At the Jan 30, 6pm evening meeting, Rotary Club President-Elect, Victor Gomez, called the meeting to order.
Before the speaker was introduced, there were comments about the guests. Besides Herito Fuentes and Ana Barrazo, Maria Viera was named. However, it was pointed out that Maria Viera is now a honorary member of the club, with the hope that soon she will become a regular member. Daniel pointed out that in addition to the usual weekly update report, there is a second report that everyone has a copy of, which is a revised listing of the coming speakers, since recently there have been a number of changes in the dates for coming speakers. Daniel again mentioned that among the coming dates of events in the community, there is the Black Heritage Celebration, on Sat, Feb 15, 1pm – 4pm in Bateman Hall (Admission $10.00) Fernando Millan, mentioned that among the numerous events for Rotary Youthact at Roosevelt ES, planned in the coming months, there are two to note now: First, a Krispy Kreme Fundraiser from Feb 5 to Feb 12, with delivery planned for Feb 14. Then support for the 5K Run at Dodger Stadium on Sat, Mar 7, from 8am – 12pm., with required registration for the 5K event available till Feb 5.
Daniel introduced the speaker, Bruno Naulls, Senior Project Manager, Community Development Department, City of Lynwood. Bruno's main topic was the homeless problem within the city. In addition he provided brief information on the coming US Census, 2020. Using a carefully prepared illustrations and fact explanations shown on the screen, the audience was provided with a lot of pertinent information.
As to statistics, in California there are now 134,000 people experiencing a state of being homeless. People are homeless because they cannot afford a place to live, also other factors are needing health care, being mentally ill, and experiencing substance abuse. In Lynwood, the first phase of gentrification is starting to occur, making housing less affordable for a number of residents. Now a one bedroom apartment in Lynwood costs at least $1,400 a month. It now requires 3.3. minimum wage jobs to afford this level of rent in Lynwood.
Bruno described his work with the homeless situation in Lynwood, “an interesting journey.” Due to favorable weather, California is a magnet for attracting more homeless. In California, there are now a number of laws providing legal protection for homeless people. Removing homeless people can subject those involved to legal actions. Now efforts to remove homeless people requires that alternative housing and other support services be provided them.
One question discussed by the audience was the building of shelters. So far, the City of Lynwood has not provided any, but alternatives are under consideration. The question was raised as to the source of funding for construction and operation of shelters for the homeless. One comment of note, Fernando Millan, asked about the possibility of using the vacant structure adjacent south of City Hall, to house the homeless. The answer was that the city does not want such a facility so close to city hall buildings.
There was mention that the LUSD has a special needs task force relating to the homeless population. With respect to youth involved in the homeless situation, there was a question about the ability of the LUSD to provide support. In general, rehabilitation services, it was noted are an important part of the solution. There was a question about what actions Caltrans can take to remove homeless activities within their property, particularly adjacent to Lynwood. It was noted that Lynwood residents can call Ramon Rodriguez, of the City Managers Office to report homeless problems, and then Bruno will get involved.
US Census. Briefly, Bruno covered information on a handout. Census Day is Apr 1. “Once every 10 years, the census counts EVERYONE living in the U.S. – regardless of age, race/ethnicity or citizenship status.” It is important because resources provided by government agencies are based on population, and because representation is based on population. “You can complete the census online, by mail, or by phone.”
Daniel Miller Public Relations/ Community Outreach Lynwood Rotary Club