Implementation review a key element of touchy new Phoenix parks ordinance

Kesha Hodge Washington

Submitted photo/City of Phoenix

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Opinion

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OPINION — During the May 6 formal Phoenix City Council meeting, the council approved the Medical Treatment and Food Distribution in Parks Ordinance following a community engagement process.

Thank you to the many residents, service providers, nonprofit partners and community members who provided feedback on this topic through surveys, community meetings, public comment and contacting my office directly. 

This was not an easy decision. I listened closely to individuals who shared their lived experience and to organizations engaged in providing services to some of the most vulnerable members of our community.

I appreciate the services that many of these organizations provide. As part of the council’s action, the original ordinance, which was a total ban on providing medical treatment, was replaced with a regulatory framework to continue these services. Additionally, providers will have the ability to partner with the Office of Homeless Solutions to continue their work in a more coordinated way.

I also heard from residents and city staff about safety concerns in our parks. These included families worried about hazardous materials and the ability of children to safely enjoy public spaces. These realities required careful consideration as we worked to find a path forward that responds to multiple community needs.

As part of the motion, I included a direction to staff to report back to council with an implementation review based on established performance measures in six months. 

Learn more about the Medical Treatment and Food Distribution in Parks Ordinance, how to apply for a parks services permit or ways to support the community through Healthy Giving Council and trusted nonprofit partners, and visit the city’s homeless solutions site for more resources.

Kesha Hodge Washington represents District 8 on the Phoenix City Council. Please submit comments at yourvalley.net/letters or email them to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.