Vice Mayor Kaplan's August 31, 2021, E-Blast
Hi Neighbor,
Today, August 31, 2021, Alameda County Supervisor David Haubert and I jointly announced plans for a City-County collaboration to provide safe parking, managed RV sites, to protect public health and provide safer alternatives, with sanitation, for those living in RVs, vans, and other vehicles. Plans include safe parking areas and proper handling sewage dumping stations throughout Alameda County. Supervisor Haubert and I, co-authored a letter to our colleagues and the public, laying out the proposal, and calling for unity in solving this growing problem. [LINK].
Our region has faced a large and growing housing crisis. Many people are living in vehicles, without adequate legal and safe places for them to park. In addition, the widespread and increasing numbers of such vehicle dwellings often do not have access to proper sanitation, plumbing, or sewage removal. Therefore, our communities are struggling with sewage in the streets, and growing threats to public health from this lack of service. We are seeking collaboration from Alameda County, the City of Oakland, and other local jurisdictions to address this vital public issue.
We have seen a rise in people living in vehicles, often moving from place to place with no stability or access to proper disposal of raw sewage and trash. This results in unsanitary and unhealthy living conditions that affect our community.
Supervisor Haubert stated, “We are asking the County and City of Oakland staff to provide safe and sanctioned areas where people can sign up for a spot and also get additional services they need.”
Council President Pro Tem Sheng Thao supports the proposal. “As a formerly homeless mother, I know how unsafe sleeping in your car overnight can be. Our unhoused neighbors deserve a safe, sanitary place to park their vehicles and get the rest and services they need. I am so grateful for Vice Mayor Kaplan’s and Supervisor Haubert’s leadership on this issue.”
Letter Proposing Safe Monitored RV Parking Sites: link
