The Homeless Crisis Plaguing Boulder Highway Businesses: A Struggle to Balance Assistance with Enforcement

Local businesses near Boulder Highway in Las Vegas are concerned about the growing homeless encampment in nearby vacant lots. FlowerEve Gift and Home Owner Evelyn Guin has reported that homeless individuals in the area are harassing customers, begging for money, and stealing from stores, which has impacted her business and deterred customers from visiting.

The Duck Creek RV Park across the highway from Guin’s shop has also noticed an increase in the homeless population in the area. Gerald, the Maintenance and Security Manager, acknowledges the problem but is unsure of a solution. The Metro’s Homeless Outreach Team has been offering resources to the encampment, but many individuals have declined assistance. As a result, the Southeast Area Command may need to get involved to clear the area.

Due to private ownership of the lots, law enforcement officers must work with Clark County Code Enforcement and property owners to address the issue. Officer Baron Bybee from Metro’s Homeless Outreach Team emphasizes the importance of conducting cleanups while also offering resources to those in need. Business owners are encouraged to stay proactive and contact either the Southeast Area Command or Metro’s Homeless Outreach Team for assistance.

Despite efforts to reach out to lot owners for their plans moving forward, progress remains elusive. The situation poses a challenge for local businesses and law enforcement as they work together to address