As reported in this weeks Merced County Times newspaper (at local stores and sent to the mailboxes of subscribers) ... Caltrans and the CHP are mobilizing to clear a homeless camp near the Bradley Overpass in Merced. Some officials showed up this morning to advise the camp residents that the site would be cleared, perhaps by heavy machinery, on Monday. The camp residents, some who live in small shanties and others in tents, have told the Times that they need more time to find other housing solutions and a place to store their things. Authorities today told the camp dwellers that personal belongings would be properly stored for 90 days. The residents have known for weeks about a potential move, but some say many details have been unknown. Its not clear if any of them will refuse to leave the camp on Monday, but they will likely face trespassing charges if they do. An added problem is that the city of Merced does not currently have an official warming center for those homeless people trying to survive on the streets and who are unwilling or unable to enter the D Street Shelter or the limited space at the Rescue Mission. City authorities said at Tuesdays City Council meeting that they are looking into the situation in an attempt to find an adequate place that meets legal standards. MORE ON THIS SITUATION CAN BE FOUND IN THIS WEEKS MERCED COUNTY TIMES ...
Posted on: Thu, 22 Jan 2015 19:42:05 +0000