After a rise in homelessness near and on San Clemente, California, beaches, especially North Beach, officials voted unanimously on March 7 to hire a private security company to enforce no camping during late night hours.
The decision came after discussion of an initial proposal that would have directed city staff to expend up to $50,000 in providing emergency supplies and shelter for the homeless during times of “inclement weather.”
The majority of 10 San Clemente residents who spoke during public comments voiced concern with providing any additional assistance to homeless within the city, fearing providing such support may attract more.
The first speaker, a woman who didn’t identify her place of residency, called providing incidentals to the homeless in cold weather a “waste of taxpayer money.” She added, “it’s only prolonging the problem, not finding a solution.”…