The litter of a changing economy
Megan Rohrer, minister and Executive Director of nonprofit serving the homeless
“It feels like having the argument of homeless people here or not completely misses the point of what’s going on. I think all people need to recognize how they’re contributing to the economy on Polk Street. Homeless people have something to give, and merchants are contributing to the poverty of others by contributing to unhealthy dynamics.”
Dan Diez, Lower Polk Neighbors member and retiree
“I’ve hardened a little bit about homelessness out here.... I don’t believe the merchants and residents here should have to put up with people sleeping in their doorways…I don’t think they have to put up with needles…or prostitution if there’s rubbers….I think it’s one of the reasons why these condos that have gone up have not been filled.”
Corey Longseeker, artist and Polk Street resident.
“There used to be a lot more people. We used to play guitar and sing and dance and smoke and just have a good old time and now there’s not so many people on Polk Street any more. It makes me feel strange. I don’t know. Sometimes it hurts my feelings. Sometimes it feels strange.”