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There have been steady complaints about homeless residents in several of the parks run by my department. Unfortunately, the problem is not always a priority for my community's understaffed police department. What should I do?

If you have not been receiving adequate police coverage it may be time to look into hiring a park monitor or even starting your own park ranger/police program that ensures that your concerns are being met. If this is not financially possible, then sitting down with the police chief to work out a solution that is acceptable to both departments may be necessary.

Consider hiring a person who has experience working with the homeless. This person should also be familiar with Police procedures. Find out if there are agencies or churches that could assist them in finding a place for them. Get the police to train your staff in how to deal with the homeless. Over past 14 years I have worked the last two weeks in December housing the homeless at our churches warming center. Understand that most homeless do not want to be in this circumstance and some just can not help it.

The problem I have seen with too many recreation facilites, like ball parks is that they are underutilized. Their nature makes them sit idle most of the day let alone the year. Bring in other activities or sports, retail, etc. that keeps the area utilized at least 18 hours a day. Once that happens the public will see what is happening and complaints will make things change.