  The research does not 
address costs in any way.   It also should be written to allow for those with basic 
reading ability to understand the principles.
75
Development of Neighborhood Committees to address specific needs in of local 
neighborhoods.  
76
The trash and restroom issue is a real problem. 
77
Emphasize the integration of community support services for individuals 
experiencing homelessness and the neighborhood's responsibility to reach out to 
community services. Discourage neighborhood residents from direct action such 
as confronting, harassing, or assaulting transient populations. 
78
If this must be included in the plan, then remove expanded use of security 
cameras. Remove the expansion of the Gated Alley Program Pilot. Create a 3 
digit number for residents to call that connects them with Phoenix CARES for 
easy support with their concerns. Neighborhood issues will disappear as more 
housing is built and people experiencing homelessness are given housing first.
2.2
79
The long term plan for neighborhoods should be to end homelessness, period. 
This section is just a red herring.
80
Focus seems to be on problem areas, rather than people and root causes. 
81
Neighborhoods will pull together for important issues. Information on how to 
properly address homeless problems in a neighborhood has been missing and 
will be very helpful in managing all the related concerns.
82
It is nice to have the govt help with some of this stuff instead of citizens having to 
confront people themselves, which often times does not end well. The city would 
not have to spend a lot more money on telling citicens of the information 
resources, since a lot of it can be included with the water bill, like it already is on 
the included flyer. 
83
N.2.2 should be removed. Unmanned governmental electronic surveillance of the 
citizenry is a breach of our constitutional rights. Increase the swiftness, severity 
and certainty of punishment for those who are caught engaging in these 
2.2
84
There are other cities that are getting better results.  Mesa is one city that we 
have been tracking for how they deal with the criminal aspect of the homeless.   
https://www.mesaaz.gov/residents/community-development/reducing-
homelessness/help-for-the-homeless 
Look particularly at the section titled “How Mesa’s police officers can help” 
85
Yes to all of this one, including additional security for alleys, illegal dumping 
prevention / enforcement, and thing that can be done to improve parks (Solano 
Park in particular).
86
Eliminate cameras
2.2
87
NSD should develop a plan to coordinate services for neighborhoods. 
88
Not only expand the Gated Alley Program but fund all qualifying allies.
89
N.1.2 is there data to show that NSD, along with other dept, attending 
neighborhood meetings is not effective? Or Phx At Your Service?  
N.2.1 This "pilot" has been going on for 10 years! That's not a pilot program 
anymore 
Need to prioritize public restrooms, more trans cans/bins, and access to drinking 
water
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
123

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
90
These strategies seem to be trying to punish and control people experiencing 
homelessness, rather than helping them. There should be an increase in public 
restrooms. 
91
I think instead of building gates and fences in these neighborhoods to keep 
homelessness away or out of view of is not the answer to the growing housing 
problem. Public restrooms yes, if it's for all to use and not just those with a 
permanent address. No need for additional lighting as that does not address 
housing these individuals. 
92
N.2.2.  Cameras in alleys to discourage congregating?  Is congregating a vague 
term?
93
N.2.2 can be removed. Cameras do not discourage people! Especially those who 
are mentally unwell - they are not able to rationalize that a camera is there to 
deter them. 
2.2
94
Citizens want to help, they just don't know where to find it.
95
Once again incredibly vague. Using buzz words without going into strategy. Try 
laying out all of these plans in detail in an easily accessible format for the public.
96
If you help people with housing this will not be an issue. 
97
N2.1 I am fully supportive of Gated Alleys. I am a neighborhood leader and there 
are so many issues with alleys and keeping them clean!! N2.3 - This would be 
great especially with the light rail areas. However, how do you keep them clean 
and not have another place where homeless come to live. Like the bus stops.
2.1
2.3
98
I don't know about this one. I don't want any homeless people roaming my 
neighborhood. Dont dare think about 'redistributing' them
99
There needs to be a focus on community involvement and fellowship so that 
people support each other. 
100
Clearly, the homeless need clean restrooms and a place to bathe to ward off 
infections and disease. I'm not sure what it means to call neighborhoods to 
action. Obviously, dark areas need better lighting and to discourage congregating 
for illicit purposes.
101
The single best thing you can do for the neighborhoods, such as mine, where the 
drug addicts eat, sleep, vomit, shit, and dump huge piles of trash across the 
alley, is to provide safety lighting that illuminates the entire length of the alleys. 
This should be a relatively easy and inexpensive project to implement, and 
should be done as a stand-alone project to implement immediately. The alleys 
have the power lines and APS has a program where they will install the safety 
lighting on their power poles free of charge and they just require a contract to add 
a recurring $10 a month fee for electricity added to a customer's electricity bill. 
The city should be able to work out a contract with APS to install the security 
lights for a negotiated fee and the problem is solved. 
2.2
102
add alley gates.  Unfortunately, the homeless do not follow or respect rules and 
physical barriers are needed to protect vulnerable areas such as alleys.
2.2
103
N.2.2 - Rather than surveilling and criminalizing homeless people for surviving, 
prioritize finding them housing. People won't litter in alleys when they have an 
indoor space to live in. Unsheltered homeless people are not animals whose daily 
living behavior needs to be policed and corrected by authorities and housed 
neighbors.
2.2
104
I’m assuming these points of interest have to do with homelessness downtown. I 
think the best approach is getting people off the streets. Some people want to live 
on the streets.  Arrest them put them in jail this gets people off the streets. Spend 
the money on jails institutions etc not bandages. 
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
124

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
105
All of the initiatives in this section reek of the toxic culture of (to use a term from 
contemporary vernacular) Karen. Please remove. This is once again clearly 
addressing symptoms and not causes. The inclusion of this section, even only 
potentially, now makes me doubt the City's seriousness of addressing the real 
problem of homelessness. 
106
More community based officers to help
107
all great
108
This part takes a swift turn from understanding homelessness as a public health 
crisis to treating people that are homeless as criminals and their basic behaviors 
as criminal. Great to have public bathrooms and place for people to rest and be 
while they wait for housing. But if you're putting up the fences and cameras, 
without resources in place, you're setting people up to get arrested. Providing 
information to the public is fantastic and we should have a campaign that helps 
people understand that arrests/convictions for people who are homeless means 
barriers to housing and services. Encouraging the public to call 211 and crisis 
teams and funding those services is key in creating better outcomes for people 
living on the streets. 
109
Additional lighting hasn't been shown to reduce crime. It has shown to have a 
negative impact on human and wildlife health.
110
Need places for the homeless to be during the day when shelters are closed.  
111
We all need to do our part to provide education, assistance in this effort. We all 
Have a skill to offer . Example give an hour - Is a  a program you can call and talk 
to a volunteer- it may not be therapy but some people just need to be heard . It’s 
a way to give back. It helps lonely people. It could be something free where you 
just call a volunteer that day to talk. 
112
Two things - cameras for illegal dumping will only criminalize people experiencing 
homelessness. I believe a gated alley program will only do the same. Why isn’t 
there a plan in here for training neighborhood coalitions on better ways of 
responding to individuals experiencing homelessness. Neighborhood Services 
could include that as a resource for neighbors and associations/coalitions. The 
City of Phoenix Public Library has a phenomenal training by an individual named 
Ryan Dowd that I think Neighborhood Services ought to offer to frustrated and 
concerned neighborhood orgs.
113
Neighborhoods should be just as important as mental health outreach and more 
housing options. Business owners and homeowners deserve respect.
114
If there are more police survilance in these neighborhoods, that may decrease. 
What about using survilence drones ? 
115
Neighborhoods need a contact person with the City who can help them develop a 
specific plan for addressing their challenges and needs with homelessness 
issues. It is not enough just to say, "Each neighborhood needs an individualized 
plan." What resources are you providing neighborhoods to develop a solid plan?
116
It would be wonderful if restrooms were available for the homeless.  Also water 
and washing stations so Covid 19 will not spread in this community and then in 
neighborhoods.  
117
Make sure Phoenix Police are not involved with the care of homeless people. Do 
not provide any additional money to Phoenix Police, Deflect any increases to 
resources in our city. Provide better resources that prevent this kind of tragedy 
from happening again by not spending so much on Policing and more on 
schools, before and after school programs, health and healthcare disparities. 
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
125

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
118
Education - educate the neighborhoods about how wide spread this issue is, also 
educate on the resources, if they see someone struggling instead of a negative 
reaction provide solutions, share resources.
119
Find a Mental institution 
120
more lighting is all that is needed.  The phrasing of list tells me that homeless will 
invade neighborhoods, then we will have to spend more money to get them out.  
Not working out well in other US cities
121
How about focusing on ways to get them to move on. Homelessness or squatting 
and loitering shouldn’t be encouraged or tolerated. It shouldn’t be pander to or 
any of that other nonsense.
122
Elements of this section reiterate the existing position of using the police and 
hostile-urbanism as the solution to homelessness. This section contains good 
ideas (the first 3) but then sneak in adversarial strategies.
123
Enforcement is a necessary complement for those of us who live in heavy traffic 
areas for homeless they set up camps in spaces like parks and now are not 
usable by kids and families
124
Delete N.2.2
2.2
125
Don't enable the homeless so that they find an alternative.
126
Alternatives to policing should be advertised everywhere you can. I think lighting 
would be more effective than illegal dumping cameras, as punitive measures will 
mainly add more friction and likely hurt people in need. 
127
Make this clearer
128
Some of this is okay but not all of it. I understand the suggestions, but they don't 
work. For instance, providing bathrooms. Those facilities become places for drug 
deals and sex acts. Saw this happen in our park. Again, the solution is to allow 
services such as that to those who want to participate in changing their situation 
not perpetuating their situation!
129
I'm not familiar with some of these issues. Increased surveillance isn't something 
I am fond of.  
130
I read the detailed plan.  What is the plan for those that refuse services?  Is there 
another safety net to catch those that don't accept help or fail to compete support 
programs? Thank you.
131
Add how to address homeless congregation/encampments at bus stops - maybe 
not this section but it should be addressed somewhere.
132
Love the idea of expanding gated alley program. I would suggest adding strong 
partnership with other City departments to help with neighborhood revitalization - 
we need to figure out how to better take care of our neighborhoods with 
significant homelessness populations.
133
Neighborhoods suffer from NIMBY to the extreme; will this empower them to 
think they can force an anywhere but here. What about the neighborhoods where 
alley's are also multi-resident housing parking access? Are gates helping 
homeowners only?
134
Again, accountability, funding and effectiveness.  Neighborhoods want to see 
improvements in their areas.  Enlists those individuals that are benefiting from 
these programs to assist in cleanup, etc.  Incent them for their efforts.  Police 
resources are spread thin, costs continue to rise.
135
Less emphasis on enforcement, more focus on solving the core issue of housing 
the homeless.
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
126

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
136
THE GATED ALLEY PROGRAM HAS BEEN A GOOD THING FOR THE 
PORTION OF OUR NEIGHBORHOOD THAT HAS IMPLEMENTED IT.  IT HAS 
CONTROLLED THE NON-ESSENTIAL MIGRATION THROUGH THE ALLEYS 
AND LIMITED THE BACK YARD INTRUSIONS.
137
I do not think there needs to be more cameras.   They will not be needed if we do 
the necessary work.  Use the funds elsewhere
2.2
138
The city needs to support neighborhoods who experience homelessness issues 
better -- like homeless people who live in the Alley AND  Illegal dumping is a big 
issue that the city really never addresses.  
139
Reaching out to local professionals, for example Architects and Campus 
Planners.  
 
Often the population have some form of a cell phone that is needed to manage 
healthcare/legal contacts/safety/family - there should be a safe space for low 
densities of people to charge their cell phone in peace. 
140
I feel that the laws we have are sufficient, and that the goal of this program 
shouldn't be to prosecute offending people but instead to get them back on their 
feet.
141
There needs to be one easy group/number to contact for all issues. For example-
saw a man, twice, pooping in our alley. Whom to call? No idea. Asked neighbors 
on Nextdoor? They told me to use a pooper scooper and dispose if it. Not sure if 
that’s what the city wants? I’d love a gated alley. 
142
Neighborhoods need to have resources to go to so that they know how to handle 
the homeless and what their rights are in conjunction with the behavior and the 
property damage that they do. Seeing a mentally ill person and feeling so 
helpless and being so afraid can only be rectified by the city giving us more 
resources
143
People who are homeless still have the same basic needs as other human 
beings.  Public restrooms and places where there might be showers available 
and donated, clean clothing to take would be humane. Safety is a real issue when 
living on the street.  
144
Hygiene and public safety is still important
145
Gated alleys and more cameras don't fix the source of the homelessness 
problem, just a side effect of it
146
The items listed in the Neighborhood section are back-handed ways of 
criminalizing behavior instead of creating ways to eliminate that behavior. In the 
meantime, YES, provide more public restrooms and more place for people to 
shelter so they don't have to defacate in an alley or sleep in a park.
147
this sounds like phoenix cares program.. its little more than a complaint line
148
This section is punitive rather than rehabilitative. The resources should go toward 
providing facilities that are open to all, and the staff needed to keep them clean 
and safe.
149
neighborhoods are fed up and will turn their back on spending resources on 
homelessness if we do not show significant progress in their parks, convenience 
stores etc. 
150
Neighborhoods would benefit from localized donation centers (such as donation 
bins) and the use of community gardens. 
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
127

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
151
N.1.1 - No. People already have access to media. It's a total waste of time trying 
to add to it.
N.1.2 - If it wasn't frustrating, it would be laughable. Phone tag between 
departments to answer taxpayer questions is nothing short of abhorrent. Some 
departments don't even know what they are responsible for. If they are not sure 
they just forward you to a different department. Fix what is in place before adding 
to i please.
N.1.3 - Oh God, stop the evaluation already! Our alleys for the most part look like 
parts of third world countries! Gating alleys solves nothing. Here is a novel idea - 
enforce blight codes for citizens who fail to maintain their half of their alley and 
pave them! Some are nothing more than wagon tracks between piles of 
vegetation, junk, and garbage. I will never pay any amount to close an alley that 
the city or county created. If you seek a real solution, move the utilities to the 
streets to upgrade and standardize to code(s) and let property owners reclaim 
their half of the alley by moving the fence line to the center of the alley. The city is 
out of compliance with county dust ordinances regarding dust control in alleys. 
N.2.2 - Absolutely yes! Cameras should have the ability to provide detailed 
vehicle and facial recognition as well as being connected to the police 
department. Caveat - cameras have to cover the entire alley. I am aware of the 
current camera program in existence. 
N.2.3 - You're kidding right? NO!
N.2.4 - Why are you even asking. If these areas need added lighting, do your 
jobs and get it done!! You need a survey for this??
1.1
1.2
1.3
2.2
2.3
2.4
152
N 1.2, 1.3, 2.3, and 2.4 only
153
In addition, where possible, reward or at least tolerate responsible stewardship by 
homeless individuals who do clean up after themselves.
154
What about supporting the existing laws that protect neighborhood residents, add 
identify and fund resources to clean up after illegal dumping, put into practice 
services to clean the garbage and waste that is left throughout the city
155
This seems as a way to criminalize homelessness, rather than aiding the 
homeless
156
 
Remove N.2.2--no more illegal dumping cameras
2.2
157
N.2.2 seems antagonistic
2.2
158
If homeless people receive all the other proposed services these issues 
disappear
159
Objective N.2.2 should be removed. This expands policing over vulnerable 
populations, who are most at risk of abuse or otherwise improper conduct from 
law-enforcement officers. 
2.2
160
You need a better system and access to services. This is putting the cart before 
the horse thinking.
161
have nonprofits work with government entities to better understand everyone's 
needs. This is not a cookie cutter solution to help the homeless. Understand the 
challenges law enforcement face and take it from there.
162
N.2.3 is the the only item in this section that should be part of the plan. Sounds 
like everything else is part of the City's normal course of business.
2.3
163
Create and provide public restrooms rather than just weasel-wording your way 
through "explore partnership opportunities." They do this in public squares all 
over Europe...it's not that hard.
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
128

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
164
N.2.1 should be removed. Gating alleys is not an effective use of time or money. 
The resources that would be used to gate alleys should be used on addressing 
the mental health and housing factors.
2.1
165
Add how you intend to more actively enforce the laws on  sleeping rough, loitering 
and littering (especially deliberate smashing of glass)
166
Discourage vigilante action by neighborhood residents. A lot of people pick up the 
phone and call the police. People should use other options but need to know 
what they are.
167
Explain the section about cameras and illegal dumping.  
168
Education to neighborhood residents and business owners on the subject of 
homelessness should be delivered as a service to reduce the stigma surrounding 
homelessness and encourage empathy of those who have never experienced 
homelessness. Other opportunities should be created to have the homeless 
community and neighborhood community come together and interact in a positive 
and safe way that, again, aims to reduce stigma and encourage empathy.
169
Yes, the neighborhoods need to feel safe, feel heard, feel valued. And getting 
them involved in any way possible, even in the smallest ways, will allow them to 
feel a sense of control over their areas and not react with such anger and 
resentment to the homeless. 
170
set up online neighborhood communities and interaction
171
N.2.2 excluded
2.2
172
Too many items for argument here again...
173
None of these hit at the root of the problem and are not sustainable for a 
meaningful amount of time.
174
Include education of city staff.  the message and answers coming out of whoever 
answers the city phones always needs to be the same.  there are times I have 
called various city departments and frequently they tell me to stop calling and use 
the website and the app.  
what does "call the neighborhood to action" truly mean?
175
Cameras should not be implemented to alleys to prevent encampment because 
that would criminalize people. There won't be a need for this if everyone has a 
house or home. Nor should we encourage our community to call for law 
enforcement on their fellow community members.
2.2
176
Remove N.2.2. As the camera will be useless if your other programs work 
correctly 
2.2
177
N.2.2- adding cameras is an unnecessary addition, adding lights and community 
resources is a much better use of funds
2.2
178
Stop criminalizing homelessness. 
179
Additional lighting and cameras are good ideas
180
The addition of further surveillance to criminalize homeless people should not be 
encouraged. 
181
Stop making it more difficult for homeless people to survive 
182
remove the gated alleys and dumping cameras; spend the money on affordable 
housing instead
183
“Discouraging congregation” sounds like a way to further criminalize 
homelessness. Those who are homeless are still our neighbors, and they should 
not be chased out from the areas in which they seek shelter, such as alleys and 
empty lots.
184
No need to waste precious resources on cameras. Providing the appropriate aid 
would already decrease the congregation of people in alleys. 
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
129

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
185
Designate specific neighborhoods within downtown/central Phoenix that will 
benefit from such resources, and ensure that suburban neighborhoods (such as 
Ahwatukee) within Phoenix will NOT be impacted by such resources.
186
More emphasis on options for neighborhoods to seek help with homeless issues 
that don’t involve the police or legal punishment/action. Less emphasis on 
punishing “congregation in alleys” and more community-based intervention from 
people with mental health and addiction treatment backgrounds and knowledge 
of available programs and support. Criminalization of any aspects of 
homelessness (public camping, sleeping, congregation in alleys, etc. will never 
work and will always punish the most vulnerable. 
187
WE (PHOENIX, GLENDALE, MARYVALE) NEED MORE POLICE ON THE 
STREETS
188
Solve the problem, not the symptom.  
189
leave as is
190
Enforce public nuisance laws.
191
More safety targets.
192
There needs to be a mass scale effort to inform citizens of the ways they can 
help. It should include providing everyone a contact number that they can call 
themselves, or give to homeless people to call, where the homeless are able to 
get support and get off the street and are provided resources to get back on their 
feet.
193
All very important, don't change anything.
194
Include partnership with local businesses to post no trespassing signs and 
discourage congregating on business properties. Educate businesses on how to 
eliminate environmental factors that encourage homeless and vagrants on 
properties. Encourage partnership with Phoenix Police to intervene when drugs 
and crime are prevalent.  Educate and activate Block Watch and Neighborhood 
Associations on resources and tools to eliminate problem areas.
195
What does “call to action” mean? 
If we provided better services people wouldn’t need to congregate in ally ways. 
We cannot continue to make homelessness illegal, people are trying to survive. 
196
City services response to calls from neighborhoods needs to increase. Cut red 
tape for shutting down alleys
197
Ensure communication programs include phone numbers for local policing 
198
I really appreciate the goal of public restrooms.
199
This makes people insensitive to our homless neighbors! Their still neighbors!
200
I like the extra lighting clause
201
I think we need to keep all options open and vigilant to any changes or additions 
as needed
202
Neighborhood outreach is critically important. Again the details here are 
important. Neighborhoods should have education and resources but ultimately 
the City needs to be responsive and take responsibility - often calls about unsafe 
alley situations are dismissed or ignored and it puts neighborhoods in difficult 
situations when the city pushes responsibility onto them
203
Include closing of residential alleys without the need for majority vote from 
residents. 
204
Pursue anti-panhandling legislation to direct those individuals to services and off 
the intersections.
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
130

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
205
I don't think cameras and gated alleys are the solution. I think expanding options 
for public restrooms and expanding access to shelters is a much better way of 
addressing this problem. If people have nowhere else to go, they are going to 
have to go somewhere, and adding more security will only criminalize them more 
for it, not actually solve the problem.
2.2
206
Seems like a waste of city funds.  Make the information available on the 
City/State websites, people will find it when they need it.  Please don't bother with 
cameras except where they are vitally necessary.
207
N.2.2 should only be implemented after the homeless shelter capacity has been 
significantly increased and the outreach programs are able to get people in them.
208
Dignity.
209
I'd like to see more public bathrooms and services to keep them clean.
210
Luz en las calles residenciales Dara mas seguridad en las casas 
211
N1.2 why doesn’t the City organize itself for a one stop shop instead of making a 
resident follow a road map to several different depts? N2.2  Do not support 
additional cameras; dumping is done by contractors! 
1.2
2.2
212
Listen to the neighborhood. They live there.  You ask them what they want and 
you all just do what you want. No respect for personal property.  
213
Add incentives on keeping neighborhood clean.Taken turns cleaning streets and 
neighborhoods clean, in return give homeless vouchers, cash or incentives of 
some type. 
214
Educate the public as well, business owners, homeowners, etc.about providing 
resources to the homeless individuals about where they can go for help or safety. 
Lessen the stigma...
215
Lighting actually encourages crime and we already suffer from massive light 
pollution. The gated alley program is a farce. It won't stop most of the issues and 
will create more problems. 
216
Phoenix residents need a better understanding of the extent of the problem than 
just what they see in their own neighborhoods.  I was blown away when I read 
this in your report, "There is an overall shortage of 163,067 units of housing in 
Phoenix due to housing construction not keeping up with rapid population growth. 
About 200,000 Phoenix households are cost-burdened, meaning they are paying 
more than 30 percent of their income toward rent. Gap: Phoenix needs 99,581 
new affordable housing units and 63,486 new market rate units."  We all need to 
hear this!  Maybe a PSA?  Empathy and greater understanding can help 
actualize plans.
217
This is huge.  I have been asking for our alley to be gated for years.  I live on 
Alice Ave between 23rd ave and 25th ave and our alley is a MESS. I never go 
dump my trash alone, I have to wait for my sons or nephews to visit.  Luckily they 
come often.
218
Survalance cameras seem unnecessary. And are very obviously NOT about 
illegal dumping. 
2.2
219
Would like to see research about whether cameras are effective and don't have 
negative consequences to people's sense of security and autonomy.
2.2
220
The gated at alleys are very necessary. I am a believer in that. However the rest 
of it although it is needed I don’t know how badly.
221
There is no mention of homelessness cleanup and monitoring along the trail 
systems such as trail 100
222
It's up to up to take action and make the difference. 
223
Same comment as the preceding. The "call; educate neighborhoods" is 
demeaning, implying government knows better than the governed.
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
131

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
224
Public restrooms should be removed from the plan. Encampments and trash left 
behind should not be the responsibility of the homeowner or business to clean 
up. This is a dirty job and we shouldn't be responsible. The city should provide 
clean up services to residents and businesses who have been affected by 
homeless activities.
225
I wonder how effective more cameras are if there aren't additional people to 
monitor them and take action when they see something going on? What will the 
follow-up be? 
2.2
226
N2.3 remove
2.3
227
Just do something. Less talk
228
Drop N.2.2. city government should not increase surveillance.
2.2
229
This section does not include some of the major concerns of neighborhoods.  In 
addition, it does not outline any required neighborhood impact mitigation for foot 
traffic to and from services that are required from providers. This is incomplete. 
230
Off course-we all need to be on the same page. What is my responsibility?
231
There should be provisions directly related to enforcement of neighborhood 
safety.  Where are the increased officer presence?  Where are the provisions 
regarding court involvement to stop illegal behavior?  Yes, these passive media 
calls to actions, cameras, and lights are positive, but they are far from what I 
would expect to see from a responsible proactive response to neighborhood 
crime/destruction from our city leaders.  I expect more police and prosecution of 
those who violate our communities.
232
Please see notes at question 23.
233
I am uneducated in this area.  Clearly it is a concern, but my opinion is not well 
informed.
234
Add hire employees for a faster response time from the Phx CARES program
235
Perhaps if people were allowed to keep their personal items when going into 
CASS (or at least some of them), there would not be so much debris collection 
from people trying to store things while at the same time trying to find a safe 
place to sleep since under the current plan they are mutually exclusive, which is a 
little insane. If a person is able to find a bed at CASS for a while, but loses all of 
their possessions (and the staff at CASS are taking or not properly distributing 
donated resources) then that person if they choose to leave has nothing again.
236
Homeless should have never been able to pop tents in downtown like they did.  I 
worked downtown for years and they hung out at CASS.  Now, the entire 
downtown area smells like urine.  I'm empathetic toward the mentally ill but letting 
them take over downtown was ridiculous.  Sorry for venting.
237
This section may just confuse people and it doesn't really address homelessness 
238
I understand there's resistance to the use of cameras as we experienced with the 
speed cameras throughout the valley. I support the use of cameras when it 
comes to addressing specific problems.
239
Definitely remove  N2.2, which just contributes to the criminalization of 
homelessness.  Definitely keep N2.3 and N2.4 and N1.2 and N1.3.
1.2
1.3
2.2
2.3
2.4
240
This is a community issue. Ideally, highlighting the percentage of homeless 
individuals that are folks like you and me that just had a bad series of financial 
hits, need some assistance from the community. As I recall, someone did a great 
study, actually talking with homeless folks, came up with some information not 
generally considered.
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
132

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
241
Not clear what the first two bullet points mean
242
Provide bus ticket to a relatives home in some cases
243
Educating the neighborhoods to the reasons behind homelessness.  There are 
many thoughts and ideas about homelessness; educational materials could help 
neighborhoods understand the true reason to homelessness. 
244
Need a hand up, not a community narking system. 
245
People are easily frightened and then angry about the homeless.  Providing clear 
direction instead of "call the police" is a very good idea.
246
Improve access to nutritious meals, clean clothes, and showers.
247
Look at ways to engage people in neighborhoods to problem solve or identify 
issues.  Having a virtual or physical location to have meetings, support advocacy
248
Research models of self-cleaning public toilets (France) and automatic public 
showers (Japan), locker rooms and laundry facilities that can be used by 
homeless persons
249
Nothing 
250
The public restrooms at parks are so dangerous and not well kept. Public 
Address is the best
251
Japan has public bath houses. It's something to consider. 
252
The language sounds punitive towards people experiencing homelessness & is 
pandering to residents who want to “get rid” of people from their area. It needs to 
be more respectful of all involved and honoring human dignity regardless of 
whether or not they have a residence. 
253
Adding more public restrooms around the valley seems like a good idea
254
Keep the well paying residents safe. 
255
When you enable they will not change. There needs to be consequence. When 
you enable you are guilty of assisting their poor decisions
256
Also include availability of outdoor electrical outlets or phone charging docks that 
homeless can charge phones as I’ve heard they need their phones to be able to 
make appointments and seek jobs.
257
You should not be asking me to police the unhoused. This is seriously disturbing. 
In fact, I am willing to help in any way I can. Please do not film people, that is 
inappropriate. If you want to clean the streets, let's organize a cleaning crew. I am 
willing to help in my own neighborhood but in now way will I ever be okay with 
harming or criminalizing the unhoused. Let me know ways to help out and provide 
support for these folks. 
258
N1.3 and N2.3 seem the really important sections. safe/consistent access to 
clean water and restrooms for the homeless is critical ... even after covid... if 
there is ever an "after covid"
1.3
2.3
259
Need an explanation of "Gated Alley Program".
260
Nor sure additional lighting and alley monitoring is a priority
261
leave as is
262
Solve the cause of the problem, not its effects.
263
This is tough.  Involving neighborhoods will probably take place when that 
neighborhood has a homeless problem.  Perhaps the best answer is to provide 
city-approved land for homeless encampments. This will require some 
infrastructure costs (eg restroom facilities with fresh water and public cooling 
centers).  It would also require services of maybe a partner food pantry and 
litter/garbage collection.  
264
Increased funding for neighborhood cleanup efforts where problems persist.  
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
133

