(Michigan City, IN) - Solutions to problems in the downtown caused by homelessness are being sought in Michigan City. During Tuesday night’s city council meeting, several business owners cited issues such as homeless people defecating on their properties, drinking alcohol and creating an atmosphere of feeling threatened. One business owner told about a note on her property from a homeless man pledging to have his way with her sexually.
“Downtown safety, cleanliness and vitality affect everyone who lives here, works here or visits here,” said Monica O’Donnell, the owner of a business at 5th and Franklin streets, She’s asking that a downtown safety ordinance be drafted and reviewed within 30 days before submitted to the city council for consideration.
O’Donnell said the ordinance should set a standard and allow for enforcement without violating the people’s rights. Specifically, she requested the ordinance prohibit things like blocking entrances to businesses, refusing to leave private property after receiving notices and creating unsafe and unsanitary conditions.
“It’s consistent with Indiana law and gives law enforcement a balanced, constitutional framework for a response,” she said. Another business owner almost cried while talking about the hard work she has invested in her business only to feel unsafe from being approached by homeless people on multiple occasions. “I would really appreciate the people that take this serious,” she said.
No response was immediately given to their concerns expressed during the public comment portion of the meeting.
