Homeless advocates tell council bulldozed East College Street camp displaced more than 100 people and question shelter funding

Erica Bucher, speaking on behalf of Carbondale’s homeless community, described the July clearing of a camp on East College Street and said the site had sheltered more than 100 people at various times. Bucher said the bulldozing scattered residents and questioned what happened to $2 million that had been promised for a homeless shelter.

"That camp, which was my home, was also home to a 100 different people or more throughout the course of its existence," Bucher said, recounting that some residents received medical care and services there and that bulldozing had left people dispersed around town. She urged the council to re-evaluate how resources are allocated and expressed frustration with the city’s approach to addressing homelessness.

Council members thanked Bucher for her testimony and acknowledged the limits of city authority and the need for continued coordination among staff and community organizations. Council member Colombo said he anticipated the city would present satisfactory steps in coming months and encouraged continued dialogue with staff and local partners.