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
265
The community needs to be able to stay safe and have ways of protecting 
themselves and the second amendment should be encouraged instead of relying 
on city officials 
266
We allow this behavior to exist.  My council person office view that it is not 
against the law to be homeless so it is low priority or in most cases non issue for 
law enforcement.  But the cost of dealing with the aftermath says it is.  Phoenix 
citizens have drawn weary from no action by people in government.  City Parks , 
Council and law enforcement.  If there is not an physical assault in progress don't 
waste you time calling Police will not respond.  The homeless can be in you yard 
 
 
 
267
It saddens me that in one of the richest countries/cities that a basic human right 
is not offered.  We are constantly paying maintenance people to clean up the 
walls outside our buildings in downtown Phx.  There has got to be a place that a 
person can use a bathroom(s) in private. 
268
Please no lights in the alleys! The awful lights the city has installed on our 
neighborhood streets are unpleasant enough. It's really not right to have more of 
those things shining into people's bedroom windows. 
269
More should be done to outlaw homelessness and eliminate the blight on our city.
270
Empower law enforcement to remove transients to shelters 
271
Try to develop public restrooms owned by the city in case the partners can no 
longer provide restrooms
272
dont use it-sounds more like an idea than a usable plan-more exclusive than 
inclusive
273
Stop trying to stop symptoms of the problem. If people are congregating in an 
alley, then we haven't served them. We need to deploy improved/increased 
services if this behavior is happening. I'm disappointed to see language like this 
is which does not honor the fact that homeless people would not be engaging in 
these behaviors if they had better options.
274
Protecting the public that pays taxes should he taken care of first.
275
these sections should be un-bundled so you can provide feedback on each 
objective.
276
I don’t think additional cameras are needed. We shouldn’t punish people for 
being homeless-if there are more resources and more outreach, that problem 
should solve itself.
277
Need to disperse housing and services for the homeless in the City of Phoenix 
and the region.  Concentrated poverty only leads with the social ills that go with 
poverty--crime, domestic violence, broken families, teen pregnancy, etc.  Best to 
keep at a reasonable size and disperse.  Will better fit in with the communities.  
Thinking of Inner City locations for the region, but dispersed in the Inner City.  For 
Phoenix, this means west, south, east and north Phoenix.
278
Evaluate elimination of alleys altogether in residential areas
279
Remove the whole thing
280
I don't think gated alleys should be promoted. They can be done, but only if a 
proven danger and issue to the neighborhood.
281
Having community positive involvement is a must. Communities come together to 
fight the negative; let's come together for some good. 
282
All The  Above?
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
134

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
283
in places with higher population of homeless, build freestanding restrooms or 
portable restrooms that include showers and lockers
284
The gated alley program should not be implemented until there is a way to 
provide new shelter for those impacted. Right now, it's cruel to gate off the places 
they were living - where everyone expected to see homeless people - with 
nowhere for them to go.  
Also, cameras will not stop people from congregating. Frequent police patrols will 
discourage illegal activity. Extra lighting is not going to help.  I would expect any 
communication received to be clear and easy to find if I need it on a website.  
285
I am amazed that there are not public restrooms, showers and garbage dumping 
locations where homelessness exists. We can't hide the problem by not 
addressing basic needs issues. Downtown is a DUMP. It is embarrassing to the 
city. We should be ashamed. My tax dollars at work??? I don't think so.
286
1. Finally, something about restrooms.  Open the parks. 
2.  This section is a little dangerous: it’s less about protecting the homeless and 
more about protecting homeowners from their often-incorrect preconceived 
notions that many homeless are dangerous.  This seems like an unnecessary 
sop to the neighborhood groups.
287
Do not expand camera usage. That only increases the stigma and punitive 
opportunities targeting homelessness. Instead, address homeowner concerns 
with outreach about agencies they can call about alley congregation, so the 
homeless can get help instead of punishment.
288
Instead of criminalizing poverty and homelessness I would prefer to see the city 
spending funds to address systemic injustices that result in homelessness. 
289
I do not think Alleys should be gated but lighting could be helpful for public safety. 
290
I don't think we need cameras. But everything is helpful. 
291
It is important to identify the media outlets.  Social media is important - name the 
outlets and teach people.  What is missing is working with apartment leasing 
offices.  
292
Not necessary.  With proper effective outreach this issue would go away on its 
own. 
293
I would love for our neighborhood to take part in the Gated Alley Pilot Program.  
 
My neighborhood has become more and more dangerous over the past two 
years. I no longer shop at neighborhood businesses, because I am constantly 
approached by groups of homeless individuals that appear to be on drugs. I don't 
feel safe going into these business at night, or alone. I recently had to call the 
Police because my young teen daughter was chased through the parking lot of 
the Circle K one block from my home by a mentally disturbed man, while I waited 
in my car. He blocked my car, and screamed through my windows that he wanted 
a ride. Then he ran out into the intersection and proceeded to try and stop cars.
294
I think the gated alley program is useless and expanding the use of illegal 
dumping cameras only serves to further criminalize homelessness, which is the 
opposite of what is needed!
295
Let's not criminalize homelessness with aggressive utilization of N 2.1 and N 2.2.  
This also encourages NIMBY-ism.  Community residents won't be motivated to 
be part of the solution if it's NOT "in their backyard."  People don't WANT to live 
in alleys; by implementing the solutions described up above, this will resolve 
automatically.
2.1
2.2
296
Please include city hiking areas like the Salt RIver Preserve.
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
135

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
297
These ideas are not for the homeless (they need to be somewhere) but rather for 
residents. It's an end result (i.e. no loitering in alleys) but not a cure.
298
Yes!!!!
299
Cameras and law enforement
300
Most of the above are issues we, as a neighborhod block watch, have been 
dealing with for years and, again, wasted time and money with meetings with city 
to obtain these items.  INCLUDE MORE SPEED CUSHIONS as we cannot get 
traffic police out on one of our streets (N. 21st Ave) that runs between W. Bell 
Rd. and W. Union Hills.  Vehicles use as a racetrack and cut through when Bell 
and Union Hills backed up.  We have advised over and over that traffic signs for 
speeding are out of service and being upgraded.  Ha.  Have heard that for two 
years now.  YET, we have to do the traffic studies and WE have to pay for a 
portion of the speed cushions.  Again, TAXPAYERS are fed up.
301
None
302
Enforcement and Prosecution for littering and illegal dumping.  
303
Add 
N1.3 
N2.2 
N2.3 
N2.4
304
Remove the public restroom partnership, remove neighborhood education. 
Communities know the problems they need help fixing it not learning about it.  I 
do agree with expanding cameras for the safety of Arizonan residents. 
305
Enforcement doesn’t help. Is homeless “dumping” in alleys really a peoblem?  
 
The solutions would more likely be like a public trash can, not an “enforcement 
camera” 
 
I think we generally should be avoiding punitive things. If a neighborhood wants to 
purchase a camera all to them, but it’s a silly use of public funds.
306
Increase policing is the only thing that works. Trespassing, littering and camping 
must be policed which will drive those in need to the services appropriate to 
them. The mentally ill can be evaluated and sent for treatment, those drug 
addicted can be diverted into mandatory inpatient treatment.
307
Everyone needs to work in concert.  Much of this should be done in partnership 
with 211. Public restrooms are a must. 
308
Need to make all residential areas safer for those who live and work there.
309
I think there needs to be an increase in funds for the development of affordable 
housing in general and decrease the amount of gentrification in the city.
310
The upper half is wasteful. The lower half is useful...but doesn’t solve anything.
311
Add:  provide better community blight and dump area clean up to prevent 
Dumping area and Blight to restart. Ie:  community patrol and call in for trash haul 
and blight removal/clean up.
312
Include trained community group to serve as liaison with neighborhoods.
313
Eliminate intersection panhandling, especially at and within a mile of freeways. 
Public Service campaign to let the public know that giving these people money 
keeps them addicted and on the streets, don't give them money. Take away 
liquor licenses from businesses that refuse to take care of homeless issues and 
crime on their properties (ie. the QuikTrip on 27th Ave. and Northern).
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
136

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
314
Given the extent of the data presented, 7k+ homeless and %51 unsheltered, it is 
impossible to know what a good strategy looks like. We should do the work to 
understand the population further. What percent needs mental health services? 
What percentage are on the street due to recent eviction? What percent are 
using hard drugs? What percent would take a bed if one was available? 
315
We need to completely gate all our parks that are having homeless sleeping in 
them. That way we can enforce the hours of our parks. This especially includes 
Solano Park and Cortez Park. That way it will be easier to keep our parks clean.
316
The most important of all solutions is to promote the Gentrification that is 
occurring in Downtown Phoenix this year. Having market forces guide 
unproductive citizens to neighboring cities is the only reason that New York City 
did not end up like Detroit. Learn from History!!!!   
317
The Gated Alley Program is very important as it protects our neighborhoods. It 
will prevent illegal dumping & homeless people from sleeping and doing drugs in 
our alleys. This will then prevent fires. Our alley has had numerous fires this year 
and is getting dangerous. 15th ave Fillmore 85007. We have lived in the 
neighborhood for over 40 years and witnessed this issue getting worse and more 
dangerous 
318
No more cameras for “looking for illegal dumping”  We don’t need additional 
“eyes” on everyone 
2.2
319
N.1.2 is extremely important, but the other times are far less important.
1.2
320
ADD: Clarify what neighbors can and should do when there are unsheltered 
people in their neighborhood causing problems.  Perhaps a single phone number 
to call (not the police) to report unsheltered people in need and another one for 
unsheltered people engaged in criminal behavior (might be police). 
321
provide alternate places of congregation, if discouraging congregating in alleys!
322
also need to address homeless taking up residences in parks or in areas near 
schools or where children walk to school 
323
Would add more info of how to address homeless camps in allys and behind 
electric transformers (example along 19th ave) In a timely manner 
324
I attended the encampment presentation and utilized the information. 
Unfortunately police and fire had not been informed of the process and a 
homeless woman was left at a bus stop in 115 degree weather with blood sugar 
of 510 and a black eye.  First responders wouldnt take her to hospital, did not call 
for resources, I was told to leave the scene, i passed by an hour later and the 
woman passed out at the bus stop.  So I would say communication and social 
services.  what is the public supposed to do when you see something say 
something and no one does anything.
325
Promoting no dumping is very important and increased lighting 
326
Is there an objective related to response time by City departments for chronic 
homeless-related issues in neighborhoods?
327
As long as it does NOT criminalize the homeless population. it could lead to more 
arrest which will not allow people to obtain jobs or housing. 
328
Remove section N1.3 N2.1 and N2.4 
 
Increase parole of parks and alleys but never ask a homeless person to leave 
without providing them resources and transportation to a facility that can house 
them. 
1.3
2.1
2.4
329
The link doesn’t work to look at additional program info.  Was curious what the 
gated alley program pilot is 
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
137

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
330
All this leads to the continued criminalization of homelessness
331
I like the clarity of knowing who to call in a emergency, but otherwise don’t see 
much value in these measures. 
332
There is already an existing Resource Guide for AZ -support should be given to 
keep it functions 24/7 for the community to access and -it does not to be a printed 
guide that becomes outdated as soon as it is created-people can access the 
211AZ trough their phone, through personal computers through the Library -help 
that system stay functioning.
333
Looks like a spending plan for things that should already be in place. No public 
restrooms please. They are meeting places for crimes to occur. Do you think the 
people needing these services will read directions or should the people providing 
the services be more familiar with what they can do and not do?
334
There probably a need for free public restrooms, I believe most of us just go to a 
fast food restaurant and use their facilities. However, businesses likely do not 
want homeless people using their restrooms - for customer use only. Bit there is 
a problem ofmaintaining,  cleaning, sanitary, security, vandalizism/damages, etc. 
(See Parks & Rec)
335
Making alley congregation illegal just emphasis a criminal perspective of 
homelessness. Don't do that. Instead focus on outreach, 
community/neighborhood solutions, meet people where they are at. 
336
Continue to maintain safe communities
337
I do NOT agree the CITY should close all alleys.
338
does not sound effective.  Sounds like a waste of resources
339
Sadly, there is an unwarranted stigma to show who receive assistance.  It is 
important to reeducate surrounding owners/communities /businesses these are 
people who have pride and dignity in their homes as well.
340
If those that lead the initiative have passion, education will solve the problem - a 
lot of it anyway :) 
341
Neighborhood knowledge is key!
342
Give people places to go to first, then increase policing.  Of course people hang 
out in alleys.  Where else should they go?
343
Educating the public is incredibly important. Perhaps this could align with the 
education campaign of the affordable housing initiative - reducing stigma and 
raising compassion. Any policy that addresses congregation has to be balanced 
with adequate resources and options for those experiencing homelessness.
344
If you address the causes of homelessness, this becomes low priority.  Until then, 
neighborhoods need resources to keep them clean and safe.
345
There should be a section to monitor city owned parks. We have a number of 
homeless addicts who camp our near the Dreamy Draw recreation area. They 
leave behind human waste and garbage in addition to stealing from homes 
around the neighborhood. We have the right to feel safe in our homes and 
neighborhoods.
346
N.1.2 should be happening already regardless of this section.  
1.2
347
eliminate section 2.3. 
closing off the alleys is Monumentally important as are more lights in the streets 
and especially in the alley.  It does no good to call a neighborhood to action 
unless people get a response and results faster than a week or two or three, 
while camps continue to exist causing garbage and severe health issues with the 
filth and health issues caused by needles, and human elimination.  
2.3
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
138

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
348
Do not provide alley lights. Street lighting yes as long as it doesn’t make it in to a 
group for homeless to gather 
349
Active "Block Watches" are crucial to any crime reduction plan. This might not 
mean the neighborhoods have "4 meetings a year" but that they are engaged 
with each other, City agencies/departments, and the police/CAOs. 
350
remove adding cameras 
add more public bathrooms
2.2
351
These policies are very hostile against the homeless. Create partnership 
programs between neighborhoods and the homeless, rather than investing in 
programs that exclude and criminalize the homeless. 
352
Neighborhood should focus on NIMBYism and zoning. Alley gates (N.2.1) and 
cameras for alleys (N.2.2.) do not seem very important right now. 
2.1
2.2
353
Leave section N.2.3 and N.2.4
354
Emphasis on continued community outreach to neighborhoods.
355
N.2.1 Gated Alleys;  this is a joke.  The initial funds for this pilot program were 
taken from neighborhoods by hijacking the Block Watch Grants funding. The city 
walked in without a formal proposal and demanded the money.  Neighborhoods 
have to go through a stringent process to apply for, at the most, $10k for an 
entire year. This was a slap in the face to community leaders. If the city doesn't 
have the $500,000 to initiate the gate project, how could it possibly implement 
gated alleys city wide?  With a cost of over $5k per gate, there are too many 
questions of locks, maintenance of gates, and bad guys could still jump the gates 
or keep the key to the lock when they moved.  In our neighborhood, it will pit one 
neighbor against the other because some want gates and others don't.  Our 
neighborhood has 42 alleys with 2 entries each so a total of 84 alleys to be gated. 
Our neighborhood needs more police patroling our area and quicker police 
response.  Not spending money for gates that would get broken and need 
2.1
356
it is important to collaborate with neighborhoods so they know how to address 
homelessness near their homes, beyond just calling the police. 
357
Seems focused on displacement of homeless people 
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
139

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
358
Many people in my neighborhood  in  85006 already know about the CARES 
program but see no point in calling because there is no available housing and 
they already know many of the homeless don't want to use CASS for all the 
obvious reasons.  Additionally, there  don't trust PD to respond helpfully or to 
escalate emotional distress.  Neighbors could use info on Circle the City for 
homeless people who appear to be in medical emergency.  They could also use 
info on the Mobile Crisis Unit  and/or CBI.  Everybody in downtown and Midtown 
areas should have a magnet with this info for their refrigerators.   
 
I don't see any real benefit to the Gated Alley program.  Have an alley and I keep 
it clean and free of litter and overgrowth so I think this results in less camping.  
The alleys should be maintained as rear access points to  garages and 
accessory dwelling units (hey, a source of affordable housing??).  In other cities 
they are well maintained and  sources of pride.  A lot of the problem in Coronado 
is dumping by  residents and contractors.  I have personally cleaned many alleys 
and, yes, it is often disgusting work and requires attention to avoid contamination 
by biohazards but the real issue is lack of attention by homeowners and residents 
and lack of enforcement.  Enforcement works.  Solid waste should be writing 
tickets.  Cameras to catch offenders  would be a first step.  And we need 
affordable housing for people who are unhoused.  Bottom line.
359
Address the source of the problem and you do not have to deal with the mess 
resulting from homelessness.
360
Neighborhood concerns need to be addressed and residents need to know whom 
to contact.  Police should not be the first option. Homeless people should be 
treated with respect and dignity.  The alley or park gathering, restroom issues and 
street sleeping are all the result of no safe place to go.  
361
Do you have the money to do this?  Increasing demand for services creates 
anger, mistrust and cynicism if you don't have the budget and staff to deliver 
them.
362
This section should be more about educating neighborhoods on how to help their 
homeless residents, not make it even harder for a person experiencing 
homelessness to find a safe place to lay down at night. 
363
Ensure residents do not call the police when they see homeless individuals 
moving through their precious neighborhoods. Actually, make it a point through 
your various media platforms that criminalizing homelessness is a call away. 
364
Take away the use of "illegal dumping cameras." This criminalizes individuals 
who are homeless, when the issue at hand is the lack of affordable housing. Stop 
the Gated Alley Project.
365
process for proactively educating the community-not only making resources 
available, but finding a way to share key messages with the community
366
Focusing on housing will reduce the importance of this item.   
367
N.1.1. - using call to action implies a sort of neighborhoods v.s. homeless people. 
Maybe consider different phrasing.
1.1
368
Gated Alleys cut off connectivity. Focus on Alleyway beautification to maintain 
connectivity and increase property values. Use pedestrian lighting, paving, and 
planting. the more the alleys are utilized, the less they will be a spot for unwanted 
congregation. Alleys are a seriously untapped potential in Phoenix. There are 
other solutions that can work besides gating every single alley in the city. 
369
Again, include the community in the ideas for improvement before writing up.
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
140

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
370
The gated alley program furthers the 'Us vs Them' mentality and has the potential 
to decrease the sympathy that those experiencing homelessness deserve. All 
neighborhood communications should lead with the idea of helping our 
unsheltered neighbors as opposed to reporting encampments as if someone was 
calling about bulk trash pickup. It should be stressed that any call for help is a call 
aiming towards offering access to services to someone instead of just "having 
them removed." Neighborhood communications need to stress the fact that being 
unsheltered in not a crime and people need help, not criminalization. There is a 
massive need for public restrooms. There is a massive need for homeless 
people to access safe storage space for their belongings
371
That Gated Alley Program could be key to preventing grops from congregating in 
alleys and making it their real estate. However, funding could be a hurdle. 
Identifying first a stable funding resource for this program could be key to making 
ths program work. And of course, developing a sound process to determine 
which alleys will get their gates first. Because there's going to be a "what about 
me?" situation here--you gate one alley to prevent them from coming in, groups 
will just find another alley nearby. 
372
Public restrooms are needed. However, what would the "action" that 
neighborhoods would be "called to through multiple platforms on social media"? 
This is very vague. This needs to be updated. 
373
It is only acceptable to enforce no congregating in alleys or on the streets once 
there are shelter beds in the HSC neighborhood. This should absolutely NOT be 
do e until we have sheltered everyone. Then and only then is it morally 
acceptable to force people with nowhere to go out of an area, which is what has 
been happy to unsheltered people with nowhere to go for the last 20 years. We 
never offered the required number of beds to get people off the street because of 
the ridiculous cap of 425 that was created for political reasons when the HSC 
was built. If we would have done it right the first time and out 1,200 beds up 17 
years ago, we wouldn't be having this problem. 
374
Cameras are not going to keep people from being in alleys
2.2
375
This section is important for communities and home/business owners.  But we 
need to remember people live on the streets when there is nowhere else to go.  
Home and business owners need to be part of the total solution, not just 
concerned about keeping their alleys clean.
376
Change N.2.2    If they’re in an alley going to the bathroom it is likely that there 
are not enough restrooms. We don’t need more cameras we need many more 
restrooms!
2.2
377
Remove section N2.2. Do not expand surveillance. 
2.2
378
Closing off alleys and things like that should not be a priority, the priority is 
addressing the homelessness and mental health issues. 
379
Congregation of people experiencing homelessness isn’t our largest issue - 
finding them housing is.
380
Take out N.2.2
2.2
381
N 2 1 and N 2 2 should be removed
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
141

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Neighborhood Chapter Comment
Strategy 
Objective
382
Many of the points proposed in this plan reinforce the assumption that all 
homeless individuals are dangerous. This will actually do much more to restrict 
access to resources than increase access because when someone perceives 
danger, their immediate though is policing, rather than resourcing or compassion, 
through no fault of their own! If a difference is to be made within neighborhoods, 
it is going to be done through mutual aid. I know in other countries, there are 
networks of grandmothers/grandfathers who have been taught de-escalation and 
psychotherapy techniques who are already embedded members of the 
community and can pass on this information to others. I'm not sure how well this 
exact method would work in Phoenix, however, it does speak to the effectiveness 
of community members advocating for one another, rather than hoping for others 
to advocate on their behalf. 
383
Remove N.2.1  N.2.2 
More groups will need to be involved than just the city of Phoenix. 
2.1
2.2
384
remove N.2.2
2.2
385
Use input from city-wide neighborhoods to create the Strategies for this section. 
These are random Strategies that again even if they are implemented what will 
the effect be? What are the goals? And will these things really improve 
neighborhoods or criminalize homelessness?
386
don't waste money on cameras and alley gates. Build more shelters!!
2.2
387
Adding how to work collaboratively with stakeholders and other organizations to 
help with neighborhood circumstances 
388
People experiencing homelessness are members of these neighborhoods. How 
are they being engaged?  How are their opinions and thoughts being considered? 
Where's the stakeholder engagement?
389
In the neighborhood section - what strategies are being employed to address 
homeless individuals who refuse services yet are involved in criminal activity like 
trespassing on private property.
390
Who can we call if a negative situation arrives with the homeless because calling 
the police has become too risky these days especially since PHXPD has become 
ome of the most killer forces in the nation.
391
Who can we call if a negative situation arrives with the homeless because calling 
the police has become too risky these days especially since PHXPD has become 
ome of the most killer forces in the nation.
392
I would like to speak regarding Neighborhoods
Neighborhood Chapter Comments
142

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
1
I work in downtown Phoenix and it is very scary going to working downtown 
because the transient community has increased and they gather around the 
Calvin Goode and City Hall buildings
2
Provide alternatives for subjects causing these difficulties.
3
To me, this section comes long after we have addressed the underlying 
structures and systems that result in our brothers and sisters ending up living on 
the streets. While important to present our community as clean in order to 
reinforce behaviors that contribute to people not littering, etc, this to me, is not 
where we need to focus until there are working solutions for people experiencing 
homelessness.
4
Do not go after people if they have no where to sleep.
5
The focus should be on cleaning up the HSC. Having spent time there it is clear 
that the blight contributes to a lack of dignity and a feeling of hopelessness 
among the homeless. 
6
No need for alley closures if housing provided
7
Get rid of the  Human Services Campus (HSC).  It is a magnet for the homeless 
from all over the country. 
Direct the existing police, park rangers and anyone with enforcement authority to 
remove the homeless, have them move along, preferably to another state. 
We keep forgetting Benjamin Franklin's quote "I am for doing good to the poor, 
but...I think the best way of doing good to the poor, is not making them easy in 
poverty, but leading or driving them out of it." 
The city is making it easy for the homeless to continue to stay homeless. 
Free stuff encourages others to also become homeless.
8
let every homeowner well aware of the numbers to call when they see extensive 
dumping in the alleys or camps setting up
9
If the City of Phoenix is going to allow encampments in certain areas, use 
existing laws to enforce that those in encampments self clean the area. 
Landscape alleyways to deter camping and dumping, or close them off until they 
can be re-developed. Encourage and work with non-profit clean-up crews. 
Contract with private companies for bio-hazard clean up. Allow law enforcement 
to enforce no littering laws etc. Remove those that do not comply with park rules 
10
On Nextdoor.com, offer supervisory positions to 5 neighbors to implement 1-2 of 
these points. After they pass deep-dive background checks and an extensive 
interview process, pay them $50K per year as independent contractors (no 
benefits). If they do not implement program requirements (I.e. working with their 
handpicked team of 10 neighborhood volunteers), they have to pay back the 
$50K. 
11
don't do the thing with the wheel.
12
"We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEY'RE 
 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS" 
 
13
How are "blights" on par with humans lacking basic needs? This entire section 
prioritizes people whose needs are already being met and proposes cosmetic 
solutions, which in turn create an even more hostile environment for people who 
are already struggling. Also, I feel the implementation of the code of conduct will 
be abused and is unnecessary.
Clean Up Chapter Comments
143

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
14
Guess what? If you fix the bed shortage and you offer people more affordable 
places to live, then this whole section isn't a problem. Solve the problem, not the 
side-effects. And if you are going to address the side-effects, then do so in a 
humane way. Don't displace people or find ways to ticket/fine/criminalize a 
lifestyle that you've forced them into without adequate shelter.
15
The coordination of personnel and regulations in this section should be closely 
examined for clarity and overlap. A joint effort and commitment by all these 
stakeholders is imperative. 
16
I would like to see clean up crews/initiatives working in conjunction with 
community support programs and outreach programs for unsheltered 
populations. Safety and cleanliness of neighborhoods and public property are 
important, but criminalizing and regulating homelessness will not solve the root 
issue. It is concerning to me that this section of the plan has the most concrete 
details regarding implementation, while the areas focusing on outreach and 
support are vague. 
17
Most people view Phoenix CARES as another arm of law enforcement and 
policing  - program should be revamped and not just used as a reporting 
mechanism for pop up tent city.
18
This section could be implemented after a time period has passed in which the 
other sections have been functioning and individuals experiencing homelessness 
have been given the opportunity to engage in services that would benefit them. 
Push something like this too soon and the backlash would be immense, 
justifiably. The interactions alluded to here are close to being callous and 
inconsiderate if the proper resources do not exist for folks to help themselves, or 
receive the help they need. 
19
Don’t take down encampments without providing alternative housing, it is cruel, 
and further dehumanizes the unhoused. 
20
Code of Conduct?! Really?!
21
In general, I’m not in favor of breaking up homeless encampments if the people 
there don’t pose an immediate physical threat to others. 
22
These objectives are incredibly vague and there is a lack of description of how 
and what you plan to implement in order to appropriately address homelessness 
in Phoenix. There needs to be more information provided and we demand full 
transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and an extension for 
the public comment meetings until they’re accessible to people experiencing 
homelessness. 
23
Employ homeless individuals to help clean up. Pay them and provide meals as 
incentives
24
This is something that should be going on already.  If you do some of the first part 
of what's listed, this part shouldn't be necessary.  Use those nonprofits and 
others to do some of this.  It's not just a "City" problem, but a community one.  
Throwing more money at it is easier that really dealing with it.
25
Yes, you need to make sure City streets are clear of feces and don't smell like a 
homeless camp.  I won't go to an area that is neglected like this to visit stores, 
restaurants, etc.  Posting signs and rules are great, but if they are not enforced 
there is no point.
26
If this can be accomplished without losing the FOCUS of this PLAN then by all 
means, but if You lose Focus you will find that ALL the effort put into this will 
simply be lost.
Clean Up Chapter Comments
144

