Business Owners In South Austin Are Reporting Large Encampments Near Their Businesses | Kvue

Tonight, business owners in Southwest Austin are raising concerns about the growing number of people camping close to their establishments. These business owners say that the city is ignoring their pleas for help. However, this issue is not just about safety; it's about the survival of their businesses.

A Hidden World Behind the Businesses

South Town Square Austin may look like a typical shopping center, but behind these businesses lies a whole other world. For a while, this area was cleared out, but then they came back. Several encampments have spread across the area behind a gate. This has raised two major concerns for the business owners.

Living in Unsanitary Conditions

Firstly, business owners argue that no one should be living in such an environment. These individuals defecate and urinate in the area, as there are no proper services available to them. It is not only unsanitary but also poses health risks for the individuals themselves.

Safety Concerns for Employees and Customers

The second concern that the business owners have is the safety of their employees and customers. Larry Matalina, the owner of The Joint Chiropractic, explains that for the past nine months, more and more people have started camping in this area. The presence of shopping carts crowding the back area has become a regular occurrence, sometimes even blocking large trucks. Additionally, trash just piles up, creating both a visual eyesore and a potential hazard.

These issues have had a significant impact on the business owners' livelihoods. Matalina explains that they are losing business because people are no longer coming to the shopping center. Moreover, the expenses for added security measures, such as increased lighting, are passed on to the business owners by their landlords.

City Officials Ignoring the Concerns

Despite bringing these issues up to city officials several times, the business owners claim that they have been ignored. They feel let down and frustrated by the lack of action. Craig Placus, the owner of Krego's Pizza next door to The Joint Chiropractic, echoes the sentiment, stating that they expect better support from their City Council.

Austin Mayor Pro Tem Paige Ellis, who represents the area, claims to have learned about the camps in November through business owners. She states that she takes these concerns seriously and has always opposed camping in parks and greenbelts. Ellis promises to communicate proactively with the appropriate city departments to ensure the safety of both the unhoused and housed neighbors.

A Different Perspective

While the business owners express their frustration, it is essential to consider the perspective of the individuals who find themselves living in these camps. Morgan Cross, a homeless individual, explains that they are just trying to survive. Standing out on the streets, hoping for someone's kindness to provide them with some money for a meal, is their daily reality.

Finding a Solution

While the business owners and the individuals in the camps have opposing viewpoints, both groups are looking for a solution. Madalina and Placus hope that the city can step in and provide better services and help to these individuals rather than simply displacing them.

The city of Austin has allocated around $200 million in taxpayers' money over the past few years to address homelessness. This investment should lead to better solutions and support, both for the unhoused individuals and the businesses affected by their presence.

In response to the concerns raised by the business owners, a spokesperson from the Homeless Strategy Division and Austin Police Department issued a statement. They state that they have been in regular communication with the anchor tenant in the nearby shopping center and remain available to hear concerns from other local business owners. Their goal is to mitigate any negative impacts and address them before they escalate.

As the encampment issue continues to evolve, it is crucial for all stakeholders to work together and find a solution that balances the needs and interests of both the business owners and the unhoused individuals. With open communication and a collaborative approach, it is possible to address the concerns and create a safer and more supportive environment for everyone involved.