The motel district in Upper Westville near Pond Lily has become an area of concern for many nearby residents and businesses. There is a homeless camp on the north side of Whalley across from The Three Judges Motel. With cooler temperatures coming the health and safety of the homeless becomes more important. Additionally, the health and safety of those walking in the area is at risk because the camp doesn't have adequate waste facilities. During last week's COMPSTAT meeting, the police referred to the motels area as the 'epicenter' of crime in the District. That's NOT saying the crime is being caused by the homeless. However, many city social service agencies attend the weekly police COMPSTAT mtgs as part of their job function for a reason; there is a correlation to drug use, drug dealing, social needs, and crime. The police repeatedly, and rightfully so, stress they are not and will not criminalize homelessness. But there definitely needs to be something done in this area. The area is unsafe.

The motels appear unsafe and I have heard firsthand from public safety officials regarding building code violations including unsafe use of stoves and cooking devices. Our concern is this will become another West Street, and someone will get seriously injured or die.

This has been a long-standing problem, and one that is clear to all of us who pass by this area on a regular basis. As a community we are asking the Mayor's Office, Chiefs Reyes and Alston, and LCI Director Serena Neal-Sanjurjo to bring all available city resources (fire marshals, building code inspectors, social service agencies and any available outreach services) to this area to help the homeless who need it, and make sure the area is safe.

Thank you,

Dennis Serfilippi