Letters to the editor: More help for the homeless; problematic potholes in Ventura

Support unhoused individuals

As a Ventura County native and current USC Masters of Social Work Student participating in the 2024 L.A. County homeless count, my personal experience with homelessness gives me insight into the challenges faced by those without stable housing, especially during severe weather. Comparing resources between L.A. County and Thousand Oaks reveals stark contrasts in support for unhoused individuals.

While Thousand Oaks approved plans for its first emergency homeless shelter and secured funding in 2022, progress has been slow, leaving the facility unused. A recent inquiry with a 2-1-1 operator highlighted the absence of emergency shelters within Thousand Oaks, with the nearest option in Oxnard often inaccessible to those without transportation. Limited availability, capacity, and regulations in neighboring areas further exacerbate the need for accessible, safe refuge during severe weather events.

In contrast, regions like Whatcom County in western Washington have implemented proactive measures, offering multiple temporary shelter options funded by initiatives like the American Rescue Plan Act.

Ventura County and Thousand Oaks can learn from these experiences by collaborating with local municipalities, nonprofits, and government agencies to address future challenges. Utilizing state funding opportunities and repurposing existing infrastructure can facilitate the creation of survival sanctuaries and support services for unhoused individuals during extreme weather conditions.

Advocating for similar initiatives in Ventura County is crucial to prioritizing the security and welfare of all residents. By fostering collaboration and compassion, we can ensure that no one is left without shelter during times of need.

Eva Rebeca Castro, Thousand Oaks

Fix pothole problem in Ventura

The pothole problem in Ventura is a complete embarrassment and aesthetic disaster, not to mention a terrible safety matter. Someone will get hurt, perhaps badly, if the city does not address the problem properly and quickly. Our city council members apparently don’t know or care as there is not even a pretense of maintaining our streets in acceptable condition.

There is an attitude in the country today that “government should be run like a business.” Fine. Then let’s please fire the city council members — all of them — and replace them with people who actually care about our city enough to deal with a simple problem like potholes. Ventura is too beautiful and too wonderful to be managed so poorly.

Sanjoy Moorthy, Ventura