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
27
Supporting effected people should be enough for them to clean things up 
themselves. If they have pride in their encampments, accepted by society, and 
supplied with hygiene/safety products we would not be hiring, planning, assessing 
what to do. Also, why not utilize parks for encampments until this crisis is is over? 
Why even talk about how to punish these people who did not voluntarily chose 
this lot in life.
28
Consider a graffiti busters type program for clean up of private properties heavily 
impacted by homeless activity.
29
We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEY'RE 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS.
30
It would be great to see the persons experiencing homelessness be a PART of 
the clean-up team.  Or to work in conjunction with the jails/prisons so that city 
funds and taxpayer money not be tapped so much.
31
There should not be more staff for the Phx CARES program. This program needs 
to be eliminated or completely re-directed to provide our homeless community 
members actual shelter instead of a hot plot of land with no shade and 
enforcement by police officers. You can't treat people like animals and call it 
"care," it's wrong. The language in this section feel like more criminalization of the 
homeless community members. We need more transparency and detail, yet 
again. I also think the city would benefit from listening to programs that are 
currently providing effective aid to homeless people. Justa Center and 
Unsheltered Phx are some places to start. 
32
Provide designated areas for camping. All non designed areas are trust passing 
and will be removed and disposed of. 
33
Yes, all very great. Our park rangers are absolutely amazing. They are as helpful 
as they can be with the camping out at the park. They have limitations, and we all 
understand that. If we could have extra services in place to help, that would be so 
amazing. 
34
Encampments should not be allowed to occur or get started. There are already 
plenty of rules on the book to prevent those.  We don't want to become another 
San Francisco, LA, Portland or Seattle.
35
Phoenix C.A.R.E.S. is NOT EFFECTIVEif they are still going out a maximum of 3 
times and not making contact with encampment inhabitants and still NOT 
LEAVING A NOTICE that they were there and where encampment inhabitants 
can get help. I was told they don't leave a notice because they do not want to 
create 1 piece of litter by leaving a notice. RIDICULOUS and embarrassing that 
they would even say that is a policy to waste taxpayer money, gas, time, etc to 
drive to a location only to miss the inhabitants and NEVER leave notice that they 
were there. It's an insult to everyone. 
36
Give people homes so they don't have to congregate in alleys. This is attacking 
the symptoms, not the causes.
37
We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
an extension for the public comment meetings until they're accessible to people 
experiencing homelessness. 
38
Sure, use funds previously designated for policing - like predatory patrols and 
absurd equipment, and also the money lining certain people's pockets - to create 
funding for dealing with this humanitarian crisis.
Clean Up Chapter Comments
145

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
39
Yes, let’s further mandate removal of these people who don’t have anywhere else 
to go. Also, legal action? It’s basically referred to as trash cleanup above that and 
then the plan is to pursue legal action of over said unclaimed ‘trash’? This section 
might be the worst so far. 
40
I think this plan is very conflicted. I thought this was about providing support and 
resources for the homeless. It seems like some neighborhood groups property 
owner are trying to hijack the and make it more about benefiting their 
communities instead. 
41
Until these people have shelter, cleanup is almost pointless. 
42
Needs to be paired with alternative options for displacement 
43
More information needed. 
44
"We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEYRE 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS"
45
Great!!!
46
It is important that staff working on this should be informed in trauma, addiction, 
and mental illness response.  
47
Expanding shelter services should be a bigger priority than policing people. Also, 
what about looking into a place for people to store their belongings safely. Many 
have to cart their items everywhere with them, but face discrimination for having 
too many bags/items. 
48
Consider employing a specialized Ranger staff with specific skills to help address 
homelessness.  The more educated and experienced a segment of your staff is, 
and the more repeat experience a specialized team would have, would lead to 
more success than requesting a “generalist” address his specialized and specific 
situation. 
49
With increased foot traffic on all City Parks, adding more Rangers and 
Maintenance personnel seems vitally important. What other supporting roles, can 
the Natural Resources Section play - shouldn’t the NRS be responsible for 
determining the legalities of trash vs. abandoned property?
50
What are the metrics to measure success for this plan?  This survey is sadly a 
bad design, seeking confirmation bias instead of genuine public input. 
51
Biohazard cleanup and other safety measures are important, but again, we need 
to focus on addressing the reasons homeless people are congregating in unsafe 
conditions.  Giving them safer places to be would solve the problem more 
effectively than punishing people for congregating in alleyways or parks.
52
Again, I propose consideration of alternatives to the closure of alleys and posting 
rules in parks. If you want homeless people to stop leaving items in alleys and to 
stop setting up camps in alleys and parks, there need to be resources and/or 
people to help direct homeless people to shelters, mental health offices, medical 
centers, etc. Closing alleyways and posting rules that prohit overnight stays in 
parks will just create more stress on these people, and if they do not know where 
to go, they are not likely to follow the rules anyway. 
Clean Up Chapter Comments
146

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
53
This again looks like a COP “to-do” list. OF COURSE, DO IT. This is a general 
list and you've mixed important and routine items together. Not a fair 
assessment.  
Item: C.2.1: the area around HSC is a violation of City and County Health, safety, 
neighborhood, and nuisance Codes. The City and County need to take 
responsibility for breaking the law here. CLEAN IT UP NOW. YOU DON’T NEED 
TO ASK PERMISSION. YOU KNOW THIS IS A VIOLANTION. CLEAN UP THE 
AREA NOW.  
C.2.1
54
Additional staff is definitely needed.  For the first time in 25 years the city was 
asked in May to clean up the wash between Belmont and Hayward from 13th St 
east 5 houses.. Nothing has yet been done. Gas lines, APS tower are all in 
danger not to mention homes from brush fire and flood. (Adult Probation had 
done the job in previous years but changes no longer make that possible.)
55
Clean-up is DEFINITELY needed! 
56
No gated alley program!! 
57
Seems discriminatory toward homeless people
58
I donth think homelessness should be considered illegal. These action points 
worry me. Taking th property of people who have nothing already is cruel. If this 
is AFTER we give them a place to stay, then a team goes in to clean up, then I 
could be okay with this. But moving them along and taking their things is not how 
anyone should be treated.
59
Again, this may lead to criminalizing homelessness which is counterproductive 
and just perpetuates the cycle of homelessness 
60
The Code of Conduct is crap. It's simply a way to give police officers to hassle 
the homeless and chase them off from anywhere they please. Considering the 
alarming trend among our officers to act violently, this code seems to be a way to 
spark conflict, not help people in need.
61
This section increases the risk of homeless people being criminalized for trying to 
find a place to sleep for a night. It will also increase their contact with the police 
when they should experience more contact with mental health and social 
workers. This entire section needs to be removed.
62
Remove the closure/gating of alleys
63
C1.2- Please delete.  This will just move people towards the capital and state 
buildings. 
C3.5 -  What does this mean?  are we arresting people for encampments?   I 
don't see an adequate plan for those that don't want to live in a shelter/rules-
based area. 
 
Please redesign the survey to discuss each policy item.  This is designed to limit 
the transparency of the public and to provide generic feedback.  It is very hard to 
navigate back and forth between the 30 page documents.  The research does not 
address costs in any way.   It also should be written to allow for those with basic 
reading ability to understand the principles.
C1.2 and C3.5
64
support as long as C1.1 and C3.2 don’t creat additional staff
C1.1 and C3.2
65
Again trash is a big issue. 
66
It is unnecessary to direct focus toward the clearing of encampments, waste, etc. 
if the city is providing adequate refuge, housing, and resources. Funding should 
be directed instead toward the expansion of the aforementioned resources to 
provide alternatives to encampments.
67
Already in place?
Clean Up Chapter Comments
147

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
68
Open camping in whatever place they want breeds lawlessness.
69
Relocation to safe areas for all citizens so that home owners and tenants of 
rental properties are free from encroachment and infringement  
70
Set up free counseling and needle exchanges and general our reach for anyone 
in the community. This is one of those...everyone needs help with maintain 
access to free and suitable medical care.
71
This section will not be necessary as more housing is developed and people 
experiencing homelessness are given housing first and right away.
72
Again, this section is not part of a long term plan to end homelessness. It’s just 
about “clean-up” which implies only people who are homeless are dirty and 
create trash. I find this section completely insulting.
73
This seems to be about the wrong end of the problem. Reduce homelessness, 
don't just push people out. 
74
Consistent rules and adequate numbers of persons hired to enforce rules will be 
key to any clean up effort.
75
There is a youtube video, but I cant find it or remember the city, but you could 
hunt around for it - anyway that city decided that they would never allow anyone 
to be homeless on the streets or wherever, in their city. They do not harass the 
people, instead they make sure they have enough shelters to help everyone that 
comes to their city - that what Phx needs. 
76
Alley gating agreements between the city and a neighborhood should be highly 
encouraged. Involve those caught engaging in alley dumping in "chain gang" alley 
cleanup projects.
77
Category is important, PRD Code of Conduct in an enforceable format is 
absolutely critical.
78
You need to limit policing the homeless, this includes alley issues. Provide safe, 
stable housing and these issues will be gone.
79
Yes, yes to the Code of Conduct. A coordinated procedure for cleanups should 
be developed.
80
Clean up crews that only do city property are useless. They need to be able to go 
into washes also. Washes that are technically owned by home owners are the 
problem. And state property in preserve areas. 
81
If we get more people off the streets, hopefully this will be less of a need and the 
monies can be re-allocated to permanent solutions.
82
More park patrols and rangers would be helpful. 
83
Don't allow encampments!
84
People experiencing homelessness need help. Allow them to camp in a stable 
place until they can find real housing. Provide sanitary services so that they can 
keep their camps clean and sanitary. Public restrooms, showers, and trash 
service would allow people experiencing homelessness to keep their camps 
clean. 
85
I would remove sections C.3.3, C.3.5  and C.3.6 as it inappropriately and 
disproportionately affects those without permanent housing and is inhumane. 
C3.3, C3.5, C3.6
86
It does no good to spend so much energy focused on cleaning the area of 
encampments and personal belongings. If the person was in a shelter, then they 
would not be camping outside and thus creating trash that needs to be cleaned 
up.
87
If item C.1.2. Is included then allowing additional beds should be approved for the 
area around the Campus
C.1.2.
88
Use this as employment for the homeless and have them clean up the mess
Clean Up Chapter Comments
148

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
89
If the alleys are not available (and they should be blocked off), where will the 
homeless go? The homeless need a place to stay.
90
There is a lot of dangerous initiatives here and I am not surprised that you are 
trying to sneak this by.
91
Focus should be on alternatives that can take the place of encampments etc. vs 
just cleaning up. 
Does c.2.2 still contain verbiage referring to changing bus stops to single seat?  It 
shouldn't
92
Don’t criminalize homelessness. If people have no where to sleep they have to 
sleep in a park or alley. 
93
c.1.1 IF the alleys are closed encampments might not be a problem. But educate 
people of their rights to report. We need lots more people to help with clean ups 
and we need consistent policies C3.3 so neighborhoods know who to call and 
when. Parks need our help 3.4 people who are homeless dont read the rules.
94
The city absolutely should not be the custodian for homeless peoples' 
belongings. They need to carry it with them, or they lose it. Put working residents 
first by not wasting tax dollars and keeping the city clean. 
95
As long as there is adequate space for the homeless, then they can clean up the 
alleys. Otherwise, where will they go?
96
Allocating funds/resources to sections C.1.2-C.3.1 might not be necessary if we 
were to address why these need to be proposed. 
97
If adequate, safe housing and restrooms were available,  you wouldn't need clean 
up resources other than a few custodians. 
98
this should be covered by another program
99
This is all redundant to existing laws, statutes, ordinances, rules, regulations, 
policy, and procedures. Just enforce the laws you have for public safety, and 
maintain the public property in accordance with your existing regulations, and get 
additional funding as needed to clean up the mess you let get so out of hand.
100
Cleaning is extremely important, but should be also addressed from the root. 
Make it easy for people to clean up after themselves and not litter. Fine those 
who do. Etc. 
101
ask partners to coordinate alley cleanups and seek the help of the homeless 
clients that use partner resources such as St. Vincent De Paul or Shelters that 
way the homeless have something to do and not just wonder aimlessly in our 
streets.
102
How do these strategies improve the quality of life for my unhoused neighbors? 
Also, I am generally opposed to the closure of alleys in our city where pedestrian 
infrastructure is already underwhelming.
103
This will help keep our environment and people safe. 
104
If you address the problem of homelessness, there will be no need for these 
services. The fact that this is also a "long term" objective makes me doubt that 
the City is serious in reducing the MASSIVE numbers of people who are suffering 
and dying in the heat as I type these words. The lack of compassion is 
astounding. The inclusion of this passage would signal to me that the City is only 
interested in appealing to those in the affluent population of this city who have 
forgotten to care for their fellow human beings. 
Clean Up Chapter Comments
149

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
105
This is again focusing on criminalizing "poverty behaviors." Poverty is not an 
individual's problem, it is a symptom of a city that has not provided enough 
support in housing, education and employment. It's the result of an unregulated 
housing market and the refusal to recognize housing as a basic human right until 
a housing bubble happens, a drug epidemic explodes and a deathly pandemic 
hits. 
106
Again, look to the "There's A Better Way" Program to help enable our homeless 
populations to work. If we can get grant funding for this, we would have a way to 
pay these individuals on an hourly basis. 
107
Need to address individuals living in hedges and heavily landscaped areas 
outside of downtown. 
108
Create jobs for those homeless people impacted that will be using these services 
proposed in the plan.  e.g.: give them jobs to help them get on their feet and at 
the same time clean up the city as needed.
109
ITs sad to see the mess. Have the homeless work- and clean up areas. A van to 
take them around and clean up the city- give them pride in cleaning up their city 
110
Address prevention more than reaction.
111
This section worries me as it again can create punitive outcomes for individuals 
who don’t move for clean up, for individuals who leave and come back and find 
all of their belongings gone, for individuals who need some shade in the park. 
What will happen if they aren’t able to move their things or clear out in time for a 
street sweep? What if they have a disability (which many do) that makes it 
difficult for them to comply with these clean up measures?
112
The city needs to implement and enforce code of conduct in parks, libraries and 
surrounding light rail areas. It's unfair, wrong and dangerous for people to take 
over parks where children and families should be able to feel welcome. Solano 
Park should be a jewel, not a danger zone - it's right next to a library branch and 
church, for goodness sake!
113
This cleanup crew should be a job opportunity for homeless people to earn credit 
for food, clothing, future permanent home. If they have addiction issues a 
"specialized credit card" would be used so that money is not going to drugs. 
114
I don't think many community members have a clear understanding of what 
Phoenix CARES does. If you call them after business hours, as I have, all you get 
is a voicemail recording. That doesn't help with an immediate concern with a 
homeless individual at night. There is no follow-up.
115
Make sure Phoenix Police are not involved with the care of homeless people. Do 
not provide any additional money to Phoenix Police, Deflect any increases to 
resources in our city. Provide better resources that prevent this kind of tragedy 
from happening again by not spending so much on Policing and more on 
schools, before and after school programs, health and healthcare disparities. 
116
If prisons can use prisoners to clean up trash on highways, etc. why can't the 
same be applied to others.  It will give the worker a) some money  b) a place to 
spend the night  c) meals
117
Impose fines or put up notices to prevent individuals and small groups from 
turning up and handing out free items, instead promote volunteering and 
donations to organized groups who can control outreach
118
Fund a Mental institution 
119
Throughout your document at least thus far, I havent seen one thing about the 
homeless responsibilities in this.  Why not have them work to clean up the 
messes they've made in exchange for housing, food, etc.  This whole thing 
sounds like another free lunch and enables homeless to sustain this life
Clean Up Chapter Comments
150

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
120
How do any of these activities effectively reduce the number of homeless 
121
Don't close the alleyways, that is insane for a number of reasons.
122
Seem like good ideas but with the potential to turn adversarial if implemented by 
the Police Department.
123
Remove all.  Don't enable
124
You should have the homeless clean it, based on a work program for them.  
125
Place less effort on encampment/property removal. It was disturbing to see 
Phoenix Police force people to break down their tents instead of helping really 
anyone.
126
Mostly unintelligible 
127
Again, sort of barking up the wrong tree. I understand the point but this will not 
lead to solutions!
128
There are good things here like biohazard cleanup. I am not sure about the 
encampment teardown and cleanup. Seems you'd be taking what little they have 
and trashing it. 
129
No wonder you can't get anything done.  If the park encampment have no place 
to go what is the importance of breaking them up?  Get them resources and they 
won't be on tax payers property.
130
Trash and biohazards including syringes and human waste are a big problem 
especially around public buildings.  Much of this debris is left at night under the 
cover of darkness.  Need more options for businesses to maintain cleanliness.  
Police can't be everywhere all the time.
131
C3.6
C3.6
132
Yes yes yes, all of this! Thank you.
133
Shelters would reduce this considerably. The cost of doing this will continue to 
grow. 
134
Money, money, money.  There needs to be a "rate of return" on what the public is 
funding.  If costs continue to rise it will make it harder for those that do have 
homes to support all these initiatives.  Not to mention cost of living, schools, 
police, city maintenance, etc., etc.    
135
Disbursing homeless improvised housing is a human rights violation and should 
not be sanitized through bureaucratic language.
136
CARES is about policing....already overfunded....and just acts to "kick the can"   
This is not a solution to the issue...it is putting a band aid on a problem
137
The area where the current community congergates currently is unsafe for many 
of the other homeless who are really trying to seek help. That place is scary and I 
know this because I’ve been there. We need more oversight of that area for 
people who are trying to access the resources out there. 
138
Sections C.3.3, C.3.4, C.3.5, and C.3.6 should be kept
Sections C.3.3, 
C.3.4, C.3.5, and 
C.3.6 should be 
kept
139
To encourage neighborhoods to support shelters/transitional housing, they need 
extra assistance. Trash must not be allowed to accumulate. 
140
Parks should never be a place where the homeless are allowed to drink, drug, 
deal drugs, sleep, and generally intimidate those who ask them to leave. Parks 
are paid for by taxpayers and should be used by taxpayers. If that can't happen 
the parts need to be closed. If the homeless are going to be living in those parks 
and taking advantage then I don't think anyone should be paying for those Parks 
nor using those parks. Turning a park into a homeless shelter or a place where 
these people congregate should be illegal. It is a disgrace
Clean Up Chapter Comments
151

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
141
If alleys and uninhabited areas are going to be locked off, there needs to be an 
massive effort to put some kind of accessible hygiene areas. Some of the 
homeless refuse to go to shelters, and still others have been kicked out. Where 
do they go to get cleaned up if they're on the street?
142
Neighborhoods are concerned about safety, security, and hygiene.  People who 
walk their dogs are expected to have them on a leash and to pick up and dispose 
of their waste.  Having public bathrooms and biohazard waste management is a 
good idea.
143
Actual enforcement is key.
144
Get PD out of the equation
145
HSC cleanup is great, but only addresses a side effect of homelessness, not the 
source
146
These are just more ways to criminalize behavior.
147
no confidence in phoenix cares program.. its wasted time and $
148
Phoenix CARES as it is now structured is not effective and needs to be broken 
up into more specialized teams. Neighborhoods feel they have been sold a bill of 
goods on all the solutions that Phoenix CARES promised
149
We need less more compassionate means of dealing with encampment 
materials (rather than discarding them). Cops likely should not be the first point of 
contact for illegal encampment cases. 
150
I think prisoners should definitely be given these clean up jobs to aid in 
enhancement. Also their self esteem!
151
If you not doing this already, the rest will not matter. Again, do your jobs!!!
152
I don’t feel qualified to speak on this area but I care about our homeless and 
that’s why I’m responding
153
Again treat people as individualsand reward responsible stewardship.
154
Eliminate C.3.6  There is no way to be successful in this effort. Why is it our 
responsibility to take care of personal items left behind? Let's increase individual 
responsibility and provide incentives for that. 
C.3.6
155
Again, if you see the unhoused as a group of people in need of help and 
ACTUALLY fund aiding them in finding housing and medical/mental help, you 
don't need these sorts of measures meant to criminalize homelessness.
156
Keep existing clean up measures
157
THERE IS TOO MUCH HUMAN WASTE ON THE STREETS NEAR CASS  
(12AVE AND MADISON) AND THE SURROUNDING NEIGHBORHOODS 
158
I've heard that removing encampments does more harm than good for the 
community and for people experiencing homelessness. I would hope that the first 
strategies would be to address the primary causes of homelessness, than to 
focus on the outcomes and take action against encampments and individuals.
159
If biohazard is a problem use funding to provide public toilets and include hand 
washing sinks  Fund a crew to clean such facilities - maybe recruit homeless
160
If the other sections are working, this section will become less critical
161
Initiatives to remove and forbid encampments risk harming and disrupting the 
transient population further. While this may create issues for property owners or 
permanent residents, this does not negate the fact that transient individuals have 
the right to exist, and should not be prosecuted for not having access to 
appropriate resources. However, the objectives in this Strategy that seek to 
increase resources should be kept. 
162
This seems like follow up- it is great to plan ahead for biohazard clean-up ( which 
is gravely important)  but maybe it shouldnt be in the initial push to help people 
and get them out of the heat
Clean Up Chapter Comments
152

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
163
CARES is a failed attempt at this point. It polices more than it helps. Restructure 
and create alliances with all cities in Maricopa County to coordinate and aid 
rather than chase people around. Clean up will be simpler with coordination of 
resources.
164
hire some of those on the streets to do the clean up. Also uou can get some high-
school key clubs to help with clean up. The cost for cleanup shouldn't be high, bio 
hazards is most concerning.
165
I do not believe homeless encampments should be torn down. I believe they 
should be able to have a safe place to be until they are ready to take the next 
step to transitioning. 
166
Add - plan for having the homeless who made the mess clean it up. There’s zero 
responsibility and accountability on the homeless. It’s tiresome cleaning up their 
mess just to have to do it all again the next day. Guilty of loitering - 7 days 
Immediate community service on trash detail down town 
167
Consider what to do when encampments just reappear afer being "cleaned up."  
Consider sanctioning a place for unsheltered folks to camp (especially those that 
are concerned for their own personal safety) that is coordinated and run in some 
way by officials and adheres to some basic minimum requirements for allowing 
folks to camp there.
168
The role of Police in clean-ups should be clearly outlined. There should be 
regulations set in place to limit the participation of police in clean ups, if include 
them at all. Police should never be used as a violent or intimidating force to take 
down encampments or interact with the homeless population in general. The 
rights of those experiencing homelessness should be upheld. 
169
Expand the clean up program to other areas in the Phoenix area that are high 
concerns where homeless and residents may come in contact such as under 
freeway underpasses, public bus stops, convenient store parking lots etc.  
170
We need to keep all those areas clean, setting an example, and not losing the 
battle with filth. Its bad for everyone if the filth wins. 
171
are you utilizing homeless and recently released to work in these programs
172
This section only gives ammunition to those who prefer to pretend homeless 
don't exist or the "lock 'em all up" way of thinking...
173
This section would become irrelevant if homelessness were eradicated.  
174
This provides no means to an end 
175
Seek legal direction on trash -vs- abandoned items.  How much of a problem is 
this?  It sounds like these people are camping illegally.  How much money is 
spent on this area? I assume that this is on this list for a reason, but I don't really 
see the benefit of spending a lot of money consulting expensive attorneys for this. 
176
This will destroy unhoused people's homes. This does not need to be done. Once 
people have a safe space to stay permanently this issue will resolve by itself
177
This section looks to criminalize homelessness when in many cases is 
unavoidable for people. It goes against many human rights acts and is unlawful.
178
There needs to be help already in place for providing housing BEFORE there is 
forced removal 
179
If funding is requested to clean up these areas, measures need to be in place to 
keep them clean or better yet, keep encampments from returning to a previously 
cleaned up area.
180
Do not criminalize homelessness. 
181
Unlawful seizures of homeless people's property must end. 
182
Stop evicting homeless people, it’s inhuman 
Clean Up Chapter Comments
153

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
183
City clean up and public space maintenance is important, but should no include 
driving out the homeless population from parks and alleyways. If enough 
resources are made available for shelter and mental health services, 
encampments should decrease.
184
Why don’t you hire some of these homeless people to do the clean up. Kinda like 
a chain gang, there’s actually a similar thing in California, they get them IDs, 
social cards etc and then a van picks them up at a designated spot and taken to 
an area to clean up and are paid at the end of their shift.
185
try to engage those who live on the streets involved in cleaning up the streets and 
areas of concern
186
Place Por-A-Potties at high homeless areas
187
Less focus on removal of items and “debris.” Destruction and removal of 
homeless peoples’ property solves very little other than forcing them to amass 
the items they need to live all over again. It is not an effective approach.
188
Only you care, NOT the residents
189
The City of Boise decision says you can't clean up the camps without providing 
the shelters. Provide the shelters and then clean up our City.  Give us back our 
public parks, libraries and mass transit.  
190
leave as stated
191
There needs to be more focus on clean up programs especially around the 
homeless shelters.  The trash is everywhere, I watched as they ate and threw all 
their food into the street (this is daily).
192
Include clean up of encampments on public and private property - empty lots, 
along freeways, etc. 
193
Instead of kicking someone out of their makeshift home, we should be putting 
more money, time and effort into providing them with affordable housing, job 
skills classes, and training. 
194
I wonder if these goals would be better met if the city reached out to folks 
currently experiencing homelessness and helped organize people to do 
education and support around individuals taking responsibility for their own 
property and trash.
195
Again, use what is already in our means. Find a way to get this part done free. 
196
Recruiting additional staff for which ever department should be individuals 
carefully screened. Individuals who actually be a powerful help resource more 
than a hindrance. Individuals more concerned at making a difference vs a 
concerned about their paycheck. 
197
Remove language about seeking legal advice regarding lost items vs trash.  
Abandoned items are hazardous trash and all must be removed as soon as 
possible.
198
I think we need to keep all options open and vigilant to any changes or additions 
as needed
199
Utilize volunteer programs for citizens who want to help in the cleanup initiatives. 
200
Provide incentives for the homeless to participate in the clean up of their area, 
maybe linked to the opportunity to camp there or not. Provide trash receptacles.
Clean Up Chapter Comments
154

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
201
"Additional storage containers for people experiencing homelessness" should be 
a short-term AND long-term goal. It shouldn't go away after COVID.  
 
