By Bryce Abshier – Contact Bryce@voiceofsouthmarion.com
The issue of homelessness took center stage at Belleview’s Sept. 16 commission meeting, as longtime advocate Yolanda East pressed leaders for clear solutions.
East, who has led efforts like Shepherd’s Lighthouse, a transitional housing program for mothers and children, told commissioners that local churches are carrying a heavy load. She said St. Theresa Catholic Church served over 15,000 meals between July and August to homeless residents and struggling families, while Belleview United Methodist has also served several thousand. “We can feed them, we can clothe them, but we need to have some focus solutions,” said East.
She urged the city to consider one of three approaches: an emergency shelter, more affordable transitional housing units, or a “tiny village.” East said that affordable housing should mean families spending no more than 30 percent of their income on housing costs.
She told commissioners the number one issue causing homelessness in Belleview and Marion County is drug abuse and alcoholism. “Nobody wants them here, but I’m here to tell you, they are your neighbors,” she said.
“Is this a concern to you as commissioners?” she asked.
Mayor Christine Dobkowski acknowledged that traditional shelters can be difficult to fill, noting that transitional housing might be a more workable option. Commissioner Mike Goldman said he would support an outside group establishing a “haven” as long as the police chief confirmed it could be managed safely. Commissioner Bo Smith added that the question comes up all the time from citizens asking when the city will take action on homelessness.
Examples of transitional housing already exist in Belleview, such as Shepherd’s Lighthouse. East said a property near 102nd Place, nearby Belleview’s Publix, is being eyed for a potential site, though it would require a special exception to move forward. The process for homeless to become residents, she explained, would involve applications and interviews before anyone in need could gain a foothold in a transitional home or “tiny village.”
On the topic of pervasive homelessness, East also lamented the state of Lake Lillian Park, which she described as “downtrodden with drugs and things.” She doesn’t allow residents or their children from Shepherd’s Lighthouse to visit, citing concerns over the crowd that gathers there.
“I’m not going to let this community go down,” East added. “I don’t want this community to become a cesspool, and it is well on its way. And we’ve got to be careful.”
Far from being limited to camps in the woods, homelessness in Belleview is increasingly visible in everyday places. Chief of Police Terry Holland said several homeless individuals park their cars overnight at Belleview’s Wawa, leave for work in the morning, but continue to spend their nights living in vehicles.
As the city weighs its options, commissioners stopped short of endorsing a single plan. For now, the debate continues over whether Belleview’s path forward will be shelter beds, affordable units, or a transitional village designed to bridge the gap.
