Philadelphia Takes Steps to Clean Up Open Air Drug Markets

New Mayor Cherelle Parker Tackles City's Drug Issues

Philadelphia's newly elected mayor, Cherelle Parker, is making strides in a task that her predecessors struggled with: the cleanup of the city's open air drug markets, particularly in the Kensington area. This is a significant milestone that could serve as an example for other cities facing similar issues.

City Council Discusses Encampment Resolution and Budget Concerns

During a recent Committee of the Whole meeting, City Council members, including Managing Director Adam Thiel, discussed the planned "encampment resolution" in Kensington and budgetary issues related to the Office of Homeless Services. The city has announced plans to clear homeless encampments along Kensington Avenue, as reported by the Philadelphia Tribune.

Outreach and Assistance for Homeless Individuals

City workers are actively reaching out to the homeless population, informing them of their impending removal from the sidewalks and offering them beds in treatment facilities. This initiative is part of Mayor Cherelle Parker's 100 Day Plan to address drug use and violence in Kensington. Thiel highlighted a medically focused approach to treating those affected, with police present for support during the clearing operations.

Addressing Neighborhood Concerns and Ensuring Adequate Facilities

To address concerns of local residents, the city plans to displace hundreds of unhoused individuals to clear encampments in Kensington. At-Large Councilmember Kendra Brooks questioned whether there were enough beds for all those displaced, to which Thiel assured that there were sufficient facilities citywide. He emphasized the creation of an ecosystem of facilities to provide the right care at the right time for those in need.

First of Its Kind Approach

Thiel pointed out that the specific approach established by the Parker administration is the first of its kind in the country. Council President Kenyatta Johnson suggested partnering with Treatment Court, which mandates treatment instead of incarceration for substance abuse issues, and sending those needing extended treatment to facilities outside Philadelphia.

Accountability for the Office of Homeless Services

The city is holding the Office of Homeless Services accountable for their role in addressing Philadelphia's growing homeless population, which has increased by 12% since last year. Councilmembers questioned Thiel and Office of Homeless Services Executive Director David Holloman about the office’s capacity to handle this increase. The office had previously requested an additional $15 million, which was met with pushback due to a lack of sufficient justification for the funds.

Encampment Clearout Underway

The encampment clearout on Kensington Avenue is currently in progress, marking a significant step in the city's efforts to address its drug and homelessness issues.

Final Thoughts

This new approach by Philadelphia's new mayor and her administration is a bold and innovative attempt to address a longstanding issue. It will be interesting to see the long-term effects of these efforts and whether they will serve as a blueprint for other cities facing similar challenges. What are your thoughts on this matter? Feel free to share this article with your friends and discuss. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.