A Great Falls city commission candidate proposed a controversial solution for the city’s unhoused population, suggesting they could be centralized for profit. During a neighborhood council forum, attended by about 60 people, candidate Anderson described this concept as a potential tourist attraction. As a first-time municipal candidate and construction contractor, Anderson previously ran as a Republican for the state Legislature but did not succeed in the primary. The forum, held Monday at the Alliance for Youth, included four city commission and two mayoral candidates.
The fifth question addressed the city’s response to the unhoused, to which Anderson replied, “Homeless island.” Inspired by historical “poor farms,” Anderson envisioned a model where the unhoused work for food and shelter. In northcentral Montana, such farms historically served vulnerable populations like the deaf, blind, and domestic violence survivors. Anderson proposed building shelters sponsored by local businesses, hoping neighborhood-produced goods would draw tourism.
In an interview with Montana Free Press, Anderson admitted the idea was “harebrained,” emphasizing a model that could self-sustain without relying solely on grants. He suggested that the revenue generated could fund maintenance and basic services. The latest point-in-time count indicated around 202 unhoused individuals in Great Falls. This number is lower than those in Bozeman, Missoula, and Billings, while over 400 students in Great Falls Public Schools are considered homeless.
United Way of Cascade County President Gary Owen, who coordinates the Continuum of Care Coalition, responded to Anderson’s comments via email. He stressed the importance of treating all individuals with dignity and respect, acknowledging that homelessness is a multifaceted issue affecting diverse groups, including children, veterans, and those with mental health challenges. Owen emphasized the importance of evidence-based practices to address homelessness, noting that United Way collaborates with 30 local organizations to support the unhoused. These efforts have yielded positive outcomes.
Anderson hinted at Morony Park, a former indoor pool site, as a potential location for his proposal. The park, undergoing redevelopment, recently introduced a new playground with accessible equipment. Other candidates also shared their approaches to addressing homelessness. Joe McKenney, the incumbent, praised the coalition’s efforts and highlighted the struggles with addiction and mental health. Candidate Casey Schreiner emphasized the commission’s duty to all residents, including the unhoused, as winter poses life-threatening risks. Matt Pipinich stressed treating the unhoused with compassion, noting that anyone could face housing instability. Mayoral candidate Jasmine Taylor pushed for practical solutions like public restrooms and urged a shift in societal attitudes toward those without homes.
In this all-mail election, ballots are due by Nov. 4 at 8 p.m. Voters can select one mayoral candidate and two commission candidates. Learn more about the election here.
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