In the sheriff’s race, Smith has been accused of “not enforcing laws” around homelessness. Again, we learn that it’s much more complicated and nuanced than this assertion. Having a camp in the woods, where it was previously located, is not an option because it presents a dire wildfire risk. However, we need to find another location that will ensure suitable, safe shelter, offer compassion and avoid legal risk to our governments. And, longer-term housing options need to be expanded such as the efforts being taken on by Housing Solutions for supportive housing and Community Compassion Outreach for a tiny home village. More mental health and other services are needed too.
I commend Sheriff Smith for taking the hard path and hope he, and everyone, can work better together to find real solutions. These problems impact us all but are not unsolvable.
Marsha Porter-Norton
Durango