SANTA CLARITA (CBSLA) — Santa Clarita is about to launch a big crackdown on its homeless population.
As CBSLA’s Crystal Cruz reports, the City of Santa Clarita has approved an ordinance making it illegal to use a car as a home, camp, sit or lie down in public or face fines.
That could make life more difficult for Matthew Medina, who every night sleeps in the front seat of his truck.
“It’s more comfortable than sleeping on the concrete,” said Medina. “Rent is high to be honest in Santa Clarita. The cheapest room is $800 a month and that’s pretty pricey to be honest.”
According to the city, law enforcement received an increase in calls about homeless camps and homeless issues in public spaces.
“I just think that we should have designated areas for these people because it’s getting outta control,” said neighbor Shawn Hannah. “They’re taking over going where they want and to me it looks bad.”
According to a city spokesperson, the city bought land to build a year round permanent shelter and the goal is to let the homeless know there are services available to them now like Bridge To Home.
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