Similarly to above, I don't think posting the rules about parks more clearly, or 
cracking down harder on encampments will actually help the homeless 
population or ultimately deter them--it will only criminalize them. We need to put 
our money and focus toward providing them with alternative housing and free 
public bathrooms and other essential services so that they have options other 
than creating encampments. 
202
This is an area in which one should ask for public assistance.  For example, 
include in the present app a "report homeless encampment" function, and maybe 
offer a small stipend for being the first to do so.
203
Filthy is devastating at every level of society. Cleanliness is not just a choice, a 
condition of healthful living.
204
I think that it is wrong that tax payer money needs to be spent cleaning up after 
the people in encampments.  Can they not be made to work cleaning up their 
own messes?  This just seems wrong that they want free services and they make 
such a mess.
205
My thoughts exactly.
206
C3.4 and 3.5 appear ineffective and not really a strategy 
C3.4 and 3.5
207
you need to add not sure to the choices
208
Homeless folks need some responsibility to earn these benefits. 
209
Let’s not have Phoenix turn in San Francisco and Los Angeles. I don’t want to 
see needles in the streets and poop and trash. Don’t let democrats control things.
210
Add incentives on keeping neighborhood clean.Taken turns cleaning streets and 
neighborhoods clean, in return give homeless vouchers, cash or incentives of 
some type. 
211
Create a city camp ground where homeless individuals can stay, receive the 
services they need, maintain their dignity, pay space rent or work community 
service for their space.
212
Taking people's property won't help them get off the street. It is just punishing 
people for being poor. 
213
Provide sanitation stations and porta-potties in high volume homeless areas
214
Also need to consider the costs and sustainability of the proposed actions.
215
"Submit for additional biohazard clean-up funds for transit clean-ups" should be a 
priority.
216
Just a possibility:  do they still use inmates for trash pickup?  Or community 
service hours?
217
The jargon used in these talking points, makes some of this unclear. Howecer, I 
will sat that helping people find a safe alternative to an encampment is a high 
priority.  However  raiding, arresting people, then destroying and disposing of 
their property sounds like City staff committing  robbery assault on an already 
traumatized group of individuals. THAT, I want to see stop.  I would rather see an 
organization, trained in helping traumatized people, become aware of a group of 
people in need. Who are then dispached to the group, where they are able to 
help direct them to the most appropriate location for shelter and assistance. 
218
Add garbage containers and collection wherever possible.
Clean Up Chapter Comments
155

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
219
All of this is necessary. However rallying the neighborhoods is very unlikely I am 
almost nonexistent. The area I’m living in now most people don’t care but they 
definitely don’t want him moving in. We fuss about him hanging out at CVS in the 
city Senior Center just down the street from CVS. CVS has to clean up on their 
own and Senior Center just literally call in &  Literally wait for the city to send 
someone out to take care of the situation which may be a week. I have actually 
observed this happen and it happened to be a dangerous situation that has never 
been rectified. The city doesn’t care about the seniors or the citizens in my 
opinion only actions to make themselves supposedly look good. I am irritated by 
the homeless, drug addicts‘s & alcoholics coming up to me while I am walking 
into a business, leaving a business and asking for funds. At the present time I 
have not had that happen because I can’t go nowhere. I’m 75 I’m one of those 
high risk elderly. The only high risk elderly happen to be in the nursing homes. 
They actually have no choice in the workers who come and go who won’t wear 
masks who go out to party evenings and don’t follow the physical distancing 
standards or the wearing of a mask. Those residents are at the mercy of the 
workers. The rest of us follow all of that and we have had very little problem yeah 
we are being punished by telling us we can’t go anywhere or do anything and 
keep those senior center is closed. Maybe you ought to do that to some of the 
younger people but the city has suffered the retribution by being taken to court by 
fitness factories and bars which happened to be younger people. They are the 
ones that are spreading it and nothings been done. We are too afraid to find them 
or do anything else as we might offend them. After all there’s that political 
correctness that’s killing us all
220
Here's an idea: Don't leave a mess. Sadly, we're going to need these services. 
221
How about involving volunteers, and retirees who are willing and eager to 
contribute their time?
222
Why is the focus on just around the human services campus? I understand the 
surrounding area needs help, but neighborhoods outside that area are affected 
too, which is why I stated above to provide those clean up services city wide.
223
nothing
224
Park and alley camps should not be allowed!
225
You need to provide housing, counseling and housing. The rest is just zip
226
End police raids of encampments and confiscation/destruction of property.  
Investigate and prosecute police accused of violence.
227
Could those individuals transitioning out of homelessness  be employed in the 
clean up process?  this would give them skills, history of employment, evidence 
of accountability and increase self esteem.
228
This section does not include some of the major concerns of neighborhoods.  In 
addition, it does not outline any required neighborhood impact mitigation for foot 
traffic to and from services that are required from providers. This is incomplete. In 
addition, it implies that the only solution is to close our alleys?  Implying that you 
are going to implement codes of conduct or enforce rules that are unenforceable 
is the same thing that has historically occurred. Not a new or effective  strategy.
Clean Up Chapter Comments
156

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
229
I think it's crucial that anyone who engages an encampment with the goal of 
moving them, receives comprehensive training in CPI, Crisis Prevention 
Intervention.  When asking someone to move, it can be a volatile scenario.  CPI 
is training to de-escalate someone in crisis non-violently.  The training is based 
on the values of Care, Welfare, Safety and Security for the person in crisis, the 
staff member and anyone else in the vicinity.
230
I would like to see more information regarding the cost for these additional plans.  
I would also like to see a stronger plan of action rather than just to seek more 
legal direction or additional staff.  Again, I am at a loss to see any penalties 
associated for those who violate our laws and property being held responsible for 
their actions.  It just seems like more government programs without holding 
violators responsible.
231
Please see notes at question 23.
232
Change C.3.5 to briefly explain what PRD is. 
233
unbelievable.  too many giveaways
234
This seems to punish people who are experiencing homelessness 
235
As a founding member of Mountaineers, a nonprofit group who spent thousands 
of hours cleaning up trash in the Phoenix Mountain Preserves in the mid-80's, 
this is an important and critical component. When an area is cleaned up and 
maintained it usually stays clean. Awards from Keep America Beautiful and one 
of President George Bush's "Points of Light", I can attest to the community pride 
that comes from restoring and maintaining the beauty of Phoenix. Whether it be a 
mountain, park, yard, street or alley.
236
Give people housing,not make their lives more difficult
237
wow, this could end up in a strong "us" vs "them" situation with more employees 
empowered to get out, interact with homeless folks, not necessarily in a positive 
way. Better to recruit from ranks of homeless, train to be liaisons, keep lines of 
communication open. 
238
Include volunteer opportunities for clean-up team(s). Provide volunteer training 
(i.e. hazmat, etc.) if needed.
239
This may be a short term need that will not be needed in the long run if the 
housing and mental health components are adequately addressed.
240
This may be covered in the topics above, but how to keep areas continuously 
cleans-maintenance of the areas. 
241
Mental health services increased. 
242
Alternatives for securing property like community lockers. If you tighten up 
encampments, what are the alternatives...people will find other places to go?  If 
you are just moving moving them does not address the issue.  They will look for 
other places and create new things Robles.
243
Hire the homeless to remove litter and be on the clean-up crew, as appropriate
244
Not sure
245
Pristine Phoenix Program 
246
Delete section C.2.2
C.2.2
247
As long as everyone has an alternative residence, the alleys can be cleaned.. 
Provide opportunities for the homeless to work in their communities. Turn an old 
mall into a new community 
248
The language used needs to be more focused on how to help keep places clean 
w/o working to punish people for trying to survive while not having permanent 
housing. 
249
Keeping areas clean is of high importance 
250
Bums are filthy, many by choice rather than by circumstance. 
Clean Up Chapter Comments
157

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
251
No enabling
252
People should not be allowed to live in parks. We should not need a 
BIOHAZARD cleanup in public areas! 
253
I believe this is not related to homelessness but more related to building and 
grounds upkeep and should be in their budget. 
254
"Clean-ups" have in recent years been a nice word for the police to come into 
camps and kick everyone out. The unhoused have very limited belongings that 
they take with them, and when they are thrown out, they start at  square one and 
have to find necessities. I would like to know around this plan to clean up and 
what it will entail. Is it going to be hostile? Are the police going to use force? Are 
they going to listen to these folks to find out what they need? 
255
While keeping the streets clean is necessary, I think it's incredibly important that 
we don't utilize police as the principal agents responsible for homeless outreach 
given the lack of oversight and the lack of proper training. 
256
this section seems hyper-relevant to one part of the city/one group of property 
owners. i'm sure it needs to be addressed but should it be in a more targeted 
solution focused on the HCS
257
Many businesses have barred their restrooms from use by the public.  Port-a-
potties could be placed in well-lit and monitored locations with hand sanitizing 
stations.
258
Right now there are parks I won't go to because of the homeless problem.  
Graffiti, trash, signs, protests that turn violent make everyone look bad.
259
Very important, someone was actually living in my backyard when I was in 
escrow for buying my Current house. 
260
What is the biohazard?
261
have a budget plan with that's monitored, anything left over goes to clean up and 
improve city parks
262
Treat the cause, not the effects.  Alleys should NOT be closed.  Alleys should be 
made more welcoming so more residents will USE alleys.  More eyes on the 
street = good thing.
263
Sanitation affects not only the homeless but all of nearby.  Encouraging a self-
policing approach would be great, but many homeless can not function as a 
typical homeowner would and need outside help to keep them safe.  
264
Enable those that are homeless to assist those that are homeless.
265
I can always tell where Homeless congregate by the piles of trash, even if there is 
a trash can within a few feet. 
266
Hiring more people to add more regulations needs to be removed
267
yes but we always use the excuse of not enough people.  I myself offered to work 
with Park Rangers to remove trash from parks and was refused.  We need 
citizens groups to help.  We spent a Million dollars to train park rangers how to 
communicate deal with and hand out literature to the homeless.  Where did that 
get us.
268
We have a huge problem with camping and using our alleys as toilets.
269
Posting the rules at the park doesn't do a bit of good unless the City takes action 
to enforce those rules!
270
Remove anti-homeless architecture. No more benches with arm bars 
271
leave as is for now-would rather there be more shelter space than an alley-but 
some are scared to be inside
Clean Up Chapter Comments
158

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
272
While we should always have resources for cleanup, believing a sign is going to 
change behavior is ridiculous and they don't need park rangers interacting, 
homeless citizens need social workers who are trained to interact in an informed 
and respectful way.
273
these sections should be un-bundled so you can provide feedback on each 
objective.
274
I think there should be emphasis on cleaning up around the HSC, however, I 
don’t think that encampments around that area should be torn down. The fact 
remains that the HSC is extremely dangerous and many people may not feel safe 
staying there, but need to use their resources during the day. Tearing down 
surrounding encampments will push those who need services away.
275
Need to better identify source of funding--City Council, County Board of 
Supervisors, State Legislature, Congress.  Better to divide long term into mid-
term and long-term for more reasonable goals.  items in strategies seem 
reasonable.  Need to be more clear about what is actually possible and what 
organizations will lead advocacy for funding, structural changes, policy changes 
and the like.
276
Safety surrounding the campus is a must; especially for those that did not make it 
to a bed for the night. 
277
All The Above?
278
I think some of the homeless could be hired to clean up the campus area. This 
could accomplish two goals at once - jobs for those capable and a cleaner 
environment. 
279
Why only around Human Services Campus? Why not everywhere????? I don't 
even know where the Human Services Campus is or what it is all about. Educate. 
Alleys? Should be lit and have cameras. How are Phoenix residents supposed to 
feel safe when Phoenix doesn't act like it really CARES? Basic Human Services 
is required. 
280
Again, open the restrooms at the parks.  Also, let’s be honest: the homeless 
aren’t the only ones littering in the parks.
281
I am concerned that these are punitive rather than proactive or helpful measures.
282
PHX cares needs to be disbanded and evaluated. They are an extension of the 
police and a useless tool of the city.
283
I’ve seen two clean up events on 11th Ave. both times police officers harassed 
people experiencing homelessness. City crews treated people experiencing 
homelessness terribly, without respect or compassion. I was disgusted by what I 
saw. 
284
these policies are use to harass homeless people and take property they would 
need to survive and does not address the root cause of the problem which is lack 
of housing. alleys should not be closed and gated but should be utilized by the 
community. 
285
Trash cleanup is probably the most important on this list 
286
Make sure when removing encampments they are offered a ride and actual 
resources. Not just a referral to a shelter that is full. 
287
As a resident - why does 'legal direction trash vs. abandoned property' .  Will a 
homeless person sue?  Provide  new positions for the few times this posses a 
problem.    Clean encampments up by notifying private property owners that this 
date will begin the cleanup and state how homeless individuals will be cared for.  
Take action - I highly doubt a private property owner will sue or write in legislation 
to prevent this if due notice is given.  
Clean Up Chapter Comments
159

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
288
I think that something should be done to address the problems in areas near 
methadone clinics. We didn't have issues in my neighborhood until a methadone 
clinic opened near the I10 Freeway and Northern.  
 
I also think there should be a specially trained team to remove hazardous waste 
materials left behind by homeless. I don't think Parks Maintenance Workers 
should have to breakdown left behind homeless encampments. They are there to 
fix broken equipment, so that our Parks are safe. They are not trained to handle 
used needles and human waste. I think a specially trained team is needed. 
289
This section only serves to further criminalize homelessness, which is the exact 
opposite of what is needed!
290
With speedy, robust and sincere implementation of the prevention and solution 
strategies, this will become unnecessary.
291
See last question
292
This is the most important part of the plan by far!!!
293
All of these suggestions cost money. You are taking money from the majority to 
help a small population 
294
This is especially important for those who refuse assistance.
295
INCLUDE SHOPPING CARTS.  Get some of the homeless/transients to go 
around and help city pick up carts.  In talking with city about carts and the other 
service, do not know why there cannot be a regular schedule in some area, such 
as ours, where carts are picked up on a regular basis.  We have Fry's and 
Walmart carts all over the place.  Assign someone to talk to these stores about 
securing the carts better and retrieving.  And,  yes, more park rangers to get the 
transients out the of the parks, especially our park - Telephone Pioneer Park, with 
a bathroom and walls/buildings that keep overnight sleepers hidden and the 
police do not want to get out of their vehicles to check unless called. 
296
What about outreach programs to encourage the people on the street to clean up 
after themselves?  This is a tough one! 
297
The focus should be in Arizona residents safety and cleaning up biohazards 
should’ve been the job if the state from the beginning 
298
Don’t close alleys. Design changes can make them better.  
 
There are reasons people use them. 
 
Consider opening places where people can use illegal drugs safely so they don’t 
need to do it in private. 
299
Easier ways to report camps
300
Do not allow illegal camping and you will not have to deal with the cleanup of 
such. See enforcement and policing comments.
301
I don’t know much about the Human Services campus needs, but I think it is 
important to educate residents about the rules and then enforce them 
consistently.
302
Is there a non profit already doing this work? Talk with "I Love a Clean San 
Diego".
303
Homeless camps wherever they are become a breeding ground for human 
waste, garbage and disease
304
Again...a lot of bureaucracy. How about actual action that gets results? Properly 
posted signs does nothing... 
305
Add: fund and task force on removing trash and dump area.
Clean Up Chapter Comments
160

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
306
this should be focused on getting services to the people around the campus 
which will lead to the reduction of trash and clean up around the Human Services 
Campus. 
307
Plan to deal with the problems of human waste and defecation as well as 
abandoned needles.
308
Recruit clean up crews from homeless shelters and offer daily wages.
309
Given the extent of the data presented, 7k+ homeless and %51 unsheltered, it is 
impossible to know what a good strategy looks like. We should do the work to 
understand the population further. What percent needs mental health services? 
What percentage are on the street due to recent eviction? What percent are 
using hard drugs? What percent would take a bed if one was available? 
310
The Human Services Campus MUST be broken up and moved to the far 4 
corners of the County. It has no right being in sight of the Capitol building!!! Our 
County has plenty of land!!!!!!!!!!
311
Bulk trash should be monthly due to illegal dumping in areas of concern 
312
In an ideal world, progress would be made towards helping unsheltered people 
find more stable housing and provide them with toilets and showers and so 
cleanup would become less necessary over time.  
313
Involve the homeless in clean-ups of the sites they occupy
314
there are many other encampments - not as large as the Human Services 
Campus - but within parks, under bridges along washes and bike paths that have 
the same biohazard concerns 
315
This acceptable as long as there suitable alternatives for the encampments.
316
I'm concerned that the enforcement of this would happen before the help the 
homeless people need.
317
Very important to clean camps near neighborhoods and retail centers 
318
We should not be cleaning up after the homeless. Of they are caught dumping 
they should go to jail. Spending tax dollars to clean up after them isn’t the 
answer. 
319
What is legal isn't always right/moral so expand discussion on trash versus 
abandoned property.
320
C. 3.6
C.3.6
321
The Rangers need to be more like resource officers providing information to 
homeless of where to go for help.
322
Seems to be a way of chasing homeless people away, not really helpful to them. 
Placating residents...
323
Safe spaces for houseless people to sleep are needed. No one like the way 
homelessnees looks, but sweeping them from alleys and parks, etc, leaves no 
place for people to sleep. Phoenix does not have public relations, aside from 
some in parks that are often locked. People need a place to use the restroom 
and clean up, get a drink of water
324
In the year of Covid, we’ve learned the importance of public health initiatives. 
325
Alleys in other HIGH Crime areas need to be included in the ALLEY CLOSURE 
plan so the residents are not fully financially responsible fort he closure of the 
alleys.
326
You can give the jobs to the police people want to defund. This survey and the 
scope of what you want to do is getting ridiculous. As long as Phoenix has warm 
weather in the winter we will have homeless people. Do you plan to take care of 
everyone from everywhere with this plan?
327
Should include moving of funds from law enforcement to social programs to 
reduce the causes of crime
Clean Up Chapter Comments
161

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
328
Not informed about CARES, it's problems and biohazard to comment 
329
Again, focusing on criminal lens of homelessness. Don't do that. Meet people 
where they are at, focus on the person-not the activity.
330
I don't know what the PRD Code of Conduct is....
331
I honestly live on an alley in Phoenix in addition to managing multiple apartment 
communities and truly dislike the alley system. As a homeowner it definitely 
creates challenges, BUT I feel like we need to be careful this section does not 
turn into a way to use policing versus addressing barriers properly within the 
homeless population. 
332
Closing alleys sometimes creates better hiding places.
333
We don’t need more government funded positions.  Put the money to work to 
build housing and such.  The people in the zone already clean up twice a week.  
If you would provide porta potties and such you wouldn’t need to worry about bio 
hazards.
334
This is not helping to the solution.  This is making it harder for those experience 
homelessness to live.  They don’t need their camps removed.  They need 
housing and job solutions to get them off the streets.
335
This is a tricky area - Of course the City must take into consideration the needs of 
all citizens in regards to the status of our streets. However, ensuring we meet the 
needs of our most vulnerable neighbors while addressing street cleanup is 
necessary. Homelessness needs to be humanized. Any cleanup must respect 
the personal property of those experiencing street homelessness. The 
devastation and crisis of losing documentation or belongings of personal, 
emotional value is huge and can set an individual back in regard to their progress 
in a housing plan. A clean up must consider the solution for those without a home 
or location to store belongings. It's not enough to implement street cleans with no 
policy in place that provides a solution for those who are impacted. E.g how can 
we implement a long term solution to the density of street living individuals in 
DTPHX to reduce the impact of blight. 
336
Again, address why people are homeless to begin with and this is a non issue
337
We need a solution to address multiple reports over time in the same area.
338
Keeping our city clean and presentable is important for the health and well being 
of residents, business owners, neighborhoods, and those currently without 
homes.
339
Sanitation is a city function and should be handled thru the city
340
These are all extremely important.  Again a timely removal of these camps is 
imperative.  We have had times where it took weeks for these camps to be 
cleaned up.  
341
Items in this section could negatively impact people experiencing street 
homelessness
342
If possible, have community clean up as part of the homeless 
rehabilitation/ticket/restitution program. Homeless leave messes and they know it 
will be cleaned up, they leave carts that neighborhoods need to dispose of. 
343
Be careful not to criminalize the homeless. Some of these policies could be used 
to hurt the homeless instead of helping them. 
344
Remove C.1.2. The reason alleys are a "problem" is not because they're open, 
it's because we are not taking care of people and helping them out of 
homelessness. Put focus on helping unshelterd people, not on removing or 
"closing" alleys. 
C.1.2.
345
Phoenix CARES is totally ineffective.  
Clean Up Chapter Comments
162

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
346
N/A
347
Stop displacing homeless people, especially when the other infrastructure to 
support them isn’t in place 
348
Needs more emphasis on problem prevention. 
349
Directing the homeless to housing sites encourages treatment for mental health 
and drugs. A major step in the right direction
350
Gated alleys are band aide solution to the lack of affordable housing in Phx.  The 
homeless are going to sleep somewhere and while a prefer that it not be in my 
alley the long-term solution is the creation of affordable housing in every zip code  
and every neighborhood.   If people want better looking alleys I invite them to 
come with me on an alley cleanup.  Maintaining my clean street takes 15 minutes 
a couple of times a week, even with my bad  back.
351
Once again, deal with the source of the problem.  Put resources into ending 
homelessnes, rather than making things nice and neat for those who are 
inconvienced.
352
The cost associated with all these actions could be better spent on creating 
additional housing.  If people had a place to go, these actions would be not 
needed. Criminalizing behavior does solve the problem.
353
Again this expensive.  Where does the money come from.  Can you raise taxes 
when the Federal government, State, and County are also raising taxes.  
354
Having clean, safe streets are important but further traumatizing individual 
experiencing homelessness by moving their camps and confiscating their 
belongings doesn't help anyone
355
C.3.6 is looking for a legal excuse to throw homeless individual's belongings in 
the garbage, by not allowing experiencing the homelessness to claim their last 
belongings and furthering their place as second class citizens, as this objective 
would do so. How is this ethical? 
C.3.6
356
If the homeless have opportunities for other housing and education, the tent cities 
would disappear.
357
Decriminalize homelessness 
358
Do NOT transition bus stop benches to chairs. This is a waste of money that 
could be put toward housing people and does nothing to help individuals who 
have nowhere else to go.
359
More public restrooms are needed - everywhere.    Waste disposal bags ought to 
be available for individuals who want them.
360
To business owners this is very important - clean up and so on. 
361
Where are provisions for pandemic response? or responses during Natural 
Hazards/Disasters (not that we get a lot here but still). Without including this, the 
plan lacks resiliency for more challenging issues that can arise during these 
times. 
362
Again, include the community in the ideas for improvement before writing up.
363
Biohazard cleanup needs to include prevention methods like public restrooms 
and showers. Maintenance of those facilities could be an employment opportunity 
for a person experiencing homelessness. Find a way to help store people's 
belongings. Other cities have found the involuntary removal of unsheltered 
persons belongings to be unconstitutional. It takes folks months to get access to 
IDs and medication only to have them forcibly thrown away in clean up efforts.  
364
Clean-ups have been happening and do very little separate from disrupting 
peoples' lives and throwing away their belongings. This also seems like a waste 
of tax payers resources considering that even before the city was doing clean-
ups, André House has been doing an extensive trash clean-up twice a week.
Clean Up Chapter Comments
163

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
365
If you would let the provider shelter people, you won't need this, at least not very 
much. But when you don't allow them to shelter people, they are going to urinate 
and defecate in alleys. It's not complicated. Incentivize people with shelter beds 
and restrooms, and you eliminate the news. All of the stories that go back 30+ 
years about people in alleys using the restroom and doing all sorts of things 
would never have happened if you had 1,200 beds to begin with. People would 
have been inside, and the 10% refusing to go inside would have been cited. So 
no, spending money to cleanup waste and then to use to punish people with 
nowhere to go is not the answer. Let them be sheltered, and you won't have to 
implement this part of the plan.
366
Additional services need to be available before most of these things can be 
successfully implemented
367
Sanitation is important, but I hope we can approach this with compassion and 
respect for human dignity.  I have participated in neighborhood clean ups where 
we completely cleaned out alleys, dragging tents and individuals' belongings to 
the dump after police cleared them out.  I found it morally questionable.  There 
has got to be a better way. 
368
Focus won’t have to be on cleanup if you are helping those who are homeless - 
providing closer bathrooms and housing. 
369
No rush to expand gated alley program. It is very exclusionary. 
370
Unless there are housing options available for those that are camping then they 
should not be removed. 
371
The only part of this that seems applicable is the bio-hazard clean-up. All the rest 
seems to be a veiled attempt to make the homeless invisible by removing their 
belongings from the public view. Included in this critique is the Wednesday 
morning street cleaning ritual that is enacted near the Human Services Campus 
downtown. Homeless individuals carry ALL of their personal belongings on them; 
getting rid of this perceived "mess" is essentially throwing away irreplaceable 
aspects of an entire person's life - including medical documents, sentimental 
artifacts, or ID (if they're lucky enough to have one). 
372
Remove C.3.2, C.3.3 
 
If everything with housing actually happens, these two issues will become non-
issues. I'd hate for the focus to be here instead of with housing and actual shelter 
development. 
C.3.2 and C.3.3
373
Stop the street sweeps. They are hurting unsheltered people. Law enforcement 
uses clean up to steal peoples belongings and abuse them. We, as residents, 
don't care as much about clean streets as we do about people's safety. 
374
If there is enough help for the homeless, this section is obsolete. Why is cleaning 
from the city budget but helping the homeless is grant dependent? 
375
Phx cares is ridiculous as currently managed.  Also while it’s great to worry about 
the campus area other areas of town are seeing a creep of the same issues and 
it would be great to address more than just the camps
376
This is a very focused set of Strategies on one section of downtown Phoenix? 
Why? Is this a plan to "address homelessness in Phoenix" or just in downtown 
Phoenix? What difference will these strategies make on homelessness? Do they 
really belong in a different section or in a Neighborhood Services plan? A lot of 
the language in this section is criminalizing; these objectives don't address 
homelessness except to make it more uncomfortable for people experiencing 
homelessness. Some of these things make me ashamed to be a resident of 
Phoenix.
Clean Up Chapter Comments
164

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Clean-up Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
377
stop spending money on plans to punish, humiliate, and disregard the homeless. 
Build more shelters .
378
These park people don't know how to deal with homeless individuals and are 
mean and rude.  Eliminate them.  The nonprofits provide trash bags and help the 
homeless clean the areas when they can.  The camps are fine if the parks 
service would provide trash areas and stop moving the trash cans away and not 
putting them back and stop closing the rest room and make the restroom so 
woman are not easily attacked...privacy would be  nice.  so much to add to this.
379
Again, where's the inclusion of the voice of people experiencing homelessness?  
How is the City coordinating these efforts with people on the street and providers 
and NOT leaning on law enforcement?
380
Many of your careers focus entirely on strategic solutions to homelessness; this 
work is vital and appreciated and I want to thank you first and foremost. My 
question is regarding the “Encampment Cleanup” section. What does this entail? 
Specifically, will this include disposing of personal belongs, tents, sleeping bags, 
etc? That is a huge problem for non-domiciled people and the prospect of 
disposing of/ confiscating these items concerns me. Please elaborate. Thank 
you!
381
Many of your careers focus entirely on strategic solutions to homelessness; this 
work is vital and appreciated and I want to thank you first and foremost. My 
question is regarding the “Encampment Cleanup” section. What does this entail? 
Specifically, will this include disposing of personal belongs, tents, sleeping bags, 
etc? That is a huge problem for non-domiciled people and the prospect of 
disposing of/ confiscating these items concerns me. Please elaborate. Thank 
you!
Clean Up Chapter Comments
165

