In 2013, Democratic State Senator Julie Morrison cast a vote that has had dire consequences for the Cities of Lake Forestt, Lake Bluff and local residents. Her support for the ill-conceived Homeless Bill of Rights (SB 2010, 2013) has now finally caught up to us here in Lake Forest and Lake Bluff, demonstrating a blatant disregard for the well-being and safety of Lake Forest's and Lake Bluff's communities.

Senator Julie Morrison (D - Lake Forest)

Morrison's advocacy for SB 2010, a piece of legislation aimed at protecting the rights of homeless individuals, might have seemed noble in theory. However, the real-world implications of this bill have been far from noble. The provision granting homeless individuals "the right of reasonable expectation of privacy in his or her personal property to the same extent as personal property in a permanent residence" has paved the way for encampments to take root in public spaces within residential neighborhoods.

Lake Forest and Lake Bluff, once celebrated for their charming scenery and strong neighborhoods, now grapples with an unprecedented crisis of homeless encampments. Areas that were once enjoyed by families and children are now marred by overnight tent camping, complete with unsanitary conditions and potential safety hazards. Senator Morrison's vote has essentially given a green light for individuals to occupy public spaces without any accountability or responsibility, leaving residents to deal with the consequences.

Homeless Encampment at Wisconsin & Oakwood Avenues in Lake Forest, Sat Aug 26, 2023

The impact of these encampments goes beyond mere inconvenience. Public health is jeopardized as these encampments often lack basic sanitation facilities, posing health risks to both those living within them and the wider community. Families are now forced to navigate these once-charming public spaces with caution, eroding the sense of security that their tax dollars should provide.

While it's important to address the issue of homelessness compassionately, Morrison's misguided support for SB 2010 has created a situation where genuine efforts to aid the homeless population are hindered. The legal protections granted by the bill have led to a situation where the City's attempts to remove encampments or implement regulations could be met with legal quagmire. Instead of channeling resources towards effective solutions like shelters, mental health services, and job training programs, our city governments would find themselves tangled in costly legal battles.

Furthermore, Lake County taxpayers and philanthropic donors generously fund PADS Lake County, "is a community-based organization that provides trauma-informed support, resources, and shelter to individuals and families experiencing homelessness and a housing crisis." Individuals, claiming as their own residence public property in Lake Forest and Lake Bluff have options for temporary housing and support, but are choosing to live on public land in less sanitary conditions and without monitoring by social workers who can help them move to more stable housing solutions. 

Senator Morrison's decision to stand by SB 2010 is proving to be a political misstep with far-reaching consequences. Her vote has ignited a crisis that has put her constituents at odds with the very policies she endorsed. Lake Forest and Lake Bluff residents deserve a representative who considers the consequences of their decisions on the people they serve. The rise of homeless encampments and the subsequent challenges faced by the city highlight a stark contrast between Morrison's intentions and the reality on the ground.

It is evident that Senator Morrison's vote for SB 2010 has not only failed the Cities of Lake Forest and Lake Bluff but also revealed a lack of foresight in understanding the complexities of homelessness. The damage caused by her vote cannot be ignored or brushed aside. As the crisis deepens, it is only fair that she be held accountable for her role in this predicament. The community deserves representatives who prioritize the safety and well-being of their constituents over misguided ideological pursuits. It's time for the residents of Lake Forest and Lake Bluff to demand the accountability they deserve from Senator Morrison.

The City Of Lake Forest Sent the Following Email to Lake Forest Residents on Aug 25, 2023