EDITORIAL:Take homeless issue seriously

Homeless people are finding their way to Laguna Beach in greater numbers, no matter what some homeless advocates say.

This was proven beyond a shadow of a doubt over the winter, when — partly due to the closure of a shelter in another south Orange County town — there were record numbers seeking overnight accommodations during the spate of freezing weather.

This influx was handled gracefully by three of the local churches, who have been taking turns volunteering their facilities for years to provide nightly shelter during cold or wet weather under an agreement with the city.

This largesse turned into an unfortunate occurrence at the Methodist Church this winter when a fire was started by some of the homeless at the church and significant damage was done and one of the men who uses the city’s shelter system was badly burned.

Local businessman and City Council member Kelly Boyd has been sounding an alarm for months about his own perception as a downtown tavern keeper that more “street people” — and a less-benign population — than ever are making Laguna Beach their home.

The city’s reputation for tolerance and generosity, and the many tourists who are targets for panhandlers, draw those who have few resources.

Steep housing prices and a dysfunctional mental-health system contribute to the number of people who simply have no choice but to live on the streets.

We have, at times, seen all four corners of Forest Avenue and Coast Highway occupied by street solicitors requesting handouts.

Heisler Park has become “homeless central,” and residents are becoming reluctant to take evening walks.

It’s clear that the city has an escalating homeless problem, and it would be wise for officials and homeless advocates not to let it get out of hand.

Efforts to move street-dwellers into shelters and permanent housing, and assist them in attaining self-sufficiency, will have long-term benefits for the homeless as well as the community.