To the editor:

Winter is coming, and so are elections for the City Commission. I would encourage voters to select those candidates who advocate a more responsible and robust approach toward dealing with the city’s growing problem with homelessness. Given the tons of garbage and sanitation issues, petty crime and substance abuse, I endorse those recent steps toward eliminating homeless camps within unsanctioned areas. Lawrence should not permit the homeless to camp wherever they want.

I realize homelessness is a complex issue. If a close relative becomes homeless, most families will agree to shelter them on a temporary basis, provided that they are working toward finding a permanent housing solution. In this regard, I hope that the city adopts a policy whereby temporary shelter within sanctioned locations is predicated upon a requirement to address those behaviors, addictions or mental health problems that may have contributed to an individual becoming homeless.

Ray Finch,

Lawrence