(WNY News Now) – Jamestown – Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund has released the following statement regarding the recent state of emergency declaration over illegal encampments:
Good Afternoon,
Today, I am here before you to address an unprecedented crisis that threatens the very fabric of our beloved City of Jamestown. The State of Emergency we declared yesterday is not just a formality; it is a direct response to the severe and escalating impact of illegal encampments throughout our city.
In recent months, we have witnessed a disturbing increase in illegal encampments. The number of these encampments has more than tripled since I took office seven months ago. This surge has led to an alarming rise in illegal activities and public disturbances that are deeply troubling for our community.
Our residents and businesses are feeling the effects. We are receiving daily calls from concerned taxpayers who are afraid to visit certain areas of our city. Brooklyn Square and downtown, once vibrant and welcoming, are now places some avoid due to the presence of these illegal encampments and the illegal activities associated with them. Businesses are closing and even going up for sale as they can no longer sustain the impact of this crisis. This not only affects our local economy but also jeopardizes our city’s tax revenue, which is crucial for funding essential services.
We have seen unimaginable disruptions: individuals screaming and half-naked in the middle of the road, causing disturbances to downtown residents and patrons. Just today, we learned that individuals have tampered with electrical panels affecting Panzarella Bridge, compromising public safety to charge their devices illegally. This is not just a minor issue; it is a blatant disregard for our community’s safety and infrastructure. Panzarella Bridge, positioned along the Riverwalk, symbolizes a significant investment in our city’s economic development and tourism. Unfortunately, this investment is being compromised by the ongoing crisis, which is diminishing the Riverwalk’s appeal and effectiveness in attracting visitors and enhancing our community’s economic vitality.
The crisis at hand extends beyond illegal encampments; it’s imposing a tremendous strain on our city’s resources, employees, and residents. Our city workers are overwhelmed and anxious as they clean up trash and debris from these illegal encampments, with their concerns reaching beyond their own safety and health to include the well-being of the entire community. Hazardous materials, such as carelessly discarded needles and human waste, present serious health risks. Additionally, the blatant disregard for their hard work and the health of our community is deeply troubling.
We need immediate and decisive action. I call upon our State Government and Governor to release the funds earmarked for Crisis Stabilization Centers (CSCs) and awarded to Recovery Options Made Easy (ROME) without further delay. These resources are essential for addressing this crisis and will provide the immediate support we need for Jamestown.
Additionally, we urgently need another mental health evaluation facility in our region. While UPMC Chautauqua is dedicated to its mission, it is also currently overwhelmed by the growing demand and stringent state regulations. We require more facilities to adequately support those suffering from mental health issues and to ensure that individuals are not left stranded in our city or similar communities after their evaluations.
The City of Jamestown and its taxpayers cannot shoulder the escalating costs of this crisis. We must not let our cherished city become unrecognizable. As Mayor, I am dedicated to preserving and enhancing the character of our beloved city while striving for a bright future. The residents and taxpayers of Jamestown deserve a city that reflects their values and aspirations, and I am firmly committed to taking decisive action to protect and improve our community.
It is time for our State Government and Governor to recognize the gravity of this situation and act swiftly to provide the necessary support. Our city has invested too much in its future to watch it deteriorate. We will continue to uphold our commitment to the safety and well-being of all our residents, but we need your help to turn the tide.
Thank you for your attention, and thank you to everyone who continues to support our efforts to resolve this crisis.
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