Bee readers respond to Sacramento homelessness, Rocklin Unified teacher, CARE Court
City’s fault
“Sacramento’s ‘No. 1 problem’: American River homeless camps test Democrats’ compassion,” (sacbee.com, July 3)
I agree that people should not live on the parkway. But I wouldn’t force them to leave if it were my fault they were there and I could not give them a suitable alternative. That’s the case with our city.
Over decades, the city forced the homeless population to leave downtown and other visible locations. When they hid in the woods, they were forgotten for the most part — sometimes for decades. Occasionally, rangers made them relocate, maybe to another part of the parkway, and campers quickly returned. But they should not be living out there — they should be living in housing.
Paula Lomazzi
Sacramento
Different approach
“Sacramento’s ‘No. 1 problem’: American River homeless camps test Democrats’ compassion,” (sacbee.com, July 3)
With the latest count of over 9,200 homeless individuals in Sacramento, let’s stop kidding ourselves that we can build enough shelters, transitional units or tiny houses. Sanctioned camps in and near the parkway can reduce damage to the “crown jewel of Sacramento.” Give each camper a 20’ x 20’ plot, access to sanitation and needed services.
Local environmental groups still view the parkway as pristine, and stymie parkway management. These groups have an outsized influence. County leaders should begin work on a new plan which features more amenities in the lower parkway.
We cannot police away this mess, nor should we view recreation and environmental enhancement as mutually exclusive. Confine campers to manageable spaces, and provide more activities for residents who want to use the lower parkway.
Robert Horowitz
Sacramento
Other voices
“Sacramento’s ‘No. 1 problem’: American River homeless camps test Democrats’ compassion,” (sacbee.com, July 3)
While this article quoted the Coalition to End Homelessness and one camper, other voices were sorely lacking. The campers themselves might have some alternative solutions to offer. In addition, groups such as Mercy Pedalers, HOPE Cooperative and Midtown HART, among others, may have valuable perspectives. Hopefully The Bee will make an effort to reach out to these individuals and groups in future articles.
Susan Kenney
Carmichael
Cowardly admin
“Rocklin teacher punished for showing children the news,” (sacbee.com, July 3)
My heartfelt sympathy goes to this teacher, Katie Ragan, who was just doing her job with the expectation that her district and principal would support her. She has the rights to intellectual freedom and freedom of speech, and was modeling these values to her students. Instead, her administration not only did not support her against the unfounded claims of a parent, they also refused to defend her at public meetings and then prolonged acting on her claim to worker’s compensation due to the stress of these events.
What an example of craven public servants who are motivated by self-protection at the expense of teachers and students. If these school administrators can’t protect their teacher from bullying, how can we believe that they can protect students from bullying?
Laura Leonelli
Sacramento
Debt of gratitude
“Sacramento Food Bank consolidates Oak Park services,” (sacbee.com, July 4)
I was surprised and disappointed that anyone would criticize the Sacramento Food Bank for making the hard decision to more tightly focus its efforts on feeding the hungry. Yes, providing other services was admirable, but one fact is indisputable: food comes first. And it must come daily, as the Food Bank has done for more than 40 years. Our community owes this organization a debt of gratitude and even more support in these hard times.
Glenn Brank
Sacramento
Misused funds
“Attorney General Bonta used taxpayer funds to spam voters,” (sacbee.com, July 5)
Thank you to Bee reporter Ryan Sabalow for exposing Attorney General Rob Bonta’s blatant campaigning with taxpayer dollars. While some experts say this practice does not violate the law, it most certainly is a misuse of public money and is clearly designed to advocate for Bonta. That Bonta made certain his picture was included on newsletters he sent out clearly shows his intention to influence voters.
By virtue of his appointment to the attorney general position by Gov. Newsom, Bonta already has an advantage over others vying for his position in the upcoming election. While he is allowed to “communicate” with his constituency, he is not allowed to use public money to do so.
Notably, the author quotes a political scientist who cites the example of former President Donald Trump’s signature on stimulus checks, as “the oldest trick in politics.” Isn’t Bonta’s stunt substantially the same?
Bill Motmans
Sacramento
Prioritize housing
“Newsom’s CARE Court would not have kept my son from dying,” (sacbee.com, July 3)
Cheryl Hayton’s commentary was excellent. She addressed the reality of dealing with mentally ill family members, pointed out how important stable housing is, as well as how agencies can create problems for those seeking such housing. Her frustration is understandable given that her son was in stable housing, but was unnecessarily evicted.
I worked to develop supportive housing for several years in rural communities and saw first-hand the benefits of such services. Our state continues to need more supportive housing and a better understanding of removing obstacles to such housing.
Tom Monpere
Sacramento