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Policy Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
1
these methods seem very punitive during an extraordinary time where 1 in 5 
people are unemployed in this country, for no fault of their own
2
p1.1, p2.2 seems it could encourage criminalization of homelessness.
1.1 & 2.2
3
Spending the money in wrong or right place? Not sure?
4
Keep anything having to do with enforcement. 
Prevent and remove homeless encampments. 
Free bus tickets for the homeless to move out of Arizona should be a priority.
5
Make it legible
6
Not sure as the image is too small to read
7
Codes of conduct most likely exist for public libraries, parks etc. Make existing 
ones stronger and enforce them. It is crucial to allow for securing of property if 
allowing for homeless encampments. Many architecture design projects have 
addressed this. Look to non-profits that have solved this problem. Camping is 
difficult in the best of weather. Camping in the summer in Phoenix is not easy or 
healthy because of the heat. Eating, sleeping, and using restroom facilities are all 
best done inside a building in Phoenix in summer. Encouraging people to live in 
tents and travel to places to eat or places that have shade or public restrooms 
creates lots of unintended consequences. Stop making legislation that 
encourages these behaviors. Shade is required in the building codes when 
developing property. Shade is required when building bus stops. Practice good 
design and land development. Strategy 6 seems like it needs to be addressed 
and fixed. Again, good landscaping along the edges of the canal might help 
discourage camping. Neglected vegetation makes it easier to hide 
encampments. Enforce laws regarding abandoned property.
6
8
cannot read, print too small
9
Remove P.7.1. 
P.7.1
10
The print is too small for me to read it, so I don't know.
11
"We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEY'RE
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS"
12
I'm concerned about the way the BOR will handle makeshift camps and where 
the residents will be relocated to. Kicking people off of some scrap of land they 
managed to make themselves feel safe in and not offering them somewhere else 
to go is unconscionable.
13
This section reads to me as an attempt to officially criminalize homelessness. I 
do not support it in any capacity. Martin v. Boise anyone? Camping should be 
allowed on canals.  The Supreme Court has already ruled on this issue, the 
current plan falling under "cruel and unusual punishment."  Policy for additional 
beds being proposed BEFORE funding for the beds is secured? Resolving 
"blights" instead of assisting struggling people? Separate Codes of Conduct 
obviously designed to inconvenience people who already do not have shelter? 
NO.
14
Addressing the many components of policy here are essential.  Making strategic 
and targeted changes to our poorly executed situation is vital to this process. My 
hope is that it may be possible to address this long and involved section in an 
efficient and expedited manner.
Policy Chapter Comments
166

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Policy Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
15
I want to see more details about what alternatives will be provided to unsheltered 
populations who are displaced as a result of stricter codes of conduct and 
restrictions on encampments. What is the use of implementing stricter 
regulations if the root issues that lead to blight & encampment are not being 
addressed? Unsheltered individuals have to live somewhere.
16
Remove the negative consequences.  Volunteers can help move the homeless 
person to an appropriate place, not the police.  Volunteers can gently help all 
areas with gentleness and tenderness.
17
This section reflects the same language commented on above. Enforcement can 
only occur after a period of adequate servicing. Most appropriately, prevention 
efforts would be developed to quell the number of individuals experiencing 
homelessness before they end up in such a position. However, that requires a 
much greater, macro effort than would be covered in this document. 
18
You cannot focus on tents/encampments/clean ups while knowing there is a 
homeless population who needs housing. Something must be done to house 
people and reduce the need for encampments. 
19
Creating criminal code for a population who already has significant barriers to 
housing is alarming. Additionally, considering the majority of the unsheltered 
population is made up of BIOPC, this perpetuates systemic racism. 
20
Protect the property owners FIRST!!
21
Most of the impact of this portion would be to eliminate any help to homeless 
people.
22
These objectives are incredibly vague and there is a lack of description of how 
and what you plan to implement in order to appropriately address homelessness 
in Phoenix. There needs to be more information provided and we demand full 
transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and an extension for 
the public comment meetings until they’re accessible to people experiencing 
homelessness. 
23
a plan is a good thing.  funding is essential. not working in a vacuum is needed, 
as the metro area cities are not separated and distant, but boundaries do not limit 
the homeless problem, but increase it
24
Again sounds great, but who is going to enforce this.  Business owners should 
not have to come up with ideas on how to keep a place they pay rent, taxes, the 
City collects taxes from their business.  This is the City's job and needs to be 
enforced. Give back some rights and common sense to lawful, working people.  
25
As I noted above, some of these solutions really just seem to lead to an increase 
in policing and punishments against members of our community that are 
experiencing homelessness.
26
ONLY as a LONG TERM PLAN.
27
Strategy 2 and Strategy 4 very important
2 &4
28
largeer type set I can barely read it
29
Each of these Policy Solutions items are voiced in the disruptive "us vs them" 
attitude. From your office down we residents of Maricopa County need to be 
lead/influenced/mentored to have a loving attitude. Land does not be to be used 
(taken) from owners. Also, I see not provisions for true long-term solutions like: 
raising the poverty level assessment on our tax forms (why do people so close 
the the edge have to pay so much in taxes?). Why don't we raise some taxes for 
this kind of support? 
30
Regional strategies and solutions are critical. Policies that are cohesive across 
jurisdictions would be helpful. 
Policy Chapter Comments
167

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Policy Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
31
We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEY'RE 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS.
32
We need to provide our city employees and leaders with "teeth" to enforce the 
rules and regulations in a consistent manner. Thank you.
33
This entire section reads like a bunch of different ways to further criminalize the 
homeless community in Phoenix. This section needs to focus on policies that 
provide actual safety and resources for safety. Drafting a code of conduct is like 
drafting reasons for the police to incite more violence. This is not good policy. 
You're basically criminalizing every part of Phoenix and providing no safe spaces 
for the homeless community. 
34
Other municipalities should be included.
35
Remove the bureaucracy and red tape. Spend a weekend around a table 
together and agree on some solutions!
36
Yes. We have to be able to enforce the camping and utilization of empty 
properties quickly and efficiently. 
37
P.1.1 Don't understand what purpose the "Code of Conduct" serves. If people are 
already law abiding and use common sense they will respect public property. If 
people are mentally unstable, use drugs or have a criminal mentality, a "Code of 
Conduct" will mean nothing. If it can be used by law enforcement, Parks & Rec 
staff to keep areas safe and clean it makes sense, but don't understand it from 
this blurb.P.6.1 Regarding prohibiting of encampments along the canal seems 
like a good idea, so thank you to whoever decided to address that, much 
appreciated!
1.1 & 6.1
38
this is more about continuing to criminalize homelessness and papering over the 
symptoms rather than addressing the causes.
39
We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
an extension for the public comment meetings until they're accessible to people 
experiencing homelessness. 
40
This stuff is obviously important, but it sounds more like reactionary bureaucracy 
designed to look busy while accomplishing nothing. Just don't get carried away 
with these relatively simple adminstrative tasks.
41
Once again strengthening the chokehold on where homeless people can be. 
Establishing legal guidelines for a special use permit to evict people off of canal 
areas is a gross overstep of legal guidance. Also, mentioning 10 items on how to 
make it harder for these people to live and then casually throwing in ‘more beds’ 
at the end is frankly insulting. 
42
Needs to be paired with alternative options for displacement 
43
More information needed. 
44
"We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEYRE 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS"
45
Criminalizing homelessness does nothing to address it. This section should not 
be included unless the previous sections that work to prevent homelessness are 
enacted first. Otherwise, these initiatives will solve nothing.
46
You cannot 'policy" your way out of the issue of homeless citizens. The proposed 
policies are meaningless if the first 11 sections are addressed. Many people think 
"change the policy" e.g. encampments on the banks of the Grand Canal. Unless 
there are beds and mental health services, you are only going to "ciminalize" 
homelessness issue. 
Policy Chapter Comments
168

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Policy Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
47
Could be a supplement for those needing this information.  A bit cumbersome for 
the lay people.
48
Any policies created need to have verbiage that protects the mentally ill homeless 
who for mental health reasons may not seek shelter or services.  Sleeping out 
should not be a crime.
49
I cant read the above image. They type is too small. 
50
You need community by in and a feedback opportunity. 
51
Encampment clean up is very important in my community. When a homeless 
person died, others will linger around,  sort of waiting for everyone else to leave. 
Then they go through the deceased’s belongings and claim whatever they want 
as their own. This creates an increased chance for violence and no one sees it 
except those of us who live here.  
 
Also, we have to do something about the homeless in the park off of Central/1st 
Ave and Fillmore. I can not see new dorms going up on this corner.  
Summers are especially rough in this neighborhood and the grass in the park, 
saves the homeless from being burned by the pavement. When need water and 
sunscreen stations here also.
52
What are the metrics to measure success for this plan?  This survey is sadly a 
bad design, seeking confirmation bias instead of genuine public input. 
53
Illegible
54
Like the sections I took issue with earlier, it is addressing a result of homeless 
people having few places to go safely, instead of just giving them safer places to 
go.
55
While these policies are important, there needs to be equal weight given to 
policies that increase funding for homeless support services; policies that require 
the availability of affordable housing across Phoenix; policies that amend zoning 
laws to establish more shelters, etc; policies that promote tenant rights; policies 
to send out government workers to direct camps of homeless people to shelters, 
medical care, etc.  
 
Overall, the policies section needs to look out not only for neighborhood safety 
and private property owners, but also for increasing opportunities for homeless 
people.
56
This is a list of items that COP should do and probably is doing. It looks like an 
opportunity for COP to say: "You asked for it and so we are doing it!"  Why ask? 
OF COURSE, all of this should be done. Aren’t you doing it now?  
P.2.1: Clean up around the HSC campus NOW. People who respond to this 
survey may not know how bad it is there. Don’t wait for the citizens to tell you! 
YOU KNOW THIS IS A VIOLATION of city and county codes. CLEAN UP THE 
AREA NOW.  
2.1
57
Not really sure.  Very hard to read.
58
Prohibit camping along the canals!!!!! They are polluting the water provided to 
paying customers. 
59
Codes of conduct cannot infringe on Constitutional rights. Religious freedom and 
what is politically correct are often at odds. If a code of conduct is against 
religious freedom and expression, you can be sure the city WILL BE SUED! 
There should be basic conduct codes as stated above. Government cannot use 
this to dictate belief systems wanted by one group. Beware of violations of free 
speech and religious freedom. 
Policy Chapter Comments
169

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Policy Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
60
Remove p.1.3
1.3
61
Again, homelessness shouldn't be illegal. We need to be helping those who need 
help, not prosecuting them and making their situations more difficult and 
stressful.
62
Sounds like 4.2 in practice would criminalize distributing food to people that need 
it
4.2
63
Once again, the creation of a so-called "Code of Conduct" for the homeless gives 
police FAR too much power because officers can simply cite this while moving 
homeless out of any area. Our officers are not trained to handle the homeless 
properly and this will spark conflict among a police department already riddled 
with issues and questionable decisions.
64
This section increases the criminalization of homelessness and the risk of 
homeless people being in contact with police when they should be in contact with 
mental health workers or social workers. This whole section needs to be removed 
and re-conceptualized.
65
Remove all of P.1, P.2, and P.6
1, 2 & 6
66
I think enforcing payment on the light rail system should be a number one priority. 
P1.1 - I agree with behavior in indoor settings.   I am not sure how this would be 
used as to in regards to parks.  If you are criminalizing the camping or loitering or 
what not, are you creating a diversion program?  Are you offering a "natural" 
setting type shelter experience?  What will you as the number of families 
increase that need shelter?   I don't think relying on poorly trained City of Phoenix 
police is a good solution to navigate mental/social service issues.  For 
6.1/6.2/6.3, I don't see an adequate response laid out for those that resist living in 
congregate settings, transitional housing, other than arresting people that may 
than be subject to truth in sentencing provisions.   I don't want to pay for their cost 
in the state prison or city jail.  So, I would prefer to designate at least some zones 
on the canal system, parks, or city land for those that won't accept services.
1.1, 6.1, 6.2, 6.3
67
I do not think that the canals should be targeted
68
Poor qu3stion.  Confusing
69
Immediate nutritional, hydration, and shelter support should be provided to 
people experiencing homelessness rather than the punishment or 
discouragement of resources being distributed by community members. The 
focus in this section relates largely to policing community activity rather than 
providing aid. 
70
Less wonky talk, more action talk / action.
71
When you criminalize addiction, homelessness and being poor or disabled you 
create more problems. Spend more in out reach and services and you would 
need this
72
Codes of conduct are unethical and will lead to further policing of people 
experiencing homelessness. This leads to criminalization and exacerbates the 
very problem we are trying to solve. Providing adequate housing first will 
eliminate the need for policy changes, saving valuable time, money and 
resources.
73
Policy solutions are extremely important to ending homelessness but not one of 
these recommendations adresses this. There are just a bunch of actions  for the 
city to “deal with” people who are homeless.The city should be adopting policies 
to make it easier to increase density, fight NIMBYs, and find funding to build more 
housing for ELI households.
74
I can't read that. The heading certainly refers to important objectives, though.
Policy Chapter Comments
170

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Policy Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
75
Another vital part of clean and must have consistent enforcement. Heat relief 
stations are critical in Phoenix.
76
Don't have so much govt regulation. P1.1, P1.2 - stop trying to control everyword 
out of someones mouth or every body movement, we are humans, everyone 
usually tries to act like adults, we don't need a bunch of govt codes. Let people 
give of themselves and feed the homeless if they want to. Water stations only 
need to be near homeless shelters. No to camping on the canals. 
1.1 & 1.2
77
Hard to read. Apply my points and SENTIMENTS toward these policies. I am 
happy to be part of a Citizen Committee on the matter(s). David Ludwig 602-242-
4530, 602-864-1012
78
Creating enforcement on feeding the homeless is not a good use of city time or 
money....again...if you provide the housing and services...we wouldn't have so 
much street homelessness. You shouldn't be taking the last possessions folks 
have and using "abandonment" to do it. Completly degrading. The canals issue is 
again an issue of available options...increase options for housing and people will 
go....no one wants to live at the canal by choice.
79
The increase in beds should be in other jurisdictions. COP needs to stop carrying 
the burden. COP needs to understand there are 2 types of homeless, homeless 
through no fault of their own and vagrants. Only 20% are accepting help and 
millions is being spent. Let's help those who want help.
80
You know people are going to say, "Not in my neighborhood!"
81
nothingdisplayed
82
Quit enabling.
83
We should provide housing opportunities, not limit where people can camp. 
84
All sections in SUMMARY LONG-TERM OBJECTIVES P.1.1, P.1.2, P.1.3, P.2.1, 
P.2.2, P.3.1, P.4.1, P.4.2, P.6.1, P.6.2, P.6.3 should all be REMOVED as 
inhumane and inappropriately and disproportionately affecting those without 
permanent address locations. Sections P.5.1 and P.7.1 should be included as 
they are attempting to help those experiencing homelessness. 
, 
P.1.1, P.1.2, 
P.1.3, P.2.1, 
P.2.2, P.3.1, 
P.4.1, P.4.2, 
P.6.1, P.6.2, 
P.6.3, P.5.1 and 
P.7.1
85
The font size. This is embarrassing. I wish I could say I am surprised that tactics 
like this are being used. 
86
Questionable whether this criminalizes homelessness vs contributes to a 
solution.
87
Policies are important but I know there will always be exceptions or loopholes! 
But these are the ones I see needed the most. P1.2;,P1.3 (use this if it's already 
in place just expand) P3.1 P4.2 -Maybe signs at the intersections that are the 
most problem P6.1 I had no idea that the Bureau of Reclamation controlled our 
canal banks!! Give it to SRP P.6.3 is really important. 
P1.2;,P1.3, P3.1 
P4.2, P6.1, 6.3
88
Too complicated. 
89
Needs to be more community involvement regarding policy. It should not be a 
topic only managed by government and property owners.
90
We need a team to examine what is the root cause of homelessness.  It's not just 
one thing. Putting a bunch of rules up about where and when a homeless person 
can go is not going to stop or help them. The mentally incompetent need a safe, 
secure place to live. The homeless parent(s) who lost their jobs need a safe, 
secure place for themselves and their children, who also, by the way, need a way 
to be schooled. Homeless kids turn into homeless adults. 
Policy Chapter Comments
171

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Policy Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
91
Remove it all. Do not make changes that encourage. condone, facilitate, and 
perpetuate criminal activity. Instead you need to enforce the criminal laws evenly 
to all citizens. This section of your plan is designed to grow our whole homeless 
problem by encouraging even more homeless-by-choice people from around the 
country to flock here as they have been doing for decades. All you need to do is 
enforce the laws and you will see a large part of our problem go away..
92
Stop spending money!
93
Invest in a new type of Probation Officer to become more of a social worker that 
will require repeat homeless offenders to seek out available resources.  As a 
condition of probation the probationers, under the supervision of the new type of 
misdemeanor Probation Officer, will be ordered to take advantage of the existing 
resources to deal with housing, substance and alcohol abuse, mental health 
issues, job placement, veteran benefits, SSI, etc.  The defendant when found 
guilty can select from this new type or supervised probation, or what we already 
have in place such as a fine or jail time.
94
It is disheartening to see life-saving heat relief stations apparently prioritized 
below policing "quality of life" conduct matters
95
Everyone should follow the rules. 
96
It's important because of the details and what it could mean. Criminalizing 
homelessness has opened many cities up to face massive lawsuits and Phoenix 
would be wise to look to legal experts that work specifically on homelessness: 
nlchp.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/HOUSING-NOT-HANDCUFFS-2019-
FINAL.pdf 
I would highly recommend a consult with the National Law Center on Poverty and 
Homelessness as these policies will not provide the results Phoenix wants. And 
the message must be understood -- ticketing, arrests, convictions -- means 
BARRIERS to housing -- means the City won't get the results they want - which is 
less homelessness. 
97
Why are we allowing people to live in canal areas? Is this for their highest good? 
98
Need to prioritize all these strategies as there are so many.   Focus more on 
prevention oh homelessness. 
99
Don't add bureaucratic layers to the process - keep it streamlined.
100
Bills- if a homeless has a debt they should still have to pay on a payment plan 
and be held accountable for their debt in order to Ben housed or obtain utilities. It 
help a with accountability 
101
While it is important to legislate we should not allow people to fall into a cycle to 
be repeat offenders simply for trespassing to have a place to sleep. 
102
Eliminate wording that suggests increasing the comfort and wellbeing of those  of 
good health who choose to be homeless. Taxpaying citizens of Arizona don't 
want to attract "bums" from other states to move into Arizona
103
Ok so this whole section has many problems as it relates to criminalizing an 
unsheltered existence. These policies will create an incarcerations effect unless 
the very last item of this section , to focus policy on increasing beds is followed 
through. Do not use policies with punitive outcomes. And certainly don’t put them 
in place until polices that are FOR the unsheltered have truly taken shape. 
Solutions have to come from a place e of being for our unsheltered neighbors, 
not making it more difficult by putting policies in place that make it based for them 
to find shelter as they transition from the streets to a proper facility. We need to 
start with educating our municipal leaders and community on the full nuances of 
the experience of homelessness before policies are created. Again, Ryan Dowd 
is an incredible teacher and educator on this issue.
Policy Chapter Comments
172

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Policy Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
104
Business owners, homeowners and existing residents should always be taken 
into account and their rights respected. Thank you.
105
Could not read this at all too fuzzy
106
There needs to be consequences or repercussions added somewhere if the code 
of conduct is not followed.
107
Had difficulty in reading the print.
108
I hope the canal ways won’t be made into designated homeless campsites!  They 
are an important bicycle and horse route for both recreation and transportation in 
our valley.  Homeless trash that is dangerous like broken glass would proliferate.
109
I'm not able to read the chart.  Why is this chart so small?  Do you not want us to 
read and therefore know what is being proposed?
110
P.8.1 is not clear to me. There does not need to be discussion as to why camping 
is not allowed along the canals. If no camping is posted, then that ends the 
subject. 
8.1
111
No one should be allowed to camp on canals or side walks period.
112
This survey feels like you are creating another category of resident and we the 
tax payers are funding this.  Whatever happened to just doing the right thing?
113
No special use provisions should be made.  No camping along public property or 
recreational areas.  No tents in public parks or public areas should be allowed.   
Address drug use and how you are going to handle people addicted to drugs.  
Where are they going to live?  What treatments are you going to offer? 
Shelter should be prioritized for a parent/guardian and their children.  
Single men should be required to work, Participate in a crew clean-up team for 
example.  Single young people should volunteer at the animal shelters for 
example or distribute food and water, etc.   
Every effort should be made to make homeless feel needed and that their lives 
have meaning.   
Teaching of skills should take place in our high schools (Vocational Technical 
programs) before graduation so that people have a job when they leave high 
school unless going on to receive higher education.  
114
The trespassing and getting people to move along parts are good, the pandering 
and it again enabling needs to stop
115
These strategies are a very inhuman approach to a very human issue. If you 
prohibit "camping" everywhere, where will the unsheltered go?
116
I'm not sure I agree with P.1,1 P.1.2., and P1.3 
1.1, 1.2, 1.3
117
There needs to be plenty of affordable housing, not enablement to live on the 
streets.  Living on the streets needs to be illegal, trespassing is illegal.  
Homelessness is too easy the way it is.  If we are going to enable then build a 
campground out of town and provide everything.  
118
Teaching property owners how to "mitigate impacts to their properties" is 
concerning, as their interests are generally in direct opposition to the people this 
is supposed to serve. 
119
You’re kidding, right?
120
Too small can't read this
121
It's too small to read. 
122
Of course we do not want homeless people.  Of course most are probably 
suffering from mental disorders, or abuse and the right thing to do is to get them 
help.  Provide real services to drug addiction, battered women and the poor.  
Provide training from local companies that can get a tax deduction for being a 
leader in hiring those trained.
123
It's too small and I can't read it so haven't a clue.
Policy Chapter Comments
173

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Policy Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
124
Print to small to read
125
Also great stuff. I see that HSC is mentioned in many places - although help is 
needed there, it is needed in other places as well - such as Sunnyslope. 
Providers want to be the best neighbors possible, but we need help - some of 
these measures (eg, alley closure) should be looked at regionally as well.
126
If the priority of implementation is my concern here. Will we spend 100s of hours 
making rules instead of solving issues.
127
Let people camp where they want. Placing aesthetic or economic issues above 
human rights is abhorrent.
128
Having policies rules/regs without having effect solutions to a systematic problem 
is premature.  Once there is available housing/mental health care/job 
opportunities/ resources for public restrooms/cell phones/charging/computer 
access in this age of technology; revision of the punitive fees that adversely 
impact credit, contributing to the avalanche of what prevents one to have a home, 
then we can reasonably talk about restrictions. 
129
nobody can read this!!!  
130
There needs to be a place for people to wait out the sun in the summer. There 
should be something that when the weather goes over 100 degrees that the rules 
change and people can wait inside any public facility as long as they are not 
disrupting. 
131
Policy solitions P.1.1, P.1.2, P.5.1, P.7.1 should be kept
P.1.1, P.1.2, 
P.5.1, P.7.1
132
Homelessness should be a priority we are talking about human beings. These 
people deserve mental health care and decent places for them to stay and get 
the care they need. Drug addicts need to be treated and the drugs need to be 
removed from our neighborhoods. The light rail has made 19th Avenue the 
biggest mess I've ever seen. And it's not going to get better unless we do 
something about it
133
Very vague
134
That's too small for me to read.  But everything I've seen thus far looks like it 
covers the homelessness issues in positive ways and provide a template for 
people working specifically with the homeless population.  
135
Needs clarity as to organization, the actors, responders, agencies, etc. and 
purpose 
136
Allow homeless to social distance themselves safely, without criminal penalties
137
Preventing camping along the canals is great! Should be a top priority
138
Again, more ways to criminalize behavior instead of address the problem that 
creates the behavior.
139
a cohesive city policy would be helpful. Parks department can be helpful. 
140
I would not like to see further criminalize people experiencing homelessness. We 
can not  and should not fine, jail, and litigate people out of homelessness.
141
not a word about shelter in the table of contents
142
We need to relax regulations on people feeding the homeless. Moreover, we 
should not be seeking additional regulations to further limit spaces unhoused 
populations can go (canals), especially when there is a shortage of shelter. 
143
This is hard to read so it's hard to discern its importance.
144
Too many reactionary “solutions” on here that are similar to criminalizing behavior 
on public property. People need help and support to get to and assess root cause 
of homeless. 
145
Once more - why are you looking for excuses to not do the jobs we are already 
paying you to do? Do you really not get it?
Policy Chapter Comments
174

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Policy Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
146
This “plan” was pretty intensive
147
Remove city ordinances that restrict homeless outreach and punish those who 
generously reach out to help the less fortunate.
148
Increasing the number of beds is only a part of the solution  - we must move 
away from large congregate settings. Individuals do much better in locations of 
100 or less. Adding to our current downtown beds is only compounding a 
problem. There isn't enough funding for the current shelter. They have a small 
budget to serve many, many people. There cities should each have several 
smaller shelters in different locations throughout the city. If we truly believe that 
people should be treated with dignity than we have to provide dignified temporary 
shelter. Not continue with the huge congreate setting we currently have. 
149
Take out the bits clearly meant to criminalize homelessness. Help the homeless, 
make housing available (you know, all of the empty houses and apartments due 
to foreclosure and evictions, maybe) and you won't need to worry about people 
not having a safe place to sleep "making a mess" at businesses. 
150
 
Keep objective Partners with heat relief stations
151
It's repetitive.  
152
I'm disappointed that all these policy objectives are mostly focused on regulating 
the behavior of individuals experiencing homelessness and those who seek to 
assist them. I was hoping the policy change effort goals/objectives would be more 
focused on targeting the determinants/causes of homelessness. The real 
problem in this community is homelessness NOT homeless people.
153
What codes of conduct? - if not illegal, i.e. already controlled, why are controls on 
people’s conduct necessary?.                     If supplies are provided to an 
encampment clean up can be organized by the encampment participants 
154
Again, initiatives to remove and forbid encampments risk harming and disrupting 
the transient population further. However, the objectives in this Strategy to 
increase resources should be kept. 
155
You've left too much out and limited your response to geo boundaries. Apply to 
create a more coordinated response within Maricopa County. 
156
Include the plan to make the homeless part of the solution. If they are made to 
clean their mess up then they are more likely to stop doing it. 
157
Ensure that any and all policies are not designed, either intentionally or 
unintentionally, to further criminalize homelessness. Recognize the rights and 
humanity of those experiencing homelessness and uphold them in the same way 
that the City does for the non-homeless population.
158
Special use for camping along canal ways should be removed. 
159
If I read that correctly, you are looking at allowing camping along the canals. NOT 
a good idea. 
160
Too much political double speak, triple waste of money here! Lots of better ideas 
than some of these...
161
This are all short term tactics that provide no longer term gain
162
1.  You cannot dictate the behaviors in public housing.  Federal program 
regulations cover that.  Federal law ALWAYS trumps city law.  Phx Housing 
Authority can add to the list of family responsibilities, however, the city needs staff 
willing to enforce the lease, and EVICT, if non compliance continues. 
2. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU ALLOW CAMPING ALONG 
THE CANALS!!!!   FAMILIES USE THE WALK WAYS!  ALL CANALS RUN 
THROUGH RESIDENTIAL AREAS.  WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU 
THINKING????????
Policy Chapter Comments
175

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Policy Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
163
I am concerned we are going to end up feeding this homeless problem instead of 
helping it. It is surprising how many choose to be homeless because they don’t 
want to answer to anyone, work, and pay taxes.
164
P.4.2 should not be included
4.2
165
Stop criminalizing homelessness. 
166
The city of Phoenix must affirm the rights of homeless people and refrain from 
further criminalizing being unhoused. 
167
Stop making it easier to arrest homeless people. If you didn’t have anywhere to 
go, you wouldn’t want to be arrested for needing to use the restroom or sleep
168
Property owners and public officials do no need more rights to police homeless 
individuals’ conduct. Homeless individuals need more resources to have a 
chance at a healthy life.
169
We need to ensure that services, educational opportunities, mental health 
treatment, and housing assistance are readily and abundantly provided to 
Phoenix's homeless.  However, we need to keep the homeless population out of 
suburban areas, namely Ahwatukee.  Ahwatukee has fought for years (mostly 
through attempting to stop loop 202) to keep homelessness and crime out of 
Ahwatukee.  Ahwatukee has minimal police presence compared to the rest of 
Phoenix, so we cannot risk having a homeless population enter our 
neighborhood.  Within the past few years, HUD housing has brought more crime 
and homelessness to Ahwatukee, which is very concerning.  I am happy to pay 
high taxes and any other contribution to help Phoenix's homeless, but I do not 
want the population entering Ahwatukee.  Unfortunately, I am starting to see 
more homeless enter Ahwatukee (mostly persons with serious mental illness).  I 
am also seeing more panhandlers (mostly substance abusers) starting to beg for 
money in Ahwatukee.
170
More emphasis on options for interveners to seek help with homeless issues that 
don’t involve the police or legal punishment/action. Less emphasis on punishing 
“congregation in alleys/canals” and more community-based intervention from 
people with mental health and addiction treatment backgrounds and knowledge 
of available programs and support. Criminalization of any aspects of 
homelessness (public camping, sleeping, congregation in alleys, etc. will never 
work and will always punish the most vulnerable. Criminalizing feeding and 
assisting the homeless in public has the same effect and detrimentally impacts 
people attempting to help.
171
People would not camp on the canal if they had a SAFE place to sleep and keep 
their belongings. 
172
wow too long to even read
173
Too small to read.  
174
Can't read this...Too small
175
leave as stated
176
Could not read.
177
literally cannot see it
178
What about copying other successful programs outside of Arizona, e.g., the state 
of Utah?  I didn't see anything about seeing what already works vs. reinventing 
the wheel.
179
Create safe spaces for people to “camp” while looking for housing. Most housing 
in AZ has month/year long waiting lists. 
Policy Chapter Comments
176

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Policy Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
180
I have a problem with "Strategy 5). Making life "comfortable" for the homeless is 
enabling. Our climate is mostly very hospitable to those living "rough", thus our 
big homeless problem, very much like California and other places with more 
temperate climates. I'm very much opposed to handing out plastic water bottles - 
they are HORRIBLE for the environment. If you must aid the homeless with 
water, build public drinking fountains where most needed. As for shade, I see the 
homeless under trees, in pipes, restaurants, etc. I don't think building shade 
structures is the answer - again enabling. 
181
I could not read this section.
182
I hope you don’t mean that SRP canals can  be used for camps. That wording  is 
ambiguous.
183
I think it's always good to be clear about what the expectations are.  People who 
are newly homeless may be unaware of existing code and will likely be unaware 
of new code.  Communication about any policy is necessary before police 
enforcement, I think.  
184
I think we need to keep all options open and vigilant to any changes or additions 
as needed
185
Focus on support and prevention not criminalizing individuals experiencing 
homelessness 
186
Strategy 4 needs to be removed. It should never be a crime to feed someone, 
and cracking down on enforcement of those kinds of laws is barbaric and 
inhumane. 
 
