What's Happening?
San Clemente city officials are disputing the findings of the recent Point in Time (PIT) homeless count, which reported an increase in both unsheltered and sheltered homeless individuals in the city. The count, conducted by over 1,300 volunteers, showed
a 13.7% decrease in overall homelessness in Orange County since 2024, with a notable reduction in unsheltered individuals. However, San Clemente was the only city in South Orange County to report an increase, with unsheltered numbers rising from 65 to 74 and sheltered individuals from 36 to 39. City officials, including Community Development Director Adam Atamian, have criticized the methodology of the count, suggesting inaccuracies and questioning the inclusion of individuals outside city jurisdiction. Despite these concerns, the county's Care Coordination director, Doug Becht, defended the count's accuracy, stating it adheres to federal guidelines.
Why It's Important?
The dispute over the homeless count highlights ongoing tensions between local and county officials regarding homelessness data and resource allocation. Accurate counts are crucial for determining funding and support for homeless services. San Clemente's challenge could impact future policy decisions and resource distribution, potentially affecting the city's ability to address homelessness effectively. The disagreement also underscores broader issues of trust and collaboration between municipalities and county authorities, which are essential for tackling complex social issues like homelessness.
What's Next?
San Clemente officials plan to draft an official letter to county authorities expressing their concerns about the PIT count. This move could lead to further discussions or revisions in the methodology used for future counts. Additionally, the city may need to adjust its zoning ordinances and emergency shelter requirements based on the disputed data. The outcome of these actions could influence how other cities in the county approach similar issues, potentially leading to broader changes in how homelessness is addressed regionally.
