Missoula Mayor Jordan Hess is reaffirming the city's commitment to compassionate care for people experiencing homelessness.

"We hear a lot from our constituents that they really care about serving our homeless population. We react to the people we serve, and in Missoula, our constituents really care about providing services to those in need," said Hess.

Hess spoke out against a controversial letter from the Flathead County Commission earlier this week.

The commission claimed services for the homeless are only attracting more homeless individuals to Kalispell and called for the community to reject all things that empower the homeless lifestyle.

Hess said the letter lacked compassion.

"We all do better when we all do better, so if we reach out to provide assistance to those in our community, it really makes our community better for everyone," he added.