Strategy 6 should also be removed. Again, we cannot focus on removing 
encampments until we have invested in alternate, realistic housing for these 
populations. Otherwise, we are just removing every option for them to live. 
 
Strategy 7 should be changed to state that on top of adding more beds, there 
must be expansions to the space to correspond with extra beds. Cramming more 
people into these facilities without hiring the appropriate amount of people to 
oversee them, or without expanding their living areas, would make these 
4.0, 6.0, 7.0
187
Remove P 1.3 & P2.2
1.3, 2.2
188
Aren't these all things which one should have already been doing?  Why is this a 
new part of the plan?  I suspect these are extraneous to pad out the report.
189
i agree with it.
190
couldn't read it so that tells me since it is a government agency putting it out, it's 
not intended to be known to the public and they want it slipped in without anyone 
really knowing what it says
191
P1.1, 1.2, and 1.3  
Not sure enforcing a Code of Conduct helps any root cause of homelessness. 
Trespassing in our own parks doesn’t make sense to me.
1.1, 1.2 and 1.3
192
This seems more internal.
193
It's a start.
194
Add incentives on keeping neighborhood clean.Taken turns cleaning streets and 
neighborhoods clean, in return give homeless vouchers, cash or incentives of 
some type. 
195
p42 - the city should designate places that are ok to feed the homeless. By 
blocking a lot of the access you just doom people to illness and hunger. Let 
people help other people. 
4.2
196
This section is punitive and does not solve the homelessness
Policy Chapter Comments
177

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Policy Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
197
It should be made clear that the Code of Conduct will be applied to all individuals 
not just those experiencing homelessness.
198
The copy on the screen is too small to read.  Can't comment on it.
199
If beds are not available, we can not reasonably punish people looking for a safe 
place to exist, and sleep. 
200
Any policy that can't be effectively and reasonably enforced should not be taking 
our time and energy away from all the proactive measures that will create actual 
change.
201
I didn’t read all of this and that I’ve already listed most of my irritations and 
grapes so read the previous comments.
202
More rules? Not going to help. 
203
Remove government as the dominating agency. Replace it with community 
people and leaders who are not politicians.
204
Code of Conduct is useless if it's not enforced. Create Code and Enforce it.
205
that's too small to be readable! I was able to find it in the expanded section, but 
you should revise this survey to make it friendlier to use (and correct the typo at 
the beginning--IF instead of OF!
206
No camping allowed anywhere!
207
Don't know. Too tiny to read.
208
This sectional is unnecessarily  complicated and doesn’t focus on assisting the 
homeless with their primary need of housing, it instead focuses on strategies for 
dealing with homeless that would not be necessary if the homeless were housed 
and the other sections were in place.
209
too small to read
210
Kind of wordy I think
211
There is a lot of information contained in this section, but I am heartened to see 
that at least this section does mention addressing negative behavior.  ALL of your 
sections should address this issue, and be specific about what it means.  So 
much of this strategy plan seems open to great interpretation.  I would like 
specifics (costs, numbers of staff, consequences for bad behavior) and also what 
we are doing to discourage homelessness as an alternative for people who make 
bad choices (drugs, dropping out of school, crime, etc).
212
Please see notes at question 23.
213
Eliminate P.1.1 
Eliminate P.1.2 
Eliminate P.1.3 
Eliminate P.4.1 
Redundant.  
 
Eliminate all section 6. Canal resources should not be dual purpose.  
 
Change 7.1.1 to include staffing/reources capacity ratios for any increased bed 
count (like class size compared to # of teachers, etc). Don't just create a holding 
open area for homeless by increasing size. 
1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 4.1, 
6, 7.1.1
214
Again, I am uninformed on this and do not wish to communicate on a potentially 
important aspect without better understanding.
215
Remove P1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2.1 and 2.2, with the differences in the different 
geographical area needs and departments, a Citywide code of conduct or 
trespass notice will not work. 
1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2.1, 
2.2
216
remove it all.  way to complex for most voters to understand.  intentional?
Policy Chapter Comments
178

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Policy Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
217
This section seems to laud using trespassing to kick homeless people out of 
parks, which makes the fact that it was shrunk smaller than the other sections to 
be a way to make people not read it. Unless there is a liaison to help homeless 
people to find a place to sleep that night (with their stuff) then kicking them out 
only serves to force them into the streets or the alleys, which is also not allowed 
according to this plan. All of this seems like a way to just force homeless people 
to move around without actually helping them. Adding in the policy to increase 
beds in here is just a way to make it impossible to say that the whole things 
should be scrapped, which is awful.
218
Only include this section if the city is prepared to do something. I will require staff 
of additional hundreds and the cost may be prohibitive.
219
On first glance, looks like community helped more than homeless. 
220
This section sounds too poofy. I’ve been in outreach panels before and they were 
full of talk and no action
221
This chart was very hard to read.  I am unsure if anything needs to be added or 
removed. 
222
Nothing 
223
It's repetitive.
224
Be careful about punishing or criminalizing the homeless.
225
delete section P.7.1
7.1
226
Policies should be driven by the goal of preserving all human dignity and well-
being over the comfort and property of others. 
227
Homeless should not be allowed to camp by canals that run through 
neighborhoods 
228
It's hard to know how some of these policies will play out in reality. I want to make 
sure that if homeless people are kicked off certain lands, that they have 
somewhere to go. Especially in the heat of Arizona, I think it's really important 
that they have somewhere to be that is safe and they can stay.
229
Emphasis on protecting the parks and nature. Also keep sex offenders from 
benefitting any way in this program
230
PRINT TO SMALL TO READ
231
All these quidelines are going to cost the taxpayer a fortune. Maybe time to move 
out of Phoenix
232
Most of this section is important we need the homeless to be safe and sheltered 
from heat and cold. We need the elderly who are disabled and homeless cared 
for. We need our VA to step up and help their homeless veterans. We need our 
state to step up and help those with SMI obtain shelter! 
233
This sounds like it will criminalize the unhoused. I need a more descriptive plan 
on what "code of conduct" means and what will come if someone doesn't follow 
it. I need more details on the canal pathways, what is the issue? Is it an issue? I 
live near a canal and have not seen anyone there, only some trash but that can 
be picked up. I do agree with the heat relief stations and YES to the shaded 
areas. There are hardly any. Can we have numbers on unhoused people who 
have been attacked by community members who try to be police or vigilantes? 
This would help see a bigger picture of community views and how the city can 
help alleviate violence toward the unhoused. 
234
The code of conduct section can be used to facilitate barring homeless people 
from public spaces such as libraries and community centers. Mix this with the 
general presence of police enforcement in this plan and you are bound to 
recreate the death of Muhammad Muhaymin Jr. with countless others. 
Policy Chapter Comments
179

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Policy Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
235
this section seems in conflict with itself in that it wants to treat the homeless as 
criminals and as people needing help (with apparently more emphasis on the 
treating them as criminals). if the city offered more affordable housing and 
services, people would willingly stop sleeping along canals when the nights only 
get down to 94 degrees.
236
Couldn't read, too small.
237
Date of services start and how homeless can contact the phone number.
238
This page is blurry, can’t read it. 
239
Can't read it on the website and no time at this time to look more closely at it
240
why isn't APS included in this solution
241
Long term strategies are how reduction in homelessness is achieved.  Insuring 
that people have and can keep work is paramount.  Affordable housing and in-
biased loan interest is also key.  Perhaps the biggest long term goal should be 
working with employers to raise wages to the same buying power folks had in the 
1980’s.  I think this will require hourly wages to reach $25.00.  Also, we need to 
push employers to provide health insurance to its employees, working to 
eliminate all employee co-pays.  
242
DEFINITELY HIGHLIGHT THE CODE OF CONDUCT
243
I don't think people want to be crammed into small shared living areas. Can we 
set up a place where people can camp?
244
Yes....we working folks pay tax dollars for City services.  These are some of the 
most important services and could create the need for more jobs.  
245
No idea: the type is way to small to read.
246
More nonprofit involvement 
247
i have been homeless myself and the library was my saving place to get away 
from depression-training staff so there doesnt need to be security everywhere 
would be helpful
248
Once again these are negative reactions to behavior. Address the issues causing 
people to camp out and this isn't such an issue. The writers privilege is showing. 
Obviously things like heat relief stations are critical due to our weather.
249
these sections should be un-bundled so you can provide feedback on each 
objective.
250
print too small to read for this category.  Need short-term, mid-term and long-
term strategies.
251
Could not even read this image.
252
Would like additional info; more info than what was provided for a better 
understanding
253
All The Above?
254
Common sense!! Get the program going. Don't just talk about it and form 
committees. Do some good. Goal for the city should be to get homelessness off 
the streets. It needs to be addressed individually DAILY. A walk through by a city 
worker writing a report won't cut it. Get real. This is our future. I have been a 
resident since 1972 and the situation has become unmanageable. Get it cleaned 
up. Are we a proud city or not????????
255
too small to read
256
To be clear, open the restrooms in the City parks. 
 
Also, add something on funding to more regularly clear the canal underpasses of 
debris: that is dangerous for both recreational users and homeless users.
Policy Chapter Comments
180

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Policy Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
257
Avoid policies that are punitive in nature. Homelessness should not be a crime. 
They need help. Not citations. Citations are an ineffective deterrent anyway and 
only make it harder to escape homelessness.
258
this entire section seeks to penalize poverty. find a different way.
259
These policies seem designed to criminalize poverty. I’d like to see fewer 
regulations designed to harm people experiencing homelessness and more 
policies designed to address providing adequate shelter and services. 
260
Heat relief is most important here and increase number of beds. Everything else 
is not as important 
261
So many parks are over-run.  If homeless identification by individuals (through 
proper communication) is utilized AND the homeless intake process works - this 
should not be such a problem.  Also, as a resident this was a difficult section to 
understand about why there needs to be signs posted.  
262
Parts of this section seem to further criminalize homelessness and poverty, which 
are NOT helpful to solving homelessness!
263
Sorry -- can't read it
264
Can't read chart
265
Is there an "equity lens" added here? One may think this is an automatic because 
of the very nature of the program, but it needs to be made clear and them how 
will it be enforced to ensure equity is a consideration.
266
These cost money
267
Encampment areas should not be free for all zones.  People must be held 
accountable for their behaviors and habits. People who have no self respect can't 
be expected to respect the rights of others.  Clearly defined expectations are the 
fundamental basis of crowd management.  When someone disrupts the order or 
maintenance of a clean environment, that person must be taught that there are 
natural and logical consequences for his or her choice.  
268
None
269
It is too small to read
270
Most important to develop enforceable laws which stop illegal camping and 
behavior in community space. 
271
Services and housing are most important.  This seems well intentioned but like a 
lot of bureaucracy. 
272
The encampments create a possibly hostile environment for those who walk/ride 
or fish on the canals.
273
Sections P 1.1, P 6.1, P 6.2, and P 6.3 should be altered or removed entirely. I do 
not believe creating codes of conduct in public spaces actually addresses 
homelessness in Phoenix. My concern is that will be used to regulate where 
homeless people with mental health issues are allowed to be. Furthermore, I do 
not understand how fighting with the Bureau of Reclamation fights homelessness 
either. If the idea is to clean up encampments, then surely that issue is 
addressed in the "Clean Up" section. 
P 1.1, P 6.1, P 
6.2, and P 6.3
274
Eliminate all of this and give this funding to increasing mental health and housing 
services.
275
changed: make it easier to read - they are good actionable points but they are too 
crowded to get people behind them.
276
I think it is important to develop policies and enforce them, but they need to be 
person centric and look at the effects of the policies for all parties involved. 
277
All Phoenix Metro Cities need to be required to deal with this problem, not just 
Phoenix.
Policy Chapter Comments
181

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Policy Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
278
Identify referral pathways that avoid incarcerating homeless individuals for minor 
offenses related to mental health issues
279
Given the extent of the data presented, 7k+ homeless and %51 unsheltered, it is 
impossible to know what a good strategy looks like. We should do the work to 
understand the population further. What percent needs mental health services? 
What percentage are on the street due to recent eviction? What percent are 
using hard drugs? What percent would take a bed if one was available? 
280
I’m curious about sections P8.1-P8.2 what’s that all about?
8.1, 8.2
281
It was obviously written in microscopic lettering so that we cannot read it.
282
Too small to read.  Policies should be consistent with and support goals-- and I 
haven't seen any goals.  Is the city going to try to end homelessness or reduce it 
or reduce the problems associated with homelessness or better support 
homeless people or encourage homeless people to locate elsewhere in the valley 
or ??? If you have goals, I have missed them.
283
None of these policies should even be considered until alternate venues and 
facilities have been identified and rendered usable.
284
I understand that the homeowners do not want the homeless living around them, 
but we need to give the homeless assistance first.  Mental health needs to be 
addressed with the homeless as I believe that is a large portion of the people that 
are living on the streets.  
285
Unable to read content, too small.  
286
formatting off and seems like more admin fluff
287
We need to enforce trespassing to make sure we keep our city safe
288
More emphasis on protecting the public common areas.  Especially public 
libraries and parks. 
289
This is the most important one and it is so hard to read! This is where I feel that 
the city is not looking at things form the homeless perspective. This whole plan 
also lacks the framework to support LGBTQ and racial equity. Police should not 
have access to the shelter portal, it could cause additional issues.
290
The signage and postings must serve multiple purposes. Communication, 
education and be a resource for those that need help. 
291
There need to be more affordable options for trailor parks without so many 
qualifications on age and income and rental history and criminal history.  
292
Penalizing homeless people  doesn't help them. Reconsider severity of this 
section
293
Codes of conduct will be used to further criminalize homelessness
294
This section needs an editor. Too much politics 
295
No mention of police responsibilities and need for prevention 
296
Keep codes, standardizing city codes & trespass enforcement. Residents are 
unhappy about pop up encampments. 
Not sure about camps along SRP canals: liability, danger of people falling in, 
dumping to water (human refuse, chemicals, etc).
297
Too small/blury print= can't read it. 
298
Could not review, print too small in this section
299
Too vague
Policy Chapter Comments
182

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Policy Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
300
P.3.1., clean up efforts for homelessness should NOT BE made to be the 
responsibility of property owners nearby.  This section focuses primarily on 
PHOENIX Property, not (in particular) residential properties.  Neighborhoods 
should not be burdened, the City should find a way to address clean up 
necessitated by homelessness. 
Also action on these should be taken, not just talking. Follow through on results 
are imperative to ensure things are getting done.
3.1
301
There is some good action in here but again watching the lines are not blurred 
between really addressing barriers and using the legal system for punishment. 
And if there’s only so much funding, we need to put that money first where the 
plan needs to start. I guess in summary, not bite off bigger than can be chewed. 
302
Vague laws don’t work
303
This all sounds like a bunch of ways to further punish/control/punish homeless 
individuals.  This will not solve the problem.
304
Again this is not helping those experiencing homelessness.
305
I have some concerns with this section. E,g A code of conduct that addresses 
negative behavior - how will this be aligned with access to specialized support, 
such as mental health. What constitutes negative behavior? It's important to take 
individual difference and individual circumstances into consideration and to 
ensure fair treatment of each individual 
 
There should not be any policy that prevents the feeding of the homeless. If there 
are health and safety concerns, policies need to be woven to ensure those 
experiencing homelessness may access food safely  
 
Issues around camping/encampments again are tricky - however any action to 
prevent camping in designated areas must be provided alongside solutions for 
individuals and households who are using the area to sleep
306
Policies are important but enforcement is even more important.
307
the camping on the canals needs to be prohibited.  I no longer ride on the canals, 
(including new paths done on the canal ) because it is too frightening to run into 
these people when you are alone.  I have been harassed and have also had to 
get off my bike and walk it around a camp or turn around and go back.  City just 
spent a lot of money on the new bike paths that have to be cleaned up by citizens 
in order to be able to use it. 
308
P.7.1 should be removed
7.1
309
The text was too small too read to provide an educated response.
310
The policies seem reasonable, but the table provided is too small and pixelated. 
311
N/A
312
Again focused on what/where homeless people are allowed to do/be when they 
have limited options. Not addressing the root cause.
313
Too many proposals simply criminalize the tragic experience of homelessness, 
which is counterproductive. Eliminate the entire section. Provide housing first.
314
Encampments encourage isolation and illegal activities affecting adjacent 
property owners. Modifying the codes and regulations are extremely necessary
Policy Chapter Comments
183

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Policy Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
315
The introductory section talks about the lack of restroom facilities in Phx.  Our 
homeless community would  benefit greatly from access to restroom and shower  
facilities other than what is available  at CASS, especially in the summer  time.  I 
have on more than one occasion observed homeless people "showering" in the 
Roosevelt neighborhood using sprinkler systems very early in the morning.  Most 
humans want to be clean for the preservation of their dignity.  Why can't we 
provide for this?  We can; we choose not to.
316
Deal with the source of the problem.  If we ended homelessness, the above code 
changes would not be needed.  
317
Some of the policies may be useful such as impact area clean up and work with 
non-profits to develop heat relief efforts.   I do not support Trespassing policies 
that criminalize homeless actions.  
318
Good luck.
319
Do not try to prevent camping around the canal. Other community members 
should not be offended by having to use the same area that people who are 
homeless have to use for lack of housing. If other community members are 
offended, that's the community members' problem, not the homeless population's 
problem. Behavioral codes in libraries and park's are also often targeted to 
specific populations. A number of activities college students engage in at libraries 
and parks (sleeping, eating, etc.) are fine until homeless individuals engage in 
those activities. It also does not help people are homeless to criminalize camping 
when they have nowhere else to go. It is the community's responsibility to provide 
housing, not fines and jail.
320
There should be a policy that focuses on connecting people experiencing 
homelessness with resources. The majority of these policies seem more directed 
as appeasing the public and continuing to "other" people who are experiencing 
homelessness. Why is Phoenix dragging our feet in addressing homelessness? 
We need to look to places like Utah to develop a housing first initiative to get 
these people off the streets, work on a tiny home zoning ordinance to allow for 
affordable housing for these people. What about policies focused on creating 
diversified revenue streams that aren't dependent on changing political tides in 
government that expand and shrink depending on the administration. Diversified 
funding would help maintain consistency. We need these programs to be 
continually funded to actually address the issue. Also this needs to be a regional 
effort. The City of Phoenix is carrying the brunt of addressing homelessness 
while other cities in the valley do little to nothing.
321
Again, include the community in the ideas for improvement before writing up.
322
The code of conduct needs to also provide alternatives for those who have 
issues abiding by the code. Without those alternatives, this has the potential to 
further criminalize an already marginalized population. I will again bring up the 
need for property storage. People often have to choose between leaving their 
belongings unattended or applying for jobs, seeking out resources, going to 
doctor's appointments etc. Not all unattended property is abandoned property. 
323
The most important piece of this section is the policy to increase the number of 
shelter beds available. Housing first is a model that is proven effective in lifting 
people out of homelessness, and Phoenix does not have the capacity currently to 
do so, in turn only worsening the problem. 
Policy Chapter Comments
184

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Policy Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
324
This should be Phase 2 of the plan 3 years from now once we have sheltered 
people. Again, this focuses on the punishment of those with nowhere to go. 
Focus first on shelter, then on housing, and the amount of time, effort, and 
resources needed for this will be 20% of what you're estimating in this plan. 
Neighbors are mad because they are used to the majority of people in The Zone 
being unsheltered. They have never been even mostly sheltered in 50 years. This 
part of the plan treats the symptom, not the problem. If you shelter people well 
and house them we'll, there is very little need for any of this. 
325
A lot of these proposed policies aren't going to cause permanent/positive change.
326
I think law enforcement needs to be part of the conversation, but I do think we are 
asking police to do too much in the social services realm.  They should lean 
heavily on trained social service/mental & behavioral health partners when 
working with the homeless population. 
327
MUCH less of a priority - ie. blocking our homeless seniors out of the library 
because they are there all day as a safe spot to sit?  Enforcement should be way 
way down the list.  Services first for homeless and you won’t need the same 
enforcement. 
328
The section is difficult to read. Increase in a number of beds and services is 
crucial. 
329
Policy is extremely important in that it legitimizes proposed changes. However, 
much of the proposed policies are attempting to propose restrictions on 
homeless individuals, rather than creating more opportunities for those who 
already have few. If policies are to be developed, they should be done to revise 
past wrongs, or to provide additional resources, rather than becoming more 
stringent and detailed. To reiterate what I said above, these are unprecedented 
times, we must be flexible and willing to admit we might have been wrong as they 
begin to unfold. 
330
Policy surrounding unsheltered people only leads to further harm. We don't need 
laws and policy and police officers to keep people safe, we need resources and 
zoning rules that don't cause so much harm.
331
unnecessary policing of vulnerable people. 
332
We should not criminalize  feeding the homeless or the homeless in general 
333
A Policy Section should be included. I don't think this is the right set of policies, 
unless the City wants to again be known for being the worst city for people 
experiencing homelessness. Much of this language is criminalizing and blames 
people experiencing homelessness rather than focusing on policy change that 
would end and prevent homelessness. Oh wait, this is not called a "Plan to End 
and Prevent Homelessness."
334
Could not read it
335
remember that some homeless are illiterate, so signs need pictures included. 
Spanish language speakers should be included when developing notices/signs
336
This is typical management trying to get something done by committee.  This is 
all good, but I will hold my breath because this is a political committee trying to 
make a decision that hasn't been dealt with for years and now all of a sudden lets 
make a plan.  Cynical maybe, but I'm on the streets with these individuals every 
single day and I see police, G4's, park rangers doing nothing but harrassing and 
not helping.
337
Not seeing homelessness as a crime as part of policy. Enforcing CARES to be 
utilized in more efficient ways. 
Policy Chapter Comments
185

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Policy Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
338
The items listed should be tied to the major components of the plan.  This list 
looks like the place you've put all the pet projects on or the items with the most 
community interest EXCEPT that the voice of persons experiencing 
homelessness are not being considered. Any mention of a code of conduct is 
insulting when shelter/housing aren't being prioritized.  This also looks like the 
way to increase law enforcement engagement.
339
What is the status of the proposal to increase the number of beds at CASS and 
the low barrier shelter proposed by Andre House?
340
The city council has put a limit of three on how many can go on one lot though, 
so tiny homes within the city are not really the solution.
341
Wouldn't it make sense economically and for helping to reduce and integrate 
homeless populations into the commuity by requiring new multi-family 
development to reserve a number of units for the homeless. This would require a 
new mindset but allow for greater integration and less stigma around the issue of 
homelessness.
342
The previous question was referring to City Council and their part in helping to 
mitigate the homelessness problem. They are the ones who are granting the 
permits for new construction, and all the new development is catering to the rich 
or those with a robust income, but not to/for every day common people who live 
and work here.
343
The HSC is looking to increase the number of beds at their facility. Does this 
request impact the City's plannign in any way?
344
What about building Tiny home communities for the 1st step to sustainability.
345
What about those individuals who DO NOT want services and are not mentally ill 
or addicted. Can they be called on to keep there areas clean or provide them a 
""Homeless Village"" where they can live but not establish camps on private or 
public lands. In one of the cities vacant lots or parking areas not in use.
Policy Chapter Comments
186

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Communication Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
1
While I understand we don't know if we are meeting our objectives unless we are 
monitoring, I would hope we are spending more funds on solutions rather than 
monitoring and where we are monitoring, that it is optimized.
2
The City of Phoenix needs help . I feel they are stuck paying for all. I wish all the 
cities would join together and help this problem for each city. Let’s especially help 
Phoenix. 
3
Communication on this subject should be dramatically enhanced. I believe we 
would find a large number of people willing to volunteer and support these efforts 
if they were both aware of the true significance of the problem and what they can 
do to help. 
4
make sure that people know the tel. numbers to call when they need help and 
have a better response when they do call
5
City of Phoenix should be gathering fact based statistics from various 
departments regarding the root causes of homelessness. It should not be 
providing increased services. These services need to be provided by non-profit 
charities with private donations. The City should encourage communication with 
these groups and make interactions with the city streamlined and simple. Too 
many department interfaces with non-profits complicate things. Too many non-
profits with too little money trying to all do similar things makes things worse. Non-
profits need to team up on what they do well and work proactively with existing 
City laws, codes and zoning to provide needed solutions. Communication from 
the City to the public is complicated. Make is simple. One place to access 
information would be helpful. One place to log concerns and get information. Lots 
of places on the web to get educated.
6
Social media means this section is unnecessary.
7
"Provide consistent reporting/messaging to the community at large." as long as 
this does not involve the PD having access to records that they can use against 
individuals that need actual help
8
small print.
9
"We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEY'RE 
 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS" 
 
10
Transparency is always necessary and welcome. Residents of this city deserve to 
be respected and trusted with honest data and information.
11
Transparency is expected.
12
Thank you for transparency.
13
What efforts are being made to get feedback from those with lived experiences of 
homelessness? How can a line of communication be opened up between 
sheltered Phoenicians and their unsheltered neighbors?
14
Use Volunteers.  Not government agencies.
15
Shouldn't City of Phoenix be doing these things already?  Transparency around 
data is very important.
16
While it is important to recognize the strides being made, don't allow the need for 
such a concession to cloud the overall purpose of the policy. This is not about 
education and showboating, it is about meeting the needs of human beings. 
17
Be a leader. Use the research to implement evidence based practice to house 
people. Then the communication slide can be updated to share your results with 
other communities committed to ending homelessness.
Communication Chapter Comments
187

