Neighbors for a Better Pendleton takes issue with news report

PENDLETON – (News release from Neighbors for a Better Pendleton) Neighbors for a Better Pendleton is responding to a recent East Oregonian headline claiming our group “wants the city to ban new social services in the downtown area so homeless people go elsewhere.” This statement is false and does not reflect our mission or our recommendations to the City Council.

Our position is clear: We are not trying to push people away or deny services to those in need. We support providing help for those experiencing homelessness, addiction, or mental health challenges. Our proposal calls for no new services to be placed within the downtown area. This will not impact any current services or reduce support for those who need it. Instead, it would prevent further concentration of services in the central business district by encouraging future facilities to locate outside the core, while remaining accessible.

At the heart of our concern is the overall livability of Pendleton for everyone. When services are heavily concentrated in one spot, it can create unintended impacts such as loitering, public behavior concerns, and a perception that downtown is unsafe. Thoughtful planning for where future services are located helps ensure resources remain accessible while protecting the vitality and welcoming feel of our downtown.

We believe it is both possible and necessary to provide compassionate services for those in need and uphold basic standards of safety, cleanliness, and community pride. Neighbors for a Better Pendleton will present our recommendations to the Pendleton City Council on Tuesday, August 19th at 7 PM at City Hall. We encourage all residents who care about the current and future livability of our town to attend and show their support.

Graphic from Neighbors for a Better Pendleton Facebook page

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Elkhorn Media Group