An Open Letter to City Attorney Tom Carr

Dear Mr. Carr,

Operation Nightwatch is the resource of last resort for homeless people late at night. We top off the shelter system, fill up the three shelters that we underwrite, and generally provide resources and guidance late at night to people seeking basic safe shelter.

Last night, sometime before midnight, we were forced to turn away 10 men because all the shelters were full.

Our clients who are being turned away often ask us, "Where should I go?" as we send them out the door with a blanket. In light of the recent enforcement against homeless encampments, we are unsure how to advise our clients. They desire to be law-abiding, and our staff needs to be able to steer them in the proper direction.

Please instruct us on how to advise our homeless clients after all the shelters are full.

Thank you for your work on behalf of all our citizens.

Rev. Rick Reynolds