LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – Business owners along Boulder Highway express concerns about the escalating presence of a homeless encampment in nearby vacant lots, citing detrimental effects on their operations.

Situation Overview

The vacant lots, situated close to the intersection of Boulder Highway and Russell Road, have become a focal point for homeless individuals. Despite being privately owned, these lots have attracted a growing number of homeless residents, leading to various issues.

Impact on Business Owners

Evelyn Guin, owner of FlowerEve Gift and Home, shares her distress over the situation. Guin, along with her husband, has been running the business for seven years but faces challenges due to the encampment. She highlights instances of harassment towards customers and theft incidents, adversely affecting foot traffic and customer confidence.

Gerald, Maintenance and Security Manager at Duck Creek RV Park across the highway, echoes Guin’s observations. He notes a significant increase in the size of the encampment over recent years, indicating a worsening situation for businesses in the vicinity.

Law Enforcement Response

The Metro’s Homeless Outreach Team acknowledges the longstanding issue in the area and their continuous efforts to address it. Despite offering resources to the encampment occupants, a majority decline assistance, complicating resolution efforts. As a result, involving the Southeast Area Command becomes necessary to initiate cleanup operations.

Collaborative Efforts

Officer Baron Bybee, part of Metro’s Homeless Outreach Team, emphasizes collaboration with Clark County Code Enforcement and property owners to facilitate cleanups. Their approach involves providing ample notice to occupants and offering support services alongside enforcement actions.

Community Engagement

To empower local business owners, Officer Bybee encourages proactive engagement with law enforcement agencies. Business owners are urged to reach out directly to Southeast Area Command or Metro’s Homeless Outreach Team for assistance and coordination.

Future Outlook

Despite efforts to address the issue, the long-term plans for the vacant lots remain unclear. NEWS.ORG 5’s attempts to reach the property owners for insights into their intentions have been unsuccessful as of now.

Conclusion: Seeking Resolution

As the homeless encampment continues to impact local businesses along Boulder Highway, collaborative efforts between law enforcement, property owners, and community members remain vital. Proactive engagement and coordinated action are essential to mitigate the challenges posed by the growing presence of homelessness in the area.

Source: 2024 KVVU.

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