The City of Goshen has formed a task force to look at options and develop a short-term solution to the homeless encampment along the Millrace Trail.
Mayor Jeremy Stutsman’s office and the Police Department have received complaints of the presence of tents, campfires and verbal fighting among homeless people from residents who use or live near the Millrace Canal.
The task force, which held its first meeting Tuesday, April 23, is composed of City departments, three council members and nonprofit agencies that work directly with the homeless population, as well as a number of neighboring residents and business owners. The group is looking at all options, as allowing a permanent encampment near the canal is not a solution.
“We have heard concerns from residential and business neighbors and those who use the Millrace Trail often, and I want them to know we take their concerns seriously and are working on a solution, but we need to approach the issue with compassion as well,” Mayor Stutsman said.
The task force is expected to come up with a step-by-step plan in the next couple of weeks, which will serve as a guide for the Mayor and City departments in dealing with the homeless population.