Gerrie Schipske

Long Beach Councilwoman, Gerrie Schipske was reported* having said "...she was concerned that Long Beach would become a magnet to the homeless if other cities don't step forward to deal with homeless issues." Or she was opposed to Councilman Dee Andrew's proposal to provide a car park for homeless in each district.

Other cities in nearby California already have places designated for homeless living in vehicles to park. I did meet two homeless guys who were drawn to Long Beach for services at the V.A. Hospital. I met many non-California residents on the streets. Many were Carnival people, most who left town when carnival season started up again. Others were fleeing warrants in their home state. Many were young guys, basically seeking adventure. They did not stick around Long Beach for long.

The only people I knew who talked about seeking places with better services for homeless people, were local people who told me about many Orange County places. I also had an online friend suggest I try San Diego. Long-time homeless people I met would make the rounds between L.A., Long Beach and Orange County utilizing all cities services. I also met homeless from places like Santa Monica who said thing got too hot there for him ~ hot as in police bothering him, usually deservedly for crime.

Basically people who become homeless become homeless in the city they live. Long Beach government does think if they provide a year-round homeless shelter it will encourage people to be homeless in Long Beach.

Councilwoman Suja Lowenthal was quoted in same article saying "....the crime believing the problem of homelessness goes away if we ignore it." She does not feel it is a crime to aid homeless programs.


*December 16, 2009 article by Press-Telegram Staff Writer, Greg Mellen.