Conrad Mansion Head Gardener Public Comment from Joni HansonHello my name is Joni Lewis. I am the Head Gardener at the Conrad Mansion here in Kalispell, MT. As you all are aware the homeless issue has been growing significantly in the passed
year. As I work outside around the homeless this summer I get here super early in the morning. When I have gotten to the mansion I have had to kick people out of the gazebo. They leave
personal items around all the time. Today we found over 14 needles outside on the grounds. I wont even get into the bathrooms across the street. I have been working here for 5 years
and I have never seen it like this before. We have children who come to play here. MY children play here. The last thing we need to worry about is these kids playing around stuff like
this. I lived here my entire life 32 years and this is the worst its been. Now talking to the homeless people. A lot of them have been miss led into believing they will receive help
here. Is what I was told by multiple homeless people. This problem needs to be addressed before our kids get hurt. Who knows what's in the needles.
Solutions maybe as forming neighborhood watches. Maybe starting a program to help them getting back on there feet. Chunk of land with some tiny homes. Having life coaches and or trained
counselors garden to help them grow food and have chores. Teach them about Jesus. Jesus didn't stand by and watched he helped and healed. I am also part of promise 686 which is an organization
that help people specifically with children to get back on their feet. Reach out to local churches to find a solution. They need purpose. That is easier when someone is there to guide
the way.
I know that this is not your issue alone we as a community need to come together to make this beautiful town safe for our kids to be able to play at parks. Ignoring the issue will not
make it go away.