Medford, Ore. — As Hawthorne Park prepares to go under a massive renovation,there is concern about how and where distributors will pass out free food to the area’s homeless community.
On Thursday, Medford City Councilors heard a proposal for a temporary distribution location at the intersection of 3rd and Front Streets in Medford.
Medford Parks and Recreation director BrianSjothun presented the proposal.
Some of the councilors including John Michaels vocally spoke out against the 3rd & Front St. location.
Local business owners also expressed concerns.
“I can not tolerate the opportunity lost, that it may impact because there’s going to be between 100 and 150-plus, maybe more people that will exit that facility and wander through my property,” said Heritage Motors Owner Steve Curry.
“They are probably wonderful people but they have no awareness they are interrupting,” Curry continued.
No official decision was made.
One suggestion by city councilors was to have a rotating food distribution location.
The Hawthorne Park renovation is expected to start in September and should be completed in about a year.
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