06/22/2026
DAMAGING THE CAUSE
I just came across the city clearing -crew. They were at an underpass at Brook and Broadway. While that underpass may draw one or two persons to station themselves on the concrete, the adjacent intersection is arguably the place where most of our unhoused friends gather.
The regular array of vehicles making this run, included four police cars, two city cars, a garbage truck, and what is pictured below, is what I perceived to be a new vehicle. At least it’s new to me. Basically, after the clearing occurs, this truck, comes with a water cannon of sorts that sprays huge amounts of water across the sidewalk as it drive slow slowly along. While on some level, I understand the intention, what I see is this: I see a large orange truck shooting water out of a cannon to “wash the stench” from the sidewalk, as dozens of our Unhoused friends look on. Maybe I’m being over sensitive, which I can be, but I just don’t think so.
And yes, at least one gentleman from Homeless services is still wearing a gun, and a bulletproof vest that is in emblazoned with the words Homeless Services on the front. Sir, will you please stop doing that. You are literally flanked by police officers.
Sir, personally, I would argue that you’re not in danger, but you are hurting the cause; the work of those who serve on the streets.. Outreach Volunteer’s are out here all day, and sometimes through the night. You, should know this better than anyone. The city’s HEART team, honestly does go out and helps alongside us is a part of YOUR division. 
It can sometimes take us years to form bonds with our friends. And it’s not a good look when they think someone who does what they think we do, is packing.
So, once again, I am respectfully asking you to stop. There’s nothing wrong with you being there, and perhaps providing guidance to those who are being displaced. Let’s face it, while these clearings are often called relocations by the city, no one is being relocated. They are simply being moved along, and possibly cited, or arrested.