Amid Philadelphia’s planned evacuation of homeless encampments in Kensington, Pottstown officials want answers about the potential consequences for their community.
Philadelphia’s approaching encampment resolution plan has alarmed neighbouring counties, raising concerns about the removal of unhoused people.
The campsite resolution initiative is scheduled for Wednesday, and it will temporarily close areas of the intersection of Kensington and Allegheny avenues. Mayor Cherelle Parker emphasises the need for outreach personnel to help with relocation efforts and remove hazardous objects from sidewalks.
However, neighbouring areas, such as Montgomery County, represented by State Rep. Joe Ciresi, are frustrated with Philadelphia officials’ lack of information about their camping approach. Concerns have grown about stories of unhoused people transferring to locations such as Pottstown, prompting probes into the city’s relocation policies.
While the Philadelphia Office of Homeless Services disputes that it intends to send people from Kensington to neighbouring counties, Pottstown officials remain sceptical. Council President Dan Weand is sceptical and opposed to future influxes of foreigners into Pottstown, citing the borough’s persistent homelessness issues.
Despite facing criticism for its treatment of homeless encampments, Pottstown Mayor Stephanie Henrick emphasises the borough’s commitment to tackling local issues and wants collaboration with Philadelphia officials to prevent potential consequences.
As Philadelphia moves on with its encampment resolution plan, neighbouring cities such as Pottstown remain attentive, asking for open communication and collaborative ways to solve homelessness in their respective borders.