STOCKTON, Calif. — The growing homeless encampment off of Trinity Parkway in north Stockton has become a source of worry for many local residents. The community has voiced concerns about safety issues arising from the encampment, which has expanded despite previous cleanup efforts.
Residents like Dennis Pelucca, who regularly conducts maintenance in the area, have observed troubling signs. “The concerns that I can see and vouch with the people that live out here … they’re burning fires inside there and the smoke from it is pretty intense,” Pelucca said. On a recent visit, he replaced locks on a gate that were broken off, indicating ongoing security issues.
One resident, preferring to be known as Jack, expressed his fears about the encampment, citing “the rampant homelessness, the shady people, the animals, the big dogs” as reasons he stopped running in the area. There have been reports of garbage pileups, fires, and even a student allegedly chased by dogs while biking to school.
City council member Michele Padilla, who represents the area, highlighted an incident where a student’s safety was compromised. “There was a crossing guard nearby that was able to assist him with some safety. His mother had to pick him up from school that day because he feared riding his bike home,” Padilla recounted.
Despite these concerns, some residents claim they have not experienced any safety issues themselves. However, Pelucca mentioned reports of weapons being found in the area, adding to the unease among locals.
The challenge facing the city is jurisdictional. According to Padilla, the city cannot regulate or remove the camp as it falls under state jurisdiction. A recent meeting between the city manager and the State Lands Commission addressed these concerns, but no concrete plan of action has been announced yet.
Residents hope for a swift resolution that not only addresses the cleanliness and safety of the area but also provides resources for the homeless. “They must have a program to where they have a place for them to stay and have this more accessible. Make it a park,” suggested Jack.
City representatives are encouraging residents with concerns to reach out and make their voices heard, highlighting the community's role in finding a solution.
This article is based on a report discussing the concerns of residents in north Stockton regarding a homeless encampment in their area, as covered by KCRA 3.
