It goes without saying that people are the bedrock of the United States economy, and it's not just the ultra wealthy or those who pay taxes. Rather, the country also relies on those without homes. While housing people involves cost and consideration for quality of life, city officials can rest easy by simply not providing it.
A few people will get a good night's sleep in Eugene, Oregon tonight. Three local businesses, whose buildings were owned by property investor Todd Janks, have been torn down in favor of creating a new tent city.
"When I initially purchased these buildings, my plan was to bring in local businesses and charge them way more than they could realistically afford every month. Problem was, they all ended up doing well," said Janks. "Turns out, they were perfect for the neighborhood and the businesses pretty much became staples. That just didn't sit right with me — I couldn't help but feel that I'd left money on the table."
One of Janks' now-former renters, barbershop owner Amara Willis, says what she'll miss the most is the joy she was able to provide to her community.
"Something not everyone realizes is that for a lot of people, getting a haircut isn't just a routine errand — it's a luxury. When people walked through my doors, I felt lucky knowing that my neighbors were willing to put their trust in my hands," remembered a teary-eyed Willis. "That's the kind of thing that sticks with you — seeing people walk in nervous and walk out with a big smile and a bit more confidence. It really is the little things that make life beautiful."
Unfortunately, beautiful moments rarely translate to being able to buy a new boat.
"I had a 2016 — now I'll be back on track with a '23. They said it's a pontoon, but it might as well be a houseboat. I could probably house a small family reunion on that thing," chuckled Janks. "I'm still working through not being able to get it in cherry red, but crimson will do. We all have to make sacrifices — the S.S. Oar House is no exception."
For their part, those without homes are looking forward to their new digs.
"This spot really has it all. Crazy busy road, air pollution, little to no access to running water — way better than the last place," said Lou Denning, who some worry sets his standards too high.
For now, it looks like everything is coming up roses, as there has not yet been time to destroy the adjacent community garden. But in a time when urban planning so often favors the rich, it can be easy to ignore everyone else — they talk less.
That being said, it's better to be someone who thrives off of genuine human connection than someone who can't be satisfied with $1,000 and a free sandwich.
Photo courtesy of Tyrone Madera via CC BY-SA 4.0
Comments