That's right - Ballard community leaders have identified what sounds like a much better location for the proposed homeless tent encampment. Here's what we need to do to make sure the mayor and the city do the right thing for Ballard. We need every person on this list to pick up the phone or write an email and let Mayor Ed Murray know that this is the best opportunity to work with the neighborhood and support a better location for the homeless encampment in Ballard. 1. Tell them that this new location is the best shot we have to heal the wounds in this community and move forward in a way that will ensure that everyone's voice has been heard on the issue. 2. Tell them you appreciate that the mayor's staff and city departments worked with a broad group of community leaders to identify the new location, but now we need the mayor to act on it. Call: 206-684-4000 Email form: http://www.seattle.gov/mayor/get-involved/contact-the-mayor. All that work you did several weeks ago made a huge difference. But if we don't speak up right now about this incredibly positive development, the opportunity might pass. Excuses might be made. City Hall might just assume you are content to let stand the bad public process that identified the Market Street location. Let's seize this moment to make our voices heard one more time on this critical issue. Every call and every email will make a big difference. It will take just a minute of your time. If you care about this issue, this is the most important thing you can do right now about it. Read the Ballard News Tribune article attached for more details. The exact location wasn't identified because it involves a private property owner who is willing to host the encampment. But here are the key points on the new site: 1. A cross-section of Ballard community leaders worked in partnership with city officials to identify a better location for the homeless encampment. 2. The location is in a quiet, safe industrial section of Ballard and meets all of the criteria for city-funded homeless encampments. 3. Advocates for the tent encampments have viewed the site and believe it is viable and might even provide more space for the homeless. Thank you. We are making a difference and your willingness to stand up and be heard is the reason we have come this far. Speak Up Ballard!