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Communication Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
18
Communication is most important
19
Ending Homelessness is not going to happen....PHOENIX needs to PROTECT 
its residents and not the drug addicts that choose to live on the street everyday!!
20
These objectives are incredibly vague and there is a lack of description of how 
and what you plan to implement in order to appropriately address homelessness 
in Phoenix. There needs to be more information provided and we demand full 
transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and an extension for 
the public comment meetings until they’re accessible to people experiencing 
homelessness. 
21
Constantly communicate with this population how we can improve their lives. Ask 
what are they hoping to achieve to get their lives  back on track. Match individuals 
with mentors from the community and churches.
22
I worked in City government. City "transparency' is not real transparency.  Don't 
even bother
23
I think NOT SO IMPORTANT says it.
24
Communication is very important both for the homeless and residents helping 
those who are homeless.  In addition, addressing the reasons for homelessness 
and how the city is managing them.
25
Anything that can be done to improve understanding of the issue is important. 
26
We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEY'RE 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS.
27
Provide avenue for constructive feedback from the community
28
Citizens need to be reminded of the challenges the city faces and what the 
council and leaders are working hard to do.  People need to stop complaining 
and be part of the solution to make things better for those experiencing 
homelessness, as well as our neighborhoods and personal property.
29
This section seems almost like a joke because the City of Phoenix voted on this 
plan without any public input. How can we believe that you'll be transparent when 
you haven't been even up until right now? We demand full transparency into all 
data, including the data collected from this survey. 
30
Address the issue of other cities, towns and states dropping off their chronically 
mentally ill, homeless and drug addicted populations in Phoenix. We will never 
have enough resources and funding to deal with other jurisdictions’ problems. 
31
Right now everyone wants to see visible results. They won’t care about the 
numbers unless it is evident. 
32
Is there a database on homelessness? Do we know how much the City spends 
per person? How do we determine what is working and what is not? 
33
This is the one section that is really great. It should be easy for the public to look 
up stats and info without having to call City staff. Please make info more 
accessible/easy to find on the various City of Phoenix websites.
34
We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
an extension for the public comment meetings until they're accessible to people 
experiencing homelessness. 
35
more affordable housing around the valley, no more shelter beds in downtown we 
are already overwhelmed.
36
More information needed. 
37
"We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEYRE 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS"
Communication Chapter Comments
188

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Communication Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
38
These questions aren't going to help you.  These don't get the public involved at 
all.
39
Don't think this is done enough, we never hear about all that is really going on 
behind the scenes.   
Should be touted and followed up on.
40
open up volunteer opportunities and announce on social media to get public 
involved
41
It really depends on if the data would be meaningful...it could be interpreted 
incorrectly and hinder the progress of the program.  Definitely need to engage in 
regional plan.
42
Maintaining data is always important!
43
What are the metrics to measure success for this plan?  This survey is sadly a 
bad design, seeking confirmation bias instead of genuine public input. 
44
publish a dashboard similar to COVID information so more of the public can be 
aware and assist with problem solving
45
COP needs to create metrics by wish to score the city progress, deficiencies, and 
areas needing more support. 
CO.10.1. COP can use the violent crime acts statistics to know where more 
policing and community outreach is needed (example: near HSC). You can use 
your sex offender address book and compare it to schools and day care centers 
to know where you need to take action to move them out (example: HSC area). 
You should create an objective street cleanliness matrix. There is a minimum 
standard of cleanliness already in the city code. Any time a neighborhood tells 
you that standard is not being met, the COP, County and State need to take 
action. WE HAVE A HEALTH AND SAFETY CRISIS near HSC. COP IS NOT 
Doing enough to clean it up. IMMEDIATE ACTION IS NEEDED BY COP.  
CO.10.2 COP stepped up long ago to provide homeless shelter in downtown 
Phoenix. NOW COP needs to step up to force other cities to create shelters, and 
other city council districts to allow shelters in their district. COP needs to force the 
county and state to do their part. VERY IMPORTANT. ONE WAY TO MAKE 
THIS HAPPEN: STOP LETTING OTHER CITIES BRING THEIR HOMELESS 
AND MENTALLY ILL TO THE HSC CAMPUS. THIS IS A ONE-WAY DOOR 
THAT NEEDS TO STOP NOW. YOU can’t dump all the homeless in the state on 
one neighborhood! 
CO.10.3. This item is too general and looks like an attempt by COP to make this 
plan lengthy and cumbersome and to have a place to say “you asked for it, so we 
did it!” 
CO.10.1 and 
CO.10.2
46
Homelessness will never be eradicated because some people choose to not 
follow rules. Those persons should be arrested and encamped in the most 
minimal conditions. Their choice. Get it together or “camp” within state grounds 
like the old pink camps. 
47
Including information and data in the district newsletters would be helpful. Then 
we can pass out that information to community members.
48
Please redesign the survey to discuss each policy item.  This is designed to limit 
the transparency of the public and to provide generic feedback.  It is very hard to 
navigate back and forth between the 30 page documents.  The research does not 
address costs in any way.   It also should be written to allow for those with basic 
reading ability to understand the principles.
Communication Chapter Comments
189

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Communication Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
49
Don't assume that smart, well thought strategies are so important.  The most 
important thing is to clearly ID this:  who can be helped?  what % is this.  Then 
focus on these.  I'm afraid this "able to be helped" group is not that big.
50
Data, not politics, should drive all decisions and funding.
51
Goals for the communication. 
52
retaining information of people runs the risk of data breaches.  I dont think it is a 
good idea
53
Yes such information can be included in City of Phoenix newsletter in residents 
water bill, as well as online. 
54
Just don't pay any departments or private companies that will charge outrageous 
amounts just to gather information, stats. 
55
It would be great showcase this information on social media, youtube video that 
breakdown the information and other unique methods emphasize the results to 
create more community action.
56
However, this is a major "cart before the horse" issue. Verbiage oozes a 
particular set of expected results and conclusions and actions. This could be very 
dangerous, wasteful and counter productive.
57
You need to hire a homelessness czar....a spokesperson to deal with this issue. 
58
PHX CARES should also be utilizing HMIS. This is what most other homeless 
service providers are using, so if you want to track where people are going and 
what services they are accessing, get in the system the providers are using. 
59
Nothing listed
60
This section should be more specific in the obligations Phoenix has to 
communicate transparently. 
61
Communicate with the public but only after collaborating with non-profits whom 
serve the people regarding a trauma-informed media message.
62
Tax payers are going to want to know where the monies are going
63
This must be a joke. 
64
Communication is a key!! If we can get communities information of their rights 
and the regulations it might make homeowners and business owners feel they 
have some control. 
65
Just fix the problem, don't make a federal case out of it. Just fix it. 
66
What kind of data would be released to the public? I find this a little concerning. It 
would depend.
67
Keep everyone well informed. 
68
Educate the public on how to interact/support the homeless and/or notify 
authorities of problems
69
Create some videos with stories of various of homelessness causes so the public 
can understand and empathize.   Will lo get more support than just dry statistics.  
Document some personal success stories. 
70
People want to see progress in the city 
71
Must report on performance of this program against realistic goals.
72
Yes AND prioritize and include the people experiencing homeless in the 
gathering of this data. We should be asking them what they need first as these 
“solutions” will impact them the most! Are they having a seat at the table in how 
they’re lives and the data about them is being gathered. This is the cornerstone. 
They know more than anyone what they need.
Communication Chapter Comments
190

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Communication Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
73
The city needs to stop trying to massage language and be real. Stop trying to 
trick people into thinking all people struggling for affordable housing are teachers. 
Please, just stop that idiotic line - it's insulting. When have you ever publicly 
addressed the chronically homeless and described what that means, where they 
live and where they should live? 
74
If only 20% of homeless are engaged, we need to figure out why more are not 
wanting to have a better life. What type of initiative can we give to intiate the 
desire not to be homeless?  Churches can be part of an outreach program that 
may inspire the homeless to change their life.
75
Currently, communication is lacking regarding the City's plan to address 
homelessness.
76
Make sure Phoenix Police are not involved with the care of homeless people. Do 
not provide any additional money to Phoenix Police, Deflect any increases to 
resources in our city. Provide better resources that prevent this kind of tragedy 
from happening again by not spending so much on Policing and more on 
schools, before and after school programs, health and healthcare disparities. 
77
The public should know of the advances and how the programs are doing.
78
Given that money is involved in some way, results need to be transparent.  Do 
not pollute data to slant in the direction wanted, but perhaps does not happen.
79
How does any of this solve the problem?
80
Consistent messaging is important and must be consistently compassionate. 
Please revise.
81
Simplify
82
Communication and fact transparency are the least political ways to deal with a 
problem. 
83
I think the community leaders should be listed as lead partners also, as the 
neighborhood leaders are ones that disseminate information on the 
issues/solutions/discussions to the community individuals.  And, there is a strong 
trust factor when coming from the neighborhood leaders.
84
Data is the hardest to collect for homeless and it’s what needs to be done the 
most 
85
These meetings are great - can do them regularly? eg, bi-annually?
86
Universal ROI implemented for interagency sharing of client housing or death - 
very closed. 
87
The community needs to understand the issues of homelessness.  The impacts 
to the community and the efforts employed to help alleviate this growing problem.
88
KEEPING THE GENERAL POPULATION INFORMED IS TYPICALLY THE KEY 
TO KEEPING THEM HAPPY
89
Tone is important....these are people...resources...NOT a problem to be fixed
90
The city of phoenix NEEDS to be transparent!  
91
Add a section to the public works newsletter about the current status of the 
homeless population and efforts by the city to keep people safe and alive. For 
example, how many people were picked up for heat exhaustion that month. 
Providing information to the public at large. 
92
Data can become ever more granular and parsed. We know homelessness is a 
problem. I’m less interested in the city having transparent data on offer to the 
public than increased services for homeless. 
Communication Chapter Comments
191

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Communication Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
93
End homelessness. I've lived here for 50 5 years and it is only gotten worse it 
should be a legal for people to stand on corners and beg, it should be illegal for 
people to sleep on private property and continue to do so when asked to leave. It 
is not heartless to believe this it is heartless to allow these people to continue 
living like this
94
“Provide [factual] consistent and [timely] reporting...”
95
The public needs to know what's being done to intervene on these issues.  They 
need to be able to contact someone when there are complaints or concerns.  
Providing criteria on how success is being measured is also important. 
Communication is a key factor in community acceptance of what's being done.
96
Strive for complete openness and honesty. 
97
I think it was mostly covered in a different section, check for overlap
98
Transparency is key, keep the public informed and data available
99
the various  relative departments should be able to identify the homeless related 
costs so we have a clear picture of total $ spent and the effectiveness of 
contracted companies 
100
The City can no longer engage in "happy talk"
101
Data gathered by local non-profits should be shared in conjunction with 
government-collected data. 
102
Ensure that local media outlets (TV, Radio, Print Media) participate in reporting 
initiatives and strategies for homelessness to the public.
103
How do you report to community? 
104
Must coordinate with Police and Fire and perhaps use an existing format like 
Nextdoor to report to individual subdivisions. City wide statistics mean little if they 
are not recognized and reported by neighborhood.
105
Keep funds for actually addressing the problems of homelessness
106
Your data sets are artificial. People who are homeless in Maricopa County move 
around a lot from one municipality to another. Take up leadership in making this 
a county-wide effort.
107
oversight committee that is not friends w the board, please. Too much time and 
resources are being wasted. It's not rocket science it's people. 
108
An important part of collecting the data is the availability of the public to access it. 
Building a website or carving out a section of the phoenix.gov website specifically 
for this data would be very valuable.
109
but will the public read the data? 
110
The organizations completing this survey must be included in future 
communications.   Progress being made needs to be reported to the Coalition for 
Smoke-free Air, e--mail address coalitionforsmoke-freeair@centurylink.net. 
111
remove 10.3, quality of information over quantity. Do not spend money 
advertising it, just make good data available to those interested. 
10.3
112
Communication about opportunities to provide feedback and participate in 
meetings and committees should also be mentioned. Also, the communication 
section should provide a strategy as to how the City will relay communication to 
the homeless population and address barriers to communication this population 
may have in comparison to the general public. 
113
It's important to show what the City has done, is doing and plans to do to address 
this issue. I fear it will get much worse before it gets better due to Covid.
114
This lacks any value without the ability to comment on said data
Communication Chapter Comments
192

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Communication Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
115
Please remain aware that not all homeless persons want to be "rescued" by a city 
and its partners. In this case, the city needs policy prepared to address homeless 
persons who just want to be homeless without any rules. 
Your data better not be useless numbers in a chart that you 'THINK" residents 
need to see.  give us all the good , the bad and the ugly.  DONT BE A TRUMP
116
Not just being transparent, but being vigilant and caring about the people 
experiencing homelessness in Phoenix (and everywhere else for that matter). 
117
transparency  means admitting that destroying encampments and ruining the 
shelter homeless people create, because that is EXTREMELY unethical 
118
Ensure messaging is human based and recognizes the insane concept of having 
people live outside in 115 degree weather. 
119
The public needs to have input into Phoenix's homelessness issue.  More 
outreach needs to be done to assist mentally ill homeless persons to get them 
stable housing.  This includes Veterans and other populations who have become 
vulnerable due to mental health issues.  We need to make resources in 
downtown/central available to them.
120
who cares
121
Remove Methadone clinic from neighborhood and see DRAMATIC improvement
122
leave as stated
123
Inform the public and housing services of opportunities available for housing and 
resources. 
124
We need more media attention to the problem through all media sources 
including social media and not just central or downtown Phoenix but also the 
suburbs, with an additional focus on charitable programs 
125
Include in the data and information to the public, the amount of funds, number of 
staff, and source of funding, list of contracted services.
126
I think we need to keep all options open and vigilant to any changes or additions 
as needed
127
Add: create website resources for citizens to access and learn from data sets.
128
TRANSPARENCY 
129
Transparency is vital, for 2 reasons:  1) The public needs to know what/how their 
government is doing to benefit them, and 2) for reason of public relations, have 
good things which one can show to their constituents, and with the transparency 
the public can look further into it and see that their government is *always* doing 
said same good things.
130
I didn’t comprehend. Sorry. 
131
Good communication and consistency are always a positive for any plan 
132
Too much Media is too much Media. Don't make it a circus of information.
133
CO.10.2 very important 
CO.10.2
134
10.1 The goal of data is for public consumption? The goal of data is to have a 
more effective program which reduces homelessness. This seems to be in the 
wrong section.
10.1
135
a way for public input when problem is identified by individuals
136
It would be valuable to include a list of references in this plan.  I'm assuming that 
the city looked at innovative plans in other cities, but since there's no 
bibliography, I don't know for sure.  If this hasn't been done, it really should be!  
For example, have committee members read Evicted?  Have you looked at what 
Austin is doing?
137
keep it digital, do not increase paper waste
Communication Chapter Comments
193

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Communication Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
138
The City staff and representatives can not be allowed to conduct business in 
private. Public tax dollars fund the services, therefore their actions need to be just 
as public. 
139
From experience when I lived in Little Rock, AR, in particular during the Katrina 
problem. We found out that many of the towns were taking the homeless buying 
in bus tickets and sending them off somewhere else.. Sadly I am pretty sure that 
is what has been happening here. They may or may not ever admit it to you that 
they were sent from another city or another state but with the increase that 
happened so quickly before the shut down because of the COVID-19 virus I am 
pretty sure that’s what happened. I’ve seen them camping on overpasses to 
freeways when people take me to church, on street corners the police never stop 
and say hey you can’t do that here I just drive right on by. Why I’ve got a notion 
it’s because their hands are tied. If they patrol the area regularly and told them 
regularly no you can’t camp here I think they would go somewhere else. From the 
overpass they did for a while after I emailed the governor about the problem. 
People who were pedestrians good not get it over the overpass because of the 
homeless stretched out for 10 foot if not more taking up the whole thing. These 
people many of them could locate jobs and apartments I just flat don’t want to. 
Many of them already have food stamps and there’s probably some that even 
have Medicaid. I don’t care if their elderly or veterans they probably get Social 
Security. However, leave a drink that money up or use it to shoot up. If you cause 
your own problems you are a have to suffer the consequences not have the city 
and the state step in and say oh you poor thing and then put all the bills for him. 
The seniors can’t get any help but let’s reach out and help those who can help 
themselves and won’t?.
140
CO 10.2 Why not share effective solutions with other cities? What are we hiding?
CO 10.2
141
Remove CO 10.1 & 10.2.
Remove CO 10.1 
& 10.2.
142
communication is important in every aspect of this planning process.
143
Homeless activity should be included on map for residents to see.
144
nothing
145
transparency improves acceptance and potentially participation from mainstream 
citizens
146
I am not sure about this one.
147
Just numbers and more passive information that really won't assist in curtailing 
the issues associated with people who are taking from the taxpayers and hurting 
communities.
148
Please see notes at question 23.
149
Awareness and transparency can change hearts and bring more assistance from 
the community and dollars to the causes helping homelessness.
150
Engage the church community and keep them involved. Give them opportunity to 
be part of the solution and show them how they can help.
151
its ok.  nice and simple
152
People need to be made aware of this crisis 
Communication Chapter Comments
194

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Communication Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
153
Talking about data there was none in the report (unless I missed it) There should 
be charts indicating how homeless has trended since 1982 and how it relates to 
other numbers such as economic growth or downturns, overall population growth, 
comparisons to housing prices, business activity (we used to have high paying 
employers such as Motorola and have now low paying Walmart). We must be 
able to chart and determine the success of any given program or combinations of 
programs and the cost. We can then compare if paying for a airline ticket to 
Australia and a check for $5000 would be more cost-effective. 
154
We really need a campaign that humanizes people experiencing homelessness 
and will encourage citizens to care about solving homelessness.  
155
Maybe define what "consistent" means.  
156
There should be consistent follow up otherwise, what's the point?
157
Publicize specific volunteer positions:  T.V., Radio, Flyers in libraries, schools, 
universities, churches
158
We never get outreach from leaders in Phoenix. At least I never see it. 
159
Provide cell phones and computer access/assistance  and training for job 
applications 
160
Transparency as city works for taxpayer!
161
We need to end homelessness! 
162
We should definitely keep track of data and statistics. Like I mentioned above, it 
would be great to keep a number of violent attacks that have occurred toward the 
unhoused, we need to expose this behavior and make sure communities know 
that this is not okay. 
163
While the communications portal being created is vital, it worries me that police 
will be the primary users of this portal and that they may use the parking lot 
"shelters" as justifications to displace people on the streets.
164
doesn't this section describe the city's everyday obligations? don't these things go 
without saying?  except for the database available to the public... isn't that just 
journalists and lawyers that want to pick through that?
165
Couldn't read, too small.
166
Members of the public may want to know how they can volunteer or provide 
supplies for the homeless.
167
Just make sure the data supplied is timely, relevant and accurate. IVE FOUND 
THAT MUCH OF THE COVID DATA IS NOT.  Hard to plan with faulty info.
168
BTW any of these plans/solutions should never raise our water bill, but have no 
more than a $1 hotel and rental car tax
169
While few people still read, it’s still important to communicate the status and 
progress of the team’s efforts and to have such reports available on-line as well 
as reported through the paper and public service television.  
170
TRANSPARANCY !!!!!!!
171
Communication is always important
172
Here's the problem, people want the problem to just go away...they don't care 
how...the transparency would be great.
173
leave as is
174
Data and transparency are critical to success. There should be a simple 
scorecard that any one can understand.
175
have more than one line and operator for the CARES line. Never able to get 
through.
176
these sections should be un-bundled so you can provide feedback on each 
objective.
Communication Chapter Comments
195

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Communication Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
177
Need to provide for daily communication with homeless persons at HSC, 
adjacent encampment and at locations throughout the city and the region.  We 
need to show these people we care; are trying to make their current 
circumstances as livable as possible (extreme heat relief, dispersion, 
employment of peer workers), and advocate strongly for stages of housing 
leading to independent living. 
178
I don't think there needs to be constant messaging.
179
Honesty and transparency is important for public relations
180
All The Above
181
Transparency is only one key to the solution. Do the job, don't just talk about it. 
Keep records, of course, not just for political reasons. Get Kate on the 
bandwagon where she should be. It's her job, supposedly her city. Get with the 
program.
182
good working tax paying self supporting people have a right to know if their tax 
dollars are being wasted
183
Talk about how you are going to open the restrooms at the City parks.
184
I don’t believe this is money that would be spent to address the root causes of 
homelessness or to help people experiencing homelessness. 
185
communicate with the public about current needs of the homeless population and 
how they can help address the issue in their community. 
186
Outreach and communication is important. People need to know what resources 
are available to them. 
187
It is important to keep accurate data and offer multiple ways for the community to 
access the information. This may require both digital and printed formats and in 
person meetings to reach a wider audience.
188
The data needs to reflect intake to permanent placement and the success rate.  
Seems the intake process is broken if there are so many homeless around the 
place of intake (Human Services Campus).
189
Make Scottsdale and Tempe and Mesa have shelters
190
Too much wasted time and money on stats that can be manuevered.
191
I would expect that this includes close communication with property owners and 
residents of neighboring sites.  
192
Must be transparent about how money is spent and results. Every dollar spent 
must be data and results driven.
193
The City’s policy to end homelessness, and thus communication, should place 
heavy emphasis on personal accountability to take advantage of opportunities to 
improve yourself - and take pride in your achievements.
194
Tracking and making acceptable services known are very important.  Informing 
the public on your efforts, not so much. 
195
More emphasis on providing true and accurate data that is easy to find and 
understand.
196
Be the change. If we want to know about it, we’ll ask. Stop wasting money.
197
Add:  let Phoenix Resident to have login access to this database for 
transparency, and input control
198
Data and reporting should be available
199
The public needs to be informed regularly that giving money to intersection 
panhandlers keeps them on the street and away from seeking the help they 
need. This money keeps them in a neighborhood negatively affecting the people 
who own homes. People who encourage homeless by giving them money should 
be fined or required to take the homeless person to live in their home or 
neighborhood for a week.
Communication Chapter Comments
196

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Communication Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
200
Given the extent of the data presented, 7k+ homeless and %51 unsheltered, it is 
impossible to know what a good strategy looks like. We should do the work to 
understand the population further. What percent needs mental health services? 
What percentage are on the street due to recent eviction? What percent are 
using hard drugs? What percent would take a bed if one was available? 
201
Take the employees playing with data in your offices and put them out on the 
streets where they can start interviewing and placing drug transients.
202
Messaging using multiple media outlets and platforms could help the public under 
what is being done and the impact it is having
203
The residents of a Phoenix should be in a boarding committee to help
204
Communication to the community is key 
205
These points read like government jargon.  You want to communicate the scope 
of the problem how it is changing over time, what the city is doing, what other 
cities, the county, state, and federal government are doing or are not doing.  
What citizens, neighborhoods and nonprofits can do to help address the problem. 
You should be transparent and accountable.  There should be a single point of 
contact and someone to answer the phone and respond to emails.
206
seems more like a pat on the back for Phoenix -  what are the plans if the data 
shows the proposal isn't working 
207
Community involvement needs to be constant, consistent and transparent - 
awesome! :)
208
How is the data going to be made easily available and understandable? Many 
people cannot understand "data sets," do not know where to look to find accurate 
information, and have no way of knowing when new information is released.
209
Given the current state of Arizona, Our communities are very vulnerable. Being 
transparent about what has been done, what the plans are, and how citizens can 
contribute is critical. Sharing feedback of how the program is working regularly 
and consistently is imperative 
210
Provide resources and help for the homeless people who cannot read or who 
have disabilities and need help applying for Social Security disability.
211
Citizens need to know what is happening. 
212
Make the print bigger if it is important. Otherwise it is just someone with a 'blah 
blah blah' bubble over their head.
213
The measurement of any goal is important. 
214
Most people don’t want to be involved.
215
If financial data is disclosed.  Lots of money being thrown at this - not much 
happening.  Where is the money?
216
2 pieces of data are most important, but hard to find. 
1) why are people homeless?  Addiction, mental illness, or financial reasons. I 
have trouble finding this stat and can only speak for the homeless in my area, 
which related to addiction and mental illness 
2) how often are resources used in a specific location or neighborhood to 
address homeless camps.  Maybe be more proactive there
217
All of this should go without saying
218
Need to ensure there is targeted communication for the homeless community.  
They do not always have the same resources and access to information as the 
community "at-large" and funding needs to be included to ensure they receive 
information beyond what is provided through general outreach.
219
Shae best practices with other municipalities and states because in the long-
term, if homelessness can be combatted on a larger scale, the local impacts are 
significant.
Communication Chapter Comments
197

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Communication Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
220
N/A
221
Benchmark against eliminating homelessness completely. 
222
Finding incentives to keep public involved in helping with these efforts.
223
I’m a firm believer in transparency. Every step should be taken to minimize 
repetitive behavior and offenders
224
Good data can result in good policy.  The lack of it nearly always results in policy 
failures.
225
I like it.
226
Communication and education of the community are important to garner support 
for the understanding of the homeless issues and creating solutions.
227
There is not enough information available to the public on this issue.
228
Again, include the community in the ideas for improvement before writing up.
229
Data is important because that's how you measure effectiveness of the overall 
plan. But are you going to be posting this on your city's open data site? That 
would be good. For transparancy. 
230
Transparency - and true transparency- is necessary for all residents, those 
sheltered and unsheltered. Transparency is also one of the most critical pieces of 
the relationship between the city government and service providers. 
231
Transparency and accountability are always important. But the citizens of 
Phoenix have been unaccountable to their poorest members for decades, 
probably a century. Where is the accountability the suburyhomes for leaving this 
many folks to suffer and die in the streets every night??  The poor deserve 
reports given to them of how many times they have  been NIMBY'd out of areas 
from many of AZ's wealthiest members. That is the real lack of transparency. 
Thus, while there should be data collected and reported, we cannot spend money 
on fancy systems and high analytical salaries to circle around and pass 
messages to each other basically concluding that there are 500 unsheltered 
people in the HSC area every night that need shelter to live. I'd rather not waste 
these money on their salaries and hand it directly to our homeless friends to get 
them off the street; better yet, turn each one of these data analyst jobs into two 
labor jobs, and watch how fast our homeleyguests end their homelessness. 
232
To the extent that we can maintain accurate data, we should use it to inform 
decisions rather than rely on anecdotal information or the emotion surrounding 
these issues.
233
Transparency is very extremely important and allowing for community feedback. 
234
Identify who/what organization will provide this info and be held accountable 
235
Transparency is very important, but so far Phoenix is lacking in transparency 
surrounding the care and treatment pf the unsheltered. 
236
A Communication section should be added. These are weak strategies. And what 
will they accomplish? How will homelessness in Phoenix be different because of 
them?
237
Engage local media to update progress.
238
The public is uninformed with disinformation and communication as to who and 
what homelessness is and how each and everyone can become in this situation 
within one SSA check or paycheck within about a month.  The public needs 
education.  These individuals are not all drug addict, alcoholics, bums etc.  The  
most are decent human beings needing a decent chance in life.
239
Who's managing the regional plan to end homelessness?
Communication Chapter Comments
198

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr. 
Communication Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
240
Per the plan there are measures taken to increase communication. Can we take 
a second to broaden what those community engangements will look like and 
when we can expect to see them reopen.
Communication Chapter Comments
199

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Data Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
1
Many of these citizens require services which are not equally spread out in 
Maricopa County. Many factors would have to be taken into account. To have a 
general policy where all the cities in the County would share responsibility is a 
good idea but would need to be crafted carefully to benefit our citizens needs.
2
I am unclear what this means 
3
Add to D.12.1. that a prerequisite for bed availability opens for the individual after 
cleanup in an encampment site, on a Parks & Rec trail, or along a canal. Five 
bags, two gloves, a mask, bottled water, two hours.
12.1
4
print
5
"We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEY'RE 
 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS" 
 
6
Possibly on an individual and voluntary basis.
7
D.12.1 needs to consider transportation barriers for people who can't get across 
town (for example) to an available shelter bed in Glendale when they're in Mesa 
where shelter beds are full. No fines/tickets or arresting should happen in these 
scenarios. 
12.1
8
more details on how the information regarding available shelter beds will get to 
those experiencing homelessness. 
9
There are serious concerns around the shelter bed portal with Crisis Response 
Network.  This portal should be available to service providers NOT to law 
enforcement.  This further criminalizes homelessness.  Please re-examine the 
portal functionality and access.
10
CRN should have been a greater partner in these efforts beforehand. Central 
Shelter Services Line needs a better, more efficient infrastructure. 
11
D.12.1 was misrepresented to CRN and the city council. Creating a data base 
specifically for the Phoenix PD is problematic for several reasons. 1) phx pd has 
a unfortunate history of racial profiling and harassment of individuals 
experiencing homelessness. 2) If the city or Phoenix PD had any ear to the real 
issue of homelessness, any service provider will tell you there are no shelter 
beds. If there were, there wouldn't be hundreds of people sleeping in a parking lot 
in phoenix or makeshift shelters being ran out of hotels. 
12.1
12
These objectives are incredibly vague and there is a lack of description of how 
and what you plan to implement in order to appropriately address homelessness 
in Phoenix. There needs to be more information provided and we demand full 
transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and an extension for 
the public comment meetings until they’re accessible to people experiencing 
homelessness. 
13
Hasn't worked in the past...
14
Municipalities outside of Phoenix (such as Mesa, Gilbert, and Chandler) should 
be heavily fined by Maricopa county for "dumping" the homeless in Phoenix.
15
Initiate some of your other ideas,  then maybe add this a few years out
16
A general comment.  We will NEVER be able to solve the problem of 
homelessness, only control or manage it. This means we will be creating yet 
another bureaucracy with the potential of waste, fraud and corruption.  We need 
to create a public private partnership that leverages the private sector 
management skills and experiences which simultaneously takes into 
consideration the public's need to manage homelessness in our urban cities.
Data Chapter Comments
200

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Data Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
17
We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEY'RE 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS.
18
I don't trust the City of Phoenix's interpretation of "bed availability" because of the 
current Phx CARES program. Claiming hot asphalt is "shelter" and "open beds." 
 
