Petition to Address Homelessness in Henderson, Nevada

To: The City of Henderson

We, the undersigned residents of Henderson, are deeply concerned about the growing issue of homelessness in our community. Unlike Greater Las Vegas, which has various programs, shelters, and resources for those experiencing homelessness, Henderson lacks dedicated facilities and comprehensive support services. This gap in services must be addressed to ensure community safety and support for individuals in need.

Our Concerns:

Lack of Resources: Henderson does not have dedicated shelters or comprehensive support services for individuals experiencing homelessness. This lack of resources forces many to live on the streets, creating safety and health concerns for both the homeless population and the broader community.

Public Nuisance and Safety Risks: The absence of adequate support services has led to an increase in public nuisances and safety risks. Residents have reported instances of harassment and unsafe conditions in public spaces, particularly in Wells Park.

Inconsistent Enforcement of Ordinance No. 3967: Despite the enactment of Ordinance No. 3967 on June 6, 2023, which prohibits camping and other activities that disrupt the peaceful use of public spaces, enforcement has been inconsistent. This lack of enforcement leaves the community vulnerable and perpetuates the problem.

Unintended Shelter: Park services leave bathrooms unlocked at night, providing unintended shelter for individuals, which exacerbates the issue of unauthorized camping and squatting.

Our Requests:

Establishment of Shelters and Support Services: We urge the City of Henderson to establish or facilitate the creation of shelters and comprehensive support services for individuals experiencing homelessness. This includes providing access to housing, mental health care, addiction recovery programs, and job training.

Community Engagement and Education: We call for better communication and engagement between city officials and the community to address the homelessness issue effectively and compassionately. This includes educational programs to raise awareness about the complexities of homelessness and the importance of supportive solutions.

Collaboration with Regional Programs: We ask the City of Henderson to collaborate with regional programs and organizations in Greater Las Vegas to leverage existing resources and create a unified approach to addressing homelessness.

Development of Rehabilitation Programs: We propose the creation of the LOKI Rehabilitation and Renewal Ranch (lokicommunity.company.site/RRR) as a compassionate solution to homelessness. The R&R Ranch would provide a sanctuary where individuals can heal, learn, and grow in a supportive, sustainable environment. This innovative approach would offer comprehensive support, including mental health care, trauma-informed services, addiction recovery programs, and skill development opportunities.

A Call to Action: Henderson, often considered the heart of Las Vegas, must take proactive steps to address homelessness within its borders. By signing this petition, we express our collective desire for a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for all residents. We believe that with the establishment of shelters, comprehensive support services, community engagement, and regional collaboration, we can create a more compassionate and supportive environment for everyone in Henderson. Together, we can make a difference and create a model for addressing homelessness that can inspire a nationwide movement.