Get groups to work together to solve La Crosse’s homeless problem

There is no shortage of groups trying to help La Crosse’s homeless population. Many community stakeholders are working to provide housing for those without a roof over their heads. But it isn’t clear that they are all working together toward the same goal. The city of La Crosse has tried a scatter shot approach, putting the homeless up in a local hotel during the winter, and allowing them to camp in Houska park during the warmer months. The city has also considered buying a southside hotel to house the homeless, but now seems to be reconsidering. None of this sits well with the La Crosse Salvation Army, which used to be the lead group in dealing with homelessness. The leader of the local agency issued blistering criticism of the city’s efforts, suggesting they are making the problem worse. They would like to meet with City Hall to address their concerns. That is a good idea. In fact, it would be a good idea to gather all those working to solve the problem. So far we haven’t heard from the city’s newly created Homelessness Coordinator. If he is the expert on the problem and ways to solve it, we should hear his ideas. The city has bought some time, with the extension of the agreement with the Econo Lodge, and with warmer weather on the way. The Mayor, who said solving the homeless problem is his top priority, should gather the interested parties, even form a task force, and get everybody working together to find the best way to solve this ongoing problem.