I want full transparency into all data collected and also feel like there needs to be 
an extension for the public comment meetings until they're accessible to people 
i
i
h
l
19
Include data that shows where the homeless people originated from. Find out 
which city/state they came from and how they arrived in Phoenix. 
20
Crisis response would be a wonderful asset. That could free up the calls placed 
to the police regarding the homeless situation. 
21
Unless we track our impact on homeless individuals, how will we know what is 
working and what is not? Let's not throw good money after bad. If something isn't 
working, how will you know to shift and adjust?
22
Don't understand "entering into a contract to provide bed availability". Doesn't 
make sense unless the City is collecting data from non-profits who have beds 
available, not the City providing additional beds. The City should always be 
working towards privatizing homeless solutions.
23
We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
an extension for the public comment meetings until they're accessible to people 
experiencing homelessness. 
24
More information needed. 
25
"We demand full transparency into all of the data collected from the surveys and 
AN EXTENSION FOR THE PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS UNTIL THEYRE 
ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS"
26
The more collaboration the better.
27
Not sure if this needs to be stated in the plan, this could also be additional 
information for those wanting it. 
Data is paramount to any solution
28
create a data base to keep track of residents who have received assistance and 
keep track to promote ongoing healthy habits
29
What does "retrieve persons experiencing homelessness" mean?  Does this 
mean police vans and mass incarceration?  Does this mean forcing someone 
into a shelter?
30
I don’t really understand what this means.  
31
What are the metrics to measure success for this plan?  This survey is sadly a 
bad design, seeking confirmation bias instead of genuine public input. 
32
Tracking people across the city is both invasive and less important than putting 
that money towards the physical spaces they need to sleep, the food they need to 
eat, and the healthcare they need to live.
Data Chapter Comments
201

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Data Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
33
We need to create a GIS system and metrics to identify deficiencies in homeless 
shelter areas, places with high crime, schools, day cares, and then areas with 
good public transportation and human service needs to know where we should 
focus and expand our homeless and other human services facilities. Spread it 
out.  
D.11.1: MAG may be a good place to involve other cities and Maricopa County. 
Why ask me? Don't you know? We definitely need the county, state, and other 
cities to step up and do their share.  
D.11.2: I don't know if CRN is good or not. Don't you know? It depends on who 
else is involved in the network.  
Again, we definitely need the county, state, and other cities to step up and do 
their share. 
11.1, 11.2
34
Not real sure about some of the meaning
35
All bed privileges should include mandatory education about resources to end 
homelessness. Repeated use of beds without utilization of available resources 
should result in loss of bed privileges. 
36
Privacy
37
Please redesign the survey to discuss each policy item.  This is designed to limit 
the transparency of the public and to provide generic feedback.  It is very hard to 
navigate back and forth between the 30 page documents.  The research does not 
address costs in any way.   It also should be written to allow for those with basic 
reading ability to understand the principles.
38
More detail
39
Tracking individuals' movement throughout the county uses resources which 
would better be allocated to providing housing, healthcare, and support. 
Additionally, data should be obtained only with informed consent from the 
individuals being tracked. 
40
focus on the problem, not over thinking how everyone does not want to be 
homeless or be doing their drug of choice.
41
Crisis response contract, yes
42
Restrict Phoenix Police Department from accessing this database. Do not 
enforce the urban camping law.
43
This section should talk about what data you already collect, what you need to 
add, how you’re going to do it, and how you’ll use it.
44
This is a Valley and State issue, not a city issue.  Build a bridge to all those 
affected.
45
How is the data to be used, and by whom? 
46
Yes new focus areas will inevitably result and it will be easier to deal with if found 
in early development.
47
Cart before horse; lack of beds is a prematurely drawn conclusion.
48
You need to be tracing race and homelessness.
49
Review the purpose and any actual benefit of The Continuum of Care.
50
Section D.11.1 should be removed as inhumane. Section D.12.1 should be 
included as it seeks to help and aid those experiencing homelessness. 
D11.1, D.12.1
51
This is another great example of lack of transparency. 
52
I would like more information about how the Crisis Response Network would 
facilitate making bed availability information accessible and by whom. 
53
D12.1 needs to be in place NOW. There should be only one number or center 
that tracks bed availability 
D12.1
Data Chapter Comments
202

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Data Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
54
Absolutely not. 
55
There needs to be policy protecting homeless and community members data.
56
Does this mean rounding up homeless people like cattle? What exactly does this 
mean?
57
It will only be helpful if the Cities communicate with each other and are willing to 
try what is working in other cities such as the gated alley program that is working 
really well for the City of Mesa.
58
Incorporate specific measures to ensure this data is used responsibly for specific, 
scientific program evaluation purposes, and does not lead to excessive 
surveillance of a vulnerable population
59
Communication is important among partner agencies 
60
Once again if program is effective, there must be a goal to reduce rather than 
increase bed availability.
61
I don’t understand D.11.1. I would elaborate on this more in the next draft.
62
We need to know our homeless population's root cause? We need to reach out 
to them and ask why? We need to know what will inspire change in them? What 
do they like about being homeless? What issues did they experience that made 
them homeless? We may actually need an individual case worker that helps push 
them thru addication, mental etc that will the 1x1 attention to make the change. 
This counsler case worker type position is the perfect job opportunity for them to 
work towards...for who can speak better than someone who has changed their 
life around?
63
Make sure Phoenix Police are not involved with the care of homeless people. Do 
not provide any additional money to Phoenix Police, Deflect any increases to 
resources in our city. Provide better resources that prevent this kind of tragedy 
from happening again by not spending so much on Policing and more on 
schools, before and after school programs, health and healthcare disparities. 
64
CRN needs to actively work with community providers to learn about the 
treatments and services they provide. Personal experience indicates this is not 
done with staff who are working directly with the clients.
65
Fund a Mental institution, like we had a 24 & Van Buren
66
another measure that will just increase our taxes.  Feels like you are making this 
hard and creating another category of resident who does nothing in return.
67
The Police Departments should not be the primary agency in control of the bed 
inventory. While unsheltered, we should be attentive to displacing individuals 
from the places they have personal connections especially because the region is 
auto-dependent. 
68
This data can be used positively, but people experiencing homelessness as well 
as skeptics like myself worry about what this data will be used for. There is a 
history of representatives of our government abusing these people, like 
Muhammad Abdul Muhaymin, that must be surmounted to trust that this data 
won't be used to further this kind of harm. There should be an extra point to 
ensure that this data cannot be used to make arrests or take down 
encampments. If this isn't in place, it will be another unhelpful vector of 
69
This needs significant help
70
Not so sure...
71
Get them beds, food, counseling, clean clothes and showers.
72
D11.1 is government speak again.  Put it in normal terms.
11.1
Data Chapter Comments
203

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Data Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
73
I believe the state is looking at a new RFP for data (related to the work Amazon 
Web services / ASU / HSC has been doing). We need to make sure it's all 
coordinated and the systems talk to each other.
74
What are these focused areas? Are you going to push people out of service 
areas because of public sentiment? More information needed here. 
75
Don't know enough about crisis response...is it effective - also "data" is a 
nebulous term
76
Section D.12.1 should be kept
12.1
77
A lot of these people are mentally ill and they don't want to live in shelters to start 
with. You can create all the beds you want but if these individuals have no 
motivation to stay in those shelters and get the care they need for their mental 
illness. Then we can spend all the money you want and they will continue to stay 
in the outside and living on the streets
78
This is gibberish. Who's nephew wrote this?
79
Sufficient investment in technology to meet these goals. 
80
Why CRN? Bed tracking is important but they might not be the best.
81
Who will have access. how access will be administered. Current state, next steps
82
Other cities are the biggest silos of all and they need to take on their fair share of 
the problem
83
Let's keep this as unproblematic as possible please. Coordinate statistics. Let 
them do their jobs.
84
I don't know what D12.1 means
12.1
85
I do not believe in the tracking of movements and data collection--respect privacy 
laws.
86
D12.1 only 
Tracking homeless seems like a violation of their freedom
12.1
87
This is the point-coordination of efforts among municipalities that are in fact 
cheek-to-jowl. This county is ONE BIG city and it needs to coordinate and share 
resources to make any difference at all.
88
more accountability. There needs to be more follow through and reporting. I still 
don't see any data on why people are becoming homeless. Sometimes a simple 
solution is to buy a bus ticket to a family member. Numbers see just that until 
reason is placed behind it. We must understand the cause before the solution 
and gaps can be found. There are so many gaps and no one is addressing 
th
89
This is just talk - ask the residents what they feel over certain periods. We are the 
ones that will tell you if it’s working or not 
90
Probably reconsider the acronym,  MAG. Too close to MAGA and certainly 
offensive.
91
If someone is in crisis, living in fear....parent, child, anyone....they need to have a 
place to go.  A safe place. A place that WILL protect them. 
92
Can you say Big Brother? So what's right because it's right and we're talking 
about human beings here, NOT JUST NUMBERS AND DATA!
93
Tagging people like migratory birds seemS like an ethical concern 
94
what does "retrieve movements" mean? 
95
Do not criminalize homelessness. 
96
really?
97
Delete D.12.1
12.1
98
leave as stated
99
Do not allow police to engage with homeless personal. Rather work with crisis 
prevention teams 
Data Chapter Comments
204

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Data Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
100
The city is represented on the Continuum of Care Group. So isn’t the data from 
MAG available to you now? No problem with contracting for bed availability.  
 
I thought there would be a place for general comments so I’m listing them here: 
Do you have a timeline for completing the action items? 
Could you include the budgeted amount for each action item? 
Maybe be more specific about the lead e.g. which city department is 
responsible? 
How does this plan fit with the Maricopa Association of Government’s Regional 
Plan to end Homelessness.  
Thank you. 
101
I think the goal of knowing which shelter beds are available is great.  I think that 
tracking people's movement is unnecessary, and I think people will actively try to 
avoid being tracked and see it as a violation of their civil rights.
102
I think we need to keep all options open and vigilant to any changes or additions 
as needed
103
Consider a voluntary register of homeless so they can be more easily reached 
with services and moved from homelessness to work and a home.
104
Transparency 
105
Detail, quantitive is the Only objective measurement. 
106
Not sure if this is saying that Phoenix is handling homeless issues for all of 
Maricopa County?  If so, I think this is wrong; Phoenicians should not have to pay 
the burden and handle the issues of the homeless throughout Maricopa.
107
I'm not sure what this really means.
108
D.12.1 - add to this
12.1
109
This section has no strength. The first strategy doesn’t make sense to me.
1
110
contracts are hard to enforce if funding becomes difficult.  Needs a way to 
resolve the problem.  Funding will be difficult now 
because with high unemployment due to the pandemic, the tax base will be much 
smaller & even those with savings, etc need to be able to conserve till this 
situation ends.
111
Public results promptly. 
112
Add incentives on keeping neighborhood clean.Taken turns cleaning streets and 
neighborhoods clean, in return give homeless vouchers, cash or incentives of 
some type. 
 
I believe, not all, but a large majority of the homeless are comfortable in there 
environment due to drugs and alcohol. I believe a Free Mandatory Drug 
Screening test for homeless is neccessary. If positive for Elicit drugs and don't 
have an Rx for drugs taken this will automatically disqualify assistance and help 
but offer rehabilitation for 3 months, then repeat process on drug screening for 
Housing/Shelter help once again. 
113
The photos within the full report show workers recording data.  I suppose this has 
been ongoing for some time.
114
Reads like a relocation program. do not understand this section
115
D 11.1 isn't clear. Needs rewording. Also MAG should be an important 
component of any proposed solution as moving people from place to place isn't a 
l ti
11.1
116
up to date information is always necessary
117
I'm not sure what you mean by "retrieve" homeless people.  We need to be 
careful about forcing them into shelters if that is not what they want
Data Chapter Comments
205

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Data Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
118
No emergency beds should not be given to them. Those should be safe for true 
emergencies. The COVID-19 virus and being homeless is not that kind of 
emergency unless they have just been released from the hospital. They should 
be given six months either get a job or get on your Social Security or something 
there are too many entities out there that the government should not have to 
system for any longer than six months. If they’re still homeless after that they 
don’t really care and they want you to support them.
119
"Retrieve persons," really? Even if it's against their will? Bad idea.
120
Yes YES and YES.  This is not just a Phoenix problem. Get everyone involved.
121
could be difficult to actually do, but important to track. 
122
D11.1 remove
11.1
123
Tracking movements is too broad and may include dangerous surveillance and 
law enforcement access to private records.
124
Explain your provisions!  What does it mean:  Engaging MAG to retrieve persons 
experiencing homeless movements?  What is the contract you refer to?  All of 
this is WORTHLESS unless there are specific provisions for everything you have 
listed in your plan.  So many people can imagine what this means, but who 
knows what is actually would do?  
125
Please see notes at question 23.
126
Eliminate D.11.1. Do not track homeless without their consent. 
11.1
127
The community need more information and education about this crisis and 
mental health issues need to be made a priority when addressing homelessness 
128
Shelter no jail for homeless community 
129
It would be better to have a statewide assessment and data collection. 
130
There is a concern that this will lead to criminalizing homelessness.  If someone 
declines to go to shelter, they could end up charged by police.
131
Fascism
132
Not sure why MAG would need to be involved except to micro manage?
133
Add other ways data is going to be collected; there should be a few different ways 
to collect data to ensure accuracy.
134
This isn't going away.
135
Data Driven Approaches
136
delete entire
137
This sounds a little like tracking personal data and should be cautious to not 
infringe on people’s right to privacy. 
138
I'm not sure MAG should be picking up homeless people unless they've already 
been doing that previously 
139
I'm not sure what exactly the effects of this section will be, so it's hard to respond.
140
Focus money on cleanup, help, prevention not data. COVID And voting shows us 
data can be completely falsified 
141
There need to be more beds for crisis as they frequently release soon after 
admitted because there aren’t enough beds. 
142
There should be an app to check bed availability.  
143
Once again, the.central issue is not the plan itself but who will be implementing it. 
Phoenix police only receive 720 hours of training, are trained to address criminals 
rather than understand mental health issues, and are thus not suited for 
homeless outreach.
144
Phoenix is the magnate. no one moved to arizona to live in Glendale that's just 
the only place they could afford while working in Phoenix. Phoenix has to be a 
good neighbor and not just drive the suffering homeless to the suburbs who don't 
have our tax base and creative resources.
Data Chapter Comments
206

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Data Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
145
Couldn't read, too small.
146
needs to be clarified who we're giving beds or help
147
While this section is not highly important it acts proactively to prepare our teams 
to better cope with changing requirements.  
148
It needs to be rewritten for clarity.
149
By providing housing and/or bedding will encourage homelessness and will show 
an increase
150
Not sure about "retrieving persons"
151
What are the most accessable ways for people without phones/computers to 
voice their concerns and ask for specific information?
152
explain it better-sounds like tracking
153
Retrieve people? This language is disappointing that we talk about citizens this 
way.
154
these sections should be un-bundled so you can provide feedback on each 
objective.
155
For all services for homeless persons, need to be deploy government agencies 
and NGO's at all levels throughout the region.  Need to make better use of the 
very talented and greatly underutilized human service planning staff at MAG.  
Need to  have strong commitment from all city and county human service 
departments; Need to be high priority for Phoenix City Council and other City 
Councils in region.  Need more attention from MAG Executive Committee and 
156
Would still like more info and how data will be used to benefit not just show 
157
All The Above?
158
The bed availability is important. The MAG component is not. It's pretty easy to 
tell where homeless people tend to congregate. 
159
again...enabling drug use behaviors
160
This needs to be ongoing.
161
Add a data strategy on areas that need more public restrooms; and open the 
restrooms in the city parks.
162
The crisis response network database is accessible to the police, try harder to 
use your imagination to resolve issues of homelessness without criminalizing it.
163
I think it is a moral outrage that the city continues to criminalize poverty. Spending 
funds so your cops can judge a person experiencing homelessness for not 
choosing to be sheltered during the time of COVID is an outrage. There are many 
reasons why a person would chooses to remain unsheltered right now, including 
fear of contracting the corona virus in a shelter. I’d rather money was spent to 
assist people experiencing homelessness instead of criminalizing them. 
164
If the data shows we have x amount of homeless people, we need x amount of 
beds. Or at least a goal of 70% or higher. 
165
If you engage with the community, leasing offices, etc - residents can identify 
homeless individuals and families.  But the process needs to be 
COMMUNICATED effectively.  Also, could police/firefighters transport homeless 
individuals to the Center?  I have seen police engage with homeless and then 
leave.
Data Chapter Comments
207

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Data Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
166
I think this is important, but I don't think funding that should go to providing 
services to the homeless should be spent on administrative cost for this. It could 
be expensive to track the constant movement of so many homeless individuals. 
The Department of Health Services is struggling with contract tracing for covid19, 
and they have a large team at their disposal. I think trying to track 7000+ 
homeless individuals would be similar. I think funding could be better spent 
providing services. 
 
I think it would be better to have a database that ALL homeless providers can 
access to record the individual's information and the services that are provided. 
That would help to track the general areas that are being frequented.
167
What does the first section mean. Retrieving them and bringing them back to 
Phoenix?  Leave them in the outlying towns
168
Data on the individuals who are living on the streets not only provides information 
on the success of the programs, but should be analyzed to address efficacy of 
treatments/ outreach programs for those people.  Are the programs effective, or 
are the people just shifting locations from one focus area to one less observed? 
These people should not be anonymous.  
169
Not real data. 
170
211 should be knowledgeable on bed availability. How will you know if you're 
successful if you're not keeping track of who you helped and when?
2.11
171
Remove homeless from residential areas
172
1-not important. 2-very important 
1, 2
173
Change: there is no metrics for human value, please understand the humanity 
over numbers.
174
Expand on who has access to the bed availability system from Crisis Response 
Network
175
Dog shelters work interstate to farm out animals if they have an overabundance 
in one area. We should ship homeless to neighboring states and cities so that 
Phoenix doesn't bear the whole problem. Send homeless to the Autonomous 
Zone in Seattle.
176
Given the extent of the data presented, 7k+ homeless and %51 unsheltered, it is 
impossible to know what a good strategy looks like. We should do the work to 
understand the population further. What percent needs mental health services? 
What percentage are on the street due to recent eviction? What percent are 
using hard drugs? What percent would take a bed if one was available? 
177
No one should get a bed unless they do a few hours a day of work, those who are 
total basket cases must go inpatient as it is inhumane to allow them to manage 
their own affairs.
178
Circle the City should provide urgent care assistance onsite vs ER visit 
179
Why is the contract needed? 
180
Don't know enough about what data to collect and share.
181
doesn't MAG engage municipalities, not vice versa?  Lot of contract engagement 
language throuought the document but gow are you gonna get the folks off the 
street to the contracted housing?
182
Is there an objective related to how City agencies and departments will be able to 
access and utilize this data in real-time?
183
This is very concerning if it is to be used by City of Phoenix police department as 
a way to get around the 9th circuit ruling. This also continues to create distrust 
with Phoenix police and people of color will be targeted at a higher rate.  This is 
creating issues for surrounding cities. Increase the shelter beds!!
Data Chapter Comments
208

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Data Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
184
Homeless people need to know they have options and who to reach out to for 
housing assistance. 
185
I don’t understand what “retrieve persons experiencing homeless movements” 
even means. 
186
Bed availability must be REAL TIME for placement so there is no backlog or 
need to call all facilities for openings.
187
So now you will raise county taxes as well? How many beds are you planning for? 
Remember, as Kevin Costner once said in a movie, if you build it they will come. 
Are you trying to be San Francisco?
188
Regionwide problem and homeless can migrate to different jurisdictions.
189
This data already exists
190
Data that demonstrates that the efforts and the plan are working or are NOT 
working.  Then, changes to be made to improve results. This information should 
be made available. 
191
I’m sure partnering with another entity helps relieve some stress to one, but I 
don’t know much about MAG. 
192
Some have been homeless for decades.
193
There is concern that the bed availability portal will criminalize homelessness - 
the portal needs to account for the various complex reasons a person may refuse 
shelter - MH, Abuse, PTSD, etc. If the PD have access to this portal, there needs 
to be very strong team-working and collaboration with specialized teams - MH, 
Navigation etc
194
Data can be very useful in addressing the issue. This section could be expanded 
greatly.
195
Data is a powerful tool
196
D.12.1 needs clarity on what is required.
12.1
197
Why does Phoenix need to track the movements of homeless people? Seems to 
be predatory, as if the City is waiting for them to do something wrong. 
198
N/A
199
Not sure about how this data affects homeless persons privacy rights
200
No need to connect this data with law enforcement. Provide individuals with 
REAL opportunities to address challenges they face first. 
201
I'm not sure exactly what this means.  The wording isn't clear.  Clarify "retrieve 
persons", movements.  What is the purpose of knowing this information
202
The County as a whole should be responsible for homeless issues and should 
have a collaborative approach to ensure housing with supportive services is 
included in the general plan of every city and developed in a timely manner. 
203
All cities should participate Valley wide.
204
What program will MAG use to track individuals and will this allow Phoenix PD 
(who have no business in homeless people's whereabouts) access as well?  
 
As for Crisis Response Network (CRN), why can't the existing Homeless 
Management Information System (HMIS) be modified to add shelter bed 
availability? Why will this belong to CRN, when the continuum of care oversees 
these types of actions? In terms of data-sharing from a tax payer perspective, it 
makes more sense to upgrade existing systems rather than enter a whole new 
contract with another entity, furthering the bureaucratic processes that already 
exist within the City of Phoenix Continuum of Care. 
205
Do not tie police/emergency usage to the CRN bed utilization report
Data Chapter Comments
209

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Data Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
206
A database with shelter availability would only show that our community has no 
availability. And it should certainly NOT be shared with law enforcement 
agencies, as has been proposed in some discussions. This will only lead to 
further criminalization of homelessness and make it harder for people to access 
jobs and housing.
207
Need to add data integration with other service providers as a priority - County 
wide.
208
Again, include the community in the ideas for improvement before writing up.
209
It's incredibly important that this information is used to track patterns, not violate 
the privacy of any individual. This information should be encrypted and not have 
any personal information including names. If you cannot guarantee that this 
information cannot be used to single out any one individual, then this database 
should be abandoned entirely. 
210
Not sure what the objectives are all about or if it has anything to do with  data. 
211
This needs to be done through service providers not law enforcement. 
212
Yes, but if and only if there are shelter beds for MAG to take them too along with 
other resources the HSC and other providers have accessible to our homeless 
friends as well. If you increase to 1,000 shelter beds and then implement this, it 
will work. If you leave everyone unsheltered, it will allow the wealthiest 
neighborhood s to ship their homeless residents out of there and into this 
neighborhood, with no accountability. But making those neighborhood s be 
accountable does not mean you refuse to expand capacity at the HSC. That is 
not standing up for a good cause. That is punishing the poorest among us 
because you're mad that the wealthy neighborhoods aren't doing their part. Don't 
punish the homeless for this. Instead, set an example by showing living kindness 
by sheltering the homeless, and then use the media and the political process to 
expose the wealthy neighborhoods NIMBYism. 
213
I don't agree with the proposal to provide a database of bed availability to the 
police, as I predict it will be used as a tool to arrest individuals who do not want to 
go to a shelter across town.
214
Ensure D.11.1 respects privacy 
11.1
215
Tracking should only be done with those that have volunteered. This is a violation 
of privacy and safety. 
216
It is EXTREMELY important to have data regarding which of our residents needs 
help. HOWEVER, making the Phoenix PD the primary point of contact for these 
databases will only serve to reinforce structural barriers that are already in place 
for our homeless individuals. In a recent study, researchers found that the only 
crimes in which homeless perpetrators are more often charged compared to 
housed counterparts are HOMELESS STATUS CRIMES - essentially homeless 
individuals are being disproportionately punished for being homeless in the first 
place! Allowing the police access to this information will only serve to heighten 
these disparities because the police are occupationally obligated to charge 
individuals when they see crime. As long as homelessness remains a 
criminalized offence, there is no way that the police can effectively contribute to 
the problems that afflict these housing insecure individuals. That being said, we 
must be analyzing this data in the context of our state, specifically, as well as 
providing access to this information to outreach programs, social support and 
mental health services. 
Data Chapter Comments
210

Feedback on Homeless Plan - Electronic Survey and Community Meeting Chat Comments
Nr.
Data Chapter Comments
Strategy 
Objective
217
Monitoring the movement of unsheltered people on a governmental level is a 
violation of their privacy and human rights. Leave the unsheltered population 
alone and provide resources tey can choose to use themselves. Telling the police 
where and when somebody used a shelter bed will result in more harm to 
community members who need and use shelters. 
218
This is insulting. "Track movements"? Really? Even if there is a relevant strategy 
here the language is terrible. People experiencing homelessness are not all 
criminals needing to be "tracked." There are better ways to measure outcomes 
and success. Shameful.
219
It should say "beds, lockers, wifi  electrical outlets, tables and chairs, showers 
and toilets (with all supplies), laundry facilities, microwave, refrigerator, and a 
clean wardrobe closet 
220
You can't force people to comply.  Many like where they are and something 
needs to be done to make their lives on the street easier for them.  Humanly 
221
The need to use current data goes well beyond what you've listed and ties to 
each of the other components (housing, outreach, shelter).  All decisions being 
made should be data driven and the city could be a lead on this including 
improving transparency.  The CRN contract SHOULD NOT have been tied to law 
enforcement.  And shelter providers should be engaged in the 
development/stakeholder review of the project.
222
Looking at the strategy’s documentation, the only information provided about our 
homeless population was the point-in-time estimate. What all do we know about 
the population such as age/ethnicity demographic, needs, etc.? And Can we 
include that information into the documentation?
223
hello..can you give stats regarding if hotel housing and night relief centers are at 
capicity during the heat?
224
How many people in Phoenix are homeless and what are the largest barriers to 
bringing that number down?
225
Can you provide yearly statistics or by the decade since you started in 1985 
addressing this problem on the number of the homeless in Phoenix? I would like 
to see metrics in order to realize the effectiveness of ineffectiveness of these 
efforts and programs.
226
Many homeless individuals rely on Public Libraries to use the internet for 
information and resources. How is this gap being filed during Covid? What has 
been/is being done to help homeless individuals participate in the census and the 
upcoming election?
227
What is the plan for reporting on the progress on this plan? An accounability 
group inc. pubilic, private, NGOs,as well persons experiencing homeless?
Data Chapter Comments
211