A possible village of tiny homes has neighbors concerned

Medford, Ore. — A recent Medford City Council meeting on the potential community has local business owners concerned.

An empty lot at the corner of Front and Third Streets could be the future home of Hope Village, a community of up to 14 tiny houses made specifically for the homeless.

Rich Hansen and his colleague Heather Everett of Rogue Retreat believe bringing a tiny house village to Medford could benefit the area, but others disagree.

NBC5 News spoke to a business owner whose property is right next door to where the proposed village would sit. He did not want to go on camera, but he says he and others in the area don’t think this is the best location.

At Thursday’s Medford City Council meeting, business owners cited concerns of over population, disorder and negative effects on business.

Everett insists all residents would be vetted before moving in and held responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and safety of the community.

Medford City Councilor Eli Matthews says the process of setting up a tiny house community anywhere in the city will take some time, and certainly more consideration.