Santa Cruz homeless react to new action plan

Friday’s rain made for a rough night for the homeless in Santa Cruz at the River Street encampment.

A spot that could disappear if a plan to bring more services to the area passes.

Both the city and county have been working on the action plan for the homeless. They say it’s a big step toward solving the homeless crisis.

They say the emergency action plan would create more space for vulnerable families. As more shelter space would become available, part of the plan would eliminate the River Street encampment by March 15.

Michael Sweatt, who lives in the encampment, says he’s heard plans like this before. Though he’d love to see more shelter space, he’s skeptical.

“They say they’re going to do something and then nothing happens but people get pushed around from one spot to the next,” Sweatt said.

The county and city will vote on whether to approve the plan February 12 at their scheduled meetings.