California water district's vexing question: How to deal with unchecked homeless along urban rivers

The Santa Clara Valley Water District board is set to revisit the matter during its meeting on November 26.Photo byNick FewingsonUnsplash

Leaders from South Bay cities, nonprofits, and Santa Clara County gathered on Friday for the Unhoused People and Environment Summit, hosted by the Santa Clara Valley Water District. The meeting aimed to enhance coordination among various stakeholders in tackling the homelessness crisis and its effects on local waterways.

The summit comes just over a month before the district's board meeting, where members will consider new restrictions that would prohibit homeless individuals from residing near most rivers, creeks, and streams in the region. This proposed ban was initially discussed in July but was postponed to allow for additional outreach and community input before making a decision.

The Santa Clara Valley Water District board is set to revisit the matter during its meeting on November 26. The outcomes of the summit and ongoing discussions will play a crucial role in shaping policies that address both homelessness and environmental protection in the South Bay area.