Watson Park: Pearls and Perils

Let me say this as clearly and strongly as I can: We must get Watson Park right.

I’m referring to the sanctioned homeless encampment the City is in the process of developing near Empire Gardens Elementary School in the Watson neighborhood of D3.

We have to get it right because if we don’t, there there will be such a NIMBY backlash and outcry, that no community would ever accept future sites.

Back in September, I sent a letter to City Hall outlining what I think are the key principles we have to follow to get Watson Park right. Make Watson Work

My key points:

• Decide on both success and failure metrics
• Provide the surrounding neighborhoods with guarantees and reparations
• Hold nonprofits to accountable objectives

D3 had its second meeting regarding the safe sleeping site at Watson Park. My topline response: The city is doing a lot of things right, and it’s promising.

Here’s the good news:

• There will be 24/7 security.
• There will be intensive engagement with each resident at the SSS (safe sleeping site) by case managers.
• There will be a 30-day limit on stays so that the next rung of housing is utilized.
• There will be thoughtful admittance procedures, case management, and community development at meals.

But there are warning signs as well:

• There is no single point of contact. SJ Beautify, San Jose Housing Department, and Code Enforcement are all in charge to varying degrees, creating a diffuse management structure.
• No criteria have been set as to determine success and failure.
• We have no physical place to send folks in need of mandatory rehab.

Let me be completely candid: I believe that D3 has already agreed to more than our fair share of affordable housing developments, tiny home communities, homekey hotels and permanent supportive housing. I believe we should not accept any more of these types of developments until other districts start doing their share of the work. We should not be the city’s dumping ground nor testing ground.

But Omar agreed to the development at Watson Park. So we have to get on board and get it right. We need to show the rest of the districts how it’s done, so they can take over their share of the responsibility for giving our homeless neighbors a dignified step up into a more humane housing spectrum.

Campaign update –

MOVING FAST: We are delivering lawn signs and setting up neighborhood coffees. If you’d like a sign for your residence or want to learn more about how to set up a meet and greet for your neighbors, contact us at: IreneSmithD3@gmail.com

And gratitude to D3’s SUN neighborhood resident Harvey Baker for his inspiring statement of support.

“It’s about time someone with common sense gets in there!”

Thanks Harvey, we aim to deliver,

Irene